If you have been searching for outdoor toys that the entire family can enjoy, we've got you covered. Our list of the twelve best outdoor toys for kids is designed to inspire outdoor exploration, encourage physical activity, and maximize fun in the sun, regardless of the size of your outdoor space. These toys not only spark creativity and foster social interaction but also provide endless entertainment. Whether your child is an adventurous explorer, a budding athlete, or simply eager for some outdoor fun, there's something on our list to make their outdoor playtime a blast.
How to Choose the Best Outdoor Toys for Kids
When deciding on outdoor toys for your children, there are a few things you should always consider. First, consider the age range and safety of the toys. Follow the recommended age range on the toy's packaging, and check for any potential hazards, such as small parts or sharp edges. Moreover, consider the child's developmental level and interests when selecting toys, as this will enhance their playtime experience and promote their learning and growth.
When you buy outdoor toys for your child, it is important to consider their interests. With so many options available for kids nowadays, you can easily find toys that will entertain them and stimulate their curiosity and interest. For example, if your child loves art, choose sidewalk chalk for a fun art experience. If they enjoy playing sports, you can opt for various outdoor ball sets, from baseball to bowling. Furthermore, kids like to emulate their parents, so buying them gardening sets and lawnmowers designed specifically for them will make them feel grown-up. The options are endless.
Furthermore, consider the space available for outdoor play. If you have a large backyard, you can choose larger toys like a playhouse or a sandbox. If your outdoor space is smaller, you may want to use sensory bins and water tables. Or perhaps plan art projects that do not take up too much space.
When you choose outdoor toys for your children, also consider the materials used to make the toys. Opt for toys that can endure exposure to the elements such as sun, rain, and dirt. Look for toys that manufacturers make from durable materials like plastic, metal, or wood. By considering these factors, you ensure that your children have fun and stay safe while playing outdoors. Without further ado, let us take a look at the top twelve outdoor play toys for kids in 2024.
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SplashEZ 3-in-1 Splash Pad, Sprinkler for Kids and Baby Pool, 12 Months and Up, $24.99
This splash pool has almost a five-star rating from over 25,000 customers on Amazon and has also been featured on The Today Show and in Parents magazine. Moreover, this pool includes a learning mat on the bottom, making it an excellent opportunity for children to learn while they play. Additionally, the pool can hold up to 100 pounds of weight, allowing your kids to enjoy it with their friends. It is also safe for children as it does not contain BPA and phthalates. Finally, this pool requires no assembly.
HABA Dump Truck – 18 Months and Up, $25
The toy has earned numerous five-star reviews on Amazon, Target, and Walmart, making it a clear choice for our list. Children aged 18 months and older can enjoy playing with the truck in outdoor or sandbox settings. Haba guarantees that the truck can handle sand, water, rocks, and more. The truck is sturdy and has a five-year warranty, allowing it to be passed down to younger siblings. The toy's polypropylene plastic is free of BPA, PVC, and phthalates, ensuring that it is safe for your family. The truck is compact enough for a family beach trip and large enough for any project, measuring 10″ in length, 5.5″ in width, and 7″ in height.
Step2 Ride Along Scooter, Ages 18 Months to 4 Years, $79.99
The Step2 Ride Along Scooter, which resembles a miniature Vespa motorbike, comes in blue, pink, and white colors. It has four wheels for extra stability and stationary handlebars for easy practice. Moreover, kids can control their speed and ride at their own pace with its foot-to-floor operation. They can also bring along their favorite toy or stuffed animal and put it in the backseat.
This scooter is made of durable, double-walled plastic that won't chip, fade, crack, or peel, ensuring it lasts for years. Also, it requires only a simple wipe-down as needed, making it low maintenance. Your child can use this scooter both indoors and outdoors, making it a year-long toy.
Little Tikes T-Ball Set with Bat and 2 Balls, Ages 18 Months to 4 Years
The Little Tikes TotSports T-Ball Set enables kids to learn and practice baseball skills effortlessly. The set includes an oversized bat, two large baseballs, and a sturdy tee that can be adjusted to different heights, allowing kids to hit the ball with ease. The set not only enhances kids' motor skills and coordination but also provides a fun way for them to spend time outdoors. The T-ball set is easy to set up and store, making it an ideal choice for birthday parties or get-togethers.
