Outdoor toys are a fantastic way for toddlers to explore, learn, and burn off energy.
For 18-month-olds, it’s important to choose toys that are safe, engaging, and suited to their developmental stage. At this age, children are starting to develop their motor skills, balance, and coordination, so the right outdoor toys can help with these abilities.
Think simple, sturdy, and safe.
When selecting outdoor toys for this age group, there are a few key things to consider.
Safety is the top priority. Look for toys that are made from non-toxic materials and have no small parts that could be a choking hazard.
Durability is also important since toddlers can be rough with their toys.
Additionally, consider toys that encourage movement and exploration, like push toys, ride-ons, or small slides. These can promote physical activity and help with muscle development.
We spent countless hours researching and testing various outdoor toys to find the best options for 18-month-olds. This guide will help you choose the perfect toy to suit your little one’s needs and ensure hours of safe, outdoor fun.
Best Outdoor Toys for 18-Month-Olds
We’ve picked some of the best outdoor toys for 18-month-olds to help keep your toddler entertained and active. Here are our top choices that promote fun and learning.
Little Tikes First Slide
This slide is an ideal choice for toddlers looking for safe, fun, and engaging outdoor play.
Pros
- Easy to assemble without tools
- Folds compactly for storage
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
Cons
- Requires soft surface for safety
- Limited weight capacity
- Some assembly needed
We had a blast with the Little Tikes First Slide. Setting it up was incredibly easy since no tools were needed. It was a relief, especially when managing a curious toddler nearby.
Its folding feature makes it convenient to store. We appreciate this, as it doesn’t take up much space. The slide works well both indoors and outdoors, giving our child flexible play options.
A slight drawback is that it requires a soft surface for safety. You also need to be mindful of the weight limit, but for an 18-month-old, this slide is a perfect fit.
Lydaz Bubble Lawn Mower
A great way to keep 18-month-olds entertained while encouraging outdoor play.
Pros
- Realistic sounds and bubble maker
- Easy to store with detachable handle
- Bright colors attract toddlers
Cons
- Lightweight, can tip over easily
- Bubble solution can be messy
- Requires batteries not included
This bubble lawn mower is fun and engaging for young kids. It makes realistic sounds, which adds to the excitement as they push it around. Our toddlers were fascinated by the bubbles, making it a hit during outdoor playtime.
One of the best features is how easy it is to store. The handle can be taken apart, so it doesn’t take up much space. The bright colors of the mower also make it very appealing to young children. They loved personalizing it with the included cartoon stickers.
On the downside, the mower is quite lightweight. This means it can tip over, especially when our little ones are just learning to walk. Also, the bubble solution can spill easily, which can be a bit messy and frustrating. Lastly, it requires 3 AA batteries, which aren’t included, so make sure to have those on hand.
TINTECUSA Busy Board
A great toy for toddlers interested in buttons, switches, and flashing lights, perfect for travel and at home.
Pros
- Made from natural wood with smooth edges
- Features engaging lights and switches
- Helps improve motor and problem-solving skills
Cons
- Batteries can get dislodged if the toy is dropped
- Some switches might be hard to operate for younger toddlers
- Lights may fail after some days of use
This Busy Board from TINTECUSA is a wonderful choice for curious toddlers. The colorful lights and various switches can keep your little one entertained for quite some time. It’s designed with safety in mind, featuring smooth corners and edges that fit comfortably in tiny hands.
We found that the board is particularly great for keeping children occupied during long car rides or flights. The mix of buttons, knobs, and plugs make it an interactive learning experience. The sensory aspects can also aid in developing motor skills and problem-solving abilities, making it more than just a toy.
On the downside, the battery compartment can be a bit tricky. If the toy is dropped, the batteries can get dislodged, which means a little extra effort to keep the toy working. Some users noticed the lights may stop functioning correctly after a few days, which is something to consider if your child loves light-up toys.
GOME Wooden Baby Push Walker
This is an excellent walker for those who want a sturdy, adjustable option for their little ones learning to walk.
Pros
- Safe design with solid wood construction
- Adjustable height and speed
- Multi-functional with pull rope and handle
Cons
- Wheels might come off occasionally
- Speed regulator may not slow it down enough
- May not be optimal for very early walkers
We found the GOME Wooden Baby Push Walker to be a solid option. Its wooden build feels reliable and safe, which is crucial when your baby is just starting to walk. The adjustable height and speed settings are great because they let us customize the walker according to our baby’s needs.
