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Keep the kids entertained with these expert recommendations.

With the hot weather set to stay and the schools taking a break for summer, it's a given that families will be spending a lot more time in the garden.

Keeping the kids entertained can sometimes feel like a tricky task; and it doesn't always come cheap, either. However, encouraging children to play in the garden is a great way to make sure they have fun and see the outdoors — and it can be a much more cost-efficient way to keep them happy — too.

If you're looking to treat your kids to some new outdoor toys or games to play with in the garden, it can be hard to know what to shop for. Toy shops and online retailers are filled to the brim with all kinds of toy offerings, but which ones are actually worth it?

In a quest to find the best outdoor toys for kids to play with this summer, Good Housekeeping spoke to Peter Jenkinson, AKA "The 'Toyologist," a UK-leading toy expert who regularly features on popular television programmes — to get his definitive list of the best outdoor toys for kids this year. With a passion for all things toys and games, Peter provided us with the top 10 toys that he thinks every child will love this year. With prices starting from just over £10, there's something for every age group, taste and budget.

Here are the 10 best outdoor toys to shop for kids this summer, according to an industry expert and self-professed toy lover...

Peter says: "With Twister Splash, you follow hand and feet placements directed by the included spinner. But now, the coloured spots spray water. Connect the mat to a hose, spin the wheel, and start playing. When you cover a coloured spot, water shoots out of the others. This game is most certainly not just for the kids!"

Peter says: "This 69-piece set allows kids to create their own outdoor (and indoor) dens. They can keep constructing and, when they’re happy, drape sheets over the top for the ultimate Summer space."

Peter says: "A watery twist on the classic board game, you'll need to remove five foam elements from the patient and put them in the lifesaver ring. The longer you, take the more you get soaked! Inflate, connect the hose and wind up the sprinkler and let the surgery begin."

Peter says: "There are bubble sets aplenty to choose from but few such as this one, with its size meaning children can literally step into a bubble! You can also waft the wand in the air to create a giant bubble tunnel."

Peter says: "Stick a water balloon inside and set the timer. Pass the ball around the group until the timer stops and the contents soak the holder of the sphere."

Peter says: "If you’ve the space for a trampoline, consider getting one. It keeps the kids hugely entertained, tires them out and is a great for when they have friends over."

Peter says: "Of course, there are plenty of footballs far cheaper, but none packed with technology like this one to keep the kids coming back for more. Play regularly or switch on the sensor which measure the speed of your kick to challenge friends – 100kmh is the max."

Peter says: "Based on the iconic Pass the Pigs game, this one introduces oversized inflatable pooches into the play. Throw your turn and score according to how they land, Not for use as swimming aids."

Peter says: "A two-player jeopardy type game here; the ball at the centre must be zipped back and forth without being allowed to touch the handles or the balloon will burst. Voted 'best in show' at this year’s outdoor toy awards."