Charleston Weekly

It's July in Charleston,and pretty everyone who's set foot in the Lowcountry knows that equates to muggy, hot days and muggy, very warm nights. This summer, in particular, has been a hot one, so it's more important than ever to stay hydrated and stick to activities that will help you to beat the heat. Following are several things you can do with the whole family to stay comfortable during this hot, hot summer in the Holy City.

1. Head to the beach

Yes, you'll be outside, and you're sure to get sweaty andsticky, but the ocean's right there, and taking a dip is the perfect way to cool off. There are several beach options here in Charleston: Sullivan's Island, Folly Beach, and Isle of Palms to name the most popular. So you're sure to find a beach that has the type of atmosphere you're looking for. And if sitting on the sand all day doesn't appeal to you, call up that buddy of yours whose neighborhood has a pool.

2. Play a silly game complete with water balloons

You know that children's game, Hot Potato? Well, give it afun (and cold) twist by passing around a "spraying potato"! Use a pin to carefully poke a hole in a balloon, and then fill the balloon up with water. Make sure that there's a slow, steady leak in the water balloon, then get the kids together in a circle in the yard. Pass that water balloon around as quickly as you can—the goal is to not be the one holding the balloon once it's out of water.

3. Get wet and wild at the water park

Water parks offer the ideal atmosphere in which you and your kids can stay cool and have a blast, even when it's hot as blazes outside. The most popular water park in the Charleston area is the Whirlin' Waters Adventure Waterpark (8888 University Boulevard, North Charleston). The water park has tons of features including a kiddie pool area, toddler play area, wave pool, mat racer slide, multi-slide complex, play structure, and lazy river.

4. Show off your artistic side—on each other

One way to take advantage of the warm weather is to bring the arts and crafts outside. Get together some washable finger paints and brushes, and have your kids take turns painting pictures on each other. They're sure to have a blast painting without worrying about making a mess. Once the pictures are completed, grab the garden hose and wash the canvas clean.

5. Take advantage of the mall's A/C

One way to easily keep your kids busy for a few hours is to bring them to the mall. Malls are renowned for having tons of stores that appeal to all ages and types of people. The kids are sure to love hitting up the arcade or movie theater. There are several malls in our area, so you have your pick of which one is most convenient and close to you:

• *Citadel Mall (2070 Sam Rittenberg Boulevard)
• *Tanger Factory Outlet Center (4840 Tanger Outlet Boulevard, North Charleston)
• *Northwoods Mall (2150 Northwoods Boulevard, North Charleston)
• *Mount Pleasant Towne Center (1600 Palmetto Grande Drive, Mount Pleasant)