This piece was cross-posted at Farmers Daughter

There was an air quality alert Thursday in my neck of the woods thanks to high temperatures and elevated smog levels.  Temps were in the 90′s, humidity was high and it certainly felt hot! Some schools even dismissed early (not mine, we have air conditioning), and we still had over two weeks left until summer vacation.  Our local health department recommended limiting outdoor activity for little ones, so I’ve got some tips for indoor fun to help your family beat the heat and/or smog!

Healthy Cool Treats

It’s important to stay hydrated when it’s hot.  Make water fun with cute water bottles or cups and by adding slices of lemon, lime, cucumber or berries.  In addition, you can serve juicy fruits like watermelon or try some frozen grapes or bananas.  Use popsicle molds to make your own yogurt pops, which are very easy and one of my favorite treats for a hot day!

Don’t Let the Sun Shine In

There’s something about keeping the lights turned off that makes you feel cooler.  Close the shades and the blinds to keep the bright sun and heat out of your house.  You can even take it a step further and build a fort or tent for inside play.  Stories, maybe even ghost stories, are best told in a tent.

Keep It Low Key

Inside time is perfect for reading, board games, crafts and family movies.  You won’t exert a lot of effort but you’ll keep little hands and minds busy.  Why not put on a talent or fashion show?

Water Play

Even if it’s too hot or smoggy to go outside, your little ones can still make a splash.  Put on swimsuits, grab the water toys and head to a cool bath tub! Children can burn some energy, keep cool and get clean all at once.

Educate Yourself

As long as you’re stuck inside, read up on smog.  Check out the interactive map at Air Now, read about the Smog Pollution Rule and learn about ground-level ozone.

What’s your best tip to keep your cool (and your sanity) when your family is stuck inside?

Please join the Moms Clean Air Force to help us fight for clean air for our kids. We need your voice! If you haven’t already, please email the EPA to show your support of the new Mercury and Air Toxics rule .  Thank you!