Going on a boat can be an exciting adventure, but it’s important to be prepared and bring the right toys to keep kids entertained. When choosing toys for a boat, there are several factors to consider such as safety, durability, entertainment value and storage space.
Page Contents
Why Bring Toys on a Boat?
Bringing toys on a boat serves several purposes:
- Keeps kids occupied – Being on a boat can get boring for kids if there is nothing to do. Toys provide entertainment and prevent restlessness.
- Avoids accidents – Bored kids may start wandering into unsafe areas on the boat or engage in risky behavior. Toys help keep them engaged in safer activities.
- Allows for playtime – Just like at home, kids need playtime for fun and developmental benefits even while on a boat.
- Provides exercise – Active toys like balls encourage physical activity and movement on the boat.
- Enables family activities – Toys can facilitate family games and bonding experiences.
Factors to Consider
Here are key factors to consider when choosing boat toys:
Safety
Safety is the top priority. Avoid toys that can easily fall overboard or cause injuries. Look for soft, lightweight toys without sharp edges or points. Also ensure all art supplies like crayons or paints are non-toxic.
Durability
Boat environments can be tough on toys. Opt for sturdy, durable toys that can withstand sun exposure, saltwater splashes and high winds. Avoid toys with small delicate parts or electronics that may get damaged easily.
Entertainment Value
The toy needs to realistically hold a child’s attention span to avoid boredom. Choose engaging toys with different use modes, puzzles, games or activity sets.
Storage
Consider a boat’s storage constraints. Compact, portable toys are ideal. Items that can be folded up, deflated or condensed help maximize limited space.
Age Appropriateness
Match toys to the appropriate ages and developmental levels of the children. Bring toys aligned to interests and capabilities to ensure full utilization.
Variety
Have a selection of different toys for diversity and versatility. Rotate toys to maintain freshness and curiosity.
Recommended Boat Toys
Here are some top toy recommendations for boats:
Life Jackets
A properly fitting life jacket is an absolute must for all kids on boats. Look for comfortable, lightweight options that allow movement.
Beach Balls
Inflatable beach balls are portable, lightweight and offer hours of entertainment. Kids can play catch, volley or invent pool games.
Squirt Guns
Squirt gun battles on the top deck never get old. Water blasters with extra shot capacity keep the aquatic fun going.
Frisbees
A Frisbee is perfect for playing catch and practicing throws on the open boat deck. Major bonus that it won’t roll away if dropped!
Bubbles
Endless giggles emerge when bubbles float up from the boat. Bring bubble wands and solution for active bubble play.
Plastic Buckets
Buckets transform into anything kids imagine – sand castles, water collection, even drum sets! Durable plastic withstands heavy use.
Ball Pit Balls
Pack a bag of colorful plastic ball pit balls for impromptu ball pits anywhere on the boat. Bonus that they won’t roll away.
Water & Sand Toys
Scoops, molds, sifters and rakes encourage sensory, creative play. Sturdy sand toys hold up on shoreline adventures too.
Snorkel Gear
Enhance ocean adventures with kid-sized snorkel masks, fins and gear. Supervise use for safety.
Audiobooks
Entertain kids during downtime or naps with kid-friendly audiobooks. Tablets or mp3 players make them portable.
Craft Activities
Bring art supplies like washable markers, glue sticks and notebooks for coloring, journaling or crafts projects while relaxing.
Card Games
A deck of cards opens up endless game possibilities. Try Go Fish, Crazy Eights, War or Slapjack.
Board Games
Classic games like Connect Four, Jenga or Guess Who? work well on boats since pieces won’t get lost overboard.
Telescope
Spark wonder by studying clouds, other boats or shore sights through a kid-friendly telescope. Secure it when not in use.
Toys to Avoid
Here are some toys that may not be ideal choices for boats:
- Remote control vehicles – Easily roll offboard and get lost or damaged.
- Kites – Can blow away or get tangled up on a boat.
- Paper crafts – Get soggy or blow away in the wind and water.
- Electronics without cases – Risk short circuiting if exposed to water.
- Sharp tools like hammers – Potential safety hazard on a moving boat.
- Items with small pieces – Parts may fall overboard or pose choking hazard.
- Anything valuable – Could be dropped overboard or damaged.
Storing Toys
Proper storage keeps toys organized, dry and ready for fun. Here are storage tips:
- Use lidded plastic bins, nets, bags or trunks to contain loose items like balls.
- Wrap or bag breakable toys like craft kits to prevent spills or water damage.
- Utilize below deck compartments, under seat benches and storage lockers.
- Hang mesh bags or hammocks for easy access to small, loose toys.
- Have life jackets and snorkel gear in assigned locations for quick access.
- Take inventory before docking to ensure no toys are left behind.
Top Boat Toy Ideas by Age
Here are top age-appropriate boat toy recommendations:
Ages 0-2
- Soft bath books
- Rattles & teethers
- Squirt toys
- Board books
- Nesting & stacking cups
- Ball pit balls
Ages 3-5
- Building blocks & lego bricks
- Bubbles
- Sidewalk chalk
- Sand toys
- Picture books
- Water blasters
Ages 6-8
- Audiobooks
- action figures
- Jewelry making kits
- Frisbees
- Card games like Go Fish
- Paddle & beach balls
Ages 9-12
- Two-way radios
- Snorkel masks
- Beach volleyball & footballs
- Fishing gear
- Telescope
- Card games like Crazy Eights
Conclusion
Packing the right toys ensures kids have a fun, safe time on any boat adventure. Focus on portable, durable options that provide hours of entertainment value without lots of loose pieces. Keep toys organized in secure containers, and match selections to ages for full enjoyment. With the right toys on board, the whole family can make the most of special times spent boating together.