When your child becomes too old for a tricycle but not old enough for a “big kid” bike, this Sprint Push Bike by Kettler might be the way to go. Made of carbon steel, plastic, and rubber, it is designed to be safe and easy for children ages 2 to 6 to ride. The bike has no pedals - it moves from the push of the child’s feet. This helps children develop balance that will be needed to ride a real bicycle later. Plus, using one’s feet to make the bike move is added exercise for your child.

The tires are 12″ and are tubeless, the seat is height-adjustable, and the bike even features a safety handbrake and kickstand, just like a “big kid” bike. Made in Germany, the bike measures 31″ x 24″ x 19″, and will accommodate a child up to 100 lbs.

In addition to this cute frog design, the Kettler Sprint Push Bike comes in a variety of other themes, including Princess and Flame. You can view them all at Maukilo.com, where this bike sells for $124.99.

As an adult, I have come to dislike much about winter weather.  However, all it takes is a look at kids playing in the snow to remember how magical it once was.  Although I know I won’t ever recapture that feeling for myself, I do try hard to inspire my kids to enjoy the snow as much as I once did.

I have been wanting one of these L.L. Bean pull sleds for years.  One of the reasons I am drawn to this particular sled is because it reminds me of a sled that my family had when I was little.  It is cute, and simple, and not about to crack in half like many of the plastic sleds we have had over the years.

Available in two sizes, this sled allows you to take your little one on a magical ride through the snow.  The high quality wooden frame provides excellent support and durability, while the cushion makes the ride soft and comfortable.  You can purchase one of these nostalgia-inducing sleds at LLBean.com.  The smaller version retails for $119, the larger one for $139. It would make a great holiday gift.

If you are a parent who likes to get out and go with your baby in tow, check out the great line of products from Outside Baby. The company’s unique products have earned them a celebrity following that includes super model Christy Turlington.

The Outside Baby Cooler Backpack features an insulated lower compartment to keep snacks cool and safe while you are out on your adventures.  Pack all of your other essentials in the roomy upper compartment.  There are even zippered pockets to keep small items safe and organized.  The pack also features cell phone and water bottle holders.  It is designed to be worn easily by either a man or a woman, and either will feel sporty and hip carrying it.

This pack would make a great gift for outdoor-loving parents.  You can purchase one of these versatile packs for $79.99 at OutsideBaby.com.

Most beach tents are usually too big, bulky and heavy to carry across the sand. But this pop-up tent looks very family-friendly and it’s quite attractive. The Sun Smarties Family Beach Cabana Tent provides plenty of view space for keeping an eye on your children, yet it’s private enough for diaper changing or napping.

A feature I really appreciate is that instead of using stakes to secure the tent, it has pockets that you can fill with sand (stakes are also included). This tent adds a touch of “tropical vacation” to the normal day at the beach.

The Sun Smarties Family Beach Tent measures 86½”L x 49¼”D x 47¼”H and costs $79.95 at OneStepAhead.com.

If you’ve visited the beaches this summer, you know that you are more than likely to see signs of human impact on the environment: disposable diapers, plastics, aluminum cans, etc. scattered along the beach or washed up in the waves. You have to drive well out of your way to find a “clean” beach for your children to play on. It can be discouraging but one thing we can do, and teach our children to do, is to use products that are trying to not be part of the problem.

This Recycled Plastic Sand Play set by Green Toys is made from 100% recycled plastics, and is phthalate free and BPA free. The bucket and shovels are not fancy or brightly colored, they don’t sparkle or make musical sounds - but on a sandy beach, all your child needs and wants are the tools to let his imagination build.

The Sand Play Set includes:
1 Bucket
1 Sand castle mold
1 Shovel
1 Rake

You can buy a set for $16.98 at KangarooBoo.com