As a mom, I’m always on the hunt for summer toys that actually keep my kids entertained for HOURS—not just the kind that get tossed aside after five minutes. This summer, I’ve discovered some truly trendy, hands-on favorites that are both parent-approved and kid-adored! Whether you're heading to the pool, planning a backyard playdate, or just need something for a quiet afternoon, these toys deliver.
Here are my must-haves to beat summer boredom and keep the good times rolling!
PLAYMOBIL Giant Shark with Pirate
$34.99 | Ages 4-10 | Available on Amazon and Playmobil
"This giant shark can swim in the water!!! Great for pool and beach fun. Pull the lever, and the huge mouth of the shark opens, capable of trapping the pirate inside. Release quickly, and the mouth snaps shut automatically. Riding through the seven seas, the shark-pirate clings to the monster shark's net with his saber drawn. Imaginative and role play fun in the summertime!"
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In my personal experience, my son absolutely loved this toy because it blends water play with adventurous imagination. One day the shark was the villain, and the next it was the pirate's best friend. Whether in the pool, bathtub, or sandbox, this toy was a hit and built for repeat play.
Miracle-Gro Wheelbarrow and Tools Set
$39.99 | Ages 3+ | Available at BJ’s
"Perfect for spring and summer, this kid-sized wheelbarrow and tools set mimics real gardening tools, allowing young gardeners to dig, plant, and explore the outdoors and assist mom & dad with their yard work! This set is built to handle the rough and tumble of energetic play while encouraging hands-on exploration, creativity and skill development. Set includes wheelbarrow, apron, hand trowel, hand rake, hand fork, gloves, long rake, and watering can."
My son felt like such a big kid with this set—and I loved how it encouraged him to spend time outdoors helping in the garden. He dug little holes, planted pretend seeds, and even created his own “flower shop.” It's not just cute—it's tough enough for real play and a great way to build confidence and skills.
$39.99 | Ages 3+ | Available at BJ’s
"Perfect for spring and summer, this kid-sized wheelbarrow and tools set mimics real gardening tools, allowing young gardeners to dig, plant, and explore the outdoors and assist mom & dad with their yard work! This set is built to handle the rough and tumble of energetic play while encouraging hands-on exploration, creativity and skill development. Set includes wheelbarrow, apron, hand trowel, hand rake, hand fork, gloves, long rake, and watering can."
My son felt like such a big kid with this set—and I loved how it encouraged him to spend time outdoors helping in the garden. He dug little holes, planted pretend seeds, and even created his own “flower shop.” It's not just cute—it's tough enough for real play and a great way to build confidence and skills.
Disney Stitch Sticki Rolls Capsules
$5.00 | Ages 3+ | Available at Claire’s, Five Below, and Amazon
"Get ready for an intergalactic adventure with the newest addition to the Sticki Rolls lineup! In collaboration with Disney, Sticki Rolls proudly introduces the Disney’s Stitch Sticki Rolls Collection. Featuring one-of-a-kind designs inspired by Stitch’s lovable antics and Hawaiian life, this collection brings wearable sticker fun to a whole new level. The limited-edition release is packed with exclusive stickers and accessories, perfect for fans of all ages to collect, wear, and share!"
If your kids are fans of Stitch, this is a must-have. My son loved peeling the stickers, wearing them like temporary tattoos, and sharing extras with his cousins. They’re affordable and perfect for summer camp, travel, or even party favors. A little capsule with a lot of joy!
$5.00 | Ages 3+ | Available at Claire’s, Five Below, and Amazon
"Get ready for an intergalactic adventure with the newest addition to the Sticki Rolls lineup! In collaboration with Disney, Sticki Rolls proudly introduces the Disney’s Stitch Sticki Rolls Collection. Featuring one-of-a-kind designs inspired by Stitch’s lovable antics and Hawaiian life, this collection brings wearable sticker fun to a whole new level. The limited-edition release is packed with exclusive stickers and accessories, perfect for fans of all ages to collect, wear, and share!"
If your kids are fans of Stitch, this is a must-have. My son loved peeling the stickers, wearing them like temporary tattoos, and sharing extras with his cousins. They’re affordable and perfect for summer camp, travel, or even party favors. A little capsule with a lot of joy!
