Playing outdoors is important for young children, as it helps them develop physical skills and explore the world around them.
Outdoor toys for 1-year-olds can provide endless fun while supporting their learning and growth. These toys are designed to be safe and engaging, allowing toddlers to enjoy fresh air and sunshine.
When buying outdoor toys for 1-year-olds in the UK, there are several factors to consider.
Safety is the top priority—look for toys made from non-toxic materials with no small parts that could be choking hazards. Durability is also important since these toys will be exposed to the elements and energetic play.
Consider the toy’s size and weight to ensure it is suitable for a young child to handle.
Our goal is to help you discover the best outdoor toys, focusing on safety and enjoyment. By comparing various toys, we’ve identified those that offer the best experience for young children.
Best Outdoor Toys for 1 Year Olds in the UK
We’ve gathered a selection of the top outdoor toys to delight and engage 1-year-olds. These toys encourage play and development in a fun and safe environment. Let’s explore our picks for the best products available.
Little Tikes Rocking Horse Blue
This rocking horse is a fantastic choice for introducing a little one to active play with its sturdy and lasting design.
Pros
- Strong and well-built; enjoyable over time.
- Requires no setup.
- Perfect for both indoors and outdoors.
Cons
- Limited weight capacity may not suit older children.
- Eyes are just stickers, which might not appeal to everyone.
- Simple design; might not attract those seeking more features.
Our experience with the Little Tikes Rocking Horse Blue has been positive.
The design suits toddlers perfectly, allowing them to enjoy hours of rocking fun while improving their balance and coordination. Its durability reassures us that this toy will withstand enthusiastic play for years.
No assembly is needed, making it straightforward for busy parents. We appreciated the thought put into its lightweight design, which allows for easy movement from playroom to backyard. This simplicity extends to cleaning, too, as a quick wipe keeps it looking new.
Though the sticker eyes were slightly disappointing, the overall quality of the horse overshadows this minor flaw. If you want a practical, engaging toy, this is a great choice to consider. The rocking motion is smooth and safe, ensuring a joyful experience for any youngster.
Liberry Toddler Golf Set
This set is an excellent choice for young kids to enjoy some outdoor fun while sparking an interest in golf.
Pros
- Great for indoor and outdoor use
- Made from safe, non-toxic materials
- Easy to transport with its handy caddy design
Cons
- Potential for club breakage
- Limited color options
- Wheels on caddy could be sturdier
Trying out the Liberry Toddler Golf Set is truly enjoyable.
We love how easy it is for little ones to pull around thanks to the smart design. With its safe, durable material, parents can be reassured while the kids play.
This set brings a taste of the real golfing experience to toddlers. The clubs are lightweight, allowing those tiny hands to get a firm grip. The golf balls are larger than usual, minimizing any choking hazards, which we find excellent for added safety.
Another great feature is its versatility. Whether inside or outside, kids seem to engage with it for hours, giving us a bit of peace as they hone their hand-eye coordination and patience. This set offers a colorful and fun way to develop young skills without too much hassle.
VTech Smart Shots Sports Center
This toy is a great choice for energetic toddlers who love playing sports and learning new things.
Pros
- Combines basketball and soccer for double the fun
- Lights and sounds keep kids engaged
- Helps develop motor skills and learning
Cons
- May tip over if pulled too hard
- Could be small for older toddlers
- Needs batteries that are not included
We recently got the VTech Smart Shots Sports Center for a young toddler in our family, and it’s been a big hit.
The combination of a basketball hoop and soccer net provides two activities in one toy, keeping the little ones entertained for longer stretches. The bright lights and sounds capture their attention and make every goal exciting, which encourages them to keep playing.
The educational features are an added bonus. Kids can press buttons to learn about shapes and numbers, turning playtime into a fun learning experience. It’s thrilling to see them enjoy the challenge of shooting hoops or kicking goals while picking up new skills along the way. The toy’s lightweight design makes it easy to move indoors or outdoors.
We’ve noticed that our little ones often pull on the toy, causing it to tip over if not placed in a more stable position. While it’s ideal for toddlers, older kids might find it a bit small as they grow. Nevertheless, with a little supervision and an extra pair of batteries on hand, it’s sure to provide hours of active play and learning.
Aneco Paddle Game Set
This game set offers fun and active play, making it a decent choice for family outdoor activities, despite some durability issues.
Pros
- Encourages active play and improves hand-eye coordination
- Comes with a handy storage bag for easy transport
- Easy to use with adjustable hand straps for a good fit
Cons
- Some paddles may break easily
- Velcro surfaces might wear off quickly
- Mixed quality can be seen in hand straps
We recently tried the Aneco Paddle Game Set, and it was quite enjoyable.
