36 Products To Help Entertain Your Kids All Summer Long

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An Elmer's glue slime kit since slime is easily your kids' favorite craft. From butter slime to glow-in-the-dark slime to color-changing slime — this'll def be a craft your kid will always be in the mood to do.
The kit includes regular slime activator, crunchy slime activator, butter slime activator, glow-in-the-dark slime activator, cherry limeade scented activator, glitter glue, clear glue, color-changing glue, glow-in-the-dark glue, and translucent glue. Promising review: "My kids loved this kit. Hours of fun! Did it make a mess? Yes… but it cleaned up easily. I didn't allow the slime on carpet or fabric furniture, so I don't know how easily it would clean up off of that type of material. The mess was totally worth it for me. For reference, my kids' ages are 15, 10, and 7. They all enjoyed it." —Michael M.Get it from Amazon for $30.82 (available in one other kit).
A pack of 12 reusable, latex-free silicone water balloons to keep the battles going all summer long. You know what this means, don't you? You won't have to pick up alllll those tiny pieces of destroyed balloons!
A waterproof version of Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza so you can avoid the "I'm borrrred" whining during adult swim this summer. Your kids may not even wanna get back in the pool cuz they'll be so into their fave game.
Dolphin Hat Games is a small biz that specializes in family-friendly card games.To play, pass out all of the cards to players and have everyone keep their pile facedown. Everyone takes turns putting a card in the middle while saying "taco," "cat," "goat," "cheese," and "pizza" in that order. If the picture on the card that's placed down matches the word that's been said, everyone races to slap the center pile of cards, and whoever slaps the pile last has to add the center pile to their personal pile. Oh! And there's also "narwhal," where everyone makes a unicorn horn with their hands clapped together above their heads; "gorilla," where everyone bangs on their chest like a gorilla; and "groundhog," where everyone has to knock on the table. Whoever does the motion last picks up the center pile. Whoever runs out of cards first wins! You can play with three to eight players, and the *recommended* age is 8+.Promising review: "I always think about games to play when at the pool — especially when there are 10-minute swim breaks and everyone is out of the pool — this is the perfect game! First of all, our family loves Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza. It's a game that's really easy to learn and is an energetic card game (perfect for kids!). To be able to bring this game around the water is awesome. I love how the cards are heavier, so they don't blow away as easily, too. The card ring makes them really easy to just toss in a bag, and I feel like it's indestructible. Honestly, we'll probably play this version of the game even inside just because of how indestructible it is (no one accidentally stepping on a card/ creasing it, etc.). Highly recommend!" —jessieGet it from Amazon for $14.99.
An inflatable chicken game, which includes two big ol' fighting chickens that your kids will wanna play with every single day. They'll have a blast wrestling each other off of these big, silly chickens, and best of all, they won't be wrestling in your house next to your very expensive china cabinet. Heck, you might even wanna get on one during your lunch break to partake in all the fun.
Promising review: "These chickens are probably the most awesome pool floats we have ever purchased! We have two 12-year-old boys who are having a blast on these things! They also like to sit on them and battle with our pool noodles! They seem to be very durable and have held up well so far. They are not like the cheaper floats that you have to keep blowing up. Yeah, they are a tad bit on the pricey side, but trust me, they are worth it and tons of fun for adults as well." —Vanessa KGet a set of two from Amazon for $69.95.
A friendship bracelet-making kit 'cause nothing says summer like arms full of colorful threaded bracelets. It also has a compartment that's perfect for storing all the floss!
Or a rainbow loom kit with over 7,000 colorful latex-free rubber bands in 21 different colors that'll last your kiddo all summer. They'll be able to make themselves all the anklets, chokers, and bracelets their little heart desires. Reviewers love it because it keeps their kids busy for hours. Music to your ears, huh?
You'll get 7,000+ rubber bands, 300 C-clips, a rainbow loom hook, 12 gift bags, instructions, and a handy organizer case, Promising review: "I have seven kids ranging from a 13-year-old boy down to a 5-year-old girl who all absolutely love making these bracelets. Keeps them busy for hours." —KeverlyGet it from Amazon for $21.99.
A 150-piece marble run set that'll provide endless hours of fun and stimulate your little mini bestie's mind. Your kid will be able to build some pretty awesome mazes, and once they're done, they'll be able to take it apart and create a totally new one! The gift that keeps on giving.