This walker also stands out for its versatility. The pull rope and handle give our baby different ways to play and learn. It’s not just a walker; it’s also a wagon that they can use to store and move toys, which keeps them engaged.
Despite some wheels coming off occasionally, assembly was straightforward thanks to the clear instructions. Just keep an eye on the wheels and tighten them when needed. The speed control feature is a nice touch, though it might need an additional tweak to slow it down more.
Palmatte Toddler Car Toys
These are fun, educational toys that will keep your little one entertained while helping develop key skills.
Pros
- Bright and colorful design
- Two modes of play
- Safe and sturdy build
Cons
- Small in size
- Limited to indoor use
- May not hold interest long-term
We recently tested the Palmatte Toddler Car Toys and found them to be an excellent addition to our playtime activities. The vibrant colors immediately caught our child’s attention and the cute, animated design was a big hit.
The toys feature two operational modes, which kept things interesting. In the press-and-go mode, it was fun to see the car zip across the floor with just a simple push. The pull-back mode is equally enjoyable, teaching our toddler about cause and effect in a playful way.
The small size makes them easy to carry, yet they are well-built and can withstand rough play. Our child enjoyed racing these cars, and they are perfect for developing hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills. While the toys are ideal for indoor play, their limited size makes them less suitable for outdoor use, and children may outgrow the interest in a few months.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best outdoor toys for 18-month-olds, there are several important factors to consider. Let’s focus on what to look for to ensure a safe, fun, and engaging experience for our little ones.
Safety
Safety is our top priority.
- Materials: Look for non-toxic materials and avoid small parts that could be swallowed.
- Design: The toy should have rounded edges and be sturdy.
Age Appropriateness
The toy must be appropriate for the child’s age.
- We should check age recommendations on the packaging.
- Look for simple designs that are easy to use for toddlers.
Developmental Benefits
Toys should help with a child’s growth and learning.
- Motor Skills: Toys that encourage climbing, sliding, or running.
- Cognitive Skills: Look for interactive toys with buttons, levers, or parts that move.
Durability
Outdoor toys should withstand different weather conditions.
- Materials: Choose durable plastics or treated wood.
- Build Quality: Ensure the toy can handle rough play.
Portability
If we plan to travel or visit parks, consider the toy’s size and weight.
- Lightweight: Easy to carry.
- Foldable: Convenient to store and transport.
Maintenance
We should think about how easy it is to clean the toy.
- Washable: Opt for toys that can be wiped down or washed easily.
- Weather-Resistant: Look for toys that won’t be damaged by rain or sunlight.
Price
Consider the budget but don’t compromise on quality.
- Value for Money: Look for features that justify the price.
- Longevity: A more expensive toy may last longer, offering better value over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Finding the right outdoor toys for an 18-month-old can be challenging. We aim to provide a variety of options suited for different needs, helping parents choose the best toys for their toddlers.
What are the most popular outdoor toys for toddlers aged 18 months?
Popular toys for toddlers include water tables, ride-on toys, and sandboxes. These toys often keep children entertained while promoting sensory and motor skills.
Which outdoor toys are suitable for an 18-month-old’s development?
For development, look for toys such as push and pull toys, toddler slides, and stacking blocks. These help with balance, coordination, and problem-solving.
What are the best outdoor playthings for an 18-month-old to engage in physical activity?
To engage in physical activity, consider tricycles, balls, and climbing structures. These toys encourage movement and help in developing muscle strength and coordination.
How can I find outdoor toys that encourage learning for my 18-month-old?
For learning, seek out activity centers with interactive elements, and sensory play mats. These toys can introduce basic concepts like shapes, colors, and textures.
What are some outdoor toy recommendations for both boys and girls around 18 months of age?
Outdoor toys that are great for both boys and girls include bubble machines and gardening tools. You should also consider splash pads, as these toys are fun and engaging for all children.
What durable and safe outdoor toys are recommended for children aged 1 to 2 years?
We recommend toys made from sturdy, non-toxic materials like wooden playhouses, hard plastic slides, and rubber balls.
Safety features such as rounded edges and stable bases are very important.