Jousting sticks and helmet
Manufacturers of inflatable toys seem to have made a decision that it is okay to be violent with them. There seem to be a lot of toys out there that involve whacking each other. However, these from the recently opened Funtastik in Nicosia seem better than most. The batons, which allow for a lot of parrying a la Zorro are light and ideal for even the smallest of children. Our six and four-year-old testers managed to destroy the shop but there were no tears. This large helmet is also available for protecting the head if larger kids get involved. Jousting sticks will also make a noise when squeezed.
Available from: Funtastik, Nicosia and Limassol (Tel: 22 456150)
Price: £1 each for the batons and the helmet
Crazy Bowling
Who says inflatable toys have to be for the beach or the pool. This crazy bowling is all inflatable – the run, the skittles and the balls. The balls are filled with water so they do not roll straight, adding to the fun. However as everything is inflatable this is not a good toy for a windy day. Even though the run pegs down small children will not be amused by the skittles blowing over before they have had a go at hitting them. If you can’t stand the heat, the run also double as a slide if you sling some water on it.
Available from: the Early Learning Centre
Price:
Trampoline
This is a great idea for those who do not have space inside or out for a permanent trampoline whatever the size. Inflate it, stick it on the lawn and deflate it when you’re done. However, it’s size (2.5ft) means that only one person can play at a time and there won’t be any option for somersaults. Comes with a repair patch for that inevitable puncture. The package warns that caution and common sense must be exercised at all times. You have been warned.
Available from: Jumbo
Price: £29.99
Dino-Play
If you’re going to have a paddling pool you might as well have a paddling pool. This one should keep younger kids (and their parents) occupied for a while. Not only is this a paddling pool but a whole play center as well. It includes a water slide, wading pool, spray nozzle that attached to a garden hose and six plastic balls. The ring toss game can be attached and detached for separate play. Repair patch included. Price is a bit steep compared to your standard paddling pool but if you plan to spend a lot of time in the garden it could be worth it.
Available from: Jumbo
Price: £29.99
Inflatabe basketball hoop
If you are spending all day poolside there is only so much lolling and playing with water pistols you can do. Enter the inflatable basketball hoop. The blow up toy floats on the water and comes with an inflatable ball. Again, wouldn’t be too much fun in the wind but it might even keep older children quiet for a while. Height: 61cm.
Available from: Funtastik
Price: £3.50
Beverage Caddy
It’s official all pool toys do not have to be for children. If you are a serious lotus eater the thought of leaving the pool for a drink, even a soft one, can sometimes be too much. With this beverage caddy, your worried are over. In addition to a tow rope so you never need to lose your drink, it has a central cooler, snack tray and cup holders. 76x15cm.
Available from: DIY Super Home
Price: £10.25
Float Lounge
If you can’t face the thought of hoofing through the sea on one of those pedallos for hire, this could be just the ticket. Gently meander your way round the swimming pool instead. Great for when lounging on a lilo has left you stranded in the center of the pool far from your drink you can just power over to get it. It think the kids would like this too as it gives a bit more stability than your standard lilo. 145x94cm. Repair patch included.
Available from: Funtastik
Price: £16
