Toys of Summer

Want to keep kids occupied and give grown-ups some R & R? For the under-fives, invest in bouncy toys (shown: Rody inflatable horses, $45 each, www.rodytoy.com) they can ride around the yard, and a kiddie pool, so they can have water fun and be easily supervised. Kids ages 10 and up will enjoy snapping pictures with inexpensive under-water cameras. (RS pick: SnapSights Sports All Weather Camera, $12, www.swimoutlet.com.)

Tip: To keep dairy-based dips chilled, fill a large bowl with ice and sprinkle it with kosher salt (the salt makes the ice colder, say scientists). Place the dip bowl on top.