Ultimate Summer Essentials for Moms and Kids: 2025 Must-Haves
- Admin
- Jun 30
- 6 min read
Updated: Sep 4
Crowdsourced and Mom-Tested by Friend of a Mom Community
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Everything you need for splash pads, picnics, and pool days—made for moms, recommended by moms.
Summer should be easy. Whether you’re chasing a toddler through sprinklers, jetting off on a family getaway, or just trying to keep everyone hydrated in the heat—we’ve got you covered. This guide is packed with practical favorites, lightweight staples, and mom-tested recommendations for the season ahead.
👗 Dress for Fun: Lightweight Clothing
Summer outfits should be breathable, simple, and ready for anything.
Choose cotton play dresses, tees, and matching sets for fast, fuss-free mornings.
Terry rompers, soft pajama sets, and overalls are perfect for toddlers on the go.
Don’t forget baseball caps or lightweight sun hats to keep little faces shaded.
Pro Tip: Stick to neutral tones and coordinating sets to cut down on outfit drama.
🩴 Shoes That Go Anywhere: Water-Ready & Kid-Proof
Say yes to shoes your kid can put on solo (and rinse off easily).
Waterproof sandals are a must for parks and splash pads.
Slip-on sneakers and Crocs are breathable, quick-drying, and playground-ready.
Opt for closed-toe options for biking, scooting, or camp days.
Pro Tip: Two pairs: one for dry days, one for water play - done.
ten little
Approved by APMA and made with non-toxic EVA, this water-friendly, quick-drying water shoe is flexible, lightweight, and ultra-comfortable! Crafted with zero-drop soles and wide, foot-shaped toe boxes for healthy development and natural movement.
Native
🕶️ Everyday Summer Necessities: Stay Cool, Safe & Ready
Keep these items in your stroller, beach tote, or car so you’re always ready to roll:
Sunscreen (for faces and bodies), reusable water bottles, and kid-size sunglasses
Mini first-aid kits, hand sanitizer, baby wipes, and a portable fan
A cooler tote for snacks and a roll-up picnic blanket for spontaneous stops
Pro Tip: Store a “go bag” in your trunk with backups of everything.
solar buddies
This refillable, kid-friendly sunscreen applicator makes sun protection easy—just fill with your favorite sunscreen, shake, and roll for smooth, mess-free coverage. Designed for versatility and reuse, it’s a sustainable must-have for summer.
Pipette
🏖️ Pool & Beach Days: Splash-Ready Essentials
Make water days fun and low-stress with this splash-worthy lineup:
Rash guards, swim trunks, and extra swimsuits (yes, always bring a spare)
Mesh beach bag, reusable swim diapers, and oversized beach towels
Reusable water balloons, sand toys, and simple pool toys for all ages
Beach toys for that inner construction worker and architect.
Painting sea shells by the sea shore opt for this set.
Pro Tip: Keep your beach bag packed between outings so you never forget the essentials.
RuffleButts
RuffleButts swimwear is known for its adorable, playful prints and built-in UPF 50+ sun protection. Just be sure to size up for the perfect fit all summer long!
Amazon
Amazon
This reusable water bomb balloon with the latest upgraded magnetic technology and extremely durable high-quality silicone will last for years of summer fun enjoyment.
Amazon
🛁 Summer Splash Toys: Backyard Water Play Made Easy
When it’s too hot to head to the pool or you just want to turn your yard into the neighborhood’s favorite hangout—these splash toys bring the fun home.
Inflatable splash pads are a huge win for toddlers. They’re low-commitment, quick to set up, and pack away small.
Water tables with spinners, scoops, and mini slides offer hours of independent play for younger kids. Optional cover should you change it to a sand table.
Sprinklers shaped like animals or rainbows are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and great for older siblings to run through.
Reusable water balloons are mess-free, eco-friendly, and easy for even little hands to manage.
For extra fun, try a kid-size car wash tent, inflatable slip 'n slides, or bubble machines that mix with water play.
Pro Tip: Lay down a large waterproof picnic blanket next to the splash zone—perfect for snacks, towels, and barefoot breaks.
Step2
Let your little ones splash, pour, and explore with thrilling rain showers that spark imagination—fill with sand or water for even more playful possibilities. 13-piece toy set included for endless fun.
Gleamkids
Buckets of Fun
This water park sprinker toy will keep young kids and toddlers cool and entertained for hours on end. Made with lightweight, sturdy plastic, this backyard waterpark is durable and fun for all ages.
Step2
🧺 Outdoor Fun & Family Adventures
From backyard hangs to park picnics, you’ll want to keep these staples handy:
These portable pop up chairs that also double as high chairs on the go! Trust us buy two.
Foldable picnic tables or waterproof blankets for easy outdoor meals
Bug spray, string lights, and sun shades for comfort and vibe
Don’t forget snacks, drinks, and a portable cooler for your MVP mom move and a wagon to haul it all around.
Pro Tip: Rotate a few outdoor games like bubbles, chalk paint or chalk for toddlers, or cornhole to keep things fresh.
HearthSong Store
Unleash your child's creativity with this giant inflatable art easel! Hook up your electric air pump for quick and easy inflation, and change any area into a colorful art center where your child can explore, and create.
Veer
BrightStarts Store
Three modes of use: floor seat, feeding seat with removable tray, and toddler booster; great for days out, evenings in, weekend trips & more
Veer
💅 Just for You: Clean Beauty & Self-Care Picks
Let’s not forget about you, mama.
Stock up on face sunscreen, hydrating mists, multi-use wound/after sun cream and lip balms.
Tinted SPF, dry shampoo, and roll-on essential oils can live in your bag
Choose breathable clothes and your favorite sunglasses for quick outings and patio hangs!
Don't forget a portable phone charger, power bank or a portable fan.
Pro Tip: Treat yourself to one small bag that’s just yours. You deserve it.
Amazon
Rechargeable handheld fan featuring misting spray and four adjustable speeds, with a transparent water tank and long-lasting battery
Amazon
Caudalie
This French skincare line features non-nano zinc oxide for SPF 50 protection that’s safe, effective, and gentle on all skin types—including the most sensitive
Nuxe
☀️ Final Thoughts: Your Go-To Summer Survival Kit
From splash pads to sunscreen, beach bags to backyard sprinklers, this Ultimate Summer Guide for Moms and Kids is your one-stop resource for everything you need to make the most of summer. Every product has been handpicked and mom-approved by our Friend of a Mom community ensuring it’s actually useful, tested in real life, and ready to handle the heat. Whether you’re packing for vacation or prepping for a park day, consider this your summer survival kit.
Bookmark it, share it, and come back anytime for easy, fun, and stress-free summer inspiration.
Know a new mom? Send this their way, it’s packed with practical ideas and products that make summer with kids a little smoother (and a lot more fun).
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