Outdoor play is important for toddlers. Being outside helps them explore and learn.
For 1-year-olds, the best toys are simple and safe. These toys should encourage movement and curiosity. They include items like ride-on toys, sensory balls, and mini slides.
When choosing outdoor toys for a toddler, safety is a key factor. Make sure the toys are made of non-toxic materials. They should be sturdy enough to withstand rough play.
It’s also important for the toys to be easy to clean.
We researched and tested various toys to find the best outdoor options for 1-year-olds. Our goal was to find toys that are fun, safe, and durable.
Best Outdoor Toys for a 1 Year Old
We have compiled the top outdoor toys for one-year-olds to make playtime fun and engaging. These toys are designed to be safe and promote development.
Little Tikes Rocking Horse Blue
An excellent toy for a 1-year-old to develop balance and coordination while having fun.
Pros
- Sturdy design
- Engaging for kids
- No assembly needed
Cons
- Eye stickers may fall off
- Not suitable for children over 50 lbs
- Larger footprint
The Little Tikes Rocking Horse Blue is a fantastic addition to any child’s outdoor play collection. Its sturdy build ensures safety while allowing kids to rock back and forth for hours.
The design is simple, making it easy for little ones to use without needing assistance.
One thing we love about this rocking horse is that it comes fully assembled. You can take it out of the box, and it’s ready to go.
The vibrant blue color and smooth edges make it appealing and safe for indoor or outdoor use.
There are a few minor downsides. The stickers for the eyes can come off easily, and some parents may find it takes up a bit of space. Despite these small issues, the Little Tikes Rocking Horse Blue offers great value and endless fun for toddlers.
SEREED Baby Balance Bike
Ideal for developing balance and coordination in toddlers, this sturdy and easy-to-use balance bike is a great first birthday gift.
Pros
- Lightweight and portable
- Encourages balance and confidence
- Safe with no sharp edges or pedals
Cons
- May be too small for taller children
- Limited color options
- Requires assembly
This balance bike from SEREED is perfect for introducing our young ones to the joy of riding. It’s lightweight and easy to carry at just 3.6 pounds, making it simple for parents and kids alike to move around.
The closed wheels and no-pedal design ensure that our little ones’ feet stay safe while they learn.
We found the bike very sturdy, thanks to its aluminum alloy frame and non-slip TPU handles. The seat is soft, keeping our toddlers comfortable even during longer play sessions.
It glides smoothly, both indoors and outdoors, without damaging floors.
One thing to note is that the bike might be a bit small for taller toddlers, but overall, it fits well for most within the recommended age range of 12-24 months. The ease of assembly and quality make it a solid choice for any one-year-old.
Radio Flyer Busy Buggy
This toy offers both fun and learning, making it a great choice for toddlers.
Pros
- Interactive sensory activities
- Promotes motor skills development
- Doubles as a push walker
Cons
- Seat storage might not stay closed
- Does not play music
- Limited to indoor or smooth outdoor surfaces
Radio Flyer’s Busy Buggy is packed with features that keep our little ones entertained while helping them develop important skills. The 17 sensory activities, like spinning beads and interlocking gears, engage their senses and encourage imaginative play.
The simple design and bright colors make it visually appealing for children.
We love that this toy doubles as a push walker. It provides great support for children learning to walk, boosting their confidence with each step. The anti-tip feature ensures they stay safe while they explore their surroundings.
While it’s a fantastic toy, the seat storage has a tendency to flip open unexpectedly, which can be a bit of a nuisance. Additionally, it doesn’t play music as some other ride-ons do, which might be a bummer for children who love tunes. Overall, this toy is a valuable addition to any toddler’s playtime.
Kikidex Magnetic Drawing Board
This is an excellent choice for parents looking to combine fun and education for their little ones.
Pros
- Encourages creativity and learning
- Mess-free and easy to use
- Durable and safe design
Cons
- String for the pen is short
- Screen can be hard to erase
- Drawing clarity could be better
We recently tested the Kikidex Magnetic Drawing Board, and it quickly became a favorite. The board offers a mess-free way for toddlers to express their creativity, which is fantastic for parents who want to avoid cleaning up crayon and marker stains. It’s easy for little hands to use, and the smooth gliding eraser knob works well most of the time.
