Splish Splash!

My mother-in-law recently received the call she looks forward to all winter–the one in which she chooses a date to have her pool opened. Riding the wave of her excitement, I started researching water toys for my kids to enjoy throughout the next few months. With the arrival of warmer weather, we’ve finally had the chance to try out some of things I’ve bought. Brandon and Julia have been happy to help with the testing and together we’ve selected the following favorites which would be great to take along on your next pool or beach outing.

Green Toys Tugboat. A great option from the company that makes all of their products from recycled milk containers. Green Toys has created more than just an environmentally friendly boat with this toy–the handle and spout make it easy to carry and pour water whether you are filling a moat, sinking another ship or trying to get a laugh at your little sister’s expense (my son is guilty of all three). Or simply push this little boat around in the water. $14.99.

Splashimals by Milliwik. These waterproof educational cards are great for pool or beach use. Very young children can use the cards to learn to match animals (assuming they wouldn’t rather just chew on them) while slightly older kids can turn them upside down and play games such as Memory. And since the cards float, kids can even play those games in the water! When you’re done, just drop them in the included mesh bag and they’ll dry quickly on their own. $12.99.

Bilibo. This Swiss-designed toy has won loads of awards for its ability to spark children’s imaginations. I’m not exactly sure what it is—it’s described by the manufacturer as “open-ended”–but my children love it. In the pool, the Bilibo can serve as a boat or bucket, but your kids will come up with plenty of other imaginative uses for it. $30.

Swimways Baby Spring Float Sun Canopy. This float for ages 9 to 24 months is a favorite among families. A mesh shelf connects its inner and outer rings to give children easy access to small toys. The adjustable canopy is great for limiting exposure to direct sunlight. And it allows kids to easily splash their hands in the water. As with any float, it requires very close supervision to make sure children don’t tip it or fall out. The included bag makes it portable and easy to store. $34.99.

Alex Toys Tub Tunes Symphony Bath Toy. Sure, it’s called a bath toy, but that doesn’t mean your kids can’t enjoy it in a swimming pool or the ocean. This colorful set contains three different types of instruments–flutes, a drum and a xylophone–all of which float and come with laminated music sheets. $34.99.