Top Water Toys for Kids in 2025: Splashing Good Fun

As summer 2025 heats up, water play isn’t just a fleeting backyard pleasure—it’s become a vibrant trend in kid’s recreation and health. Gone are the days when water play meant a solitary hose or a basic kiddie pool. Today’s water toys reflect a fascinating evolution, blending imaginative design with impressive leaps in technology and safety. Parents want their children to unplug and stay active, but they also crave peace of mind and convenience, all while battling balmy afternoons.

Water toys have grown dazzlingly sophisticated, showcasing everything from sensor-driven games to solar-powered splash pads. This new generation marries physical activity with engaging interactive features, ensuring that giggles and learning run hand in hand. Designers are paying close attention to durability, constructing toys from weather-resistant materials that can survive rowdy play or sweltering sun. Safety remains at the forefront, with clever touches like soft edges, shallow splash zones, and built-in drainage systems.

The magic of a great water toy in 2025 lies in its versatility and fun factor. Classics like slides, sprinklers, and pool floats are being reimagined with clever twists, while entirely new concepts have splashed onto the scene. Eco-conscious parents will rejoice in the rise of sustainable options: from refillable water bombs to recycled plastic inflatables, there’s never been a more thoughtful array to choose from. Meanwhile, a keen sense of playfulness and whimsy courses through these picks, captivating kids with everything from animal-themed gear to mini water obstacle courses.

Ultimately, the right water toy balances a handful of essentials: it matches the age and interests of your child, withstands seasons of use, and doesn’t turn setup into a Herculean task. Whether your family prefers big backyard blowouts, compact balcony-friendly toys, or cleverly contained indoor options, there’s a perfect fit waiting for every home and play style. Expect a lineup this year that spans nostalgic favorites, impressive innovations, and green-minded picks—each one designed to make summer memories that last.

What Makes a Great Water Toy in 2025

Durability stands as a non-negotiable trait for water toys this year. Modern playground warriors need gear that laughs in the face of UV rays, chlorine, and repeated tumbles. Manufacturers are upping their game, infusing toys with materials engineered to resist fading, cracking, and mold. No one wants to invest in a toy that warps by July, so toughness and weather resistance become the minimum standard rather than the exception.

Safety walks hand in hand with durability. Top-tier water toys feature smart designs to minimize slips, bumps, or waterlogged hazards. This includes grippy surfaces, gentle edges, and pressure-limiting valves for adjustable sprays. Meanwhile, parent-friendly features like fast-inflate pumps, quick-drain bases, and foldable storage bag options have soared in popularity. Families are after simple setups that don’t turn summer fun into a half-day battle with air pumps and tangled hoses.

Engagement is the final measure of greatness—today’s best water toys manage to keep kids coming back for more. The most beloved picks entice with convertible play modes, interactive components, and the ability to adapt between backyard bash, driveway hangout, and sometimes even bathtub adventure. Multi-use toys that cross boundaries between ages and spaces will win hearts in 2025, offering ROI in both smiles and staying power.

Key Features to Look for in 2025 Water Toys:

• UV-resistant, fade-proof materials
• Mold-resistant surfaces
• Quick-drain systems
• Easy-inflate or self-inflate pumps
• Adjustable water pressure or spray pattern
• Reinforced seams and heavy-duty stitching
• Compact, foldable storage options
• STEM-based interactive components
• Convertible or multi-use design
• Parent-friendly setup (minimal parts, clear instructions)
• Soft edging and slip-resistant bases
• Battery safety features (for tech toys)
• Smart timer or auto-shutoff
• Compatibility with standard hoses
• Age-appropriate size and depth
• Eco-friendly or recycled materials
• Simple cleaning and maintenance
• Appealing, kid-friendly themes
• Digital tracking for scores, time, or progress
• Accessory add-ons/swappable features

Age-Appropriate Picks

Selecting the perfect water toy depends as much on a child’s developmental stage as on the weather forecast. Toddlers thrive on simple shapes, gentle textures, and contained splashing experiences—think water tables with chunky scoops and shallow pools with soft, padded edges. Safety at this age means stable bases, non-toxic plastics, and close supervision, allowing little ones to explore their watery world with confidence.

