Let's go outside: Parentdish pick of the best outdoor toys for summer

With warmer weather on the horizon, it's time to invest in some games for the garden to make sure your kids aren't glued to the TV or Xbox over the next few months.

There's loads on the market, and you could easily spend a fortune filling what outdoor space you have with all sorts of items, so it's important to assess two things when shopping for outdoor toys and games: the size of your garden or outside space and the ages and number of children you have to entertain.

We've rounded-up our pick of the products on the market this summer into four different categories:

For big families with outdoor space

Manageable buys for middle of the road expense

Small items for pack-away ease

Classic ride-ons

There are a few blow-the-budget play centres that will last well into your grandchildren years, and smaller items which may just last the six weeks depending on how much action they see.

If you're not up for splashing out on gear, we've also got loads of ideas for how to keep the cost down entertaining your kids over the summer.