Childcare Environments
8 Best Outdoor Toys for Kids
- Sand and Water Tables
- Parachute Games
- Tricycles
- Swing ball Sets
- Slides
- Outdoor Play Cabins
- Wheelbarrows
- Seesaws & Rockers
Children love to play. Introducing the outdoors into their play time can be a great way to get all important sunlight and fresh air. While developing their motor and social skills.
We have compiled a list of 8 outdoor activities that children love. Take the outdoors in with a play cabin. Improve coordination and motor skills with a seesaw. Develop core strength and balance in babies with a rocker. These are all fun activities that can be enjoyed indoors or out. By bringing the play area outside we add an additional realm of communication, interaction and sensory information.
Getting your children used to playing outdoors at a young age is important. It can help foster a love of outdoor activities that can carry them into outdoor life.
Some of the many benefits of outdoor play include:
Increased sunlight hours.
Children can move around toys, sand, water or even get involved with gardening, which is critical to proper development. Read more about outdoor play activities here
Additional sensory information.
Sand and water games provide a base for the first steps into creative and sensory play. See more articles on sensory play here
Improved coordination.
Outdoor games allow children to develop body awareness, coordination and spatial concepts. Read about indoor games for coordination here
Increased social activity.
Playing with friends leads to healthy social development through communication. Read more on social development here
Imagination.
By letting their imaginations run wild we help develop healthy cognition. Read more on how digital play can enhance creativity here
Collaboration skills.
Playing with others and engaging in outdoor activities and games aids collaboration skills. Read more about the importance of group play and collaboration here
Check out our selection of the best outdoor toys for kids
To help you create an inspiring and exciting outdoor space in your back garden or early years setting.
1. Sand and Water Tables
Sand and water games provide a base for the first steps into creative and sensory play. Fun games such as hiding some smaller objects in the sand and supplying sand sieves will provide hours of exciting outdoor play. Pretending to be archaeologists hunting for lost fossils!
We have selected our top sand and water table for young children below
KandyToys Sand Play
With the KandyToys sand and water table with lid and accessories.
A great toy for toddlers and young children to keep them entertained and make the most of the outdoors.
The brightly coloured Sand and Water Play Table is suitable for any outdoor location – take it to the garden or beach! The table comes with 8 accessories including sand moulds, watering can, spade, fork and bucket.
The sand and water table comes also with a lid, so the toys can be stored in the table and covered with the lid when not in use.
Children will have hours of imaginative fun with this play table. Great for getting hands-on, encourage tactile learning.
Buy one here https://amzn.to/3tBlDdG
Sand and Water Table Kids Outdoor Play Garden Sandpit for toddlers
With the KandyToys Sand and Water Table with Lid and Accessories you can keep Toddlers and young children entertained. Brightly coloured Sand and Water Play Table is suitable for garden or beach and comes with 8 accessories including sand shapers, watering can, spade, fork and bucket.
The sand and water table comes also with a lid, so the toys can be stored in the table and covered with the lid when not in use. Children will have hours of imaginative fun with this play table. Great for getting hands-on, encouraging tactile learning.
Buy one here https://amzn.to/37gKTP8
Kreative Kids Moving Sand with Dinosaur Moulds and Accessories
Whichever play table you choose, this accessory kit is a must. With the Kreative Kids 600g Moving Sand with Dinosaur Moulds and Accessories.
They can use the tools and moulds provided to make different creatures, or squish it with your hands to make something new.
Coming with 4 vibrant coloured sand you can sculpt, mould, and watch grow – perfect for tactile play! Watch the sand as it moves like magic!
Kit includes 4 colours of sand, 6 Dinosaur moulds, a rake and a spade.
Buy one here https://amzn.to/3pPAksJ
2.Parachute Games
Parachute games allow children to develop body awareness, coordination and spatial concepts (right, left, up, down). This fun team activity also encourages children to work together as a group because each child is required to share responsibility. Encourage children to keep all the balls in the parachute, make waves or even create a tent by throwing it up in the air and quickly sitting on the inside.
See our favourite Amazon Parachute Games
The Sonyabecca Play Tents Kids Game 12ft
The Sonyabecca Play Tents Kids Game 210T Play Parachute 12ft with 12 Handles Indoor & Outdoor Picnic Blanket Mats (6-12 kids play). Makes the perfect first play parachute.
Parachute size: 12-feet diameter, 12 separate handles spaced evenly around for group play (Teach turn-taking and cooperation).
Promotes cooperative group play while helping to build muscles. Encourages cooperative play while building upper-body strength.
