Buzz
1. A Step2 rain shower water table in case you haven’t discovered the magic of water tables yet. They’ve earned their spot on every "MUST-HAVE" list for a reason: these fun-filled tables are perfect for kids of all ages. Who can resist splashing around in water while enjoying an ice pop? I mean, really.
2. Or perhaps a Step2 All Around Playtime Patio if you prefer shaded fun without the water but still brimming with excitement!
Customer review: "My 5-year-old and 3-year-old grandkids absolutely adore this. It looks so neat and tidy in my yard. The kids spend hours playing café and drive-through restaurant. Putting it together wasn’t difficult at all. It took two of us around two hours. Definitely recommend." —Lisa
Get it at Wayfair for $189.99 (was $219.99).
3. A play sink with running water for splashing fun that cools off toddlers without completely soaking them. This one’s a favorite in our house, as it also serves as a "car wash" exclusively for Hot Wheels.
4. A RuffleButts long-sleeve one-piece swimsuit, because the sooner your little one can rock a cute swimsuit, the better.
5. Or a pair of RuggedButts swim trunks if your little one prefers shorts instead of a swimsuit.
6. A set of reusable water bomb balloons that are both eco-friendly and durable enough to withstand multiple fills without popping. Plus, the magnet closure is a game-changer—easy for toddlers and preschoolers to open and fill themselves! (The magnets are safely covered, but always supervise play, of course.)
A spring float with a canopy that you'll adore for its portability and added sun protection. Plus, the little one will enjoy the attached pool toys for extra fun.
A charming shark-shaped sun hat from Cat & Jack, offering additional neck protection to prevent those sneaky sunburns.
Promising review: "Was looking for a sun hat for this summer, love that it came in different sizes so my kids can match and that it covers the back of the neck as well." —Ray
Get it from Target for $10 (available in sizes 0-6 months to 2T-5T).
9. Or a big-bowed sun hat option because every kid deserves an Audrey Hepburn moment for the baby book.
A KidKraft chaise lounger that’s ideal for keeping little toddlers out of the sun in style. Honestly, I’m a bit envious of the cabana vibes it gives off.
An Original Pop 'N Go Playpen with a canopy that keeps your little one cool and securely contained while they explore. Reviewers rave about its durability and its ability to withstand hot environments!
12. A small inflatable splash pad and activity center, perfect for babies who aren’t yet ready for a full kiddie pool, offering them a chance to join in the summer fun with just a few inches of water.
Promising review: "This small box is packed with fun, and my granddaughter absolutely loves it. She’s not yet ready for the larger pool, but this activity center is just right. It keeps the little ones cool and entertained, and it’s incredibly safe." —BamBam
Purchase it from Walmart for $12.98 (regular price $19.99).
13. A set of four durable, mix-and-match waterfalls because we want our water table toys to stand the test of time and last more than just one summer season, thank you very much.
Promising review: "My preschoolers adore these! They’re incredibly sturdy. They love taking them apart and stacking them again to watch how the water flows through." —Jessica
"I was impressed by their durability. You can choose to stack them or leave them separate. My summer class of 5- to 8-year-olds enjoys them thoroughly." —Bastrop
Buy a set of four from Lakeshore for $39.99.
14. A Melissa & Doug flower sprinkler that guarantees your children will cherish memories of it into adulthood. "Remember that adorable flower sprinkler?!" This is the bright pink plastic charm that defines childhood summers.
15. A Little Tikes picnic table with an umbrella provides a shady retreat for those essential snack and water breaks during summer fun.
16. A lightweight baby carrier for both land and water, ensuring that you and your little ones can enjoy the summer amphibian lifestyle with ultimate comfort.
17. A pair of flexible polarized baby sunglasses featuring a strap to keep them secure, even with those wild, waving hands from babies and toddlers.
18. A Solar Buddies sunscreen applicator designed to tackle the squirmy "I don't wannas" from both babies and adults. Sunscreen is essential, but getting it on those wiggly little bodies is a challenge. These refillable applicators hold your favorite sunscreen, and the soft roller ball makes reapplying a breeze—even in the middle of a swim!
19. A folding pop 'n' sit booster chair because no one wants to stress over sunburns and burns from sand, asphalt, or concrete. This chair comes with a removable, easy-to-clean snack tray and is perfect for keeping your baby safe and off the scorching ground wherever you go.
20. A silicone ice pop mold that allows you to create a variety of frozen treats—formula or breastmilk pops, water pops, juice pops, yogurt pops... the possibilities are endless!
21. Finally, a Little Tikes Story Dream Machine projector that will have your kids excited to head back inside after spending all day in the sun. With *so many* book options, it’s a hit! My son is still obsessed with it a year after buying it, and we’ve been back to get every new book set released! 10/10 recommend this as a tool for coaxing kids back inside after "pool time is over."
If you're looking for quick start tips or want to see the Dream Machine in action, check out these TikToks!
And don’t forget to pick up some book sets! There are plenty of options, including Elmo, Richard Scarry's Busytown, and Eric Carle (the creator of The Very Hungry Caterpillar)!
Promising review: "I’m always searching for alternatives to the TV! This reminds me of my own childhood—sweet and simple. My son and daughter love it so much! I have a feeling it will become a new favorite in our home." —Michelle
Get it from Walmart for $48.48.
The reviews for this post have been edited for brevity and clarity.
