Looking for the best products to keep your kids entertained and safe this summer? Check out our top 5 picks!

As the days get longer and the temperatures climb, we’re all poking our heads out of our hidey-holes. We are all feeling the increased need to get out there and experience fun. But fun with kids also means work, patience, and managing on-the-go naps. Here are some products that can help make your summer adventures easier.

Hats, hats, and more hats. At every age from infant to elderly, a hat is a major summer asset. Kids look adorable in them, and adults look fancy without even trying. Make sure you get something with a wide enough brim to really block the sun. Extra points if it’s machine washable or crush-resistant, since it will almost definitely wind up in the bottom of your bag at some point. The iPlay sun hat is one of our favorites for kids.

Swimsuits and rash guards. Invest in a quality swimsuit, since it will likely be washed and worn many, many times this year (especially if your kids are going to camp). Long-sleeved options are particularly useful, since it means more sun protection for your kiddo. Snapper Rock is by far one of our favorite brands for quality and protection. They also  have some fantastic options, including matching suits for parents and kids!

A beach tent so you have a place to rest in the shade. You can use it at the beach, a park, or even your own yard. Pacific Breeze makes an excellent tent that’s easy to set up and use.

A collapsible wagon for transporting everything from summer gear to tired kids. Collapsible wagons are easy to store, easy to assemble, and make it easier to parent since your arms are (slightly) less full. Evenflo makes a great wagon for this purpose. Just make sure you check the weight capacity and compare it to the weight of your kids before you buy! 

Quality sunscreen. Check out our post about picking sunscreens this month for ideas, but one of our favorites is  Blue Lizard because they make the stick, spray, and lotion. Remember to buy a variety of sizes, and plan on losing half the bottles to the summer goblins who lurk under the stairs.

If you can’t afford to buy things new, don’t sweat it! Used items will be cropping up on community sites as people realize their hats no longer fit, or the wagon’s weight capacity won’t work for them. Keep your eyes open, and don’t hesitate to put out “in search of” posts for the items you think will help you most. Have a wonderful summer!