In our beach bag: paint with water books

On a chilly trip to the beach last week, I left the sand toys at home in the hopes of keeping Anne out of the water (she always ends up drenched while filling her bucket and it was really too cold for that). Instead, I slipped a paint-with-water book that she got for her birthday and a few brushes into our beach bag. It was a huge hit, and kept her happily entertained on dry land long enough to soak up some precious vitamin D. 

What outside-the-box activities keep your kids occupied at the beach? Let us know in the comments or drop me a line if you're interested in possibly sharing in a guest post. 

This week at Fun and Free Hampton Roads, I'm writing about free events that are happening this weekend as a part of the 2014 NATO Festival, including the Parade of Nations and the NATO International Village at Town Point Park, and about the free Healthy Kids Day event happening at the YMCA of South Hampton Roads locations (a great chance to experience some of what the Y has to offer without being a member). Click on over to check them out and have a happy weekend!