Has the countdown-to-summer started in your house yet?
Our family LOVES summer and we always look forward to the long, leisurely days of swimming, reading, road-tripping, and spending time with friends.
This year, I put together 1st Day of Summer (or - Last Day of School) Baskets for each of the girls to help kick off one of our favorite seasons.
The baskets were a cinch to put together. Best of all, they can be as unique as you are.
First, find inexpensive baskets at a thrift store, yard sale, or dollar store.
Next, fill them with any items that celebrate summer.
Our baskets included: slush/smoothie cups, sunscreen, diaries, and brightly colored swimwear.
You could also add hair-ties, goggles, flip-flops, sunglasses, water bottles, handheld fans, or beach towels.
These baskets would also be fun for grandparents to make for their grandkids on the last day of school.
Zoku's Slush & Shake Makers are ultra-fun for the summer months. Simply freeze the cup for 8-18 hours, add in any liquid (juice, blended fruit, coffee, soda, ice cream, etc), and stir to create an instant slushy!
"Where is the sunscreen?" is a commonly asked question in our house during the summer months, especially because swimming is an almost-daily pastime from April to September here in sunny Arizona. Since there are six people in our family, it helps to have multiple bottles of sunscreen to share between us. This year, we're trying Goddess Garden Organics sunscreen (thanks to a tip from a reader!). GG's sunscreen is certified organic and free of hormone disrupters and harsh chemicals. Choose baby, kid, sport, or everyday in a lotion, stick, or spray format.
Moisturizing SPF 30 lip balms are also available in three different flavors - Lavender Mint, Orange Vanilla, and Raspberry.
If you have a young writer in the house, a journal, diary, or notepad is a great item to throw in a summer basket. The lock-and-key diaries by Peaceable Kingdom (a Mindware company) are available in a variety of themes. Best for ages 5-10.
Have you heard of Primary? The company (created by two moms!) specializes in "brilliant basics for baby & kids." This company is right up my alley because I'm often frustrated by the children's options available from mainstream sellers. I love that this brand offer playclothes and swimsuits WITHOUT logos, slogans, or sequins. Primary allows you to buy mix-and-match t-shirts, shorts, rashguards, dresses, skirts, and swimsuits in a rainbow of gorgeous hues. Plus, get free shipping with every order (no minimum). The prices are reasonable too - all pieces are under $25. Available for newborns up to size 12.
TIP: Buy short-sleeve dresses or tees in red, white, or blue for the 4th of July!
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I'll be back soon with summer reading guides for different age groups. (You know I love talking books). Hope you all have a relaxing and productive summer!
* Some of the above products were sent to us for testing/review purposes. As always, I only feature items we truly love and you’re always welcome to contact me directly with any questions.