Go Fish

Here's the scoop on what makes this game such a keeper: An inexpensive aquarium net lets toddlers, who can't yet handle even a kid-size rod and reel, have all the fishy fun they can catch. Plus, the colorful craft foam floats and sticks to the tub wall when wet.

To make your own marine-life menagerie (after all, why should you stick to just fish?), use scissors to cut a dozen or more 2- to 3-inch-long whales, sea stars, and other creatures from craft foam. You can draw them freehand or download and print our sea life templates. To play, offer your child a clean 4- or 5-inch aquarium net (about $1.50 where pet supplies are sold) and see if she can catch the critters. For a twist, challenge her to scoop up all of the fish, say, or everything that's red.

Add to the Fun: Put down your net and take turns telling your own fish tales: Stick the animals to the wall and use them to illustrate your story.