A child’s early years are filled with curiosity, exploration, and boundless energy. However, backyard playtime offers an ideal environment for toddlers and preschoolers to unleash their creativity, develop motor skills, and engage in active learning.
With an array of toys designed to entertain and educate, parents can transform their outdoor spaces into exciting and enriching playgrounds for their little ones. Shut down the screens and banish boredom with the help of some amazing outdoor toys for toddlers to transform your backyard into a learning and exciting playground.
Moreover, spending time outdoors away from screens is crucial for a child’s growth and development. It encourages them to create a sense of belonging to their surroundings. They will also learn to socialize with friends and strengthen family bonds.
Let’s explore the best 30 backyard or outdoor toys that will guarantee endless fun-filled experiences for the little ones.
1. Baby Pool
A baby pool is a delightful addition to any backyard, offering endless fun and a refreshing escape from the heat during the summer months. Designed specifically for young children, baby pools are shallow, safe, and perfect for toddlers and preschoolers to splash around in. These miniature aquatic wonders provide a safe environment for little ones to explore water play, build their confidence in the water, and develop essential motor skills. Its compact size makes it easy to set up, store, and transport, ensuring that your child can enjoy aquatic adventures at home or on the go.
2. Sand Box
A sandpit, also known as a sandbox, is a magical play area that sparks endless joy and imagination for kids of all ages. This miniature outdoor playground is filled with soft, fine sand, inviting children to explore, create, and play in a world of their own making. They can construct sandcastles, dig tunnels, or bury treasure with a sandpit that encourages imaginative play and creativity. Beyond the fun, a sandpit teaches valuable social skills as children collaborate, share ideas, and communicate while engaging in cooperative play.
3. Sprinklers for Kids
Water sprinklers are a simple yet delightful backyard addition that brings joy and relief on hot summer days. As the sprinkler sprays a refreshing mist of water across the lawn, children of all ages are drawn to its playful allure. Running, jumping, and dancing through the water jets, kids experience a sense of freedom and excitement, cooling off while staying active. Moreover, water sprinklers encourage social interactions as kids gather to share in the watery adventure, creating lasting memories and forming new friendships. They are available in colorful patterns and eye-catching designs which your toddlers will truly love.
4. Bubble Guns
Bubble guns are enchanting toys that captivate the imagination of children and adults alike. These simple yet magical devices come in various shapes and sizes, each designed to create a stream of iridescent bubbles that dance through the air. With just a dip into a bubble solution, a bubble gun becomes a gateway to a world of wonder and play. For kids, bubble guns offer hours of outdoor entertainment. Blowing bubbles with children offers a chance to relive carefree moments of childhood and strengthens the parent-child bond.
5. Fun Glow in The Dark Tents
Glow-in-the-dark tents are a fantastic innovation that elevates the camping experience to a whole new level. These tents, equipped with special luminescent materials, absorb natural or artificial light during the day and emit a soft glow at night, creating a magical and ethereal atmosphere. Setting up a glow-in-the-dark tent is an adventure in itself. The soft light provides a sense of security, reducing any fear of the dark. Inside the tent, children can engage in shadow play or use glow sticks to create their own magical light show.
6. Obstacle Course for The Little Ninja Warriors
Transform your backyard into a training ground for little ninja warriors with an exciting and challenging obstacle course! Obstacle courses not only promote physical fitness but also encourage problem-solving skills, creativity, and confidence in children. You can get a complete set which is available in many retail stores or online. If you don’t want to invest in one entire set or have a lack of space in your backyard, you can purchase individual accessories for this. Climb rings, rope ladders, and tunnel crawls are the most feasible ones here.
7. Step2 Kids Scooter
Looking for a cute mini Vespa for your little one? The Step2 kids scooter is a wonderful outdoor toy that combines fun and physical activity. With its sturdy design, safety features, and colorful aesthetics, it offers a thrilling and safe ride for young children. Whether they are zipping around the backyard or riding in the park, kids will have a blast on their Step2 scooter. It comes with a cute little backseat for letting the little ones take their stuffed toy for a scooter ride.