A splash mat — basically a slip-and-slide style, three-lane race with three inflatable bodyboards that'll keep your kids outdoors, playing together, rather than fighting and whining in the living room.
Promising review: "We used this at my daughter's birthday party to distract the bigger kids. They played on this thing all night. It held up well and did not leak. The boards were the perfect size for the kids. We loved this slip and slide." —KelciGet it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in three sizes).
The Pastry Project monthly subscription box that your mini Duff Goldman in the making will go wild for. It's truly a win for everyone — your kid will be entertained, and you'll get to indulge in all the yummy treats they make! Caramel cheesecake brownies, cream puffs, pretzels, apple fritters — is your mouth watering? 'Cause mine is!
Promising review: "My 11-year-old son loves to bake, but a lot of recipes are too involved for him to do on his own yet. However, he recently received a pastry kit subscription as a gift, and these kits are perfect! The instructions are easy to follow, the ingredients are high quality, and the finished products are delicious. My son can make these recipes all on his own and is learning new techniques with each one. He is SO excited to receive the next one!" —ShaylaGet a monthly subscription from The Pastry Project for $35 (also available in a one-time purchase, and 3-, 6-, and 12-month subscriptions).
A portable 120-inch screen because the only thing better than watching a movie is watching one outdoors on a summer night. Just set it up with a mini Bluetooth projector and *boom!* Your house is the place to be this season.
And some movie trays to take your movie-watching experience to the next level. There's no way your kids won't be happily glued to the screen with their snacks in their lap.
You'll get 12 popcorn bags and six movie trays!Promising review: "These are great for movie nights with the kids! Bags hold a decent amount of popcorn, trays are sturdy and not flimsy/cheap, and easily hold everything. Definitely recommend these!" —JRGet them from Amazon for $9.99.
A clay pottery wheel kit for your crafty little one who can't get enough of a good ol' art project. And making your own jewelry dish is pretty dang cool, might I add.
A two-pack of LED hover balls because your kiddos simply cannot understand why they aren't allowed to play soccer in the house. These have built-in bumpers, so you don't have to worry about your furniture getting all messed up as they glide across the floor.
A collection of six Dog Man books for those days where your kid has so much energy you can not stand it anymore. Whip these out and they'll *actually* be excited to sit quietly for a while.
Promising review: "My son was in the third grade and raved about these books all year. After volunteering at the school's book fair, I learned how popular Dog Man was, and not just to third graders. Kids of all grades from second to fifth took an interest in Dog Man. The books were sold out by the third day of a week-long book fair. Needless to say, this was a great buy!" —KyshaGet a collection of six books from Amazon for $42.87.
A Dude Perfect tabletop game since it's their fave show and they *live* for the fun challenges these guys do. Now they can do one of their very own!
Promising review: "My kids love all things Dude Perfect, and this game didn't disappoint either! The nets stick perfectly on the end of the table. Fun game and great gift for birthdays, Christmas, or just because!" —RaeGet it from Amazon for $18.30.
A set of sprinklers to attach to your trampoline because everyone knows that water elevates any and every summer activity. It'll bring a whole new level of fun to bouncing around.
Promising review: "The Trampoline Sprinkler Water Toy is a blast — easy to set up and perfect for cooling off. It sprays all around the trampoline, creating a playful water park vibe in your backyard. My kids loved bouncing through the mist — great for hot summer days." —KSNGet it from Amazon for $13.99 (available in two styles).
A Disney princess color-by-number coloring book that'll have your kid wanting to do absolutely nothing but sit quietly and color for hours.
I have three of these coloring books (this one is on my wish list), and I'm obsessed with themmmm. I kept seeing them on TikTok and had to have them. Pro tip: grab some paint pens (these are the ones I bought). They make all the difference, and that's how the coloring pages end up looking so good. Plus, the paint pens don't bleed through! I have no regrets and plan to buy basically every single one of these coloring books. But for now, I'm loving the three I have (check 'em out — 1, 2, and 3).Promising review: "I absolutely love the Disney Princess Color by Number books! As an adult, I find them incredibly relaxing and fun to work on, and they turn out beautifully every time. My kids enjoy them just as much, making it a great activity we can do together. The designs are detailed enough to be satisfying for adults but still accessible for kids. I've already purchased several more because we can't get enough! Highly recommend for both kids and adults who love Disney and coloring. Perfect for display models, too!" —JenniferGet it from Amazon for $25.29.
