Trikes & Tractors For Toddling Tots

My personal research shows that the best ride-on toys for boys are ones that make them feel confident, independent, self-assured, and adventurous. These usually fall into the trikes and tractors category, as each theme is unique and little lads can feel "just like daddy."

Packed with power and loaded with realistic design, each of the following tricycles or tractors are engaging, entertaining, exciting, and just plain fun:



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Fisher-Price Harley-Davidson Tough Trike

With tough in the title, this trike is a hit with cute kids who want to be Harley rough-and-tumble. The overall design is realistic but bulky to accommodate a child's low center of gravity, teaching balance for optimum pedal-power. The steering is simple with gripped handlebars, and a molded seat keeps little bottoms comfortable through hours of ride time. The pedals are over-sized for better control, while all-terrain wheels will take your tough tyke wherever he wants to go. There's also a stow-and-go storage under the seat, ideal for on-the-go snacks.

Recommended shopping:  @ Amazon Toys
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John Deere Sit-N-Scoot Tractor

This realistic miniature is colored in authentic John Deere hues and logos, offering the ultimate experience to little J.D. fans. Future farmers can till their backyards with all-terrain wheels and an easy-grip steering mechanism. For indoor use, the front is padded with a durable bumper, keeping toddler and furniture safe at all times. The scoot navigation will also help your little one strengthen his legs and back muscles, providing better balance and overall posture.

Recommended shopping:  @ Amazon Toys
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John Deere Sit-N-Scoot Activity Tractor

This sit-n-scoot is a little different! For younger toddlers who prefer interactive activities, this tractor offers an authentic John Deere look with songs, sounds, and realistic farm noises. There's a farmer figurine attached to the front, letting your baby boy know where he needs to go. While a mule protects the caboose, braying and singing songs to keep your tyke occupied and happy.

Recommended shopping:  @ Amazon Toys

Wagons For Essential Needs

The best kids' wagons are those that can be used for more than entertainment, or a stroll through a neighborhood. The "cream of the crop" will meet essential needs for children with extra-special necessities, disabilities, or illnesses. I remember when I was little, the whole draw of my red wagon was improved the summer I broke my leg. My younger sister toted me everywhere with my Radio Flyer classic, and I loved every minute of it.

For kids who need the same kind of transport and attention, there are these super-cool modern wagons:
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Radio Flyer Big Red Classic ATW Wagon

This wagon is designed in the fashion of the original classic red wagon from Radio Flyer. However, the difference is the extra-deep seating with a more secure, comfortable wagon-base. The extra-long handle assists parents who want to keep their kids safe with a controlled turning radius, while the seat is large enough for 2 kids and a slew of stuffed animals, books, or mini toys. For more comfortable accommodations, kids can line the wagon's bottom with plush pillows or a favorite blanket, perfect for a day in the sun.

Recommended shopping: @ Amazon Toys
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Step2 Neighborhood Wagon

When I picture this wagon in use, I have a mental image of a mother going to visit a friend's house with her 2 toddlers in tow. This friendship mobile makes it possible! An extra-long pull handle is adjustable to match a parent's height, and the seating is large enough for 2 children at once. There's also a small tray for juice boxes and on-the-go snacks.

Recommended shopping: @ Amazon Toys


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Radio Flyer All-Terrain Cargo Wagon

Durable and built to withstand years of wear and tear, this wagon is the perfect hand-me-down for generations of use. Comprised of natural wooden slats and no-pinch ball joints, the whole structure is protected against tipping, keeping kids safe throughout the ride.

Recommended shopping: @ Amazon Toys

The Top 4 Best Character Ride-Ons

The best ride-on toys for toddlers are character-oriented, with smiling faces and encouraging expressions. These characters don't have to be famous or popular on television! Kids will love them because they're grinning, amusing, and leading the way towards a child's ride-on destination.

