Bloom 2026 - Summer Issue

bloom

ISSUE 13

2026

A LOCAL’S GUIDE FOR SUMMER WITH KIDS IN THE EAST VALLEY

Hot Kids.

Long Days.

We’ve Got You.

presented by

Your real-life guide to keeping kids cool, busy, and happy (without losing it)

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A LETTER FROM THE CHIEF CURATOR

a note from Amy & Mav Have you noticed that summer fun for families seems to get more expensive every year?

It can start to feel like every memory comes with a price tag. But after years of exploring the East Valley with my own family — and hearing from thousands of local moms — I’ve learned something important: the best memories rarely come from the most expensive plans.

That’s why this year’s Summer Issue of Bloom is dedicated to a simple idea: frugal, fun summers for East Valley families.

Inside these pages, our team of local moms is sharing some of our favorite ways to keep kids busy, curious, and happy all summer long — from free library programs and community events to affordable activities that stretch the family fun budget a little further.

Stay tuned for our popsicle party pop ups this summer!

Because sometimes the best summer days are the simplest ones: a splash pad stop on the way home, a library visit that turns into an hour of reading together, or discovering a new local tradition your family comes back to year after year.

If there’s one thing we hope you take away from this issue, it’s this: Memories don’t need to come with receipts.

Here’s to a summer full of simple adventures.

XO, Amy McConnell chief curator, East Valley Moms 2

Intro

Table of Contents

EAST VALLEY MOMS

Our writing team of 12 local moms has put together this resource to help you find all the tools you need to keep your kids happy and engaged this summer.

keep reading 5

Summer Passes That Are Saving Our Sanity

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Local Moms Designing Swimwear for AZ Summers

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Ultimate East Valley Pools

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Salt River With Kids: Family Friendly Spots to Know

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Yes, You Can Still Play Outside In the AZ Summer

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Why Gilbert Families are Obsessed with Swimhaus

Contributor Desa Rae mom of 3, lives in Gilbert, AZ

Swim School

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More Summer Adventures, Less Spending: Meet the GetOut Arizona Pass

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Your Guide to Vacation Bible School In the East Valley Contributor Jenna, mom of 3 (one not pictured), lives in Mesa, AZ

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Free & Frugal Summer Fun for East Valley Families

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Paint, Create, Repeat: A Summer Creativity Break for Kids

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Keeping Little Minds Busy Without Losing Summer Fun

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A Free Way to Keep Curious Kids Learning All Summer

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A Simple August Reset for Moms with Littles

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The Splash Pad Playbook

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First-Time Summer Camps for Toddlers Contributor Cara, mom of 2, lives in Scottsdale, AZ

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Summer Camp, but Make It Family Time

photo credit: Kate Mae Photography

Andrea Cook Andrea is a busy mom of three little boys!

She teaches special education by day and is in grad school at night. She lives in East Mesa, on the Mesa/Gilbert Border, and is an Arizona native, moving around the state a lot.

Andrea is married to her college sweetheart and spends as much time as she can outside.

Lindsey Augeri

photo credit: Kate Mae Photography

Megan Lankford Megan is originally from North Florida, but has called the East Valley her home since 2009.

Having lived multiple career lives before turning SAHM, she has faithfully served in many positions at her local church, and tries to help create community wherever she can. Megan’s interest include finding ways to enjoy the crunchier side of life, nerdy documentaries of all kinds, and binging podcasts.

this issue's writing team

Lindsey is a stay at home mom who occasionally substitute teaches. She and her husband are involved in a small church plant in Mesa and host a small group every week in their home.

She loves playing with her kids, heading to the library, going on walks and chatting with friends over coffee.

East Valley Moms is a hyperlocal, digital media platform to connect local parents with local resources and storytelling to inspire a more connected, joyful parenting journey across Mesa, Gilbert, Tempe, Chandler, Apache Junction and Queen Creek.

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Things to Buy

The Summer Passes That Are Saving Our Sanity (and our wallets)

Planning summer activities for kids can quickly add up — which is why we’re leaning into a few strategic memberships this year. A handful of well-chosen passes can keep kids busy, help moms stay sane, and make spontaneous outings feel easy instead of expensive.

