I don't have children, as I myself am a massive child. So how about a toy that will last all summer, is relatively painless - unless in the eye - and is cheap to make.
What you need is two pegs, two elastic bands and a piece of wood.
Use one elastic band to fasten the one peg onto the wooden post. Take the spring off the other peg, place the elastic band in the spring and squeeze closed. Using the fastened peg, hold the spring in lace on the twirled end. Pull the elastic band onto the end of the wooden post - this is the most difficult part, you may need to move the fastened peg up or down the post.
To fire just press aim and press down the peg. Find the ammo and relaunch. You could even provide a few springs and coloured elastic bands so there can be war!!
What you need is two pegs, two elastic bands and a piece of wood.
Use one elastic band to fasten the one peg onto the wooden post. Take the spring off the other peg, place the elastic band in the spring and squeeze closed. Using the fastened peg, hold the spring in lace on the twirled end. Pull the elastic band onto the end of the wooden post - this is the most difficult part, you may need to move the fastened peg up or down the post.
To fire just press aim and press down the peg. Find the ammo and relaunch. You could even provide a few springs and coloured elastic bands so there can be war!!