Sharks, like dinosaurs, are ancient animals that captivate children. Whether the kid you’re buying for is going through a “Baby Shark” phase or is passionate about the fierce sea creatures, a quality shark toy will provide them with hours of enriching entertainment.
The best shark toy available is the Robo Alvie Junior Baby Shark. It’s a sing-along bath toy for ages 3 and up. There are also many realistic options for older children who are a bit too mature for the “Baby Shark” song.
Most toys are suited for specific age ranges. This is often because they have small and chokable parts, or aren’t advanced enough for older children to be interested in. For example, as previously mentioned "Baby Shark" toys likely won’t be fun for older kids to play with. It’s important to always make sure the suggested age range is right for the kid you’re buying for.
If your kid loves to bring toys into the bath, you may want to look for one that’s either water-activated or waterproof. If they like to take them outside or on the playground, make sure you get one that’s durable and easy to clean.
Additionally, if the child frequently plays alongside babies or toddlers, it may be best to choose a soft or squishy option so no one gets hurt during playtime.
Many kids are so excited about their favorite animals that they love to learn everything they can about them. These kids will likely prefer a more detailed and accurate toy than one that’s cute or interactive. That’s why it’s important to know what kind of toys the child you’re buying for likes the most.
Many animal toys are realistic figurines that don’t move, but others are more interactive. Moving fins, remote-controlled motors and even music boxes can elevate a child’s enjoyment of their new toy. If the kid you’re buying for isn’t particularly concerned about realistic details, it’s fun to go for the most engaging and interactive option available.
Some shark toys come as only one figurine that depicts a single example of the species, while others come in a set that displays multiple types. Sets often include play versions of underwater plants and even mats to round out the experience. Children who love to learn about sharks will likely appreciate a varied set that accurately shows the differences between certain breeds.
If you’re buying for a very young child, the toy should be easy to play with. Figurines can easily be enjoyed by kids of all ages, while remote-controlled versions may be too advanced for little ones. The toy should also be easy to clean, especially if you plan to use it as a cake topper or your kid likes to take toys outside.
Shark toys available online will usually cost between $10-$20. You may be able to find single figurines at dollar stores for cheaper, but higher-quality and interactive ones will cost more.
A. Shark toys are great for the bath as long as they are plastic or rubber. If they include electric components inside, make sure they are completely waterproof before putting them in the tub.
A. Plastic shark toys are not good for aquariums. They can release toxins into the water and upset the ecosystem you’re trying to maintain. It’s best to only use figurines specifically made for that purpose.
Robo Alive Junior Baby Shark Toy
What you need to know: This is a cute and water-activated sing-and-swim bath toy for kids 3 years and up.
What you’ll love: This toy comes in three different colors (baby, daddy and mommy.) It plays the “Baby Shark” song as it moves, which makes it great for toddlers and young kids. It has an auto-shutoff feature that prevents the batteries from running down. There are batteries included.
What you should consider: Some holes in the toy can develop mold if not properly dried out. Some customers said it stopped singing after a couple of uses.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: This varied collection of seven accurate sharks comes with a sea play mat and play coral.
What you’ll love: This set offers a great variety for the price. The non-toxic rubber animals float in water, which makes them great for bath time. It’s suited for ages 3 and up. The varied animals and included accessories make this a great purchase for displays and dioramas.
What you should consider: The individual animals are smaller than they appear to be in the product images and the bucket they come in is flimsy.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
What you need to know: A realistic and detailed historic Megalodon that scientifically inclined kids will love.
What you’ll love: This toy is made of high-quality PVC that’s drop-resistant and easy to clean. It can be manipulated into multiple poses. It’s enriching, educational and has great texture and detail. It makes a great cake topper for shark-themed parties as well. The teeth, skin and inside of the mouth are tactile.
What you should consider: It’s smaller than some customers expected it to be.
Where to buy: Sold by Amazon
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Anabelle Weissinger writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