Elevate Trampoline Park (Mesa, Gilbert & Queen Creek locations)

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For those scorching afternoons when outdoor play isn’t happening, Elevate is one of our favorite sanity savers. With a membership (starting at $24/month) , kids can enjoy up to two hours of indoor play each day in air conditioning while burning off all that summer energy on trampolines, climbing areas, and obstacle courses.

Mom Hack: Coordinate memberships with friends at the same location so kids can play together while moms catch up — or even squeeze in a little laptop time.

Wild Summer Play Group with East Valley Moms Our Wild Summer Play Pass is a six-week adventure playgroup designed for moms and kids who still want to experience outdoor fun — just a little earlier in the day.

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Each Wednesday morning, families are guided to a new water-filled outdoor adventure, creating built-in plans and community with other East Valley moms.

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GetOut Arizona Pass For indoor fun and the occasional “splurge-worthy” outing, the GetOut Arizona Pass is one of our favorite ways to stretch the family fun budget. The annual pass includes admission to 50+ local Arizona attractions like indoor play spaces, FatCats activities, and even Arizona Diamondbacks games, so families can enjoy bigger experiences without paying for every outing individually.

Bloom Tip: Use code EVMBLOOM at checkout to get an extra $5 off the lowest published price, guaranteeing the best deal on your pass.

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Local Moms Designing Swimwear for Arizona Summers

shop local

When summer means triple-digit temps and daily pool time, Arizona moms know swimwear has to work hard.

These two brands — founded by moms with East Valley roots — are designing thoughtful suits with UPF protection, kid-friendly comfort, and styles families actually want to wear all summer long.

PHOTO CREDIT: RADIX SWIM

WRITTEN BY CARA LESRPON MOM OF 2, LIVES IN SCOTTSDALE

Roco Swimwear | Founded by a Gilbert Mom What started with an Arizona mom designing swimwear for her own family has grown into a beloved brand now based in Utah. Roco Swimwear focuses on practical, sun-smart suits designed for active kids and long days in the water.

Each suit features UPF 50+ sun protection, helping protect little ones during long hours at the pool or splash pad. One of the standout features is their matching family collections, making it easy to coordinate siblings, parents, and even extended family for vacations, beach days, or family photos.

Radix Swim | Designed by a Mesa Mom Radix Swim was created by a mom who wanted swimsuits that actually stayed put while kids played. The brand focuses on thoughtful design, quality fabrics, and modern prints that make swimwear both functional and stylish.

Radix suits are made with UPF 50+ sun protection and designed with comfort and durability in mind for long pool days, swim lessons, and beach vacations.

It’s swimwear designed by a mom who understands exactly how much time families spend in the water during summer.

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EAST VALLEY MOMS OUTDOOR ADVENTURE PLAY GROUP

WILD SUMMER RSVP

SEE YOU THIS SUMMER!

Summer in the East Valley is miserably hot — and once school is out, it can feel challenging to keep weekday mornings feeling intentional without exhausting yourself in the process.

Wild Summer Play Club was created to make summer mornings easier, calmer, and more meaningful for moms and kids.

A 6-Week Outdoor Play Series for East Valley Families Dates: 6-week series (weekly on Wednesday mornings) Location: Various East Valley & nearby water-friendly outdoor locations Ages: Toddlers through early elementary (0-7 years old) Capacity: Limited to 30 families

THESE PUBLIC POOLS MAKE A SPLASH WITH UNIQUE WATER PLAY FEATURES mesquite groves The facility boasts a lazy river with a bridge waterfall and a family play pool; an interactive water feature with a 6-foot 725-gallon tumble bucket; two waterslides; water vortex; water spray pad; and an eight-lane competition pool.

This is hands down the best public pool in the East Valley, but heads up, it gets packed on the weekends ,so week days are recommended.

stapley pool Our favorite Mesa pool for littles, Stapley Pool’s jungle gym water feature is as close to a park as kids can get during the summer months--they’ll love it! Also at this pool is a three-loop water slide for kids 42'’ or taller.

flow rider at rhodes pool Catch the wave and ride the FlowRider® at Rhodes Aquatic Complex! Both kids and adults can have fun on this simulated wave maker.