A splurge-y rechargeable laser tag set your child will NEVER stop talking about. Laser tag right at home? Sign me up! Your house will now be the house all the kids wanna sleep over and hang out at. And, admit it, you'll wanna play a round or two with them as well.
A Black Panther Lego set with 2,961 pieces that'll have your kid occupied basically all summer. If your teen is Marvel-obsessed, they'll *actually* love this. I know, it seems like they don't enjoy anyFREAKINGthing, but trust me, they'll be tucked away for hours working on this.
Promising review: "This Black Panther Lego set is amazing and quite large. My teen son put it together over three days working on and off. The Lego bust is detailed at every angle and even has its own necklace and moveable fingers. This was a great activity for my son, as well as an amazing addition to his Marvel collection. Definitely recommend." —MelitaGet it from Amazon for $324.99.
Or a Venom Lego set because nothing will bring you more peace than sitting your kiddo down with 565 Lego pieces to assemble. No worries, it won't try to eat everyone.
It's recommended for 18+, but reviewers say their kids were able to do it on their own, or only needed a bit of help. It could even be a fun activity to do with your kiddo who complains they're bored every five minutes. Promising review: "This thing is very cool. Bought this for my 10-year-old son to build. He is just getting into Legos and was able to build this with minimal help. Instructions are very easy to follow, and the end product looks amazing. If you're a fan, this is a very cool item to put on display." —Alinette HayesGet it from Amazon for $124.95.
An inflatable tic-tac-toe pool game, an epic challenge your kids won't be able to get enough of. Much more fun and unpredictable than the paper-and-pencil version.
Promising review: "I ordered this for the kids to break up the monotony of the same boring pool games and floats, and it's been a ton of fun! It's fun for all ages, my husband and I have also been playing tic-tac-toe with it! Highly recommend!" —C TuckerGet it from Amazon for $35.99+ (available in three colors).
An I Spy book because remember how long *you* used to sit and search through this riddle book? You may even be tempted to give this baby a go yourself. A guaranteed good time no matter the age.
Promising reviews: "Kept the 5-year-old grandson entertained for hours! Great interactive book for connecting with your little one!" —Michael D. Barry"My grandsons love I Spy books. Like all the other I Spy books we own, this one did not disappoint. Such great quality books and such a wonderful alternative to tablet time." —Gregory M. MatliGet it from Amazon for $9.30.
An air fort, so they won't need to arrange all the furniture and take every blanket in the house to make a fort anymore. The same level of entertainment with way less mess.
A splurge-worthy Nintendo Switch because your kid is a total gamer and has been eyeing this baby for a while. It comes with two detachable Joy-Con controllers, and they'll be able to play this on the TV, tabletop, or as a handheld game. (Meaning it's portable!)
A spacious inflatable pool they'll be so hyped about. Their very own pool?! IN THE BACKYARD?! Getting them to go play outside will be so easy.
Or an inflatable water park to keep your kiddos cool and entertained. Avoid heat-induced meltdowns by giving your little one a play center equipped with two slides, a climbing wall, a splash pool, a deeper pool, a water bucket, and tons of little areas that spray water. Your house will def be the fun house all summer. Uh, do they happen to have one in an adult size? 'Cause I want one.
A bubble gun that shoots out hundreds of bubbles at a time, creating a bubble frenzy! You won't be able to resist joining in on the fun, and it has lights!
A paintable squishies kit because the only thing better than these soft little toys is making 'em yourself! Since your kiddo already has a squishy obsession, they'll probz flip their lid when you hand them this and they realize they can make their very own. You may need to stock up on these kits, cuz they're gonna wanna paint more and more of these babies.
A glow-in-the-dark tumbling tower game with LED building blocks for some nighttime entertainment. It has three LED pattern modes for fun, challenging new ways to play this classic building game. Perfect for late-night BBQs and pool parties!
Promising review: "We love this!! It's like light-up Jenga. We set it up, turn it on, and turn the house lights off. The kids love it!! Pieces are quality-made. Going to buy one as a gift for my brother!" —Janice ConklinGet it from Amazon for $65.99.
