The temperatures are rising in Wyoming & we are scrambling to keep entertained.

Since I’m trying to save a few bucks & gas this summer, our backyard is the main attraction. We got privacy, tons of space, free admission & no rules. Plus pjs are a mandatory attire.

Recently I let lil man play with ice. Yup…you read that right. I let him play with ice. In fact, I gave him a hammer & told him to have at it. It was a cheap {practically free} and somewhat of a learning lesson because of the colors/letters I included.

I call it “Smashin’ Ice Fun.” Cause that’s what we did. We smashed ice cubes and discovered letters hiding in them. Best part? No mess and we can do this over & over until the snow comes this winter.

Want to smash some ice cubes too? Here is what you need:

SUPPLIES:

* Silicon Muffin Cups or Ice Cube Trays
* Tap Water
* Small Plastic Toys {*if you have small kids, look for age appropriate/non-choking toys}

I personally prefer the silicon muffin cups for this activity because the ice literally just slips out of them. The silicon muffins cups can be a bit pricey but I use them for a TON of crafts, as well as baking. They are a great investment.

Also for plastic toys, the best place to shop is Dollar Tree. I went with plastic letters but you could do Army men, plastic bugs etc. But before you run out to grab stuff, raid your kid’s toys for small trinkets. They probably won’t even notice & possibly fall back in love with those small toys.

DIRECTIONS:

Lay out your muffin cups on a clean cookie sheet. Place plastic toys in each muffin cups in a random way. Then fill muffin cups with water but leave a little room on top, so the ice can expand. Stick in freezer and let it freeze for about two hours.

Once completely frozen, pull out of freezer. Grab a hammer & safety goggles if you have them.

Have your child help you remove the ice cubes from the silicon muffin cups.

Place them in a pile on the ground.

Now are you ready for a Smashin’ good time? Just hammer & smash away until the ice is completely broken. Even throw them on the concrete to break them apart. Then have your child identify each thing that comes out of the ice cubes. Point out colors, shapes & turn it into a game.