A few times over the summer, the City of Mesa offers free ride days; otherwise it’s $10/hour to ride the waves.

swim lessons Swimhaus in Gilbert has been voted ‘best in the Valley’ since 2020 for good reason: they’re making swim lessons easy on parents and fun for kids with their engaging instructors and no headache cancelation policies for parents.

Try a FREE trial lesson.

ULTIMATE EAST VALLEY POOLS JUMP IN TO LOCAL POOLS THAT ARE BIG ON FUN AND LOW ON COST WRITTEN BY ANDREA COOK MOM OF 3, LIVES IN MESA Even if you’ve got a backyard pool, the scenery of your own home can get boring with daily dips in the pool.

Growing up here, the public pool scene has sure stepped up their offerings of unique, fun play structures for families to play at at a budget that’s doable. Plus fun programming like poolside storytime brings an element of unexpected fun to the pool.

Most public pool admissions are between $2-4/person and open a new realm of play possibilities for kids of all ages. There’s free days, and family passes to make it even more affordable as well.

Plus, it’s nice having the extra peace of mind of lifeguards as a second set of eyes to ensure safety.

If you’re thinking you’re not a ‘public pool person’ I challenge you to think again after you see these pools, and their low price tags for summer fun.

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Salt River with Kids The FamilyFriendly Spots to Know

WRITTEN BY AMY MCCONNELL MOM OF 1, LIVES IN MESA

Some people think the Salt River is just for tubing and college crowds — but East Valley moms know better.

With the right access points (and a weekday visit), the Lower Salt River can be one of the most beautiful and kidfriendly outdoor adventures near Mesa and Gilbert.

Located about 20 minutes from the East Valley, the river offers everything from beach play and kayaking to stand-up paddleboarding, picnicking, and wildlife spotting. Many families even keep an eye out for the famous Salt River wild horses that occasionally wander near the water.

For younger kids, Phon D Sutton Recreation Area is a favorite thanks to its picnic tables, shade, and calm areas for wading.

Pebble Beach Recreation Site is another great option, with shallow shoreline spots perfect for splashing and skipping rocks.

More adventurous families often head to Granite Reef Recreation Area, where wide-open views and gentle currents make it a fun place to float or paddle.

One tip from local parents: go on weekdays whenever possible for a quieter, more familyfriendly experience.

Pack water shoes, plenty of snacks, and lots of sunscreen — then let the kids explore. A simple river day can easily become one of summer’s favorite memories.

A Tonto Pass ($8) is required for parking at most Salt River recreation areas. You can grab one at gas stations along the way or at the Mesa Ranger District office before heading out. Some recreation sites also have kiosks available, but they typically charge a slightly higher fee.

PS: Want to try adventures like this with other families? Our Wild Summer Play Club often explores water destinations across the East Valley together.

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heat safety

Yes, You Can Still Play Outside in an Arizona Summer WRITTEN BY AMY J MCCONNELL, MOM OF 1, LIVES IN MESA

When summer temperatures soar in the Valley, it’s tempting to stay inside all day. But with a little strategy, outdoor play is still possible — and even refreshing for kids who need to burn energy and explore.

The secret is timing and balance. Start your outdoor adventures early in the morning, when temperatures are the lowest they’ll be all day. Parks, splash pads, and walking trails feel completely different at 7 or 8 a.m. than they do at noon.

It also helps to build cool-down breaks into your playtime. Many families follow the simple 30/15 rule: about 30 minutes of outdoor play followed by 15 minutes to cool down in the shade, the car, or indoors before heading back out.

And of course, hydration is key. Bring plenty of water and encourage kids to take regular drink breaks.

Water play is always a win during Arizona summers — whether that’s splash pads, backyard sprinklers, or shallow river days. You can also look for fully shaded parks or plan an early visit to places like the Phoenix Zoo, which opens early during summer (7 a.m.).

water safety

Why Gilbert Families Are Obsessed with Swimhaus Swim School From first floats to confident swimmers, here’s why East Valley families keep coming back.

