National Post (National Edition)
Get them outside, away from screens
A few new toys sure to lure kids into summer fun
They may have felt glued to their computer or tablet during online learning. With school finished, it’s time to go outside. It’s not a typical summer — they’re probably missing camps — but there’s still fun to be had. We know they will pull out favourite toys and games from years past, but we found a few new ideas for added fun in the backyard or nearby park.
❚ Pop and Pass
❚ Hog Wild, ages 6 and older, $34.99
This catching game features two launchers that propel a small foam ball with the pull of the handle. Compressed air makes a popping sound as the ball shoots toward your partner. The launchers have a basket-like shape at the end that makes it easy to scoop up the ball from the ground. It’s not simple to catch, however, as the little ball can easily pop right out of your basket.
❚ Nerf Bulls-Eye Digital Target ❚ Hasbro, ages 8 and older, $28.27
If you have a dart blaster, you’re probably bouncing those little foam darts off just about anything. Set up this digital target in your backyard or driveway to stay far from breakable objects inside the house. The target has three game modes and can be set for one or two players. Hit some or all of the seven small targets in 60 seconds to earn points that appear on the battery-powered digital display. Most kids will need practice to improve their aim, something that may help save parents’ collectibles.
❚ Glow in the Dark Rock Painting Kit
❚ Creativity for Kids, ages 6 and older, $19.99
Treasure hunts are big this year, and looking for painted rocks is a fun option. With this kit, you can create the colourful objects to find on a nighttime hunt with neighbours. The kit comes with 10 river rocks, two paintbrushes, six water-resistant fluorescent paints and five glow-in-the-dark puffy paint markers. Get a sheet of newspaper to catch spills, and set up an outdoor painting station. There are no templates, so the designs are up to you. After several hours of drying, your mini masterpieces are ready for their hiding spots.