by Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman
Summer vacation is around the corner and while many kids will be in camp, there will still be lots of downtime, so how do we keep them from complaining “I’m bored”? With some fun new toys that don’t necessarily break the bank, but can keep them interested and occupied. Last week I attended the 2014 Spring TTPM Showcase and saw some really awesome toys for kids of all ages. Here are my top 7 picks for this summer:
Rock & Ball from Tiny Love
This adorable ball can fold into a tambourine so you can take it on-the-go, but it has enough features to keep a baby entertained. Babies age 3-6 months can use this ball during tummy time and play with the ring and crinkly fabric while gazing at themselves in the double-sided mirror. Babies over 6 months old can change the shape of the ball into a tambourine. Appropriate for ages 3 months and up.
Crashlings from Wicked Cool Toys
Crashlings are meteor mutants from outer space that crash from planet to planet. Amazingly, they can pop up as far as 4 feet high! There are over 150 of them so you can collect or trade them. These little guys are perfect for getting your kids sitting down at the dinner table while you’re rushing to get dinner ready. You will hear lots of giggles as your kids pop these as high as they can! Appropriate for ages 5 and up.
Zing Air – Zano Bow from Zing Toys
While we’re on the subject of shooting things, the Zing Air Zano Bow is a fun toy that teaches kids basic archery. The bow shoots arrows up to 30 feet that can stick to almost any flat surface. Kids can use it anywhere indoors and you can rest assured the foam arrows won’t ruin anything. Appropriate for ages 4 and up.
Dora the Explorer Sno-Cone Maker from Little Kids
Beat the heat with yummy sno-cones! Just add ice (or fruit juice flavored ice cubes) to make these treats. The package comes with Wyler’s sugar-free tropical punch packets of powder that you mix with water and add to the ice. Appropriate for ages 4 and up.
Roll & Surprise Animal Train from VTech
This fun train grows with your baby! A younger baby can sit and push, slide and turn the knobs to see three cute animals. In addition, the train plays 55 songs, melodies, sounds and phrases. An older baby who is walking can use this train as a pull toy by pulling on the string. Appropriate for ages 6 months – 3 years.
Maleficent Doll from Jakks Pacific
Move over, Elsa and Anna, there’s a new queen in town. In anticipation of Maleficent, coming out at the end of May, this doll is inspired by Angelina Jolie’s character. The glittery gown, cape and curved horns are true-to-character and will make any little girl squeal with excitement, as this is one of the most anticipated movies of the summer. Appropriate for ages 3 and up.
TMNJ Z-Line Fire Escape Free Fall Playset from Nickelodeon
This unique toy is perfect for lovers of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Build the zip line anywhere you want and start sliding the turtles (not included). Younger kids will delight at sliding the turtles while older kids will have fun building the zip lines on their own. Appropriate for ages 4-15.
I was not compensated for this post. I received samples.
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Senior Reviewer Maytal Wichman is the owner of Mama’s Bites and has also written for The Huffington Post. She has been living in New York City for thirteen years and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Literature as well as a Law Degree, but blogging is her true passion. Maytal is a stay-at-home mom to three kids (ages 7, 5 and 1) and loves finding great products that make her family’s life easier.
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