A fully equipped Klutz Lego Make Your Own Movie Activity Kit for your little creative kiddo who has the imagination of the kid from Where The Wild Things Are. Give 'em this and let their little minds run wild. They'll be stoked to watch a mini-movie they made themselves. I think you've got a baby Steven Spielberg on your hands.
Promising review: "My son got this for a Christmas present and it was hands down the best gift. He has made so many cute films using the props in the kit. He has also become very curious about how movies are made and the different jobs people have to make a movie. Highly recommend this a gift for a curious kid." —Wünderbar MuttiGet it from Amazon for $24.74.
A "Sorry!" board game — sorry to your kids, that is, because you're def gonna kick their little booties in this. Your kiddos are gonna be the ones pulling *you* away from the board 'cause you won't be able to get enough of this super fun "classic game of sweet revenge."
To play, each player draws cards that move them through the board. The first player to get all their pawns across the board and back home wins! Recommended for ages 6+.Promising reviews: "Nostalgia made me buy this game, and I couldn't be happier. Got my kids to enjoy a game I enjoyed as a kid, and they loved it — I kicked their butt :)." —AK"This was always a childhood favorite of mine. Still enjoy playing it now with my daughter. New rules make it more fun and quicker to play. The whole family enjoys it." —Jennifer TavaresGet it from Amazon for $9.84.
An inflatable double-sided table set that comes with waterproof playing cards and two inflatable sling chairs with cup holders. On one side, they can play regular card games or even poker, and on the other side, they can play chess and checkers. Playing card games is cool, but playing card games with a cold soda in the pool = elite.
Promising review: "Love love love this product!!!! We use it a whole lot. We usually play Uno at the pool. We have the Uno waterproof cards, and it's so cool for the kids and me to play together. The material is super sturdy, and the attachments are good material as well. No fear of tearing it, 'cause it's very thick. Excellent buy!!!" —MiguelinaGet it from Amazon for $45 (available in a blackjack version).
A set of two Banzai Bump N Bounce Body Bumpers, kinda like the Sock'em Boppers your mom wouldn't let you have in the '90s. Totally don't be a regular parent, be a cool parent and snag these for the kiddos...and yourself. You know you wanna try.
A What Do You Meme? SpongeBob edition that puts a wonderful Bikini Bottom twist on the regular game. If you and your minis love to spend the day reciting SpongeBob quotes, this game is *perfect* for your fam.
To play, everyone will be given caption cards. A meme picture will be put on the mini easel, and players will all match a caption card to that meme. An appointed judge will decide which combo is funniest, and whoever wins that round gets to judge next and keeps the meme. The player with the most memes at the end wins! Recommended for ages 8+.Promising review: "This was a gift for my son, and he was so excited. It's a super funny game and had us all laughing! It is good quality, the cards are printed well, and I'm sure we will play it many times. Good for all ages, it is kid-friendly." —KBall18Get it from Amazon for $13.59.
A create-your-own published storybook kit your creative kiddo will *swoon* over. Have them fill out the included papers with their own story and illustrations, slip the pages in the pre-addressed envelope, pop it into the mail, and they'll get a printed, hardcover book back. If your kid has a wild imagination, give 'em this and they'll be distracted with creating their book for hours, ~and~ it'll teach them that their imagination can take them far.
It comes with a blank cover page, 20 blank storybook sheets, a guidebook, a pre-stamped mailing envelope, and 10 markers.Promising review: "My daughter, who is 10.5 years old, is working on her own book! She loves this gift so much. It has given her a project where, instead of racing through it, she is taking her time. She cannot wait to finish her personal story so we can ship her pages back and receive her hard-bound book. She will soon be an author! Thank you for making an affordable, creative, hands-on project for anyone to enjoy." —Jessica L.Get it from Uncommon Goods for $32.
Some glow-in-the-dark beach balls that'll keep the kiddos entertained way longer than the regular ol' beach balls because who doesn't love a lil' glow-in-the-dark fun?
Promising review: "We ordered these for a pool party for our teen. The kids absolutely loved them, and I am convinced it contributed to extending the outside time late into the evening and kept them enjoying the pool longer. The ambiance was fun and great for all! The quality seems great." —Leanne MolterGet a four-pack from Amazon for $24.99 (also available in an eight-pack).
Your kids during adult swim when you pull out the waterproof Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza:
The reviews for this post have been edited for length and clarity.