Preschoolers and young children crave stimulation that matches their growing skills. For this age, look for toys that blend movement with storytelling, such as animal-themed sprinklers, lightweight slides, or splash mats that mimic river crossings. Cognitive engagement becomes just as important as motor fun, so interactive elements like spinning wheels, color-changing panels, or cause-and-effect features are crowd-pleasers.

By ages seven through nine, kids demand challenge and adventure. Water launchers, obstacle slides, and team-based splash games step up the action, fostering coordination, problem-solving, and friendly competition. Meanwhile, safety pivots toward features like shallow splash zones and well-designed climbing handles, while durability must meet the test of higher-impact activity.

Pre-teens, ages ten to twelve, seek out water toys that offer a sense of mastery and independence. High-tech blasters with digital scoring, racing boats, and modular inflatables transform backyards into customized water parks. Here, toys must accommodate greater strength and understanding, but also reinforce responsibility and safe play practices, laying the groundwork for a lifetime of healthy recreation.

For parents shopping this season, it’s wise to pick water toys that promise to “grow” alongside your child, offering new experiences as skills and interests evolve. Many of the best options come with adjustable components or mix-and-match features, keeping the fun fresh from year to year. While top-notch safety features inspire peace of mind, there’s no substitute for good old-fashioned supervision—especially when water and energetic play combine.

Even self-contained, “foolproof” toys deserve a watchful eye. Stay involved, rotate playthings to prevent boredom, and use playtime as an opportunity to reinforce water safety habits. With a bit of planning, your summer can be filled with laughter, learning, and dazzling discoveries—no matter your child’s age or experience level.

The Best High-Tech Water Toys

This year, innovation is splashing all over the world of water play. App-connected splash pads offer real-time games, turning your backyard into a digital playground where children can race against timers, answer quiz questions, and earn virtual badges. Parents love these features not just for the fun they bring, but for the way they blend exercise with cognitive challenge—a summer win for body and brain alike.

Sensor-driven water blasters are a dream come true for competitive kids, registering hits and tracking stats with LED displays or in-app interfaces. The days of fruitless squabbling over “Who won?” are over, replaced by instant feedback and digital leaderboards. Meanwhile, high-tech racing boats and motion-sensing sprinklers reinvent classic pond or pool play, offering Bluetooth connections and customizable game settings.

Perhaps the most enchanting innovations integrate augmented reality, transforming suburban lawns into underwater treasure hunts or intergalactic water battles. Kids can chase virtual sea creatures only visible through connected tablets or smartphones, blending tangible movement with imaginative adventure. This tech-forward approach to water play has serious staying power, ensuring kids don’t lose interest after just a few sessions.

The best tech-integrated toys strike a careful balance: they deliver high-energy movement without tethering kids to screens. They invite family engagement, encourage creativity, and respect water safety—with smart reminders, battery safeguards, and plenty of robust, spill-resistant casings. These advances invite a new era of play where the line between physical and digital entertainment is refreshingly fluid.

High-Tech Water Toys to Watch in 2025:

• App-controlled splash pads with interactive games and scores
• Motion-sensor spray arches that trigger when kids run through
• Bluetooth-enabled racing boats for ponds or pools
• Smart splash games with wireless leaderboards
• Water blasters with LCD hit counters and digital sound effects
• Augmented reality (AR) treasure hunt sets
• Programmable water cannons for custom patterns
• App-synced sprinkler mats that teach STEM concepts
• Glow-in-the-dark, solar-charged floating toys
• Virtual team challenge water balloons with RFID tags
• Touchless water fountains with proximity sensors
• Voice-activated “Simon Says” splashers
• Remote-controlled floating obstacle buoys
• App-based water relay games with audio instructions

Before investing in high-tech water play, parents should double-check device compatibility (both for apps and for remote controls), battery compartment waterproofing, and the ratings on water resistance. Smart toys are only as “smart” as their safety—be sure power sources are secure, cords can’t tangle, and all electronics are clearly labeled for outdoor aquatic use.

Battery charging habits matter even more during summer’s chaotic fun. Charge gear indoors, and check seals for wear after each use. A little preparation ensures these dazzling gadgets deliver all the excitement with none of the worry, unlocking the next generation of water play.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Options

Eco-conscious water toys are making a serious wave in 2025. Many families now expect to see toys crafted from recycled plastics, ocean-bound material, or biodegradable polymers, reducing the seasonal guilt that can come with piles of broken or outgrown gear. These advances also send children a powerful message: play doesn’t need to come at the planet’s expense.