Reinforced mesh centre allows ample airflow.
Great at birthday parties and picnics(indoor or outdoor play).
High-quality, durable 210T polyester taffeta fabric with reinforced web handles, Includes carry bag.
Affiliate short link: https://amzn.to/34rfnwG
The Sonyabecca Play Tents Kids Game 20ft
Perfect for outdoor play the Sonyabecca Parachute, This Play Parachute is 20ft and comes with 16 Handles for Kids Cooperation Group Play.
Parachute 20 feet diameter, 16 separate handles spaced evenly around for group play(Teach turn-taking and cooperation).
Promotes cooperative group play while helping to build muscles. Encourages cooperative play while building upper-body strength.
Reinforced mesh centre allows ample airflow.
Great at birthday parties and picnics (indoor or outdoor play).
High-quality, durable 210T polyester taffeta fabric with reinforced web handles, Includes carry bag.
Buy one here https://amzn.to/3KspgcT
LINKLKBOY Parachute Hand Throw Toy Set
The LINKLKBOY Parachute Hand Throw Toy Set. Kids Garden Games, Parachute Toy for Kids. Perfect for kids outdoor games of all ages.
You will receive 4 pieces of parachute toys with 4 army men. Toy length: 56 cm / 22 “, parachute diameter: 43.5 cm / 16.93”, color: (pink,green,orange, blue).
High quality: Parachutes are made from non-toxic, recyclable and environmentally friendly nylon. Parachute men are made of qualified ABS plastic to ensure that these parachute toys are NOT easily broken.
Easy to operate: The parachute toys are in tangle free design, has no strings to tangle, do not need batteries or assemble, just roll the parachute up, and throw the parachute high and Just simply toss it high and watch it landing.
It can help children to improve their Practical ability in simulation games. Great for developing children’s scientific interests.
3. Tricycles
Wheeled toys, like tricycles, are a fantastic way to encourage independence as they enable little ones to explore the world for themselves on 3 wheels. Designed to develop coordination and motor skills, tricycles are a safe and fun way to get children moving and support a healthy and active lifestyle.
See below some of the best tricycles available online.
The Besrey 5 in 1
The Beery 5 in 1 Toddler Bike Kids Trike Toddler Tricycle Balance Bike ideal for 10 Month to 4 Years old kids boys girls to begin balance training.
Wider Use Ages: 10 Month to 4 Years Old. This upgraded tricycle has an enlarged body size so that it can be used for a wider range of ages. One Besrey bike can meet your kid’s all requirements at different ages, help your baby quickly learn to ride. The best first bike for your baby.
Sturdy & Safe: The sturdy carbon steel frame makes the tricycle stable and durable. The limited 120° steering of the non-slip armrests can prevent rollover, and the widened and completely enclosed wheels can prevent the baby’s feet from being caught and slipping. Ensure full protection for children playing indoors or outdoors.
Learn to Steer: Our Kids Tricycles can help children learn balance from an early age, improve physical coordination, and promote the development of children’s arms and legs. At the same time, learning to ride a balance bike can encourage children to be independent and confident, which is the best gift your baby acquired from riding a bike.
Buy on here https://amzn.to/35MzohP
The XIAPIA
The XIAPIA Baby Toddler Tricycle Bike No Pedals 10-36 Months Ride-on Toys Gifts Indoor Outdoor Balance Bike for One Year Old Boys Girls First Birthday (Spot Dog). Is fun, affordable and perfect for ages 10 months up to 36 months.
100% DURABLE AND SAFE: Safety is our primary consideration in the design and production process. The baby balance bike is certified by ASTMF963 and EN71, so quality is guaranteed. 135 degree steering limited to avoid baby side falling, more safer than regular baby balance bikes.
RECOMMENDED AGE: The Toddler balance bike is designed to help baby learn the ability to balance and ride, and gain confidence. Perfect for 10-36 months, and maximum load capacity is up to 40 kg.
GOOD MATERIAL: The wheels of the balance bike for kids is made of EVA material. Wear-resistance, non-slip, non-vibration, and no noise produced while using.
EASY TO ASSEMBLE: Within minutes to assemble the baby walker according to the updated English directions.
GREAT GIFT: The bicycle is a great gift for birthdays, Christmas and children’s day. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us. We have a professional service team and we are always with you.
Buy one like this https://amzn.to/3HYfJse
The XJD 3 in 1
The XJD 3 in 1 Kids Tricycles for 1-3 Years Old Toddler Trike Baby Balance Bike 3 Wheels Boys Girls Upgrade 2.0 (Light Pink).
