My favorite thing to do with my kids is simply go for a walk. Strolling to our local park every single morning and evening is the best way to break up our day. It became so much of my everyday routine that in November, I decided to start a mom walk group called, “Let’s Stroll.”
There have been so many amazing benefits to starting this group; meeting new moms, holding myself accountable, and getting outside to get those daily steps in.
On our Saturday morning meet ups, some ladies have asked me, “What is your plan once it starts to get too hot out in the morning?” Happy to report that I have some solutions for those long summer days!
Keep reading for inspiration and ideas for how to keep walking this summer.
XO,
Jenna
Beat the Heat Walks at Superstition Springs Center
Join us on the second Thursday of each month through September at 9:30 a.m. for an indoor walking meetup as part of East Valley Moms full summer playdate happening.
We meet downstairs at “Toddler Town” across from Claire’s Jewelry and log a few laps before storytime, character meet ‘n’ greets and all the crafts and hands-on activities East Valley Moms plans. It’s open house style, so you can come and go as you please, but the walk starts promptly at 9:30 a.m. and usually ends around 10 a.m. Event details here.
Mall walking at Chandler Fashion Center and Superstition Springs
Superstition Springs Center and Chandler Fashion Center unlock the mall doors at 8:30 a.m. daily for mall walkers.
On July 20, Let’s Stroll is hosting a shop and stroll with Dillards at the mall from noon – 3 p.m. As part of the event, there will be music, games, crafts and more for kids, plus free snacks and drinks, raffles and a fashion show for kids. Details here.
If you’re looking for an air conditioned free walking space, this is your best bet. There’s a lot of seniors who walk this time as well, but it feels safe and welcoming for moms and babes. Plus, the play areas are open, so if you finish before 10 a.m. your kiddos can still play for a bit.
Stroller breakfasts
Contributor Megan started daily morning breakfast walks four years ago and we’ve taken her advice ever since. To beat the heat and walk outdoors, serve your kids breakfast in the stroller.
That’s right, as soon as they wakeup, change their diapers and put them in the stroller.
Need breakfast inspiration for what’s stroller-friendly–here’s a blog post with our top ten breakfasts to serve in a stroller, plus we have two highlights saved of daily breakfasts from the stroller on instagram.
Let’s Stroll AZ Summer Socials
Follow Let’s Stroll on Instagram for other socials this summer when it’s too warm for our weekly park walks at 9 a.m. We’ll be hosting splash pad meetups, a few rec center walks (working on these details, still!) and more mall walking meetups.
What Do You Need for Stroller Walking in the Summer
- Portable fan: These are great to clip onto the stroller to keep kids cool during outdoor walks
- Hats and sunglasses are essential for sun protection. Choose wide-brimmed hats that shade their face and neck.
- Loose, breathable clothing will help keep your kids cool and comfortable. Opt for light-colored clothing that reflects sunlight.