Solar-powered water toys have hit the mainstream, energizing fountains, sprinklers, and floating gizmos with sunlight instead of batteries. Meanwhile, refillable and reusable water balloons have replaced single-use plastics, keeping parties and playdates fun without adding to landfills or microplastic woes.

Toys with biodegradable packaging and repairable components are eagerly embraced by families who want gear that outlasts this summer and the next. When toys grow too small or wear out, parents can send pieces for recycling or composting instead of tossing them in the trash. Sustainability becomes not just a selling point, but an educational opportunity, sparking conversations about stewardship and creativity.

Eco-Friendly Water Toys for 2025:

• Refillable/reusable silicone water balloons
• Solar-powered sprinkler pads
• Modular toys made from recycled ocean plastics
• Compostable sand and water play tools
• Cork-based floating boats
• Water tables with replaceable, recyclable parts
• Inflatable slides with repair kits and post-use recycling plans
• Sprinklers powered by kinetic or foot pumps
• Eco-themed splash mats with embedded plantable seeds
• Biodegradable packaging for all toy components
• Water shooters with bamboo or wood cores

When choosing water toys with longevity in mind, look for sturdy construction, easy-to-repair parts, and clear recycling or take-back programs. Sustainable picks often surprise kids with clever stories behind each toy—perhaps a dolphin-shaped sprinkler formed from reclaimed fishing nets, or a water shooter designed to teach about river wildlife.

Making environmental stewardship part of water play teaches children that fun and responsibility aren’t mutually exclusive. It’s a lesson that will ripple through their summertime memories and far beyond.

Outdoor Water Toys That Make a Splash

For families blessed with backyard space or access to pools, the creative possibilities for water play seem endless in 2025. Inflatable slides, splash pads, and water obstacle courses now arrive in designs that inspire mini-adventures, fantasy quests, or team competitions. These setups engage kids’ imaginations while developing balance, strength, and teamwork skills.

Today’s best outdoor toys serve up both solo entertainment and group challenges. Some are tailored for easy two-kid play, while others transform a yard into the heart of a block party. No longer content with basic sprinklers, kids find elaborate splash parks that combine climbing, sliding, and water-blasting features—all scaled to fit typical lawns or driveways.

Durability and ease of setup are crucial, with air blowers and quick-connect hoses smoothing the process from box to splash zone. Manufacturers continue to improve materials: non-slip bases, sturdy climbing handles, and well-anchored inflatables keep even the wildest tumblers safe. Budget also spans a wide range, making premium, mid-range, and entry options available for every family.

It’s not just about big backyard blowouts, though. For smaller outdoor spaces, the market has responded with compact splash parks, wiggle paths, and pint-sized pools—giving families new ways to burn off energy, rain or shine, no matter their square footage.

Inflatable Water Slide Park with Air Blower

In the mid-range category, the Inflatable Water Slide Park with Air Blower ($239.99) stands tall. It’s the quintessential backyard upgrade for families wanting more than a simple pool but not reaching for amusement-park grandeur. Built to comfortably fit two to three kids, this all-in-one setup features a climbable “mountain,” a curving slide, and a broad splash pool.

Setup is parent-friendly. The included air blower inflates the park within minutes, and anchor stakes keep it solidly grounded, even during wild play. The durable PVC build resists punctures and fading, ensuring this centerpiece delivers summer fun over multiple seasons.

Water sprayers line the slide, creating a slick, thrilling ride that ends in a cooled-off splash landing. Drainage valves and easy-fold storage simplify cleanup, while the bright colors and whimsical design invite hours of imaginative role-play. This water park offers great value and longevity for families with energetic kids eager to climb, splash, and race.

Banzai Aqua-Soak 3-in-1 Splash Park

Budget shouldn’t mean missing out on fun, and the Banzai Aqua-Soak 3-in-1 Splash Park ($39.99) proves it. Ideal for small yards or driveways, this compact setup brings together a shallow splash pool, a gentle slide, and a built-in sprinkler zone. Toddlers and preschoolers gravitate toward the bright, cheery design and manageable scale.

Installation is a breeze: the pool inflates with a standard foot pump, and a quick hose attachment sends sprayers arching in no time. The materials are soft, sturdy, and easy to clean, making it a low-maintenance solution for impromptu summer bash. Parents praise the peace of mind of shallow water and slip-resistant texture for little feet.

