Starting today, it won’t be safe to turn on the television without knowing Shark Week has come ashore, with an entire week of programming on the Discovery Channel dedicated to those creatures of the sea. And while we’re happy to keep the bitey kind of shark in its rightful place in the ocean, we’ve also netted some great summertime shark finds for your kids should they have a soft spot for those toothy fish — and maybe aren’t quite old enough to watch Jaws with you just yet.
Related: 14 of the coolest Shark Week picks for kids (whether they’re old enough for Shark Week or not)
This Sherman the Shark hooded towel is ready to gobble kids up. . .and dry them off with its soft, snuggly cotton fabric. Love the bright blue color and the cute, er scary, details like sharp white teeth and a swingy tail. ($35.99, Zoocchini)
Whether you use it as a shade or splash pool, Intex’s Shark Pool is sturdy, very cute, and provides plenty of sun protection for your toddler. This big-mouth shark even has room for a friend. ($34.10, our Amazon affiliate)
Yes, it’s safe to go into the water wearing this Sea Squirts swim vest with its clever shark fin poking out of the back (shown above and at top.) We’ve tried it out ourselves and kids just love it. And the design encourages kids to lean forward the proper way while swimming. JAWS sound effects optional. ($30.99, Sea Squirts)
I’ve never heard of a shark sighting in the East River–okay, there may have been one in Sharknado 2–but I’m digging this hip organic cotton Brooklyn Shark Tee by Brooklyn Animal Design. Each tee is silk-screened by hand with water-based inks so that the design becomes part of the shirt, without that vinyl feel that some kids dislike. Hopefully it won’t lure any more of them near Rockaway Beach. ($30, CityBorn)
When it’s too hot for socks, let them slip their feet into these cool Vans shark slip-ons before heading out the door. In both kids and toddler sizes, we love the glow-in-the-dark shark print that will look even cooler when staying out after dark. ($32-$37, Vans)
Sharks prefer when we keep their oceans clean, which is why I like Sun Smarties’ Swim Trunks with built-in diaper. With its repeating shark design, UPF 50+ sun protection, and snug but comfy swim diaper, this boy’s swim suit is a great alternative to disposable swim diapers. Really smart for kids who may be potty trained but need a bit of protection, just in case. ($16.95 on sale, One Step Ahead)
Think sharks are just for boys? No way. There is a swarm of them on Stella McCartney’s summery shark mini skirt that comes in sizes 2-14. Made of organic cotton, I love the two zip pockets on the front for storing sea shells or other trinkets. Sharks’ teeth perhaps? ($43 on sale, Stella McCartney)
Mibo’s Shark Kit Drawstring Bag is just the right size for packing up a child’s towel and goggles before you head to the beach. Made in collaboration with French eco-brand Coqenpate, this organic cotton bag will cross the Atlantic to get to you — for a fee. (£11.50, Mibo; ships from UK)
