Kids on the coast

Going travelling during the next school holidays? Don’t have enough hands for the luggage AND the kids? This innovative seat attaches to standard carry-on bags, allowing you to glide through the airport while the kids lounge in comfort. Recommended for children up to 18kg, the chair folds flat to easily fit in overhead compartments. RRP: $100 and available at www.rideoncarryon.com.au Read more

Inflate your next kids’ party with these super huge balloon tubes. Simply tie off one end and blow up using the other. Once inflated, balloons will sail huge distances when thrown or bounce off the ground and generally provide endless fun. Balloons come in packs of three and there are three different packs to choose from. RRP: $9 and available at www.coolthings.com.au Read more

Transport yourself back in time with these delightful vintage kits for kids. Ladybird has stocked the tins with suitable products. Choose from a Doctor’s and Nurse’s kit, First Aid kit, Let’s Get Crafting Activity Kit and Tricks and Magic Activity Kit. We trialled the First Aid Kit on a long cub scout hike. It fits the bill and even came in handy! RRP $30 and available at www.larkmade.com.au Read more

Hold off the hungry hordes with these creative placemats. While you cook (or wait for food service in a restaurant), kids are kept amused with designs that amuse and inspire. Nurturing the inner artist, these mats are doodle-friendly with the use of washable or dry erase markers. Just clean off with a damp cloth and colour again and again. Placemats measure 40.5 x 35.5cm and the kit includes markers. Three different scenes are available for around $40 each and they are printed on foldable silicone. Visit: www.urbanbaby.com.au Read more

This delightful puzzle from Colorific uses a wooden bone to turn the cogs and change the expression on the face of a cheeky puppy. It is made out of durable, quality timber, this puzzle is recommended for those from 2-4 and develops motor and cognitive skills. If you DO lose the key, the puzzle still works with little fingers, so all is not lost. Other designs are available and prices vary. Available at Big W, K Mart, Toyworld and Toys R Us. For other designs visit www.colorific.com.au Read more

Keep your kids away from ‘no-go’ zones with this handy portable door lock. It can be used on almost all internal doors that open towards the area you need. When secured, it makes the room inaccessible from outside. Designed by a grandparent out of necessity, the Howsar Portable Door Lock requires no tools. You simply hold the large part in the door jam, close the door and slide the hook through the exposed hole. It’s made of tough nylon and portable. RRP: $45 and available at www.globaltravelproducts.com.au Read more