The Best Bet
This summer’s milestone was supposed to be teaching your kid how to swim, but despite numerous “mommy and me” classes and countless hours at the beach, your child is still clinging like a nervous barnacle. Call in Brooke Churchill, a coveted swim instructor who shuttles between Manhattan, the Hamptons, and Westchester all summer, expertly liberating children from their fear of the deep end. Churchill, who has a degree in art therapy (and the tactics and demeanor to match) spends time getting to know your child, assessing weaknesses and tailoring her techniques. You might even be able to float on your own ($150 for one hour; 212-725-6020 or brooke@brookechurchill.com).
Maybe Your Kids Will Let You Use It
Googolboard’s oversize keys are color-coded to distinguish between letters, numbers, and symbols, and respond to gentler finger pressure (PC- and Mac-compatible; $69 at Tekserve, 119 W. 23rd St., nr. Sixth Ave.; 212-929-3645).
The Beautiful Way to Swat
These leather flyswatters are far prettier and just as effective as those prone-to-breakage plastic ones ($22 at Hable Construction, 117 Perry St., nr. Hudson St.; 212-989-2375).
Perfect Vision Below the Waves
Scuba Network stocks prescription lenses and will insert them into your deep-sea mask, so you can see all the underwater wonders in focus ($99.50; 669 Lexington Ave., nr. 55th St.; 212-750-9160).
Banishing the Visible Thong
What’s pretty now are OnGossamer’s boy-cut panties, in cool mesh and great colors ($16 at Bloomingdale’s, 1000 Third Ave., at 59th St.; 212-705-2000).
Reupholster for the Deck Party
Zarin Fabrics has the best selection of water-resistant outdoor fabrics, ranging from the traditional bright stripes to this cheerful amphibian pattern, and they’ll make slipcovers for you (from $20 a yard; 318 Grand St., nr. Allen St.; 212-925-6112).