Splash Around
Turn your backyard into a sprayground and cool down with a giant inflatable sprinkler from Big Mouth Inc. The six-foot tall yard sprinklers come in three fun styles (unicorn, dinosaur, and elephant), and easily hook up to your garden hose. Just inflate, turn on the water, and let the fun begin! $50-$80, available at select retailers including Target, Nordstrom, and Amazon.
Hang Tight
Sometimes all you need on a nice summer day is to sit back and relax under the shade of a tree. Grand Trunk’s junior hammock comes in handy on days like this. Designed just for kids, it’s the perfect size for ages six to 16. Hang it up between two trees at the park, on the trail, or in your own backyard. $45, available in three kid-friendly patterns.
Get in the Game
Add a bit of nostalgia to your next summer barbecue with a fun old-fashioned game of croquet. L.L.Bean’s croquet set comes with everything you need for an afternoon of outdoor fun on the lawn. $199, $229 with canvas tote.
Make a Treat
When hot summer days call for a refreshing treat, make your own snow cones at home with the Little Snowie 2 Ice Shaver. This little machine packs a lot of power, churning out the perfect snow cone in just five seconds. It’s so easy, your kids can even use it themselves (recommended for age eight and up). $199, includes a sample pack of six flavors.
Toss It
Beat the heat (and summertime boredom) with the OgoDisk H2O water balloon toss game. Kids bounce and toss water balloons back and forth on trampoline-like disks, trying not to let them pop, and then… splash! It’s a fun little game for any age. $20.
Float On
Pack one of Kololo’s inflatable pool floats in your swim tote for your family’s next trip to the neighborhood pool, and your kids can float with their friends in style. From seashell floats fit for little mermaids to unicorns and a giant narwhal, these mythical pool toys are sure to be a hit. $59-$99.