The game reminded us of those fun classic days with toss-and-catch games. The paddles and balls work well together, and the kids seemed to have a great time running around with them.
The storage bag is a good addition, keeping the set organized and making it convenient for trips to the park or beach. The adjustable hand straps fit different hand sizes, which is great when multiple children or adults play.
Unfortunately, the product’s durability was a concern. A paddle broke after just a couple of uses, and the Velcro on a few paddles didn’t last long. Although the excitement of play was worth it, the quality is something we wish was a bit more reliable.
Jalunth Catch Paddle Set
This catch paddle set is a great choice for outdoor fun that helps kids improve hand-eye coordination and offers hours of entertainment.
Pros
- Strong and durable paddles
- Sticky enough for easy ball catching
- Adjustable strap fits kids and adults
Cons
- Balls may wear out quickly
- Paddle support can be softer
- Handles not ideal for wet conditions
We enjoyed spending time with the Jalunth Catch Paddle Set in our backyard.
Its durable paddle design made our games enjoyable and exciting. The Velcro system smoothly grabs the ball, making catching easy for little ones. It’s a fun way for young children to learn valuable play skills without feeling frustrated.
The set is versatile and works well for both indoor and outdoor settings. We loved how the adjustable strap allowed us to comfortably share the paddles across different hand sizes. Kids and adults alike found joy in playing together, creating a fun atmosphere every time.
However, the balls did not last as long as we had hoped. After a few rounds of play, they started to show signs of wear. While the paddles remained sturdy, we noticed that the backing didn’t handle wet conditions well, so we recommend avoiding water play with this set.
Buying Guide
When choosing outdoor toys for a 1-year-old, several key factors come into play.
Safety is our top priority. Ensure the toys are made of non-toxic materials and have smooth edges to prevent any injuries. Toys should be easy to clean, as little ones tend to put everything in their mouths.
Durability matters, too. We look for toys that withstand outdoor elements like rain and sun. High-quality materials and craftsmanship help ensure the toy lasts longer. These toys should also be lightweight so kids can move and play without any trouble.
Next, consider educational value.
The best toys encourage development of motor skills and creativity. Toys that involve stacking, sorting, or simple problem-solving can be beneficial. They should offer different textures, colors, and shapes to engage a child’s senses.
Size and Portability
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Compact Design | Easy to store when not in use |
| Lightweight | Simple for us to carry and transport |
| Stackable | Saves space by stacking multiple pieces together |
Outdoor toys should also encourage physical activity. This helps with coordination and balance. Toys like crawl tunnels, small slides, or push toys stimulate movement and adventure.
Lastly, we should look at versatility.
Toys with multiple uses are great as they hold interest longer. Look for options that can be used in different ways to keep playtime engaging and fun. It’s important to choose toys that can grow with a child.
Frequently Asked Questions
When choosing outdoor toys for one-year-olds, we should focus on safety, development, and engagement. Different types of toys offer unique benefits for both boys and girls. Let’s explore some great options for engaging young children outdoors.
What are the most suitable garden toys for a one-year-old child?
For garden play, soft balls, stacking cups, and small slides are great choices. These toys are safe and encourage movement, balance, and exploration. Water tables can also be a fun option to stimulate sensory play and curiosity.
Which outdoor toys are best for the development of a 1-year-old boy?
Push toys, ride-on cars, and activity centers help with motor skills and coordination. Sand pits are excellent for tactile development. Simple outdoor games such as bubble makers can also spark joy and help with visual tracking.
What are the top recommended outdoor toys for a 1-year-old girl?
We recommend toys that encourage exploration, like tunnel tents and baby swings.
Musical toys and blocks can be engaging and support fine motor skill development. These options provide both fun and learning opportunities.
Can you recommend some outdoor toys for children between 1-2 years old?
Balance bikes and beginner trampolines can work well for this age range. They support physical activity and coordination.
Sensory garden toys, like texture paths, can also be beneficial, allowing children to explore different sensations safely.
What are some age-appropriate toys to take for a one year old on vacation?
Portable toys such as stackable cups, small soft balls, and travel-sized books are ideal.
These are easy to pack and provide entertainment in various settings. Consider toys that encourage movement but are compact enough for travel.
How can I keep my one year old engaged with outdoor toys?
Rotating toys regularly can keep things interesting.
Encourage pretend play by setting up a small picnic or tea party using toy utensils and food.
Interaction with peers through shared play can also sustain a child’s interest and enjoyment.