#UpsideDownChallenge Game: Backyard Edition
$29.99 | Ages 8+ | Available on Amazon
"This summer, game night is about to be flipped upside down! Players attempt to complete seemingly easy activities such as tossing a ball into a cup, stacking cups into a pyramid and even just walking through an obstacle course made out of rings while wearing goggles that flip your vision upside down. Fantastic for game night, backyard barbecues and picnics that will create hours of laughter and entertainment."
This game had our whole family laughing uncontrollably. Watching everyone try to complete basic tasks with flipped vision is way harder than it sounds—and totally hilarious. It’s been a go-to for summer barbecues and get-togethers. Kids and adults alike were begging for rematches!
$29.99 | Ages 8+ | Available on Amazon
"This summer, game night is about to be flipped upside down! Players attempt to complete seemingly easy activities such as tossing a ball into a cup, stacking cups into a pyramid and even just walking through an obstacle course made out of rings while wearing goggles that flip your vision upside down. Fantastic for game night, backyard barbecues and picnics that will create hours of laughter and entertainment."
This game had our whole family laughing uncontrollably. Watching everyone try to complete basic tasks with flipped vision is way harder than it sounds—and totally hilarious. It’s been a go-to for summer barbecues and get-togethers. Kids and adults alike were begging for rematches!
Stratego Junior from Jumbo Group
$19.99 | Ages 4+ | Available on Amazon
"The classic game of Stratego is ready for the next generation. Stratego Junior allows budding gamers to play the famous game two ways: Stratego Quest (ages 4+) is a memory game where players roll the die to try and find matching colored dinosaurs on the board! In Stratego Triumph (ages 6+), players are ready for a Dino battle! Simply move and attack for command of the board—but watch out for rocks and meteors! First to find the missing dinosaur egg wins!"
This game is perfect for siblings with different ages or skill levels. My younger son loved the memory version, and my older one got totally into the dino battle mode. It’s a great way to boost critical thinking and get kids into strategic games—without overwhelming them. The dinosaur theme makes it an instant favorite.
$19.99 | Ages 4+ | Available on Amazon
"The classic game of Stratego is ready for the next generation. Stratego Junior allows budding gamers to play the famous game two ways: Stratego Quest (ages 4+) is a memory game where players roll the die to try and find matching colored dinosaurs on the board! In Stratego Triumph (ages 6+), players are ready for a Dino battle! Simply move and attack for command of the board—but watch out for rocks and meteors! First to find the missing dinosaur egg wins!"
This game is perfect for siblings with different ages or skill levels. My younger son loved the memory version, and my older one got totally into the dino battle mode. It’s a great way to boost critical thinking and get kids into strategic games—without overwhelming them. The dinosaur theme makes it an instant favorite.
Marvel Super Hero Trainer
Price TBD | Ages 6+ | Available on Amazon and UltraPRO.com
"Complete missions alongside your favorite iconic Heroes of the Marvel Universe such as Spiderman, Captain America, Black Widow, and Iron Man as they share advice to help you throughout your journey. Using its motion detection technology, Marvel Super Hero Trainer will recognize your movements as you crawl, fight and jump to victory against the villains."
This toy brought out so much energy and excitement! My son was jumping, ducking, and crawling like a real Marvel hero—and feeling so proud when he completed a mission. It’s one of those toys that keeps them moving while feeling like part of something big and heroic. Great for rainy days or getting energy out indoors.
If you’re tired of hearing “I’m bored” and want to keep your kids happy and busy this summer, these toys are totally Trendy Mom Reviews–approved. Whether it’s imaginative water play, silly challenges, backyard gardening, or dynamic games, there’s something here that your kids will love and actually play with again and again. Grab them before they sell out—and let the screen-free summer fun begin.
If you’re tired of hearing “I’m bored” and want to keep your kids happy and busy this summer, these toys are totally Trendy Mom Reviews–approved. Whether it’s imaginative water play, silly challenges, backyard gardening, or dynamic games, there’s something here that your kids will love and actually play with again and again. Grab them before they sell out—and let the screen-free summer fun begin.
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