I've short-listed the top 4 best, each with imaginative traits and facial features that children will adore:


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Fisher-Price Laugh and Learn Stride-to-Ride Puppy

With a puppy's exciting demeanor and friendly face, this ride-on is perfect for animal lovers. The pup features a big red nose that lights up when toddlers push it, along with moving flop-ears, a talk-ready jaw, and barking sounds. The ride-on's wheels are thick, multi-colored, and ideal for slick surfaces, such as hardwood floors or cement. Also educational, the chest features buttons for learning ABCs, numbers, and kid-friendly tunes.

Recommended shopping:  @ Amazon Toys
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Little Tikes Deluxe 2-in-1 Cozy Roadster

A smiling blue face leads the way for toddlers in this cool, canopied ride-on. Featuring shade and protection against UV rays, it's the perfect outdoor peddler! 2 cup holders and an adjustable push-handle also allows for just riding, giving parents a way to steer their little ones through the park or neighborhood. The real working horn will announce your toddler's arrival wherever they venture!

Recommended shopping:  @ Amazon Toys

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Little Tikes Cozy Truck

Cute for your tiny tailgaters, this truck features a happy face with bright eyes and a go-getter expression. The ride-on "starts" with an all-feet power, otherwise known as "Flintstone-style" steering. Little boys and girls will love the real honking horn to announce their arrival, a realistic gas cap, and cool truck styling. It's everything a tot's first flatbed should be!

Recommended shopping:  @ Amazon Toys
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Little Tikes Cozy Coupe 30th Anniversary Car

As the 30th anniversary edition, this coupe is a classic! The wide-eyed, smiling character's face is featured in blue or pink, with new features for modern kids. A removable floor, ignition switch, open-and-close gas cap, and parent-controlled push-handle are all new additions to this special edition.

Recommended shopping:  @ Amazon Toys

Swimming Pool Toys For Little Ladies

Pink and princess -- these 2 words defined my childhood. And from what I've seen and heard, girly girl activities and toys are still on the rise, only with more glitz and glam for the modern little lady. This pink-tinged, princess-inspired preference extends to the best swimming pool toys.

Move over, boys! It's time for the girls to have a turn!


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FINIS Mermaid Swim Fin

Disclaimer: This toy should ONLY be used under close adult supervision. Designed for little ladies 12 and under, this fin-themed flipper features two feet slippers, close together to emulate a Mermaid's fin. An adjustable Velcro strap secures around the heels to ensure a snug fit while "finning" across the pool. The foot pockets fit sizes 1 to 7, with wiggle room, so your youngster won't feel like her feet are too confined. Made of soft plastic, this fin comes in either pink or purple.

Recommended shopping: @ Amazon Toys
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Intex Disney Princess Dive Sticks

For your little princess, these dive sticks are molded to resemble the most famous of Disney royalty. Cinderella, Belle (or Beauty), and Ariel (the little mermaid), gaze lovingly from their 3-piece package, waiting to be submerged in the depths of the shallow end. These dive sticks are meant to encourage children to swim further, for longer, teaching them how to hold their breath and dive. The bonus is these princesses can be used as miniature figurines for inside play when the pool is closed.

Recommended shopping: @ Amazon Toys
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Intex Aquatic Dive Balls

Multi-colored and just plain fun to use, these dive balls are attached to long plastic streamers that make ripples in the water as the balls plummet to the pool's base. Your kids can dive to retrieve them! It's the perfect opportunity for your brave gal to learn more about underwater swimming, while doing something that she can feel is an accomplishment.

Recommended shopping: @ Amazon Toys

Stickers For The Kids That Love Them

Sticker books are timeless! It's a past time that has amused and delighted generations of kids and adults alike. Classic and simple, there are no batteries required, no special technology to download, and it still offers hours of fun. An original that never fails to impress, stickers are all that greater in abundance, as kids want to adorn every inch of available space.

The following short-list of sticker books are filled to brimming with stickers for the kids that can't get enough of the cool designs and impromptu adornments.


