Flying a kite in autumn: single-line, two-line or flowform?

Once the leaves start to fall, the wind blows more often and more strongly than in summer, and that is exactly what a kite needs. A Sunday afternoon in an open field or on the beach, a kite that finally stays up after three attempts: few outdoor toys give so much fun for so little equipment.

The single-line kite: the classic to start with

A single-line kite flies on one line and keeps its own balance. You launch it, let out line and keep it in the air; nothing more is needed. That makes it the best choice for a first kite and for younger children, who mostly want to see how high it goes. Kites shaped like an animal or a butterfly are usually single-liners.

The two-line kite: steering and turning

A two-line kite, also called a stunt kite, flies on two lines with a handle in each hand. Pull left and it goes left; pull both lines at once and it climbs. It takes some practice and a slightly stronger wind, but once you have the knack, it will make turns and dives. A good present for an older beginner, or for a parent who likes to join in.

The flowform: no sticks, plenty of pull

A flowform kite, sometimes called a parafoil, has no sticks: the wind inflates its cells and gives it its shape. So there is nothing to break on a hard landing, and folded up it takes little space. Mind the size, though. A large flowform pulls hard on the line, which for a small child is more of a fright than fun.

Before you set off

The best wind is a steady breeze: enough to move leaves and small branches, not so much that you have to hold your coat shut. Find an open spot away from trees and power lines, and at the seaside check first whether local rules apply to the beach. If you would rather watch the wind from the window, the same category has windmills and windsocks for the garden, and there are kits to build and decorate a kite yourself. The range is under kites; other toys for an autumn afternoon outside are under outdoor toys and balls.