Some great indoor and outdoor selections to get the kids socializing while relaxing or letting out some energy

Yes, Jumpsies!

KLEINTOBER Premium Chinese Jump Rope / Kleintober, Amazon

Photo source: Amazon.com

I relive my childhood when I watch my girls play this classic game, although the actual routine has evolved into something entirely different from mine. This Chinese jump rope is a real statement piece on the schoolyard. The thick ribbon-style elastic never snaps, and provides more comfort around the ankles and the bottoms of your players’ feet (for those who insist on jumping shoeless). It also allows for easier play and fewer “outs” (especially when they get up to highsies!).

“In Came the Teacher!”

Coolrunner 16 FT Long Jump Rope Soft Beaded (2 pack) / Coolrunner, Amazon

Photo source: Amazon.com

These adjustable jump ropes will have you showing off those childhood skills we know you’ve still got. The rope is beaded with soft silicone beads for that perfect weighted feel while still gentle on beginners’ feet. My favorite feature is the rope’s adjustability for individual games or large groups — just untwist the handle and add or remove beads accordingly. This extra-long style works for groups of all ages. Other brands, like Leeboom, make ropes specifically for individual play if you’d prefer not to fuss with adjustments.

Out with Diablo, In with Pindaloo

Original Pindaloo Balls / Pindaloo, Amazon

Photo source: Amazon.com

This game is harder than it looks, but it’s impossible to put down. The Pindaloo will challenge your older child’s timing and hand-eye coordination as he tries to master the rhythm of looping the ball through the tube. It’s fast-paced, entertaining, and comes with some serious world records to beat. Spare balls sold separately online, as well as additional colors and styles.

Heads Up for Tails

Foxtail Sport — The Original 90s Throw and Catch Outdoor Game / Foxtail, Amazon

Photo source: Amazon.com

This original Foxtail game adds a unique twist to a game of catch. It’s designed with a baseball-style ball in front that you spin to throw and catch by the tail. The tricolor tail allows you to score more points by catching it on different colors. You’d be surprised how far these can go, so although the ball looks harmless, I’d keep this one outside. This sport model is recommended for children eight and up, but the Foxtail Softie, which doesn’t go as far, is great for beginners.

Shapeshifting Fun

Shashibo Shape Shifting Box — Award-Winning Fidget Toy / Shashibo, Amazon

Photo source: funinmotiontoys.com

I may get some hate for presenting the ultimate distraction (my sincerest apologies, teachers), but I’m honestly surprised this hasn’t made it into every school yet. The Shashibo transforms into over 70 shapes, providing hours of satisfying fun for all ages. Get your friends involved and connect multiple cubes together to take your creations to new levels! Available in countless colors and styles.

Stress Less, Squish More

Schylling NeeDoh Nice Cube / Schylling, Amazon

Photo source: Amazon.com

I’m sure my fellow teachers have confiscated their share of stress balls, but you may not want to return this one! The Nice Cube by NeeDoh has a satisfying squish and reverts right back to its original shape. While it’s not unpoppable, it’s more leak-resistant than other brands. NeeDoh sells countless shapes, colors, and sizes online, so pick the one most appealing to you.

Ask The Toy Maven!

I could use a great toy/activity (and possibly some therapy!) for my kids to play with while on the go between carpools. We live quite far from most of our schools/morahs, and most afternoons, it feels like we actually live in our car. All recommendations welcome, but please — no mess-makers and nothing with losable pieces or consistently dying batteries.

With much appreciation,

Chauffeur Mom

Dear Chauffeur Mom,

Kikapabi LCD Writing Tablet 10 Inch / Kikapabi, Amazon

Photo source: Amazon.com

These doodle boards are a great distraction in the car for all ages! It’s like a Magna Doodle, just sleeker, simpler, and much more fun. Let your kids scribble away with the attachable pen and watch the mess disappear with the press of a button. The built-in battery is easily replaceable, though I’ve had mine for years and it’s still going strong. So keep a couple in your car and bring on the doodling, drawing competitions, and hangman. Favorite feature: They slide right into the seat-back pocket for easy storage. Safe travels!

Adeena

(Originally featured in Family First, Issue 965)