Life & Family | Toys

From the pool to the beach, from the backyard to the park, playtime in the summertime is all about being outdoors. Below are some of the latest playthings that make the most of those sun-soaked days—and a rainy day boredom buster, too.

Optrix 3-D Bubbles
Feel like you’re seeing stars? Well, you might be. Optrix 3-D Bubbles take bubble blowing to the next level—or should we say, dimension? Put on the special shades, dip your wand in the bubble solution and watch the most amazing things come to life before your very eyes. Everything you need comes in four different themed sets: Hearts, lightning bolts, butterflies and, you guessed it, stars. $9.99; http://imperialtoy.com.

Adirondack Set
If your kid is so excited about this month’s release of Toy Story 3 that he can’t sit still, have him take a seat—literally. This adorably furnished Adirondack Set, featuring two chairs and a table adorned with Buzz and Woody, will look perfect on the patio. Mini movie fans won’t have to cry over spilled milk because the surfaces are washable. $29.99; http://jakkspacific.com.

Tote and Towel
Even if your teen won’t be summering in the Hamptons, a tote and towel from The Geography Collection of catstudio might make her feel like she’s there. The canvas tote has an extra wide shoulder strap, so it’ll stay put as she treks across the sand. The beach blanket is extra soft and, like the bag, sports a whimsical geographic design of the entire Hamptons area. $48 and $78, respectively; http://2catstudio.com.

The Look Out World, Here I Come!
A rainy summer day is something you have to contend with at one time or another. But just because your kids are stuck inside doesn’t mean they can’t be transported to another place. The Look Out World, Here I Come! New York DVD and activity book is the perfect panacea for the rainy day blues. Kids can experience the sights and sounds of New York City, like building their own Empire State Building and making an authentic New York City pizza, without leaving home. $21.95; http://lookoutworldhereicome.com.

Splash Darts
Darts in the pool? Now that’s cool! Splash Darts includes a floating target ring and three brightly colored darts that beckon players to prove just how good their aim really is. Because the darts float upright, scoring is a cinch. $25; http://primetimetoys.com.

The Camp Bunk Box of Questions
Don’t send off your camper without a way to help her make friends with her bunkmates. The Camp Bunk Box of Questions contains 52 cards of engaging questions like “What is the best part of being away from home?” and “How many days do you think you could go without showering?” that are bound to elicit giggles and groans from players. $19.95; http://amazon.com.