Spring is coming. Yes, this Grandma realizes that the weather patterns are crazy right now, but living in Florida makes me think spring year round. And, when spring is coming, ride on toys are what are great to get for grandchildren.
Think platinum toys on Toy Portfolio whenever grandma is thinking of buying any toys.
Best for Babies to toddlers:
My grandchildren loved the convertible toys–those that went from a push toy to a ride on toy. Noise is a bonus. Oppenheimer Toy awards recommends this platinum award toy:
Tonka Scoot N Scoop 3 in 1 Ride On (Hasbro $39.99 )
Here’s a “convertible” that switches from a push toy for the littlest ones to a first ride-on for toddlers. It has a magic picker upper that scoops up plastic blocks that also fit in a shape sorter seat. Our tester really enjoyed this aspect of the toy–he could make the blocks “disappear”. Has a “revving wheel” with a horn, clicking direction signals, and child-pleasing motor sounds. Best of all they can take the wheel off and play with it off the truck. Our tester loves taking the wheel off and into his parents car so he can help drive. He also takes his cat and stuff animals for rides. Our parent tester loved this toy along with the new companion Tonak Li’l Gas Pump (sold separately for $19.99). The company has signed a verification form complying with our safety requirements. We did not independently test this toy in a lab.
Click here to buy.
Best for Preschoolers:
My grandchildren loved the cozy coupe and here is the platinum award winner recommended by Oppenheimer Toy awards:
Ride and Rescue Cozy Coupe (Little Tikes $79 ) A twist on the classic ride-in, comes with firefighter’s handheld gizmo for turning on flashing lights and seven siren sounds built into electronic microphone. Still runs on good old-fashioned foot power! Also refreshed, Tikes Patrol Police Car ($75) now done in new colors. 3 & up.
Click here to buy.
The plasma car looks weird, but the preschoolers love zooming around in it. Remember this one for holiday time–it lasts many years.
PlasmaCar (PlaSmart $69.95) Our testers from ages 4 to 12 could not get enough of this new ride-on that according to the manufacturer runs on “inertia, centrifugal force, and friction.” Sounds like a lot of serious scientific principles – but this is sheer fun rolled up in one zippy vehicle! There are no pedals, or batteries needed. Rotate the steering wheel and you’re off on any smooth surface. This was tested indoors in a room with the furniture moved out of the way for clear sailing. Your feet are your brakes and this will support riders up to 220 pounds on a smooth, even surface and 120 pounds on an uneven, rough surface. One mom suggested the manufacturer should add bumpers to the front and back to protect the walls. That said- it’s the new favorite toy in their neighborhood. 4 & up. Age: Preschool,Early School Years,Later School Years.
Click here to buy.
Best for Early School Age:
Big wheels low to the ground ride ons and scooters are a favorite. Here are the newest versions:
Scream Machine Jr. And Flash Rider (Razor $99) Remember your classic Big Wheels? Here’s the updated version of that low-to-the-ground pedal toy. This year’s new junior model is smaller, but just as much fun as last year’s gleaming chrome version. We’d add a flag so vehicles can see riders low to the ground! 4-8. Age: Preschool,Early School Years.
Think Flash Rider too:
Click here to buy.
Click here to buy the razor scooter.
Best for Later School Years:
Green Machine (Huffy $100) You’ll want a turn on this truly innovative ride-on. Steer the two chunky rear wheels by moving the two hand levers (one also has a brake). Solidly made for even bigger kids (and small adults!). Age: Later School Years.
Click here to buy.
Remember, spring is also time for grandparents to be outside with grandchildren. Better to have exercise with them outside than eating their cookies inside!
Joy,
Mema
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