Limited size means tight quarters, but that’s part of its charm. Sibling pairs or solo players enjoy the close-up action, and the lightweight build makes it easy to move or pack up between uses. The Banzai Aqua-Soak may be a modest investment, but it brings outsized smiles with every splash.

The Wiggle Sprinkler Slide

High-energy play meets creativity with the Wiggle Sprinkler Slide ($274.99), a favorite for kids who crave sensory adventure. This backyard thrill ride features a serpentine, inflatable wiggle path that encourages children to run, slide, and jump their way from one end to the other. Built-in sprinklers arc cool water over the path, creating a delightful, ever-changing course.

Designed for hose compatibility, the Wiggle Sprinkler Slide is simple to set up—you’ll only need a garden hose and a flat patch of grass. Anchoring stakes and heavy-duty vinyl withstand excited stomping and rolling, so kids can play without constant readjustment. The wide, wavy path offers enough room for friendly face-offs or relay races, making this an excellent pick for group play or parties.

The high price reflects its robust construction and generous size. Whether hosting a neighborhood get-together or just trying to burn off kid energy, this toy defines dynamic, laughter-filled summer afternoons.

Outsunny 6-in-1 Inflatable Water Slide Castle

For families prepared to splurge on an outdoor showstopper, the Outsunny 6-in-1 Inflatable Water Slide Castle ($392.39) delivers premium, all-day entertainment. This massive inflatable isn’t just a slide—it’s a complete play kingdom with a trampoline, climbing wall, splash pool, built-in water gun, and a whimsical castle backdrop. Up to four kids can bounce, climb, and soak at once.

Assembly is straightforward, thanks to the included air blower and simple hose connections. Quality materials ensure the castle can handle high-volume roughhousing, while mesh sides and soft landings prioritize safety without sacrificing excitement. The sheer variety of activity zones means kids never need to wait for their “turn”—they can bounce, slide, and spray in a continuous loop.

Parents appreciate the easy drainage and compact storage when playtime ends. The castle theme sparks imaginative stories and role-play, making this toy an investment that pays off in unforgettable birthday parties or family reunions.

Intex Water-Gun Plane Float

For pool-bound youngsters, the Intex Water-Gun Plane Float ($17.99) puts play and power at their fingertips. Shaped like a friendly cartoon plane with sturdy handles, this ride-on float delights young pilots while giving them a built-in water gun to blast from the pool itself. The result? Endless swooping, splashing fun—no refills required.

The float’s compact size and affordable price make it a perfect add-on for summer afternoons at home, at a friend’s pool, or even on vacation. The design ensures stability for younger swimmers, while the integrated water gun never runs dry as long as the float’s in the pool.

Outdoor water play doesn’t just offer exercise—it can transform any weekend into a themed mini-adventure. Turn your backyard into a pirate lagoon, a tropical safari, or a stunt park for neighborhood relay races. Add music, snacks, and simple decorations, and suddenly you’ve created a summer memory your children and their friends will cherish for years.

These toys also inspire group storylines and party activities, making simple afternoons feel like epic quests. Provide a camera or smartphone for photo ops, encourage kids to invent rules and roles, and watch their creativity flourish alongside their splashing.

Indoor and Balcony-Safe Water Fun

Not every family has a yard or pool—but that doesn’t mean water play must be left out in the cold. Compact, mess-contained toys now bring the joys of splashing and sensory exploration to kitchens, balconies, and even bathrooms. Designers have responded to the needs of apartment dwellers or rainy-day fun seekers, with clever water tables, splash mats, and closed-circuit fountains that keep puddles (mostly) contained.

The best indoor and balcony-safe water toys focus on minimal splashing and easy cleanup. Water tables are perennial favorites for toddlers, with raised basins, interactive accessories, and room for little hands to pour, scoop, and create. Splash mats with shallow rims can fit on patios or balconies, letting younger children stomp and swirl without slippery chaos.

Battery- or hand-powered circulation pumps add another layer of excitement without risking household electronics. Bonus points go to toys with removable basins, towel-friendly mats, and accessories that can be run through the dishwasher. The right pick preserves peace of mind and lets kids get their aquatic fix, regardless of weather or square footage.