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1000 Stickers (Roger Priddy)

Enormous and perfect, each of these 120-pages is overflowing with different stickers. This book also has an ulterior purpose: teaching kids their ABCs and showing them which items begin with which letters. For example, each sticker is a photographic picture, numbered to match the blank, shaped spaces on the ABC pages. It's up to kids to find the correct stickers to make the entire book colorfully complete! For little free spirits, the stickers can be peeled and stuck to blank paper or other appropriate surfaces. No rules!

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Disney Princess Enchanted Ultimate Sticker Book (DK Publishing)

For little ladies and gents with a love for all things Disney, this book is filled with beautiful princesses and their corresponding accessories. 10 royal gals have lost their looks and details; it's up to kids to read and find the correct sticker to give these leading Disney lasses their identities. They'll complete each of the Disney stories in a collection of 60 pages!




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Petting Zoo Sticker Activity Book (Cathy Beylon)

Small and animal-oriented, these stickers are perfect for travel-sized packages. Ideal for distracting kids while driving to vacation spots, there are a total of 25 awesome stickers to peel and replace on 4 glossy pages of zoo scenarios. It's a great way for kids to stay busy and entertained while mom or dad take a little time to do other things.

Electric Cars For Little Cruisers

The best battery powered cars for kids meet a wide range of parent-approved criteria. Each one goes through a mental checklist, ensuring safety, imaginative design, durability, and ease of movement. If an electric car doesn't meet these 4 requirements, parents will usually divert attention to something else, a miniature ATV that WILL meet all on their ideal checklist.

With that in mind, I've compiled a short-list of junior-sized methods of transportation that meet and exceed parental (and child) expectations:

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Power Wheels Dora The Explorer Lil' Quad

Designed for little adventurers, this Dora-inspired quad is a 10th anniversary edition theme. The exterior is fitted with custom decals with depictions of Boots, Dora, and all her friends. The all-over purple is contrasted with a pink scoop-seat, yellow handlebars, and black all-terrain wheels. A large push-button operation acts as the ignition, perfect for toddlers who want to reach a "quick" speed of 2mph. For small explorers who want to take their own pals on a ride, a cargo rack on the back holds a few stuffed animals or tiny toys.

Recommended shopping:  @ Amazon Toys
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Power Wheels Ford F-150

Rugged and built to last, this all-terrain vehicle looks just like "daddy's truck!" Silver and equipped with a roomy truck bed, it's ideal for those tailgaters in training. The realistic hood lifts to reveal a working "engine," and the sides include real rearview mirrors and a tinted windshield. A double-seater, this truck is recommended for kids between the ages of 2-4, at a weight limit of a combined 65 pounds.

Recommended shopping:  @ Amazon Toys

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Peg Perego Polaris Outlaw

Sleek and strong, this pint-size vehicle resembles a real, full-size ATV. 2 speeds are available on all-terrain wheels with thick traction for grass, pavement, or gravel. The rechargeable battery goes for hours on a single overnight jolt, and a selection of colors are available for both genders of every toddler age.

Recommended shopping:  @ Amazon Toys

Scooterrific Kids!

Kids' scooters are a must-have in today's world. From riding around the sidewalks in a neighborhood, to putting a foot to the floor on the short trip with friends to school, these durable modes of transportation are more popular than ever. College go-getters are even cashing in on the freedom of lightweight, compact methods of movement. With spacious lockers and storage cubbies available everywhere, these scooters are sought-after as being the best, most reliable ways to get around.

My favorites are:



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Razor E100 Electric Scooter

Quick and motorized, these scooters are only half foot-powered, with a kick-start required to reach a minimum of 3mph before the engine ignites. A top speed of 10mph is reached in minutes, getting kids and young adults to their destination in no time. A single charge of 8 hours will keep the E100 going strong for 40-50 minutes, and the charger can be stored and plugged in almost anywhere. Perfect for giving preteens a taste of community independence, this quick and efficient machine offers years of durable use.