8. Climbers and Slides
Climbers and slides are the perfect combination of excitement and adventure for children of all ages. These play structures are a staple in playgrounds and backyards, offering endless opportunities for active play and exploration. Slides provide a rush of excitement and a sense of freedom as kids glide down to the ground below. Playing on these structures allows kids to enjoy fresh air and sunshine, contributing to their overall health and well-being. Whether at the local park or in the backyard, climbers and slides are an integral part of childhood play.
9. Sand and Water Table
A sand and water table is a versatile and engaging play center that offers young children the best of both worlds – the tactile fun of playing with sand and the sensory excitement of water play. This interactive play station typically features two compartments, one for sand and the other for water, providing endless opportunities for exploration and creativity. The table is divided into two sections, with one side dedicated to holding sand and the other to hold water. This separation allows children to play with both elements simultaneously without mixing them.
10. Junior Kidnoculars
Junior Kidnoculars are a specially designed pair of binoculars made for young children. These pint-sized binoculars offer an exciting and educational way for kids to explore the world around them up close. Junior Kidnoculars are created with child-friendly features to ensure ease of use and a safe viewing experience for little adventurers. Whether it’s observing birds in the backyard or discovering hidden treasures during nature walks, Junior Kidnoculars make every adventure a memorable and enriching experience for children and their families.
11. Kid-Friendly Lawn Mower
A kid-friendly lawn mower is a fantastic outdoor toy designed to provide children with a safe and enjoyable way to mimic the activity of mowing the lawn, just like their grown-up role models. These toy lawnmowers are specifically created for young children and come with features that ensure a fun and risk-free play experience. Most toy lawnmowers are push-along toys, where children can easily push the mower across the lawn or play area with minimal effort. Kid-friendly lawnmowers are designed to be simple and quick to assemble, allowing kids to start playing in no time.
12. Bicycles for Toddlers
Toddlers’ bicycles, also known as balance bikes or push bikes, are specially designed bikes that cater to the needs of young children who are just beginning to explore the world of cycling. These bikes are built close to the ground, allowing young riders to easily reach the ground with their feet for stability and confidence. Toddlers’ bicycles provide a safe and enjoyable way for young children to play outdoors and stay active.
13. Backyard Seesaw
A backyard seesaw, also known as a teeter-totter, is a timeless and classic outdoor play equipment loved by children of all ages. As a staple of outdoor play, the backyard seesaw continues to captivate the hearts of generations. It stands as a symbol of joy, friendship, and carefree fun. Its timeless appeal makes it a must-have in any backyard, creating endless opportunities for play, laughter, and wholesome childhood experiences. Go for the sturdy ones with easy-to-grip handles for ease of play and support.
14. Trampoline with Enclosure Net
A trampoline with an enclosure net is the ultimate combination of fun and safety for outdoor play. This dynamic play equipment provides children and adults with an exciting way to bounce and jump while ensuring their well-being with the added security of an enclosure net. Crafted from robust, tear-resistant mesh fabric, the net acts as a protective barrier around the trampoline’s jumping area. So, for an exciting and secure bouncing experience, a trampoline with an enclosure net is an ideal choice for families seeking active outdoor playtime.
15. Kids’ Soccer Set for Backyard
A kids’ soccer set for the backyard is an excellent way to introduce young children to the exciting world of soccer and foster a love for the sport. These soccer sets are specifically designed for little athletes and are perfect for backyard play, offering a safe and enjoyable soccer experience right at home. With its child-friendly features, such as small-sized goals and a soft soccer ball, the set offers a safe and enjoyable soccer experience for little athletes. Beyond the fun, backyard soccer games promote physical fitness, social interaction, and confidence building in young players.