WRITTEN BY MEGAN LANKFORD, MOM OF 3, LIVES IN MESA

Between splash pads, pool days, and scorching summers, East Valley families know the importance of strong swim skills. At Swimhaus in Gilbert, lessons go far beyond the basics.

But choosing the right swim school can feel overwhelming. ISR or traditional lessons? Indoor or outdoor? Group or private?

We recently visited Swimhaus in Gilbert to see what it’s really like — from the curriculum to the family experience — and it quickly became clear why so many local families recommend it.

A Focus on Water Competency At Swimhaus, the goal isn’t just teaching kids how to swim — it’s teaching them how to be safe in the water.

Beginning with infant classes, instructors focus on foundational safety skills like back floating, turning toward the pool edge, and building strength to climb out independently. These skills are especially important in Gilbert, where backyard pools are common.

As kids gain confidence, lessons progress to putting their faces underwater, breath control, and eventually learning strokes, kicks, and coordinated breathing. Swimhaus blends traditional swim instruction with survival-style skills similar to ISR, but with a gentler, confidence-building approach.

One thing that stood out: instructors are incredibly patient with hesitant swimmers. Children who may have had a difficult water experience are met with encouragement and care, helping them build trust before advancing skills

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Designed With Parents in Mind Swimhaus also makes life easier for parents. Their monthly membership model allows families to start or pause lessons as needed — no long-term contracts required.

Scheduling and make-up classes are simple through the Swimhaus app, and families can text directly with staff if they need help. Even better, make-up lessons never expire, which is a rare and parent-friendly feature.

A Space Built for Families Beyond the lessons, Swimhaus has created a welcoming environment designed for families. From photo walls celebrating swim milestones to play spaces for siblings, the facility feels thoughtful and kid-centered.

It’s the kind of place where small touches — balloons for birthdays, music playing, helpful staff, and easy-tonavigate spaces — make weekly lessons feel like something the whole family looks forward to.

For Gilbert families looking for swim lessons that combine safety, flexibility, and a warm community atmosphere, Swimhaus is well worth a look.

Kate Mae Photography I am a Mesa mom of four that specializes in family, milestone, maternity, natural light studio and lifestyle newborn photography.

Now accepting new clients for 2026 fall and winter bookings. katemaephoto.com katemaephoto@gmail.com 602-373-0255

More Summer Adventures, Less Spending: Meet the GetOut Arizona Pass

WRITTEN BY MEGAN LANKFORD MOM OF 3, LIVES IN MESA

Looking for a fun and affordable way to explore Phoenix with your kids this year? The GetOut Arizona Pass (formerly the POGO Pass Phoenix) is one of our favorite budget-friendly hacks for East Valley families.

The concept is simple: one pass unlocks admission to 20+ family-friendly attractions across the Valley — perfect for planning easy weekend outings, school break adventures, or last-minute “what should we do today?” plans.

With the GetOut Arizona Pass, families can visit local favorites like The Phoenix Zoo, Uptown Jungle, FatCats, Golfland, and even Arizona Diamondbacks games. Considering that regular admission at just one or two of these spots can easily add up, the savings can be significant — especially for families with multiple kids.

A full-price pass is $120, but using our exclusive code EVMBLOOM typically brings the cost down to around $60 per pass during sales. Each pass is valid for 12 months, giving families an entire year to explore at their own pace.

Our favorite tip? Download the GetOut Pass app to easily track visits, check venue restrictions, and manage reservations. You can even gift passes to grandparents or caregivers so they can take the kids on adventures too.

If you’re trying to prioritize more experiences and fewer things, the GetOut Arizona Pass is a simple way to make family memories all year long.

Use code EVMBLOOM at checkout to get the best deal available.

Quick Mom Math Here’s a look at how quickly the value adds up: Phoenix Zoo adult ticket — $40 Pangea adult ticket — $16 Arizona Diamondbacks ticket — $22 FatCats bowling or Glow Golf — $13 Phoenix Rock Gym day pass — $20 Golfland Sunsplash admission — $60 Total: $171 Or pay around $60–$75 for a GetOut Arizona Pass and enjoy all of this — plus more — throughout the year.