Recommended Shopping:  @ Amazon.com Outdoors
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Razor A Kick Scooter

This is a true classic! Traditional in design with original colors, this scooter is 100% foot-powered, meaning kids will go as fast as their kick-starts. Comprised of aircraft grade aluminum, the entire structure is adjustable, meant to outlast generations of hand-me-downs for independent little travelers. The deck is centered low for beginners who are still learning balance and confidence on a first-time scooter.

Recommended Shopping:  @ Amazon.com Outdoors 
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Razor Wild Style Kick Scooter

For kids who prefer a personalized appearance to their transport, this scooter is available in blue, green, or pink; all featuring cool Graffiti themes. The structure is made of durable aircraft grade aluminum for outlasting, effortless rides, and a rear fender brake ensures safety at all times. The T-tube and deck also fold for compact, controlled storage.

Recommended Shopping:  @ Amazon.com Outdoors

Razor Scooters: The Best For Beginners

It should come as no surprise that in a poll of the top 10 best scooters for kids, the Razor brand boasts 8 out of 10. Each of their products has been expanded upon on an annual basis, leaving little doubt that this manufacturer takes precautions in designing high-grade, durable modes of transportation. Kids and young adults alike love these free methods of movement, and it's not unusual to see them everywhere on college campuses.

However, beginning "scoots" have to start somewhere. The following short-list of Razor-brand basics offer a starter the balance and safety to build confidence and advance through the degrees of scooter riding.

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Mini Micro Kick Scooter

A simple construction for first-timers between the ages of 2-6, this junior-sized scooter features 3 traditional wheels under a low deck. The miniature handlebars are adjustable to fit toddler height, equipped with a steer-to-learn mechanism for those just starting out. Available in a multitude of cute colors, this scooter also features a low center of gravity, meaning fewer accidents and better control over personal safety. Don't forget the proper gear!

Recommended shopping:  @ Amazon.com Toys
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Razor A5 Lux Scooter

This scooter is more advanced, but it's also best for older beginners. From age 8 and up, the 220-pound weight limit ensures this may be the last scooter your first-timer ever has to buy. Customizable with a sleek surface for personal decals, the T-tube and deck fold for lightweight, compact storage, fitting in most lockers or backpacks. The patented rear fender brake also provides quick stops.

Recommended shopping:  @ Amazon.com Toys

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Razor Cruiser Scooter

For learning "scooter kids," this option is slightly more advanced, with an option for simple stunts and sidewalk carving. The weight limit is 143 pounds, meaning this mode of transport will last through generations. A perk for this scooter that isn't often seen on these brands is the all-terrain wheel structure, making is possible to balance perfectly over rougher grounds.

Recommended shopping:  @ Amazon.com Toys

Cozy Cars For Cool Kids

The word "cozy" is synonymous with comfortable, restful, relaxing, and secure; all things the boys' ride-on toys need to be. It's a title that the best ride-on manufacturers use to reassure parents that their products are cushy, safe, and kid-friendly. No mom or dad wants his or her toddler rolling around in an uncomfortable, cramped, and awkward 'car!' The ride-on experience should be one of fond memories, luxurious movement, and a parent's peace of mind.

Some "cozy" car favorites are:

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Little Tikes Cozy Coupe: 30th Anniversary

This classic has been revamped for the little riders of today! A removable floor allows for more than ride-on, providing a Flintstone-style pedaling option to active tots. A generational gift that can be a great hand-me-down toy, this car also features a push-handle for parents, as well as sleek wheels to roll over smooth surfaces and grassy backyards. The "ignition" switch turns the "engine" just like a real car, giving kids a feeling of confidence as they prepare to patrol the house.

Recommended Shopping:  @ Amazon.com Toys
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Little Tikes Cozy Truck

A pint-size flatbed for tiny tailgaters, this truck packs a whelp of power in the tough, all-terrain wheels and realistic design. Little lads will be over-joyed to drive a truck "just like dad" and a grinning grill offers a kid-friendly feel. Also featured on this luxurious cruiser is a real working horn, functional steering wheel, and open-and-close gas cap for pit stops. It's also a little blessing to parents, as the assembly is simple and takes less than an hour to put together with basic tools.