Play Day Push N Bubble Mower Toy, Ages 2 to 4 years old, $16
Are you searching for a toy that can encourage your kids to stay active and play outside? This realistic play lawn mower operates without batteries and mimics the look and feel of a real one, making it an ideal toy for children who want to work alongside their parents. Additionally, its realistic design fosters active pretend play and ignites your child's imagination with its realistic mechanical sounds and mess-free bubble-blowing feature. Assembly is a breeze, and it is tough enough to withstand the outdoor elements all summer long. This toy is suitable for children aged two and up, and no batteries are required.
Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Binoculars for Kids, Ages 5 to 8, $19.33
The extra-large eyepieces of GeoSafari Kidnoculars make them a perfect choice for your child's first binoculars as they comfortably fit little faces. Additionally, they come with a breakaway strap that ensures your child's safety in case the binoculars get caught on something. These binoculars are an ideal scientific tool that promotes curiosity and STEM learning. Carrying them everywhere, from the backyard to the beach, is easy since they don't require batteries.
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Walkie Chalk Stand-Up Sidewalk Chalk Holder, Ages 3 and Up, $19.99
This ingenious sidewalk chalk holder makes it easy for parents to draw with their kids without constantly bending over. Parents love this chalk holder because not only does it help their backs, but it is easy to assemble. Moreover, it is perfect for drawing hopscotch and simple figures. However, online reviewers say it is not ideal for detailed artwork. If you are drawing a lot, you may need to adjust or push out the chalk often – but that is simply the nature of chalk. Overall, it is a great tool to have so you can enjoy playing outside with the kids without crawling all over the driveway.
Gazillion Bubbles Incredible Bubble Wand, Age 3 and Up, $8.98
Who doesn't enjoy playing with giant bubbles? This bubble set includes a giant wand that creates enormous bubbles. Online reviewers state that this bubble set can endure a lot of wear and tear while producing big and colorful bubbles. The set also includes a sixteen-ounce bottle of bubble solution. However, when it runs out, it is recommended to opt for a thicker refill bubble solution to produce hardier bubbles.
Kids Rechargeable Walkie Talkies, Ages 3 to 8, $20.99
These walkie-talkies are specially designed for the small hands of kids aged three to eight years. They have a simple button function and a range of up to 1000 feet, which is ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and camping. The walkie-talkies operate on a single channel, ensuring clear communication and sound quality. Furthermore, they are durable and can withstand drops of up to three feet. They also come with rechargeable batteries. All of these factors make them a great outdoor toy choice, but they are great for indoor play, too.
Fat Brain Toys Swing-A-Ring Swing, Ages 5 to 8, $62.95
Fat Brain Toys' Swing-A-Ring Swing accommodates multiple children and features a circular design with a 39-inch diameter. Moreover, this swing can support up to 220 pounds and has built-in safety measures. Parents can adjust the ropes to hang it from a tree or swing set with two points for smooth motion or a single point for spinning while swinging. Furthermore, the detailed assembly instructions make the setup process easy. If you prefer a smaller size, there is a smaller version of this swing available for $39.95.
Float Joy Unicorn Water Sprinkler, Ages 5 and Up, $33.99
This adorable inflatable unicorn sprinkler is over five feet tall and comes with stakes. You can secure the sprinkler to the ground through the unicorn's feet, which holds it in place. The sprinkler is made with super-thick PVC material, which provides durability. It is easily inflatable with a double lock for extra sealing. Additionally, it comes with a hose connector that is compatible with all regular garden hoses.
Giant Inflatable Bowling Set, Ages 2 and Up, $21.99
These hilariously large inflatable bowling pins are 27″ in height and 24″ in diameter for the bowling ball. The package includes a hand pump for easy inflation. The non-toxic material the toy is made of ensures that it is safe for children to use. The bowling set is suitable for outdoor use, but it also works well indoors on rainy days or for parties. Both children and adults can enjoy playing with it, making it an entertaining game for the whole family.
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Final Thoughts
Your child's growth requires outdoor toys that promote creativity, curiosity, and imagination. Playing with toys outside provides children with fresh air and sunshine, which is vital for their mental and physical well-being. Moreover, these toys are not only fun but also aid in learning and development. Swings, binoculars, and scooters are some examples of outdoor toys that can help your child grow and learn in a fun way. Both parents and kids highly rate all twelve of the toys on our list, so you can confidently choose any of these toys for your family.
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