Fun ways to keep kids engaged and entertained

PHOENIX - Do you ever find yourself getting overwhelmed when shopping for toys?

Which will break, which will keep their attention, and which toys are harmful for your kids?

Toy expert Elizabeth Werner says the way to keep the kids entertained over the summer is to have a variety of toys.

She says collectibles are a great choice because they are a fun way for kids to socialize with their buddies.

Trading and sharing collectibles has been a great social outlet for children for years. Think back to when you were collecting comic books, action figures, marbles, etc.

Collectibles that involve gaming add the additional benefit of teaching children important strategy and gaming skills.

Werner says new DaGeDar is a great example. Right now it is only sold in Phoenix. The price ranges from: $4.99-$19.99 

DaGedar are collectible, supercharged battle balls that can be used in a game of strategic racing. Each DaGeDar ball has a unique graphic signifying its radical racer ego. It's a game with no set rules and limitations.

Werner adds that you want to keep kids active without them feeling like you're forcing them to exercise. She says, “Parents should seek out great items that get their children up, active and outdoors.”

Werner says, “a great example is OGOSport Disk.”

The cost is $29.99 for 12-inch; $34.99 for 15-inch and it’s recommended for ages 3 and up.

“They are 12-15 inch round "trampolines" that you hold in your hands... and bounce the ball off of. Like volleying with a tennis racket but way better,” Werner says.

You don’t want your kids to play so hard that they forget everything they learned in the summer so Werner suggests taking time to both reinforce what children have learned in school throughout the year as well as continue to provide them with new learning opportunities.

“Whether your child is learning shapes, colors, to read, math, geography cooking or any other of a number of subjects there are numerous fun toys parents can turn to for help,” says Werner.

She adds, “children can learn a lot while they are having fun... and the best part is they don't even know they are learning.”

Werner says a great example is the Shapes & Sharing Picnic Basket by LeapFrog which is a toy with a fun summer theme that teaches kids important skills.

The cost is $21.99 and is recommended for ages 6-36 months. 

Regardless of which toys you decide on, make safety your number one priority.

Werner says be sure your children use the proper safety equipment including helmets, knee and elbow pads when active. Encourage them to use all outdoor equipment and play gyms according to the directions.

Always be sure your kids play with items that are age appropriate... and always supervise your children when they are outdoors.