With three age friendly settings, to adapt as your baby grows. We recommend a 10-24 months baby to use three-wheel mode. 1.5- 3 years old baby uses two-wheel balance bike mode. Best 3 in 1 design tricycle and balance bike for baby.
New Upgrade Kids Tricycle – Multi-functional kids tricycle combined with toddler tricycle, classical tricycle and balance bike. One XJD tricycle can meet all your kids’ requirements at different ages.
EASY TO ASSEMBLE- Our baby bike just need to install the handlebar and seat within minutes according to the instructions of the manual. Compared with other tricycles, XJD tricycle has an additional adjustment of the handlebars, lift seat function, and adjusts the handle angle and seat height(adjustable from 11.8 inch to 14.2 inch) perfectly suitable for growing with baby.
STURDY AND COMFORTABLE-Trikes for toddler has safety carbon steel frame, durable widen silent wheels, strong enough for riding indoor or outdoor. Soft handle grips and seat make kids’ comfortable riding.
Buy one like this here https://amzn.to/3vWBRB0
4. Swing ball Sets
Ideal for outdoor areas with limited space, swing ball is a fantastic reaction game for one or two players, perfect for an introduction to tennis. Exercises coordination and concentration.
Our recommended swing ball sets
The Swing ball 7227 All Surface
The Swingball 7227 All Surface is great value for money and our recommended set of choice as a result.
All components pack away into the base for storage
New wider base for unrivalled stability.
Height-adjustable steel tubes.
Play on any surface.
1-2 player game options.
Affiliate short link https://amzn.to/37lLajX
The Pro All Surface SwingBall
The Pro All Surface SwingBall is an excellent choice.
With more spirals on the Swingball head than regular sets. Ensuring games last longer.
Improved lid to prevent leakages and increase water capacity for unrivalled stability.
All components pack away into the base for storage, supplied in frustration free eco packaging.
Steel tubes height adjustable up to 180cm.
Play on any surface, suitable for solo or double play.
Buy one here https://amzn.to/3HQKNdH
Swingball Early Fun Swing Ball
Swingball Early Fun Swing Ball. Designed with younger children in mind, Early Fun Swingball comes with a tangle free spinner.
Comes with a foam ball to avoid any injuries and lighter ‘little hands’ bats with smaller handles and a larger face to help them hit the ball.
Swingball isn’t just for the back garden; thanks to the all surface base you can play anywhere on any surface.
Simply fill the base with sand or water and then you are ready to go.
Swingball is great for children three years and above, a wonderful way to develop hand-eye coordination.
Buy yours here https://amzn.to/366Pena
5. Slides
There are so many benefits to having a slide in your setting. They promote balance and coordination as children climb to the top of the steps, as well as developing vital social skills as they’ll need to learn to take turns. Spatial awareness is also required to learn when to slide and when to put your feet down at the bottom.
Little Tikes Easy Store Large Slide
Little Tikes Easy Store Large Slide. Perfect for Indoor or Outdoor Use. Folds for easy travel & storage – Available in red & blue.
One of the most popular children’s slides in excitingly bright colours! Suitable for ages two and above, this slide’s features have been designed with developing little ones in mind. Perfect for your children to grow with as it suitable for any age from 24 months – 6 years +.
EXTREMELY SAFE – Locking arm support for added safety; easy to climb stairs; gentle slope; tall runners keep children on track as they slide; wide base for extra stability.
ACTIVE PLAY – Ideal for active physical play. Your child will enjoy hours of fun.
EASY ASSEMBLY – Folds for easy travel and storage.
ROBUST CONSTRUCTION – Durable build will last for years to come.
Affiliate short link: https://amzn.to/363ZKvu
Pirecart slide with basketball hoop
SUITABLE FOR TODDLERS AND BABIES – Kids slides are very safe, with sturdy handrails, wide steps with anti-slip coating and raised anti-slip barriers. Suitable for boys and girls over 1 year old.
Suitable for outdoor and indoor use: children’s slides are not afraid of rain and sunlight and can be used outdoors or indoors.
Easy to install and uninstall: no metal screws are required for the installation of children’s slides and the installation can be completed in ten minutes according to the installation instructions. When not in use, it can be folded and stowed away.
Beautiful Appearance: The cute slide with yellow green dinosaur look attracts children’s attention and is the best gift for kids.
Basketball edge ball combination: the kids slide is not only a slide, but also a ball frame. Bouncing and shooting can promote your baby’s healthy growth.
