
But if you’d rather save money, wait till the end of the season-think September-when stores are looking to make room for new merchandise. Schacht says new items will hit the stores in March, meaning you’ll have more options.


Not only could this compromise the toy, but it could put your child in danger if they accidentally ingest any lingering chemicals. One important thing to remember: Never use harsh chemicals, especially on toys for younger children. You should change the sand at least every year, or more frequently if it appears soiled or you’re not covering the box consistently. Use a cover to keep out curious insects and other critters who might want to use it as a restroom.
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To keep your sandbox free from debris and bacteria, check the sand by raking it before and after each play session. After letting the mixture sit for several minutes, rinse and dry well.

You can clean your water table by simply filling it with either the bleach-water or vinegar-water solution or just water and mild dish soap.
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When working with bleach, follow safety precautions such as wearing goggles and gloves, opening windows for ventilation, and keeping children out of the room. Use 1 gallon of water with a half-cup of either bleach or vinegar (never mix the two!). Not only does this extend the use of play, but it can be helpful when the weather doesn’t cooperate with outdoor play.įor most toys, Schacht says cleaning is as simple as scrubbing with a damp rag or paper towels and some dishwashing liquid.įor sandbox or water toys that are prone to mold and mildew, you can soak them for 10 minutes in your bathtub or sink. It’s also worth considering whether a fold-and-store toy can be used indoors and outdoors. “Some toys fold and store easily while others are meant to be installed and left in place.” So, if you lack a large backyard, you’ll want to look for something that is either small or can be packed and stored with ease. “When purchasing outdoor toys, be mindful of the space they take up,” Schacht tells The Spruce. That said, even something as simple as sliding and blowing bubbles will get their blood pumping while they’re having fun-and leave them all tuckered out come bedtime. Gummer says active toys your child can enjoy alone, such as a trike, as well as sports games they can play with friends and siblings are all great options. If your goal is to get your kids moving and have them burn off some of that oh-so-abundant energy, you’ll want to choose a toy that encourages lots of movement. Amanda Gummer, a neuropsychologist and founder of Good Play Guide tells The Spruce, “Playing outdoors offers children an excellent opportunity to exercise and burn off some steam." “Some toys, even outdoor toys, have small parts and are not suitable for children under the age of 3,” Laurie Schacht, the president and chief toy officer of Adventure Media, tells The Spruce.ĭr.

However, don’t try to stray too far from the age recommendations for safety purposes. You know these kids best, so don’t limit your choices to the age range too strictly if there’s something a little older or younger that you think they’d enjoy. Remember, though, that the recommended age range is just that-a recommendation. “Not only will this be a good indicator of what types of toys developmentally your child is ready for, but it can also help narrow the pool of toy candidates,” she says. What to Look for in Outdoor Toys Age RangeĪccording to Lynch, the first thing to consider when purchasing a toy is the age recommendation. You can also find peace of mind knowing this trampoline is ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) and TUV (Technical Inspection Association) certified, so you can be sure your little one is safe while they jump.ĭimensions: 15 feet | Material: Alloy steel | Age Range: Not listed The no-gap design keeps hands and feet from getting caught, while the hot-dip galvanizing technology and a self-locking frame create a more stable and durable structure.Īs far as bounce goes, your kids will (safely) go high thanks to the 12 additional springs. Other comforting safety features include a high net enclosure and longer poles to secure the net and frame. The whole family can participate, too the 375-pound weight limit allows multiple kids and even an adult or two to enjoy this trampoline. Safety is always important when buying toys, especially when purchasing the best trampoline for your kids, and the Zupapa trampoline protects without sacrificing fun. The Spruce Home Improvement Review Board.
