A traditional Fourth of July celebration includes just a few basic elements: barbecue, pool, and sunshine (don’t forget the SPF!). It’s a great excuse for a summertime get-together with family and friends, but it’s also America’s birthday (our country is 236 years old this year!), which means it’s the perfect time to get in touch with your patriotic side—and help your kids develop theirs. Here are a few fun goodies that will add some Americana to your Independence Day:

Camo Joe

Little Troopers

Huggalo’s Brave Little Trooper Dolls were created to honor those who serve our country and help ease the separation between kids and their active-duty parents or family memebers. The plush, 15-inch-tall  dolls—which come in Camo Joe (green) and Camo Flo (pink) versions—are meant to hold the photo of a hero you love. They serve as a comforting keepsake for kids whose parent or loved one is far away. The dolls also come with a “badge of bravery,” a ribbon to show kids how courageous they are by supporting their loved one. For every Brave Little Trooper purchased, Huggalo Dolls donates 20 percent of the proceeds to The Soldier’s Project, a nonprofit that provides psychological support to returning troops and their families. You can also choose to donate a doll to a military child with a parent on active duty. (All ages; $19.99; huggalo.com)

American Girls

American Girl Crafts’ Historical Character Kits are based on the popular American Girl historical figures and feature handicrafts that were popular during the characters’ time periods. The kits, which won a 2012 Parents’ Choice Award, teach tweens traditional crafts like weaving, embroidery, and painting through easy-to-follow instructions and each comes with more information on the character and important events in America’s history. (Ages 8-12; $16.99 – $21.99; americangirlcrafts.com)

Hometown Hero

The upcoming summer Olympics are sure to stir some American pride. Get your tween in the spirit with this summer page-turner. Brooklyn-based young adult author and former gymnast Donna Freitas’s new book, Gold Medal Summer, teaches important lessons about growing up and dealing with the pressures of teenage life. Not to mention, protagonist Joey is an aspiring elite gymnast. Find even more fun ways to get kids excited about the Olympics in our Parents’ Guide to the Games. (Ages 10 and older; $16.99; amazon.com)

Yankees Game Ready Bath Set for Boys

How ‘Bout Them Yankees?

Celebrate America’s favorite pastime with these new kids’ products from the New York Yankees. These Game Ready Bath Sets come in boys’ (blue) and girls’ (pink) versions and include bubble bath, 2-in-1 shampoo, and a rubber ducky decked out in a Yankees cap. They’re great for cleaning up after a day spent in the pool or gearing your kids up for game day—if the price of pro tickets is a bit steep for your brood, check out the family-friendly minor league baseball games in the NYC area. (All ages; $15; nyyankeesfragrance.com)

Looking for Fourth of July family activities beyond your own backyard? Check out our searchable calendar of events for tons of fun and affordable ideas.