Recommended Shopping:  @ Amazon.com Toys
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Little Tikes Deluxe 2-in-1 Cozy Roadster

For toddlers who love the outdoors, this roaster features a protective canopy for long days of sunny playtime. The push-handle can be attached to the front for parent navigation, or kids can go Flintstone-style on all-terrain wheels. The smiling frontal character adds a touch of cute!

Recommended Shopping:  @ Amazon.com Toys

Themed Ride-Ons For Creative Little Gals

Girls' ride-on toys have taken leaps and bounds towards being beautiful, glamorous, and a pleasure to cruise around on. No longer will little ladies be subjected to a barrage of dull pink!

Themed and unique, the following ride-ons have been dubbed amazing for creative gals with vibrant streaks of personality. They're super-cool, artsy, and too cute to miss!





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Fisher-Price Laugh and Learn Stride-to-Ride Puppy

For ages 9 months to 3 years, this pup is so cute! His big blue ears move, his mouth opens to bark, and his nose wiggles -- it's the experience of a real dog without the mess. The pup's back is a ride-on with a red saddle and slow-roll wheels that offer slip-resistance against smooth surfaces. The dog's chest is decked out in activity buttons, like ABCs, 123s, and shapes, for learning and riding all in one. The pup moves his head and yips in encouragement!

Where to buy:  @ Amazon.com Toys
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PlasmaCar

Little girls will be dazzled by this sleek, curvy, ultra-modern ride-on. It's a new design and concept that only uses a simple steering function to propel the car forward. There are no batteries, motors, or engines! Kids simply hop on and go wherever they want to go, with a top speed of a rolling 2mph. Quick for a giggling toddler! Although, the weight limit is 220 pounds, meaning adults can take it for a spin when the kids aren't looking. Available in light or hot pink, this little cruiser is too interesting to resist.

Where to buy:  @ Amazon.com Toys
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Power Wheels Dora The Explorer Lil' Quad

For glamor gals who are gaga over Dora, this miniature ATV is designed to hold a 40-pound weight limit with kids from 1-3. It's also lightweight and simple to maneuver, with an adjustable seat, storage compartment, and grip-easy steering handles. Did I mention it's covered in Dora the Explorer decals? All your little girl's favorite characters are represented!

Where to buy:  @ Amazon.com Toys

Trikes in Pink for Punk-Princesses

Pink! It's the pretty princess color that most everyone associates with little ladies. However, these cute gals can be tough cookies, as well, riding trikes like pros and out-pedaling their older siblings. So, while the best ride-on toys for girls might be pristine in a blush-tone, it doesn't mean those lasses are anything less than hardcore toddlers. For your punkish princess, here are a few pink trikes to get her started down an all-terrain road of being active and healthy in a fun way.

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The Original Big Wheel in Pink

Beautiful in hot pink and purple, this trike is a classic Big Wheel. Adjustable in the slide-back seat and handlebars, it's a low-seater to offer a balanced center of gravity to first-time peddlers. The seat is also scooped for hours of comfort! For ages 3-8, this trike will adjust and grow with your little girl as she does. The smooth wheels offer quick, fast-action pedaling, and they can be theme-oriented with options like Princess or classic 70s. Parents also benefit from this one, as it assembles in minutes with the help of basic tools.

Where to buy:  @ Amazon.com Toys
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Radio Flyer Big Flyer in Pink

For on-the-go girls, this little racer offers a low-riding, balanced center with an all-pink design. A triangular flag announces the company logo in hot pink with beautiful cursive writing, letting passersby know what made your pedaling princess so happy. The tires are decked with gripping tread and wide handlebars, allowing for adjustments as a little girl grows. Perfect for ages 3-7!