GoSports Water Table with Pump

For parents of active toddlers, the GoSports Water Table with Pump ($149.99) brings outdoor magic straight to the kitchen, balcony, or sunroom. This raised, sturdy table features a built-in, battery-powered pump that gently circulates water through fountains and channels, creating a mesmerizing, hands-on sensory experience.

The design is all about contained exploration: deep enough to float toys but shallow enough to prevent big puddles. The pump is easily removable for quick battery changes or deep cleaning, and the basin wipes down with minimal effort. Clever accessories like spinners, cups, and tracks keep play fresh and engaging.

Parents love the GoSports Water Table for its simple assembly, robust materials, and ability to entertain one or two toddlers at a time. It’s ideal for those days when outdoor play isn’t possible—but the craving for water fun just won’t wait.

The beauty of modern indoor water toys is their flexibility—they can turn rainy mornings, late afternoons, or apartment balconies into mini water parks. Just a few simple precautions (like non-slip mats and regular draining) protect floors and furnishings, extending summer fun across any environment.

Water play, wherever it happens, is an affordable way to bring joy, learning, and tactile stimulation into daily routines. With the right product, any home can become an oasis of splashy fun, regardless of climate or square footage.

Water Toys That Encourage Group Play

There’s a special alchemy that unfolds when kids gather around water toys in the summer. Suddenly, shy newcomers start giggling, rival siblings become teammates, and everyone gets a crash course in turn-taking and negotiation. Well-designed group water toys amplify these social benefits, fostering cooperation through games, races, and coordinated splashing.

Party-centric picks span team-based water balloon launchers, relay race courses, and oversized splash arenas with built-in goals or hoops. These toys turn a backyard or driveway into the site of epic summer tournaments, inviting siblings, friends, and neighbors to join in. The rules are simple, but the results—friendship, laughter, and soaked high-fives—are formative.

Some toys balance group play with skill-building, such as capture-the-flag blasters, floating ring toss sets, or speed-based splash pads that reward teamwork as much as speed. These experiences foster not just physical activity, but the essential life skills of communication, sportsmanship, and conflict resolution.

For families with a mix of ages or abilities, look for toys with adjustable rules, multiple play modes, or opportunities for creative adaptation. The key is participation over perfection, making every child feel like a valued part of the action.

Nerf Super Soaker Foam Fury Blaster

At just $14.99, the Nerf Super Soaker Foam Fury Blaster is a standout for group play, especially among younger or first-time competitors. This blaster blends the gentleness of foam with the refreshing impact of water, making it safer and more manageable for little hands. Its compact size lets teams dash, chase, and tag without risking tears or turf wars.

The Foam Fury Blaster is ideal for relay races, cooperative games, or simple “soak the grownup” challenges. A quick refill system means the action rarely pauses, keeping the pace lively and everyone engaged. Its affordability and universal appeal make it a go-to choice for block parties, birthday bashes, or spontaneous driveway duels.

Parents love the easy cleanup (a rinse and quick-dry does the trick), and the bright colors add a dose of visual excitement. When the summer sun is high, few toys bring kids together for giggles and teamwork as effectively as this Nerf essential.

Spyra Three Rechargeable Water Blaster

For older kids who crave power, prestige, and serious tech, the Spyra Three Rechargeable Water Blaster ($179) rises to the challenge. Known for its impressive digital display, rapid-fire function, and rechargeable battery, this high-end blaster turns any contest into an official event. A single trigger pull sends a crisp burst of water flying with accuracy and distance that impresses even teens.

The digital counter and LED indicators keep scores honest and add a layer of suspense, drawing in even those kids who “don’t like to lose.” Rapid recharging and tight seals mean less downtime and more play, while adjustable settings allow for team play or solo practice. It stays safe with thoughtful battery safeguards and clearly marked water fills.

The Spyra Three may be an investment, but it’s built for repeat action and the inevitable rematches between siblings. For families with older children (or especially mischievous adults), it delivers a blend of excitement and reliable performance that few water guns can match.