16. Kids’ Golf Set
A typical kids’ golf set includes child-sized golf clubs, a few golf balls, and sometimes a putting green or a practice hole. The golf clubs are lightweight and easy to handle, allowing children to swing and hit the ball with ease. The golf balls are usually made of foam or soft materials, ensuring that they won’t cause any damage or injury. A kids’ golf set is a wonderful introduction to the world of golf for young children, providing a fun and engaging way to learn the fundamentals of the sport. These sets are specially designed to be age-appropriate and safe, making it easy for kids to develop an interest in golf and enjoy playing in the backyard or at the park.
17. Basket Ball Set
A basketball set for kids is an exciting and interactive way to introduce young children to the popular sport of basketball. Typically, a kids’ basketball set includes a mini basketball hoop with an adjustable height, a small-sized basketball, and a sturdy base. The hoop can be easily adjusted to different heights, allowing children to progress as they grow taller and develop their basketball skills. Parents can join in the fun, teaching basketball techniques and cheering on their young players as they make their shots.
18. Backyard Swings
Backyard swings are a timeless and cherished addition to any outdoor space, creating a delightful playground right in the comfort of your own home. Children of all ages are drawn to the joy of swinging and for a good reason. Swinging can even be a peaceful activity, as children enjoy the soothing sensation of floating gently back and forth. Whether it’s a standalone swing, a full swing set, or a cozy hammock swing, these delightful structures elevate the backyard into a space of play.
19. SplashEZ 3-in-1 Splash Pad
Setting up the SplashEZ 3-in-1 Splash Pad is a breeze – simply lay it flat on a level surface, connect a hose, and watch as the water transforms the pad into a splashing wonderland. The pad features a vibrant and colorful design. The SplashEZ 3-in-1 Splash Pad is a summer essential that brings a splash of excitement to any outdoor gathering or family playtime. With its easy setup, safety features, and engaging design, this splash pad promises hours of laughter, play, and cool fun under the sun for children of all ages.
20. Step2 Play & Shade Pool for Toddlers
The Step2 Play & Shade Pool is a fantastic water play option designed specifically for toddlers, offering a fun and safe aquatic experience right in the comfort of your backyard. This adorable pool is thoughtfully crafted to cater to the needs of young children, providing them with a cool and refreshing place to splash and play during hot summer days. Its compact size makes it easy to set up and fit into smaller outdoor spaces while still providing ample room for little ones to explore and have fun.
21. Disney Princess Jumbo Chalk Set
The Disney Princess Jumbo Chalk Set is a delightful and enchanting outdoor art activity for young fans of Disney’s beloved princesses. This set comes with a collection of jumbo-sized chalk sticks featuring vibrant colors and adorned with beloved Disney princess characters. The chalk sticks are specially designed for little hands, making them easy for children to grasp and use. Their larger size allows for bolder and more colorful drawings, creating eye-catching masterpieces that showcase children’s imagination and artistic talents.
22. Unicorn Sprinkler
Shaped like a majestic unicorn, this inflatable water sprinkler stands tall, ready to spray refreshing water in all directions. Setting up the unicorn water sprinkler is a breeze. Simply inflate it, attach a garden hose, and watch as the water flows through the sprinkler’s gentle streams. The unicorn water sprinkler is a must-have for any backyard play area, providing endless hours of fun, laughter, and imaginative play.
23. Cottage Playhouse
Cottage playhouses often feature realistic details, such as cottage-style windows, charming doors, and even miniature chimneys, adding to the enchanting ambiance. Resembling a mini house, this enchanting playhouse offers children a world of imaginative possibilities and endless fun. Featuring a cozy interior, kids can indulge in role-playing games, host tea parties, or even set up a mini library inside. This is a great way to introduce them to imaginative play.
24. Gardening Kits
Kids’ gardening kits for the backyard provide a fantastic opportunity to introduce young ones to the wonders of nature and the joys of cultivating their own green spaces. With child-sized tools like gardening tools, watering cans, and gloves, kids can immerse themselves in hands-on activities, learning how to sow seeds, nurture plants, and watch them grow. Beyond the fun and sense of accomplishment, gardening kits also teach valuable lessons about responsibility, patience, and the importance of caring for the environment.