Do I Need a Pass for Everyone?

Each person who wants admission to venues needs their own pass. Most families purchase one for each adult and child age 2 and up, since many attractions offer free entry for children under 2.

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MOST RECOMMENDED VBS CAMPS IN THE EAST VALLEY Central Christian Church in Mesa, Gilbert & QC This evening camp helps kids learn about Jesus through music, games, and interactive lessons designed just for younger children.

Each night is filled with high-energy worship and creative activities that make learning about faith fun.

Ages: 3 years (potty-trained) – 3rd grade Dates: May 31 – June 3, 2026 Time: 6 – 8 p.m.

Locations: Mesa, Gilbert & Queen Creek campuses Cost: $30 ($10 deposit to reserve a spot) Register: Available through the church website

ADAPT Special Needs Camp, Rock Point Queen Creek This inclusive camp is designed for children with special needs, creating a welcoming environment where every child is celebrated. Campers will enjoy engaging activities for all abilities, water games to beat the heat, uplifting worship, Bible teaching, and plenty of snacks.

Ages: Children with special needs (see registration for details) Dates: June 15–18, 2026 Time: 9 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Cost: $65 Register: Available through the church website

Cornerstone Church in Chandler Cornerstone Church Summer Camps offer fun, faith-filled experiences for kids of all ages. Younger campers enjoy engaging games, music, and Bible lessons in a welcoming environment designed to help them make friends and grow in their faith.

Ages: 4 years – 4th grade Dates: June 1–3, 2026 (Family Kickoff May 31) Time: 9 a.m.– 12 p.m.

Cost: $50 Register: Text CAMP to 21999

One Life in Mesa (free!)

This free three-day kids camp is packed with high-energy worship, engaging Bible stories, and hands-on activities that bring God’s Word to life. It’s a joyful and welcoming space where young kids can laugh, learn, and make new friends.

Ages: 3 years (preschool) – 3rd grade Dates: June 8–10, 2026 Time: 5:30 – 8 p.m.

Cost: Free Register: Available through the church website

Contributor Cara’s children at last summer’s VBS

YOUR GUIDE TO VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL IN THE EAST VALLEY

WRITTEN BY LINDSEY AUGERI MOM OF 2, LIVES IN MESA

Whether you are religious or not, you are welcome to attend VBS! Kids will make new friends, see old ones, and come home with songs stuck in their heads.

Keep reading for the best VBS programs across Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler and Queen Creek!

When is VBS offered in the East Valley?

There are so many churches that offer day or evening camps to elementary age kids that are a few hours long.

There are both morning and evening camps to benefit every family’s schedule needs.

These weeklong events are generally local and hosted at the campus of the church. Some are free to attend, and some have a fee. Be sure to check for a registration date as well.

What should my child expect for their first VBS? You can expect high energy games, loud music with hand motions, water nights, and crafts to take home with you each day.

There is also a general theme for each camp for the week and the kids will learn about different stories in the Bible.

Beat the Heat

Free & Frugal Summer Fun for East Valley Families 01

Tempe Time Machine This summer we’re cruising through Tempe History Museum’s new exhibit, Ranfla Vida.

Kids can explore and celebrate the art, history and culture of lowriders at weekly event.

Tempe Time Machine features crafts, stories, hands-on activities, and live demonstrations that spark curiosity – and each week is fresh and new, so you can come each week!

When: Wednesdays, starting June 3 through July 15, 9 AM – 1 PM Where: Tempe History Museum Ages: Best for kids 3–10, but fun for all ages Cost: Free (no registration required)

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Wiggle Worms Wiggle Worms offers an indoor play space filled with balls, ride-on toys, tunnels, hoops, and soft play areas. It’s an easy, low-cost outing that gives littles plenty of room to burn energy.

Where: McQueen Park Activity Center Ages: 6 years and younger When: Summer hours beginning May 1 (M/W/F, 9–11 AM) Cost: $1.50 Gilbert residents | $2 non-residents

Budget-Friendly Fun at FatCats

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If you’re looking for affordable indoor fun, FatCats locations in Gilbert, Mesa, and Queen Creek offer several great weekly deals.

