Fun and frugal summer activities: Making popsicles with kids

Summer is the perfect season for sunshine, splashing, and treats—and what better way to cool down than with homemade popsicles? Though we’re still early in the summer, it’s always helpful to have an activity or two prepared for those days where there’s not much planned – and this is a fun one!

This simple activity checks all the boxes: it’s fun, educational, budget-friendly, and even a little eco-conscious!

Participating in Plastic Free July? Skip the store-bought popsicle wrappers and go zero-waste by using reusable molds.

Want to support local? Take the kids to the farmers market and let them pick out fresh, seasonal fruit for their creations.

In a world where summer fun can get expensive fast, popsicle-making offers a cheap (and cheerful!) alternative that keeps both your wallet and your kids cool.

With healthy ingredients, a chance to learn through hands-on kitchen play, and endless flavor combinations to explore, popsicles are the perfect summer project for your little chefs.

Looking for other fun activities to do over the summer? Check out past posts here!

Supplies you’ll need for making popsicles

• Popsicle molds (or small paper cups & wooden sticks)
• Blender or mixing bowl
• Measuring cups/spoons
• Fresh or frozen fruits
• Yogurt, juice, or coconut milk
• Honey or maple syrup (optional)

Easy popsicle recipes

Homemade Fruit Popsicles (5-Ingredient) – JoyFoodSunshine : A simple, fresh recipe using fruit, yogurt or juice, and a touch of honey. Quick to prep, fun to customize!

Strawberry Greek Yogurt Pops – Yummy Toddler Food: A kid-favorite with real strawberries, lemon juice, and yogurt. Great for toddlers and older kids alike.

One-Ingredient Watermelon Popsicles – Allrecipes: Just slice, stick, and freeze! A mess-free and refreshing snack on hot days.

Jell-O Popsicles – Eating on a Dime: Just Jell-O and water! These brightly colored pops are super easy for kids to help make.

A few other homemade popsicle ideas

Rainbow fruit pops: Layer different fruit purées (think strawberries, mangoes, and blueberries) for a colorful, healthy treat.

Lemonade ice pops: Mix lemonade and fresh fruit slices (like raspberries or kiwi) for a zesty twist.

Chocolate banana fudge pops: Blend bananas, cocoa powder, and a splash of milk for a guilt-free dessert pop.

Make popsicles even more fun!

• Creation stations: Set up stations for blending fruits, including add ins (mini chocolate chips anyone, extra fruit) and pouring mixtures.
• Design and decorate: Kids can design name labels or decorate their molds.
• Freeze and guess: Once frozen, play a “guess the flavor” game with each other!
• Share the experience: Let kids snap photos of their creations or record a short “cooking show” to share with friends or family

Make lots!

Make a big batch and keep extras in the freezer. They’re great for playdates, backyard parties, or cooling off after a park adventure. Made some healthy yogurt pops? Use them for breakfast – why not have a cold smoothie in the morning?

Summer is short—but the memories can last a lifetime. Making popsicles together is more than just a snack—it’s a chance to slow down, get messy, and savor the sweetest parts of the season.

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