25. Soft Sports Ball
Soft footballs encourage active play, promoting physical development and a healthy lifestyle from an early age. Whether used in the backyard, at the park, or during playtime indoors, these gentle footballs provide a safe way for toddlers to engage in playful activities with parents, siblings, or friends. These specially designed footballs are crafted with a child’s safety in mind, featuring a soft, plush exterior that reduces the risk of accidents and injuries.
Importance of Outdoor Toys and Games for Kids
Outdoor games for kids hold immense importance in their overall growth and development. Here are some key reasons why outdoor games are essential for children:
1. Physical Health
Engaging in outdoor games allows kids to be physically active, promoting better health and fitness. Running, jumping, climbing, and playing sports help develop motor skills, coordination, strength, and flexibility, contributing to their overall physical well-being.
2. Mental Health
Outdoor play has been linked to improved mental health in children. Spending time in nature and getting fresh air helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, promoting better emotional well-being and a more positive outlook on life.
3. Social Skills
Outdoor games provide opportunities for children to interact and play with their peers. Through cooperative and competitive play, they learn essential social skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and conflict resolution.
4. Imagination and Creativity
Nature’s open and diverse environment encourages kids to use their imagination and creativity. Unstructured outdoor play allows them to invent games, explore their surroundings, and create their own adventures, fostering innovative thinking and problem-solving abilities.
5. Cognitive Development
Outdoor play stimulates cognitive development as children encounter new situations, assess risks, and make decisions. Exploring nature and engaging in physical activities also enhance their sensory experiences and spatial awareness.
6. Emotional Resilience
Outdoor games provide children with opportunities to take risks, face challenges, and learn from their experiences. This builds emotional resilience, self-confidence, and a sense of accomplishment as they overcome obstacles and achieve goals.
7. Appreciation for Nature
Spending time outdoors helps kids develop a deeper connection and appreciation for the natural world. This understanding can foster environmental awareness and a sense of responsibility toward protecting the environment.
8. Reduced Screen Time
With the prevalence of digital devices, outdoor games offer a healthy alternative to excessive screen time. Encouraging kids to play outside allows them to disconnect from technology and experience the real world.
9. Healthy Habits
Engaging in outdoor games from a young age promotes a habit of being active and enjoying physical activities. This can lead to a more active lifestyle as they grow older, reducing the risk of sedentary-related health issues.
10. Bonding and Family Time
Outdoor games can be a fun and inclusive activity for the whole family. Playing together strengthens family bonds and creates lasting memories, fostering a sense of togetherness and support.
Final Thoughts
All in all, backyard outdoor games for kids are crucial to their overall development and well-being. In today’s digital age, where screen time is prevalent, these games offer a much-needed opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the natural world.
Moreover, backyard games foster social skills and teamwork. Playing with siblings or friends encourages cooperation, communication, and problem-solving, helping kids build strong interpersonal relationships.
Backyard outdoor games are not just about physical and social development; they also offer mental benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Outdoor Games Important for Kids?
Outdoor games are important for kids for several reasons. They promote physical health and fitness by encouraging active play, which helps develop motor skills, coordination, and strength. Outdoor play also has positive effects on mental health, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression while fostering a more positive outlook.
Which Outdoor Kids Games Are Best for Backyards?
There is a plethora of options when it comes to choosing the best backyard games for toddlers. You can go for baby pools, water sprinklers, sandboxes, golf sets, soccer sets, basketball sets, miniature houses, outdoor tents, and many more. You can choose the right ones per your backyard’s space availability.
How Can Parents Encourage Outdoor Play in The Backyard?
Parents can create a welcoming and engaging space for the kids in the backyard. They can invest in a wide range of outdoor games and toys to foster imaginative play and promote better physical and mental health. They should reduce the kids’ screen timings and motivate them to spend more time outdoors.
