Fun In The Sun: Best Outdoor Toys For Toddlers And Young Children

In comparison to when their parents were young, children are reportedly spending only half as much time outside. 

There are actually a lot of outdoor toys that you can choose from, but since there is so much variety, you may not know where to spend your money. There is a big range when it comes to the type of play, cost, and durability. 

Do you want to make sure your child has some fun outside once the weather clears up, but you're not sure what types of toys you should get?

If you're looking for the best outdoor toys for toddlers, keep reading to get some great options to choose from and find some tips that will help your child be safe outside.

Finding the Best Outdoor Toys for Toddlers

Most of us want to spend some time outside when the weather is nice and your children should be no different!

When you get them some summer toys for kids, you'll find they may be more interested in getting out of the house and away from electronics.

Here are just a few of the many examples of fun outside toys for kids and toddlers. 

Toddler Basketball Hoop and Ball

Find a basketball hoop and backboard that comes on a stand and has a weighted base. There are options available that adjust to different heights as well, so your child can grow with this toy each year! 

Basketball is a fun game and can be played alone or with friends. With a small basketball (or really any ball that fits through the hoop), this can be a fun toy for everyone. 

Kiddie Pool

On those hot summer days, relax with your toddler in their own mini pool. With your supervision, this toy can be useful for cooling off, learning to swim, or just playing with some other toys. 

Consider pairing this toy with floaties and a cute new bathing suit for your baby! 

Mini Trampoline With Net

If you're looking for something active that will wear your child out fast, this is a good option. Trampolines are a ton of fun as long as safety comes first. 

Look for mini trampolines that have nets and don't have any openings, pinch points, or gaps.

Some will come with nets that are weatherproof and UV resistant, which means they will last longer and be easier to care for. You might be able to find one that has a game included as well, such as lily pad jumping or hopscotch. 

Lawn Bowling Set

Whether you get a child-size bowling set or one for all ages, this can be a fun game on any occasion. You will want to set up this game on short grass or sand for the best results.

Your toddler can enjoy this game alone or with friends, which makes it versatile. You'll also find it's easy to travel with, so you can take it from your yard to inside your home to the park and more! 

Teepee Tent

Toddlers have a wonderful sense of adventure and giving them the opportunity to hang out in their own little space is great. You can let their imaginations run wild! 

Some tents may come with pockets on the inside to store books or games and even a closeable flap toward the top that will allow you to stargaze with your child on those warm summer nights. 

You may want to look for a teepee tent that comes with a padded mat for extra comfort. 

Plastic Playhouse

Another great toy for the imaginative child, an outdoor playhouse is a great place for fun, imaginative play, and social-skill building.

You'll find playhouses made of a variety of materials, but a plastic playhouse could be the best option if you want something that is super durable and built to last.

There are a lot of different types of playhouses out there, but some of them may come with windows, mailboxes, play kitchens, and more! Look for the type of playhouse that fits your budget and includes some of the special features you think your toddler will love.

A good set of wooden building blocks

If you have a particularly little one that you want to see playing out in the sun, but while keeping them nice and safe in the shade, then a good set of natural, wooden playing blocks could be just the thing for them.
Not only do building blocks make for good handmade wooden nursery and kids room decor, but they are a super portable and engaging toy that your child can be kept busy by for hours. Playing with wooden building blocks is thought to translate to a real advantage in early childhood learning, too

Tips for Outdoor Fun

When your toddler is playing with all of these cool outside toys, they need to be safe.

Remember to slather some sunscreen on your toddler if they won't be in the shade. Lotion or stick formulas are generally best for full coverage for all ages because they are easier to use.

Make sure your child is drinking plenty of water and is staying hydrated, no matter what the temperature outside is. 

Dress your child in the right type of clothing for the activity they are doing and for the weather.

If you're concerned with choosing the best sandals, you want to make sure that you don't waste your money. Keep your children's feet healthy and safe when they are spending a lot of time outdoors.

Ready to Play Outside?

Now that you have a few ideas about which toys you might want to get and what the best outdoor toys for toddlers look like, it's time to decide which ones you want to get!

Don't forget that there are other options out there, so be creative and make sure you're considering your child's interests and favorite types of play before buying a new toy.

If you're looking for something you can do together, something the child can do with siblings and friends, or something they can do alone, there are definitely toys out there for you.

Do you want to get some more great parenting tips? If so, don't be shy! Check out the rest of our website for more articles like this one.