Thanks to all the snow we've had over the last few months, the kids have probably had more chance than usual during winter to play outside. But now the weather is improving you can start to think about pulling out the old garden games and encouraging them to let go of the TV remote/game controller/keyboard and venture into the garden.

Paddling pools are a cheap investment for easy outdoor play. The Wave Pool on the right is from ELC, and is only £5. You can also fill it with playballs if you don't fancy a mini-flood in your garden.

It's not quite warm enough for a paddling pool, so in the meantime check out these ideas for family fun outdoors.

• Super 4 in line game, bottom left, Woolworths, £109
• Hi-tower, bottom middle, alloutdoor.co.uk, £59.99
• Giant snakes and ladders, bottom right, alloutdoor.co.uk, £34.99
• Gnome bowling, large image, Amazon, £15.86