James A. Cochrane, Inc.

Turn a Boring Backyard Into a Summer Oasis

No pool? No problem. Create a cooling oasis with some clever water-centric activities. Amp up the joy of running through sprinklers by tossing beach balls back and forth through the spray. A water table filled with plastic bowls, measuring cups, and floating toys will keep toddlers engaged for hours (or close to it). Offer extra shade with umbrellas: If half your yard is shaded, estimate one umbrella per eight to 10 people; if you have zero coverage, go with one umbrella per five or six people. Once the shade and sprinklers are set, get ready for summer fun.

 

Enchanted Sprinkler

$20, TARGET.COM

The only thing better than a sprinkler in the summertime? How about a sprinkler that’s also a giant inflatable unicorn. Talk about magical!

 

Oversized Umbrella

$105, WORLDMARKET.COM

As you watch your kids splash in the sprinkler, lounge under this luxurious striped umbrella. It will protect you from the sun—and make you feel like you’re on a tropical island.

Insect Bite Relief Stick

The party doesn’t have to stop when you get a bee sting or a mosquito bite. To soothe the stinging and relieve the itch, apply Bite MD from Cutter as soon as bites happen. This easy-to-apply antiseptic formula will reduce infection, so you can focus more on the fun and less on the pesky bugs.

Bubble Machine

$43, AMAZON.COM

Want to really wow your kids? Order this bubble machine, which magically whips up thousands (yes, thousands!) of bubbles per minute on the highest speed setting.

Balloon Bunch

$25 FOR 265+, TARGET.COM

Water balloon fights are fun, but the prep required to fill dozens of balloons is not. A quick solution? Just hook up the hose to these self-sealing balloons and turn on the water—they do the rest of the work for you.

Vibrant Hose

$42, ACEHARDWARE.COM

If you’re building an at-home water park in your own backyard, you’re going to want to upgrade your ugly outdoor hose. This vibrant yellow option does the trick.

Gas Grill

$1000, WILLIAMS-SONOMA.COM

This powerful gas grill heats up quickly (in just 5 minutes or less), while flame control taps let you select a precise heat setting. The fact that it comes in three stylish colors, including orange, is just an added bonus.

Teak Sling Chair

$498, SERENAANDLILY.COM

Lounge in style in a beautiful teak sling chair, available in your choice of nine fabric options to match your outdoor space.

Play Station

$399, CRATEANDBARREL.COM

The surefire way to have a fun summer (no vacation necessary): order this sand and water table for your kids. It will provide hours of fun, and it doesn’t even require leaving the backyard.

Pretty Petals Sprinkler

$13, TARGET.COM

This flower-themed sprinkler is a must-have on the hottest summer days. Plus, it easily connects to a garden hose and is small enough to stash away when not in use. And did we mention it’s only 13 bucks?

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