It’s a welcome change when summer allows for a little extra down-time to relax and let the kids have some more freedom deciding how to spend their daylight hours. But already a month into summer vacay means your kids may be singing the "I'm bored" song.
As the only Canadian Toyologists, our team of experts receives feedback from parents all year on what toys and games actually work with kids. Based on parent reviews and my own personal experience testing with our young family here are three ideas to keep your summer going.
Sports
Ogo Sport - the hand trampoline for balls
An essential for the backyard, beach, or on your holiday this racket set is so versatile in the ways you can play with it. Throw it like a disc, use a net or adapt team games like volleyball, baseball or tennis. Try using water balloons for a party. Very open ended. My 4 year old and I even play with it indoors and he’s made up 10 of his own games. Check out the video from Sweden. Try to find a Waboba ball for when you take it to the beach or pool as the racquets float in the water. Age 3+. 24.99
Winner of the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Best Toy Award! And Parent’s Choice Foundation Approved
Risks
Z-Curve Bow is the ultimate foam arrow shooter for high tech archery! Uses safe, soft long range arrows that can soar 125 feet. Set includes bow, Zip clip holder, two long range arrows, and the Zartz suction tip dart for accurate target practice. Unique delivery system allows only soft, safe ammo to be used. For age 8+
Finalist American Specialty Toy “Best Toys for Kids” Award 2011
Nature
Two Canadian moms invented The Nature Bag which encourages children and their families to get out into nature and unearth lots of fun. In an organic shoulder bag full of environmentally friendly necessities the activity book will lead you on adventures of the educational variety. For example … “Go on a scavenger hunt, walk with bugs, hug a tree, make dough imprints, look closely at the patterns in a leaf, try some wild weaving and more!” If our kids don’t learn to appreciate and enjoy nature, we can’t expect them to preserve it. Hang it by the door and bring it with you on your trips to the park.
34.99 All ages
Ask the experts at your local independent neighbourhood toy store for more unique and open ended ideas for the kids this summer.
Toyologist, Kirsten Anderson’s “Toy Tips” monthly interviews on Global TV can be watched on-line at www.villagetoyshop.ca. The Village Toy Shop is located in charming Newport Village, Port Moody, B.C. and is a member of Neighbourhood Toy Stores of Canada.
Printer-friendly version