Buy one like this here https://amzn.to/3w5jZ7a
The EastSun Indoor Slide
The EastSun Indoor Slide for Baby and Toddler 6 Months Old+, The perfect outdoor first smooth slide with stairs for kids boys and girls.
STURDY & STABLE The baby slide adopts a stable triangular structure, which makes it stronger. The slide can be easily assembled due to the large nuts and junctions. Parents can put the parts of the slide together with kids and have a good time.
SAFE & TOP-QUALITY Made of BPA free, HDPE plastic material without sharp edges and metal, the indoor slide is sturdy and easy to clean. Recommended: Children under 40 kg of weight.
DESIGN FOR TODDLER The round-edge handrail can be held conveniently. The distance between the stairs is 9 cm, which corresponds to the kids’ habit of climbing the stairs. The surface of every stair is of convex design, which can prevent kids from falling down.
SUITABLE HEIGHT & RADIAN The 28 cm of width and 84 cm of length offer enough space for kids to play. The slide is 56 cm in height and almost as high as a sofa. The bottom of the slide becomes flat, which prevents excessive speed.
FAMOUS BRAND Unfolding: 125L x 33W x 56H CM. Folding: 112L x 33W x 30H CM. The slide can be placed in the corner, under the bed or sofa after being folded. Cannot tell how much joy and surprise kids are gonna have when you take the slide out as a gift on Christmas or birthday.
Buy yours here https://amzn.to/3vPj9Lx
6. Outdoor Play Cabins
Play cabins, Wendy houses, whatever you call yours they’re a fantastic way for children to let their imaginations run wild. Today it could be a castle, tomorrow a police station, whatever its use it’ll also be the hub of any outdoor play idea. They also make an ideal shady spot on a sunny day.
Amazon Outdoor Play Cabins we recommend
The Spirit of Air Kids Kingdom – Pop-Up Pirate Cabin
The Spirit of Air Kids Kingdom – Pop-Up Pirate Cabin play tent. Children can have hours of outdoor fun with this great toy.
Featuring;
UV protected roof
Durable polyester fabric
strong GRP frame
Buy yours here https://amzn.to/3HQYwkJ
Sylvanian Families 5451 Lakeside Lodge Log
The Sylvanian Families 5451 Lakeside Lodge Log Cabin is perfect for outdoor fun and games.
The Lakeside Lodge comes with furniture and accessories
The house and furniture have a natural wooden look.
Have your figures (not included) cook at the wood-burning stove, eat at the dining table, or sleep in the hammock. The roof has a secret slide that baby figures can play on.
Combine with Family Campervan, Baby Ropeway Park, Baby Hedgehog Hideout or Baby Collectibles: Baby Outdoor Series for even more fun (sold separately).
Sylvanian Families miniature dollhouses, playsets and figures are timeless and classic high quality toys.
Buy yours here https://amzn.to/3pNLVbS
Xing Kids Dream Bed Tents Dinosaur Pop Up Bed
With the Xing Kids Dream Bed Tents Dinosaur Pop Up Bed Tent Foldable Play Tent Castle Playhouse.
You can be sure your loved one are never bored in or outdoors.
Lightweight and Portable: Made of lightweight and durable materials, lightweight, with zippered storage pocket.(UK Stock, 1-5 days fast delivery).
Easy to Assemble: Fold-out pop-up in seconds, quick assembly without any tools, and just a few seconds to fix on the bed.(Note: Without light!).
Tent Size: The children’s tent is 82x220cm in size and is large enough for all single beds. It only covers the upper portion of the young ones body or actually the pillow area.
Dreamy Bed Tent: The kids tent can help calm and soothe kids when taking a nap or sleeping at night, let them have a safe sleeping space.
The Perfect Kid Gift: This pop-up tent makes it even more special before going to bed, it allows children to have their own space in a shared room.
Buy yours here https://amzn.to/363NcV0
7. Wheelbarrows
Wheelbarrows are an ideal way to entertain young children whilst improving their balance. Children can move around toys, sand, water or even get involved with gardening and helping to maintain the outdoor space.
Great kids garden tools
This 16-piece gardening tools playset will help your kid become a pro gardener. These garden tools are perfectly-sized for their hands to get your garden growing.
PERFECT BEACH TOY – We designed these toy tools set with versatility and practicality in mind. You can take these tools when you’re heading to a long holiday beach and build sand castles, towers, exciting figures of animals and more.
