Get the kids off the couch with International Playthings!

Now that summer is here we are busy trying to keep the kids as active as possible.  Active days in my house lead to a good night’s sleep and maybe a little extra sleep in the morning for me!  We like to take advantage of the warm weather by being outside as much as possible.  I am pleased to add the International Playthings  Soccer Trainer to our collection.   International Playthings has always been a source of great indoor and outdoor toys for kids.  In fact, Emily is a huge fan of their Calico Critters collection.  The Soccer trainer is the first outdoor toy we have tried from International Playthings and it is no exception to the quality that I have always loved with the other items we have owned in the past.

Did y’all know that The Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine recently found that children with more TV exposure tend to participate less in class and have lower math grades?  Kid Couch Potatoes are also less likely to be active on weekends, and have body mass index scores that are about 5 percent higher than other kids their age.  As a parent, I am trying very hard to encourage my children to take part in organized physical activities as much as possible.  This past year, my son played soccer for the 4th season, and it was Emily’s first time.  Guess what she liked doing the most?

Yeah, not really what I expected.  I found that she was disinterested because she really didn’t have the coordination down pat to run and kick the ball.  We finished the season (unfortunately I don’t think I can say the same for the lovebugs) and I vowed to work with her on her footwork before the next season starts up.   The soccer trainer is PERFECT for this!  It was a snap to inflate with the included pump and within minutes she was working on her dribbling skills.  The base can be weighted with sand or water and the 8 inch ball is exactly the right size for her feet in training.  Kids can practice alone or with a friend.  Em enjoyed practicing  while I watched in our backyard.

International Playthings has a lot of other options for outdoor fun!  Check out the Beach Bucket Assortment,   Ring Toss,  and the Big Fat Bat for your little slugger in training.  So go ahead!  Get outside and get moving!  Your children’s health will thank you!  Thanks to International Playthings for sending this great product!

This product review is the opinion of the Experimental Mommy. Others may have a different experience with the product. I was not compensated for this review other than a sample product to facilitate the review.   All opinions are 100% mine.