Summer is a season full of sunshine, longer days, and new adventures — but it can also bring big changes for young children. At Rowans Nursery, we know how important it is to support your child through seasonal transitions smoothly, helping them stay happy, healthy, and engaged as the weather warms up. In this article, we share practical tips and insights to help parents prepare their little ones for summer — from sun safety and hydration to outdoor learning and healthy eating.
In this article, we share practical tips and insights to help parents with summer preparation for toddlers — from sun safety and hydration to outdoor learning and healthy eating.
Understanding the Summer Transition for Young Children
Summer means a lot of exciting changes: more time outside, different routines, and new sensory experiences like feeling the warm sun or splashing in water. But it can also pose challenges such as overheating, tiredness from disrupted sleep, or adapting to changes in activity levels.
At Rowans Nursery, we plan carefully to ensure each child’s transition into summer is positive and nurturing. Learn more about how we nurture growth year-round on our Our Nursery page.
To ensure a smooth transition, summer preparation for toddlers should include planning for new activities and experiences that promote fun and learning.
Tip 1: Keep Your Child Safe in the Sun
Effective summer preparation for toddlers also involves teaching them the importance of sun safety.
One of the key aspects of summer preparation for toddlers is ensuring proper sun protection. At Rowans Nursery, we follow strict sun safety guidelines, and we encourage parents to do the same at home.
- Dress your child in lightweight, breathable clothing with long sleeves and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Apply a broad-spectrum, child-safe sunscreen before going outside and reapply regularly.
- Encourage playing in the shade during the hottest parts of the day (usually 11am to 3pm).
- Keep your child cool with regular breaks and plenty of water.
How parents can help: Make sun safety a fun routine
Make sun safety a fun routine. Let your child pick their favourite hat or sunglasses and explain why sunscreen is like “magic lotion” that protects their skin. Get them involved in applying sunscreen to make it less of a chore. For more expert advice on protecting your child from the sun, visit the NHS sun safety guide for children.
Tip 2: Hydration is Key
Children can get dehydrated quickly in warm weather, especially when playing outside. At nursery, we remind children to drink water often and provide easy access throughout the day.
How parents can help: Encourage your child to drink water regularly at home by offering small, colourful water bottles they can carry around. You can make hydration fun by adding slices of fruit like lemon or strawberries to their water. Avoid sugary drinks that can dehydrate and cause energy crashes.
Tip 3: Adjusting Sleep and Rest Routines to Support Summer Preparation for Toddlers
Longer days and warmer nights can disrupt a child’s usual sleep pattern, making them tired or cranky.
How parents can help: Maintain a consistent bedtime routine with calming activities like storytime or a warm bath. Keep bedrooms cool and dark using fans or blackout curtains if needed. If your child takes daytime naps, try to keep these consistent but flexible according to their needs.
Hydration is a crucial element of summer preparation for toddlers to prevent overheating.
Tip 4: Embrace Outdoor Learning and Play
Adjusting sleep routines is a key aspect of summer preparation for toddlers as their schedules change with the longer days.
Summer is a brilliant opportunity for children to learn through outdoor experiences — from nature scavenger hunts to water play and gardening.
Learn more about our creative learning on the Creative Flair page.
At Rowans Nursery, our outdoor curriculum comes alive in summer with gardening, nature walks, and more.
Incorporating outdoor learning into summer preparation for toddlers can greatly enhance their development.
- Exploring different textures with water and sand.
- Learning about insects, plants, and animals in the garden.
- Practising physical skills like running, climbing, and balancing.
- How parents can help: Set up simple activities at home such as watering plants together, playing with water toys, or having picnics in the park. Encourage imaginative play outside — building dens with blankets or playing “pretend” nature explorers.
Tip 5: Focus on Healthy Eating
Summer is the perfect time to introduce fresh fruits and vegetables that help keep children energised and hydrated.
At nursery, we offer balanced snacks and meals featuring seasonal produce like berries, cucumbers, and carrots.
How parents can help: Involve your child in choosing and preparing colourful, healthy snacks at home. Smoothies, fruit kebabs, or vegetable sticks with dips are tasty and fun options. Make mealtimes relaxed and positive to encourage good eating habits.
Why Rowans Nursery Is Here to Support You
Transitioning through the seasons is part of a child’s growth journey. At Rowans Nursery, we’re experienced in helping with summer preparation for toddlers to ensure they thrive in every season.
Ready to Give Your Child a Joyful Summer Experience?
Focusing on healthy eating is vital during summer preparation for toddlers to keep them energised and active.
If you want your child to enjoy a summer full of learning, play, and healthy habits in a warm and supportive setting, Rowans Nursery is the right place.
- Book a visit to see our vibrant outdoor spaces designed for summer fun.
- Ask about our flexible summer childcare options.
- Join our community of families who trust us to care for and nurture their children year-round.
Explore our resources for effective summer preparation for toddlers to ensure they enjoy the season fully.
Learn more about our approach and facilities on the Pre-School Unit page. We communicate regularly with parents to share updates, tips, and ways you can support your child’s development at home. Stay informed by visiting our News & Events page.
Call us on 0121 354 1752 to arrange your tour today. Don’t miss out on spaces for the summer term!
Summer brings wonderful opportunities and changes for young children. With thoughtful preparation and care, your child can enjoy the season safely while continuing to learn, grow, and have fun. At Rowans Nursery, we’re excited to support every step of this journey.
With proper summer preparation for toddlers, your child can have a joyful and fruitful experience.