Where to buy:  @ Amazon.com Toys
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Radio Flyer Girls Classic Pink Tricycle with Push Handle

For beginners, this light pink trike has a push-handle for parents to give their little girl a navigating nudge. Kids can learn to pedal as their parents push, just like on a real 2-wheel bike. It will also make the transition from training wheels much easier!

Where to buy:  @ Amazon.com Toys

Power Wheels: Electric Cars For Kids

Dating back to 1984, Power Wheels has become a brand name parents can trust. Manufacturers of some of the best electric cars for kids, this company devotes annual release to new additions for anniversary editions, innovative themes, and imaginative features to make a child's "driving experience" more realistic. Kids are enamored with these products, anticipating bigger and better things on a yearly basis. Power Wheels never disappoints!

The best (so far) for 2013 are:


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Power Wheels Lil' Kawasaki

Built to fit the features of a miniature ATV, littlest riders will appreciate the bright-red design and top speed of a quick 2mph. The 6-volt battery, when left to charge overnight, offers hours of riding time with rugged, all-terrain wheels on a sleek junior-size structure. For tots who can't leave their teddy bears and snacks behind, a mini hidden compartment near the headlights is a perfect place for treasure toting.

Where to buy:  @ Amazon.com Toys
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Power Wheels Thomas the Tank Engine

For little riders who love Thomas the Train, this ride-on lets your youngster be the conductor of his own destination. A push-button operation is simple for beginners and sends Thomas to a top speed of 2mph; the perfect "quick" pace for first-timers. The true greatness is in the tires! All-terrain and thick, each tire is painted a beautiful blue with sleek grooves to grip over rocks. Thomas's smiling face leads the way!

Where to buy:  @ Amazon.com Toys
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Power Wheels Tough Talking Jeep Wrangler

This little ATV is a tough-talking power machine! Fitting up to 2 riders, the 12-volt battery packs a punch to top speeds of 2.5 and 5mph, with a reverse speed of 2mph. The simple push-button operation makes it a cinch to maneuver and hours of ride time is gained from a single overnight charge. The "tough talk" comes from an encouraging, supportive set of sounds in the built-in speakers.

Where to buy:  @ Amazon.com Toys

Step2 Wagons For Siblings & Friends

Step2 makes some of the best wagons for kids! Each one is innovative and interesting, with cool colors and sleek designs that will outlast generations; they're the perfect hand-me-downs. A brand name that packs a powerful punch of originality and uniqueness, these wagons are also (usually) double-sided for dual seating. This means that siblings and friends can be entertained for hours, riding together in canopied harmony.

I personally love the:

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Step2 Versa Seat Wagon with Canopy

When I was little, I remember riding in a wagon just like this, with my sister sitting across from me. I also remember several fights that started with "her leg touched me!" Haha! On a better note, this canopied ride features an expanse of shade for little passengers on sunny, summer days. 2 seat belts hold kids securely but comfortably! Thick rubber wheels are great on all-terrain treks, and an extra-long handle is perfect for parents to take control.

Recommended Shopping:  @ Amazon.com Toys

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Step2 All Around Canopy Wagon

Classic red and structured from durable, super-tough plastic, this double-bench seats 2 kids with an option for naptime on a flip-down flatbed. It also becomes a table for 2 during lunchtime! A portable picnic, this wagon is perfect for relaxing rides through the park, and holds 6 cup or snack holders for on-the-go munching. It's affordable, traditional, and protected with an expansive red canopy against those harmful UV rays!

Recommended Shopping:  @ Amazon.com Toys
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Step2 Neighborhood Wagon

For smaller siblings and their toddler pals, this wagon is big enough for 2 at a time with 1 to pull. The extra-long handle is parent-friendly and adjustable to fit the height of the wagoner. Cup holders and little snack areas provide a picnic on-the-go, while the plastic structure is durable and long-lasting for years of use. It's portable, compact, and perfect for neighborhood strolls!

Recommended Shopping:  @ Amazon.com Toys