• $5 Movies on Tuesdays • ½-Price Arcade Games on Wednesdays • Glow Golf for $5 per person anytime Bonus tip: Families with the GetOut Arizona Pass can often score free weekly glow golf or bowling at the Mesa or Gilbert locations simply by showing their pass.

Find Even More Free Fun

scan for the events calendar

Looking for even more ways to stay busy this summer without spending a fortune?

Our East Valley Moms Family Events Calendar is filled exclusively with free familyfriendly events happening across Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, Tempe, and beyond.

From splash pad pop-ups to storytimes and community festivals, it’s the easiest way to find something fun to do — without paying admission.

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EAST VALLEY MOMS

Paint, Create, Repeat: A Summer Creativity Break for Kids Creative, affordable classes that make summer easier for parents.

WRITTEN BY CARA LESPRON MOM OF 2, LIVES IN SCOTTSDALE CONTRIBUTOR JENNA’S DAUGHTER, VIOLET, AT EDNA VIHEL ARTS CENTER IN TEMPE

When the Arizona heat makes outdoor play tough — and the thought of another messy craft at home feels overwhelming — City of Tempe’s kids art classes offer the perfect solution.

Held at the same creative space that hosts the popular Free Art Friday events, these classes give toddlers and kids a chance to explore painting, crafting, and hands-on creativity without parents having to set up (or clean up) the mess at home.

Even better, the classes are incredibly budget-friendly. Many sessions run in six-week series for around $35, which works out to about $6 per class — a rare find for a structured activity during the summer months.

Sometimes the best summer parenting hack is simply outsourcing the mess. Let the kids paint, glue, and create in a space that you don’t have to clean up. ;) Parent/Child Classes for kids 12-36 months old (45 minute classes, 6 week sessions) Messy Art for Minis; Creative Spark Tiny Tales Drama Discovery Fingerplays and Action Songs Mini Rockers Jam Sessions

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Dropoff classes & weekly camps for school aged kids Ceramics & Pottery Play - Summer Camp K-Pop Movers & Makers - Summer Camp Doodles to Designs Mixed Media Summer Camp Most summer camps are 12:30-3:30 p.m., filling the warmest time of the day.

KEEPING LITTLE MINDS BUSY WITHOUT LOSING THE SUMMER FUN WRITTEN BY AMY MCCONNELL MOM OF 1, LIVES IN MESA

Summer break is meant for splash pads, popsicles, and slower mornings — but it’s also the perfect time to keep little minds engaged before the school year begins again.

If there’s one simple thing parents can do all summer long, it’s read together. East Valley libraries make it extra fun with their countywide summer reading programs, where kids can earn prizes just for logging the books they read.

For families preparing a child for kindergarten this fall, a little structured learning can go a long way.

Ready, Set, Kindergarten at the Chandler Public Library A free six-week class for children ages 4–5 that parents attend alongside their child. Each week follows a familiar routine with songs, stories, movement, and hands-on activities like cutting and gluing to build fine motor skills. Families even receive simple “homework” to reinforce learning at home.

Kinderbooster at TotSpot Gilbert KinderBooster at TotSpot Preschool is a six-week progressive camp designed to help kids heading into kindergarten build confidence before the first day of school.

Held at the Gilbert location, the program features the small class sizes and low student-to-teacher ratios TotSpot families love while introducing key kindergarten skills like phonics, sight words, handwriting, math, and STEAM. Sessions run weekly and are $150/week.

read, read & read more No matter your child’s age, reading together is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to support learning through the summer months. Just a few minutes a day helps maintain vocabulary, comprehension, and confidence — all while creating quiet moments of connection between parent and child.

The good news for East Valley families is that reading can also be a lot of fun thanks to the Maricopa County Summer Reading Program, offered at most local libraries. Starting May 1, families can sign up to track reading minutes and earn prizes throughout the summer.

One of the best parts of the program is that it’s designed for every stage of reader. Younger children and early prereaders can participate alongside school-aged kids through a special early literacy track, so even toddlers can join the challenge.