INCLUDES – ✔ 8 gardening tools (3 large and 5 small) ✔ 4 flower pots ✔ water pail ✔ water spray bottle and ✔ wagon (measures 14” x 12” x 7”. The handle of the wagon extends up to 13”.
SAFE & FUN – This durable toy is mommy approved and there are no BPA’s or other harmful chemicals that can affect your child. CPSC and ASTM Tested and Certified. 100% Safe for children to play.
EXCELLENT GIFT IDEA – You can buy these toy garden tools as a gift for your children. Surprise your little one with these colourful wagon set in his birthday, Christmas gift and more.
Buy yours here https://amzn.to/3tSCVn4
Colwelt Kids Metal Wheelbarrow
With the Colwelt Kids Metal Wheelbarrow. A Childrens Wheelbarrow Kids Gardening Set with Metal Watering Can, Shovel, Rake, Fork and Kids Gloves(Blue). Your children can have hours of fun Perfect for recreational activities, early cognitive and concept learning.
Super bright and colourful eye catching design. Perfect water game for the little ones.
ALL DESIGNED FOR KIDS: Constructed by steel frame, Colwelt kids metal wheelbarrow built to withstand rough terrain, and hauls dirt, flowers, sand and leaves with ease. No-scratch edges keeps kids’ fingers safe. Eco-friendly paint is secure for your kids to use. All kids garden tools are kids -sized, perfectly suitable for kids’ small hands.
LIGHTWEIGHT and EASY TO ASSEMBLE: The large wheel and comfortable handle grips of childrens wheelbarrow will make manoeuvring and handling easy and fun. It comes with installation instructions and all screws needed. Assemble it with your kids together.
ALL-SEASON PLAY: Children can use this kids metal wheelbarrow safely outdoors during playtime in the garden, yard, or sandbox. It meets the needs of children’s outdoor activities, more outdoor sports will make children more optimistic and healthy growth.
GREAT GARDENING GIFTS FOR KIDS: Great for yard play, transporting your little one’s treasures, storage or whatever they want. It is an ideal present for your kids’ birthday, Christmas! They will love to have their own children’s wheelbarrow.
Buy yours here https://amzn.to/3pT3cAc
The Little Roots BGG1655
The Little Roots BGG1655 Kids Wheelbarrow Gardening Toy for Children, is perfect for your little ones first adventures outdoors and comes in multiple bright colours.
Description Wheelbarrow with a durable metal construction in a bright, fun and colourful design that kids will love.
Features easy-to-hold durable rubber hand grips designed specifically for children.
Very easy to assemble so kids can begin their gardening adventures.
A lighter, smaller version of an adult’s wheelbarrow which will give kids hours of fun in the garden.
Buy yours here https://amzn.to/3CujX9V
8. Seesaws and Rockers
Seesaws and rockers are a fun way to develop coordination and sequencing skills as well as core and upper body strength. They’re perfect for entertaining young children and encouraging movement, even in small play areas.
See our top three Seesaws and rockers
Plum Metal Seesaw 360º
This Plum metal seesaw spins 360º as well as an up and down motion.
Made from powder coated steel giving lasting protection against rust.
Featuring easy grip handles and moulded comfortable plastic seats.
Rocking super comfy, safe padded handles. This seesaw is one of the classics among play equipment and one of the most popular attractions on every playground. It can be rotated 360° and is great fun for the little ones.
Get your Plum Metal Rotating See Saw in stunning purple and teal here.
Spielwerk Seesaw 360°
The SPIELWERK Seesaw For Children Damper And Padded Handles 200x67x70cm up to 70kg 360°
Is great fun, stable, secure and available in a choice of colours.
STABLE: The seesaw frame is very stable due to the steel construction. It is made of powder-coated tubular steel. Ground pegs will also provide more stability.
SECURE: Attached handles with padding offer your children a secure hold on the frame. The dampers under the seat shells prevent them from hitting the ground hard. Pegs are included in the scope of delivery and can also be concreted if necessary.
MULTICOLOURED: The beautifully painted seesaw will be an absolute highlight in your garden or on your terrace. It will magically attract children’s attention.
Buy yours here https://amzn.to/37jt6a2
Starplast See Saw
Watch your children rock the day away solo or with friends or siblings with the 3 seater Starplast.
Starplast See Saw Trio Children’s Kids Large Sturdy Plastic Rocking Seesaw 3 Seater Outdoor (Green) features;
3 Seats with 2 Handles
Indoor and Outdoor use
Central seat for a single user
Outer seats for multiple users
Buy yours here https://amzn.to/3J0iA5z
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