One of the best features is its sturdy design. The detachable legs are simple to adjust, making it adaptable for different play settings. This is a thoughtful feature that enhances the toy’s usability. Safety concerns are minimal because it’s made from high-quality ABS material and has rounded edges to prevent any accidental injuries.
On the downside, we found the string attached to the pen a bit too short, causing some frustration. Also, the screen isn’t always the easiest to erase, especially if the doodles are dense. Despite these minor issues, this toy offers tons of educational value and fun, making it a worthy addition to any toddler’s toy collection.
Sloosh Bubble Lawn Mower
This is a fantastic option for keeping your little one entertained outdoors with bubbles and sounds.
Pros
- Sturdy build
- Easy to assemble
- Engaging bubble production
Cons
- Batteries not included
- Requires a small screwdriver
- Wheels might break over time
We found the Sloosh Bubble Lawn Mower to be a great addition to our outdoor playtime. It’s sturdy and easy to put together, which is a big plus for busy parents. The bubble production is quite impressive and keeps kids entertained for hours.
The sounds it makes add real excitement, making it a hit with toddlers. It’s especially effective at helping little ones develop their motor skills, as they love chasing the bubbles around. The handle is at a comfortable height for young children, making it easy for them to push.
On the downside, the need for 3 AA batteries, which are not included, can be an inconvenience. Also, a tiny screwdriver is required to access the battery compartment. Although the wheels are generally sturdy, some users have noted they might break after a few weeks of use.
Despite these minor issues, we still think it’s a great toy for outdoor fun. The joy it brings to kids outweighs any small drawbacks.
Buying Guide
When selecting outdoor toys for a 1-year-old, there are a few important features to consider.
Safety
Safety is the top priority. Look for toys with smooth edges and non-toxic materials. Make sure the toy is age-appropriate and has been tested for safety standards.
Durability
Choose toys made from sturdy materials. Outdoor toys should withstand the elements and rough play. Plastic and rubber are often good choices.
Size and weight
Smaller, lightweight toys are easier for little hands to handle. This ensures they can play safely and comfortably.
Educational Value
Think about toys that encourage motor skills, sensory exploration, and imagination. Simple puzzles, shape sorters, and stacking toys can be great.
Portability
If we plan to take toys to the park or on trips, look for ones that are easy to transport. Some toys may also have carrying cases.
Maintenance
Check if the toy is easy to clean. Washable toys are convenient, especially for outdoor use.
Table: Key Features
| Feature | Importance |
|---|---|
| Safety | Smooth edges, non-toxic, age-appropriate |
| Durability | Sturdy materials like plastic and rubber |
| Size and weight | Small, lightweight for easy handling |
| Educational value | Encourages motor skills, sensory exploration |
| Portability | Easy to carry and transport |
| Maintenance | Easy to clean, washable |
These points will help us choose the best outdoor toy for a 1-year-old.
Frequently Asked Questions
We often get asked about the best outdoor toys for 1-year-olds. Here’s what we found based on reliability, developmental benefits, and overall enjoyment.
What are the top-rated outdoor toys for both boys and girls around 1 year old?
Some of the top-rated outdoor toys for boys and girls include push walkers, ride-on toys, and sensory balls. These toys are not only fun but also help with balance and motor skills.
Which outdoor toys are ideal for the developmental needs of 1- to 2-year-old toddlers?
Outdoor toys that are ideal for developmental needs include activity centers, stacking toys, and water play tables. These toys help with hand-eye coordination and problem-solving skills.
What are the best outdoor water toys suitable for a 1-year-old child?
For outdoor water toys, we recommend splash pads, soft water sprinklers, and small water tables. These are great for cooling off and sensory exploration.
Can you recommend durable outdoor toys suitable for toddlers aged 1 to 3?
Durable options include sturdy ride-on cars, climbing structures, and sandboxes. These toys are made to last and withstand rough play.
What are some great outdoor toys to encourage active play for a 2-year-old?
To encourage active play, consider tricycles, miniature slides, and ball pits. These toys promote physical activity and coordination.
Where can I find high-quality outdoor toys for a 1-year-old toddler?
High-quality outdoor toys can be found at reputable stores like Amazon, Target, and Walmart.
We recommend checking customer reviews and ratings for the best options.