Between storytimes, prize incentives, and stacks of free books to explore, the library becomes one of the best free summer activities for families — and a simple way to keep young minds engaged all season long.

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A Free Way to Keep Curious Kids Learning All Summer Looking for a fun way to keep kids learning during the summer months?

Tempe Time Machine at the Tempe History Museum is a hidden gem for East Valley families. Held Wednesdays (June 3-July 15) from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., this free program invites kids to explore new ideas each week through crafts, stories, hands-on activities, and occasional live demonstrations.

This summer they’re cruising through Ranfla Vida—celebrating the art, history, and culture of lowriders. Experience how culture, imagination, and STEM come together in lowrider traditions—plus a special Tempe Time Machine surprise you won’t want to miss!

While the program is especially geared toward kids ages 3–10, the dropin format makes it easy for siblings and parents to enjoy together.

Best of all, no registration is required — simply stop by and start exploring.

WRITTEN BY AMY MCCONNELL MOM OF 1, LIVES IN MESA

August

A Simple August Reset for Moms with Littles

BY EAST VALLEY MOMS STAFF August can feel like an in-between month. Big kids are back in school, the heat is still intense, and moms with little ones are left wondering how to fill long mornings.

Sweat. Play. Stay. offers a simple reset for East Valley moms. Playdate participants receive 30 days of unlimited workouts at Red Mountain Fit Body Boot Camp, plus four built-in indoor Stay & Play mornings for kids ages 0–5.

Each Tuesday in August, moms can join a coach-led workout followed by a relaxed indoor playtime hosted by East Valley Moms where littles burn energy and moms connect.

Think of it as movement, community, and a plan for August mornings—all before fall routines begin.

RSVP

The Splash Pad Playbook

Mom-tested tips for stress-free summer water play.

COMPILED BY EAST VALLEY MOMS TEAM

When triple-digit temperatures hit, splash pads become one of the simplest ways to get kids out of the house without committing to a full pool day. They’re free, easy, and perfect for toddlers and young kids who just want to run, splash, and cool off.

Got a runner?

These fully fenced splash pads give moms a little peace of mind: • Mesa Riverview Park Splash Pad – A fully enclosed splash area next to a huge playground, making it easy to turn water play into a full morning outing.

• Founder's Park Splash Pad – A smaller, easy-to-manage splash pad that’s especially great for younger kids.

• Gilbert Regional Park Splash Pad – A large, fully fenced splash zone with plenty of space for kids to run, splash, and cool off.

Mansel Carter Splash Pad in Queen Creek Hack: The pirate ship at Mansel Carter Oasis Park Splash Pad is seriously cool and a must-see for kids. But if you’ve got littles, try to visit before older kids are out of school for summer — once school’s out, the pirate ship gets wild with big kids racing down the slides. Trust us on this one.

Mom Hack: The Best Evening Splash Pad If you’re looking for a cooler splash pad outing later in the day, head to Tempe Marketplace Splash Pad. The area becomes fully shaded in the afternoons, making it one of the most comfortable splash spots once the sun starts dropping.

What makes this one extra fun? It easily turns into a full family evening outing. After the kids splash and run, you’re steps away from pizza, casual dining, and a sweet treat stop at Handel's Ice Cream.

Mom Tip: Handel’s offers free mini kids cones, and the shop is within sight of the splash pad — meaning kids can cool off with ice cream while parents keep an eye on the action.

Sometimes the best summer nights are simply water play, ice cream, and letting kids stay up a little past bedtime.

Mom hack: Want built-in summer plans like this? Our Wild Summer Play Club meets weekly at outdoor water spots across the East Valley.

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my first day camp

first-time summer camps for toddlers Chandler Gymboree Offering morning sessions (9 a.m. - noon) camps are Monday through Thursday for kids ages 3-5, plus a special LEGO camp offered June 9-12 and 16-19 (from 14 p.m.)

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Each week session has a different themes, like dinosaurs, safari, community helpers, beach and more. $100/session Chandler blvd & Dobson, Chandler

Aspire Summer Camp

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Kids as young as 3 can participate in Aspire Kids Sports Center summer fun.