Water Toys and Games Designed for Group Play:

• Team-based water balloon launcher sets
• Inflatable splash arenas with built-in goals
• Cooperative splash mats with color-coded zones
• Relay race obstacle courses
• Group water gun target ranges
• Inflatable “tug of war” rafts
• Floating pool basketball hoops
• Pool volleyball nets
• Ring toss sprinklers
• Giant slip ‘n slide races
• Dual-lane inflatable water slides
• Interactive “Simon Says” sprinkler games
• Water dodgeball sets
• Catch-and-splash bucket games
• Multi-station play parks for 4+ kids

Shared water play doesn’t just pass the time—it leaves kids with stories, friendships, and sunny memories that outlast summer itself. These toys give children a safe space to compete, cooperate, and connect, building confidence in themselves and each other.

Never underestimate the magic of a group challenge to draw everyone away from screens and into the fresh air. With the right toys, your backyard becomes a training ground for tomorrow’s teammates and leaders, one happy splash at a time.

Safety Tips for Water Play

Safety should always be the first ingredient in any water play recipe. Even the gentlest toys can become hazardous without proper oversight. Adult supervision is essential whether you’re filling a splash pad or setting up a backyard water park. Watchful eyes ensure kids stay within designated play zones, respect depth limits, and avoid crowding or roughhousing that could lead to slips or bumps.

Before every play session, it’s important to inspect toys for signs of wear and tear. Check for leaks, stable anchoring, faded or cracked plastic, and any loose parts. Always verify that electrical components (like battery packs or chargers) are fully dry and securely closed before play begins. When in doubt, follow manufacturer guidelines and register products for recall notifications.

Finally, create safe play environments with clear boundaries, non-slip surfaces, and access to fresh drinking water and shade. Resist the urge to multitask—distracted supervision is a common source of preventable accidents. Teach children about water safety, and let them help with setup and cleanup, reinforcing responsibility alongside the splashes.

Water Play Safety Reminders and Setup Tips:

• Always supervise young children near water
• Use non-slip mats under splash zones
• Check toys for cracks, leaks, or fading before each use
• Set clear boundaries for play areas
• Keep pools and splash pads shallow for young children
• Check hose water temperature before use
• Avoid electrical outlets and extension cords near water
• Store batteries and chargers indoors
• Teach children to walk, not run, on wet surfaces
• Use sunscreen—even for short sessions
• Rinse toys after play and dry thoroughly
• Clean toys regularly to prevent mold or mildew
• Establish rules for “how many” kids at a time on slides
• Register new water toys for safety recalls
• Supervise teens around deep water or tech toys
• Drain standing water promptly
• Teach safe refill and emptying routines
• Secure ladders, steps, and access points
• Use gloves to handle repair patches or cleaning chemicals

Regular gear checks should become part of your family’s routine—make it a team effort so kids learn to spot hazards and practice good habits themselves. Talking through safety steps openly builds trust and can empower children to make smart decisions even when adults aren’t watching closely.

Summer is about stretching boundaries, building independence, and having fun. A little vigilance keeps the focus on joy instead of worry. Every safe splash is a foundation for a lifetime of water confidence.

Final Thoughts on 2025’s Water Toys

The landscape of water toys in 2025 is bold, inventive, and inviting for families of every shape and size. From classic slides that have been redesigned for better safety, to app-driven splash games that blend movement with digital engagement, the variety is both a blessing and a challenge for parents. You’ll find options for sprawling backyards, compact balconies, and cozy kitchens, ensuring water play is never out of reach.

Three trends shape this year’s picks: the seamless integration of technology, a sharp focus on sustainability, and the push for adaptable, lasting designs. These qualities mean kids are not only having a blast, but also learning about teamwork, problem-solving, and environmental responsibility during every session. Whether it’s a sensor-driven blaster or a solar-powered sprinkler, the best toys keep curiosity and activity at their core.

Matching toys to your child’s developmental stage is more important than ever, especially in a market bursting with innovative features. Prioritize age-appropriateness, peerless safety, and the ability to set up and store your gear with minimal fuss. Never underestimate the value of a toy that sparks laughter and movement, regardless of its bells and whistles.

Remember, the most cherished water toys are those that create unforgettable moments. Some days that means inventive, high-tech fun that brings the whole family together; others, it’s a simple splash mat on the porch, or a team game that transforms neighbors into friends. Joy, laughter, and lasting connection are what matter most, season after season.

Summer comes but once a year, but the memories you build can last a lifetime. Invest in the toys that make your children glow with excitement—because the true mark of a great water toy is not its price tag or flashy packaging, but the sound of your kids’ laughter echoing through the sunshine.