Keep ‘em safe and entertained

Kids get to have all the fun, and these new items can make their travels more enjoyable or bring peace to their adult companions.

Coverup

UV Protective swimsuits: How do you protect children from the sun at the beach or pool without interfering with their enjoyment? One way is to use these brightly colored surfer wetsuit-like swimsuits in a UV-evading nylon/Lycra blend. The sun protection comes from the tight weave of the fabric; there are no chemicals or other additives. The stretchy suits, which come in bold geometric patterns or with ruffles, cover the torso and extend down arms and legs, and they look anything but stodgy. The one- and two-piece swimsuits come in sizes for infants, toddlers, girls and boys.

UV Protective children’s swimsuits are $26.95 from Sunwise Swimwear; (800) 645-0201, www.sunwiseswimwear.com.

Close for comfort

Angel Alert Child Distance Monitor: This small, wearable warning system detects -- and sounds an alarm -- when a child strays more than 30 feet from a supervising adult. The battery-operated alarm (with long-lasting lithium batteries) is activated when the unit, which measures 3 1/2 by 1 1/2 by 1/2-inch thick, is pulled into two parts: The transmitter is worn by the child and the receiver by the adult. The transmitter includes a panic button. Each part comes with a neck cord and belt clip. The alarm is no substitute for vigilance but can be added protection at busy places, such as airports and parks.

Angel Alert Child Distance Monitor is $44.95 in stores or from Franzus Co.; (800) 706-7064, www.angelalert.net.

Just their bag

Kid’s Car Suitcase: It’s a toy. It’s luggage. It’s both. The Kid’s Car Suitcase is a plastic-wheeled suitcase shaped like an automobile -- with two extra wheels so junior can vroom-vroom around with it for fun. The 6.8-pound carry-on-size bag measures 22 by 12 by 9 inches. It has a three-stage telescoping pull handle and a pull strap for floor play. The bag has a padlock with keys, as well as a built-in combination lock.

Kid’s Car Suitcase, in red, yellow or blue, is $49.99 from GST Industries; (800) 699-9947, www.gstindustries.net.

Gear & Gadgets appears once a month.