This facility is full of FUN with 32,000 ft. gymnastics and activity facility in Chandler.

Aspire is home to an 80 ft. trampoline–the largest Tumble Trak in the state of Arizona!

Customizable schedules and pro-rated pricing offered for 1-4 days/week camp attendance .

9 a.m. - noon Chandler Blvd & 101, Chandler

TotSpot Preschool Summer Camp Preschool campers ages 2-4 will discover a “Summer of Fun” at TotSpot Preschool. Camp emphasizes fun and independence for all campers where energetic teachers present exciting themes that feature art, free play, movement and in-house field trips.

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June 1 - July 13, registration by the week Twice/week offerings for two-year olds, potty training not required (9-11:30 a.m.), $80 twice/week offering for kids three-years and older (9:30 - 11:30 a.m. OR 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.) $100 Queen Creek Rd & Val Vista, Gilbert

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FAMILY VACATION

Summer Camp, But Make It Family Time Inside the East Valley Moms Family Camp experience

WRITTEN BY AMY MCCONNELL MOM OF 1, LIVES IN MESA

What if you, as mom, got to show up and enjoy your family vacation instead of planning it all?

Our East Valley Moms Summer Family Camp is designed for families with young children to step away from the everyday routine and spend a few meaningful days together in the cool mountain air of Flagstaff at Village Camp.

It’s a chance to slow down, explore, and surround your family with others who are in the same beautiful (and busy) stage of parenthood.

Each family will stay in their own private mini cabin, giving you space to relax and recharge while still being part of the larger camp community.

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WINTER CAMP WITH EAST VALLEY MOMS 2025

Your Private Flagstaff Cabin

Evenings at Camp

Families will stay in cozy mini cabins nestled among the pines, offering the perfect balance of privacy and community. Each cabin serves as your family’s home base for the weekend — a quiet place to unwind after a day of exploring while still being steps away from the rest of camp.

As the sun sets, families come back together for relaxed community time. These evenings are all about connection — simple meals, playful activities for kids, and meaningful moments with other moms and families who truly understand this stage of life.

Daytime Adventures, Your Way Family Camp is intentionally designed with flexibility in mind. During the day, you’ll have time to explore Flagstaff with your own crew.

Our team will provide four curated itineraries filled with family-friendly ideas near our cabins — from easy nature walks to local attractions — so planning is effortless while still leaving room for spontaneous fun.

What’s Included Experience

in

Your

Family

Camp

• Private mini cabin lodging • Curated Flagstaff family adventure itineraries • Evening community activities • Kid-friendly crafts and experiences • A welcoming community of East Valley families Because the best summer memories aren’t always the biggest trips — sometimes they’re simply a few days away together.

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June 22-24 Flagstaff, Ariz.

Early bird $595 all inclusive for 1st eight families

Because the best summer memories aren’t always the biggest trips — sometimes they’re a few days away where the family time is planned for you and the community feels just right.

Hosted and produced by East Valley Moms

RSVP HERE

Best Indoor Memberships this Summer for Kids Ages 0-4

WRITTEN BY MEGAN LANKFORD MOM OF 3, LIVES IN MESA

The Musik Box A music class that’s focused on early childhood development, these classes empower parents to learn ageappropraite play that’s meaningful developmentally.

OdySea The floor-to-ceiling windows invite toddlers to engage with the 30,000+ marine animals at their own pace without needing to be lifted to view each exhibit.

The Playhouse

Art Class

The cleanest indoor play place you’ll find in the East Valley, we adore this play space for kids 0-7 years old.

Amazing, affordable weekly parent/child art classes taught at the Edna Arts Center in Tempe is a budget-buster weekly class.

idea Museum This Downtown Mesa gem is full of sensory play and development, creative thinking, and educational, hands-on art for even the youngest of tots.

Swimhaus Our favorite swim school, offering mommy and me or child group lessons with the smallest class ratios in the East Valley.

East Valley Moms has been sharing local resources for families, hosting live playdate events and giving family-friendly activity reviews of attractions across the East Valley for 12 years.

@eastvalley.moms on Instagram eastvalleymom.com