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I am all about creating fun with my grandchildren by using what I already have around me including objects from nature, thrifted items, and things already lying around the house. But once in a while, I do come across things to purchase that are worth buying so here is my list of a few of those things. The criteria is that the grandkids had to play with it a lot, that it wasn’t too big of a mess, and would not create a bunch of plastic waste.
1 The Water Table
This checks all the boxes except it doesn’t have a water pump built in. I have a good water pump that runs a long time. They are very inexpensive. See item 2 below.
There are so many water table to choose from. I find the simpler, the better. Items with lots of moving parts will break and become clutter. Keep it simple.
2. Water Table Pump
I have had quite a few versions of these. This is what I have right now. You can use it on the water table or use it inside with water play. It has a strong magnet that you can stick to whatever surface you need and it will stay put. Chargeable. Super fun design.
The little crown on top comes off and it makes it a fountain that sprays straight up, for a bit of variety. This toy can turn anything with water in it into a sink. We even use it in the sink so that the kids can play with circulating water at the sink and not waste water. Could also be used in bathtub.
3. Mickey Mouse Bubble Blower
This is another must have, and it needs to be this particular one because it is easy to use and the bubbles don’t spill out of it. The liquid is contained. Which makes it so much more child friendly. The bubbles last about 15 minutes. Runs on 3 AAA batteries that have lasted a long time for me. I have not changed them yet and this thing has been going every day for about two weeks.
Mickey Mouse Bubble Machine on Amazon
4. Baseball Machine
This is so much fun for kids. They get automatic balls coming at them. You can adjust speed. They love playing with this outside. Perfect toy for spring!
Kids Baseball Machine on Amazon
5. Picnic Table with Umbrella
This is so cute and just the right size for toddlers and preschoolers. They love having a place to sit that is just their size. I prefer plastic outside so it doesn’t get splintery.
Toddler Picnic Table on Amazon
6. Toddler Swing
Just the right size!
Kids love swings and this one is easy to put them in and secure. I will be sad when he outgrows it.
7. Shaved Ice Machine
My grandkids absolutely love this new addition to our home. I ordered all the flavors but this one comes with a pack of 3. It has already been used so much since we got it a month ago. Easy to clean and easy to use.
8. This is something I want!
I have seen a few parents list this in their accounts but I have not been able to order it yet. It is next on my list! My 8 year old grandson will love this! He’s always looking for a fun game to play outside.
EastPoint Spring Fling Bounce Game – Black/Blue Durable PVC Construction – 6 Balls, 20in Trampoline & 29.5in x 24in Target – Dynamic Reflex Game, Sports Activities for Boys, Organizer for Easy Storage
9. Mud Kitchen
Again, I do not own this. I built my mud kitchen out of old appliances and benches. But it you want something a bit more aesthetically pleasing, this is a good one. My grandkids of all different ages have enjoyed the mud kitchen so much. Here is some photos of the one I built.
This is an Amazon one that is cuter if you’d like. It has all the things a good mud kitchen needs. Places to put water, actual mud, several levels.
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