Outdoor play is important for kids. It helps them stay active and explore their surroundings.
Whether it’s in a backyard or a park, having fun toys can make outdoor time even better.
From sandboxes to trampolines, there are many options available.
When choosing outdoor toys for kids, safety is key. Look for toys made from non-toxic materials.
Check that they are sturdy and can hold up to rough play. Size and weight are also important to consider, especially for portability and storage.
Make sure the toys are age-appropriate to avoid any risks.
We tested a variety of outdoor toys to find the best ones for kids. We focused on how well they performed, how safe they were, and how much fun they provided.
Best Outdoor Toys for Kids
We’ve put together a list of the best outdoor toys for kids. These toys will keep children entertained and active while playing outside.
BlueMarble Stepping Stones
These BlueMarble Stepping Stones can be a great addition to any kid’s outdoor play collection due to their durability and versatility.
Pros
- Bright, varied colors
- Sturdy, non-slip design
- Encourages active play
Cons
- Can be a bit pricey
- Limited to stepping play
- May take up storage space
These stepping stones are a hit with our kids. The bright colors immediately catch their attention, and they love hopping from one stone to another.
The non-slip base keeps the stones stable, which is something we appreciate, especially when they’re used indoors.
These stones promote various skills like balance and coordination.
We love how they can be used in different games, especially with the included spinner game. This keeps playtime fresh and challenging.
It’s also a fantastic way to keep the kids physically active without relying on screens.
On the flip side, they’re not the cheapest option out there. You get what you pay for in terms of quality, but it could be a bit much for some.
Additionally, while they’re fantastic for stepping play, they might not hold interest for kids who prefer more varied activities. They also require a bit of storage space when not in use. If you can overlook these minor downsides, they’re indeed worth considering for hours of fun.
Stomp Rocket Dueling Rocket Launcher
A fantastic toy for energetic kids that combines fun and learning with ease.
Pros
- Encourages outdoor play
- Durable and high-quality materials
- Easy to set up and use
Cons
- Rockets can get lost if launched far
- Fins on rockets are a bit flimsy
- Takes up some space for optimal play
The Stomp Rocket Dueling Rocket Launcher offers endless hours of fun for kids. We were impressed with how easy it was to set up.
The kids loved competing to see who could launch their rocket higher. This toy really encourages them to be active and play outside.
In our experience, the materials feel sturdy enough to withstand the enthusiastic stomps of both kids and adults. The rockets fly impressively high, easily reaching up to 200 feet.
It’s great to see a toy that both entertains and subtly introduces concepts related to STEM.
One thing to watch out for is where the rockets land. They can go pretty far, so it’s best to use this toy in an open space.
Also, the rocket fins are a bit thin and could be easily damaged. Despite these minor issues, this rocket launcher is a hit in our book.
Fanboxk Balance Stepping Stones
These stepping stones are perfect for improving kids’ coordination and balance during outdoor play.
Pros
- Sturdy design can support up to 220 lbs
- Non-slip bottom for added safety
- Stackable for easy storage
Cons
- Smaller than expected
- Hard plastic may not be comfortable for all kids
- Colors may fade over time
Fans of outdoor play will find these stepping stones both fun and challenging for kids. They’re super durable, holding up to 220 lbs, so even adults can join in the fun.
Our kids loved moving them around to create their own obstacle courses, which really tested their balance skills.
One notable feature is the non-slip bottom, which adds a layer of safety, especially on different surfaces like grass or hardwood floors. We found that even on smoother surfaces, they stayed pretty stable.
They are also easy to stack, saving us storage space when the kids aren’t using them.
On the downside, these stones are a bit smaller than we had anticipated based on the pictures. Also, since they are made from hard plastic, they might not be as comfortable as softer alternatives.
Lastly, while the bright colors are initially engaging, they may fade if left outside for extended periods.
Obsiusfb Flying Disc Launcher Toy
This flying disc launcher toy is ideal for keeping kids entertained outdoors for hours.
Pros
- Easy to use for young children
- Encourages outdoor activity
- Safe, non-toxic materials
Cons
- Discs can get lost easily
- String might break
- Not the cheapest option
The Obsiusfb Flying Disc Launcher Toy brings loads of fun to the backyard. Our kids enjoyed launching the discs high in the air and chasing them down. The set includes 12 discs, ensuring plenty of playtime.
While the toy gets kids moving and helps improve hand-eye coordination, we did notice the discs can be lost quickly if not careful.
It’s also worth mentioning that a few parents reported the string breaking after some use.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the toy is well-made and durable. It’s easy to pack for trips to the park or beach, making it a versatile outdoor companion.
Tyxywmm Toss and Catch Ball Game
This toy set is perfect for active kids who love playing outside.
Pros
- Durable and stable construction
- Soft and safe ball for children
- Promotes physical activity and coordination
Cons
- May not withstand rough play for extended periods
- Requires parental guidance for younger kids
- Limited to simple game mechanics
We recently tried out the Tyxywmm Toss and Catch Ball Game with our family, and it quickly became a favorite.
The plastic plates are tough and reliable, holding up well through energetic play sessions. The ball, made of gauze, is soft and doesn’t pose any risk to young children or household items, making it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.
Our kids enjoyed playing with this set at the beach, the park, and even during a picnic. The game is straightforward, which means the kids could pick it up quickly with minimal guidance.
We loved how it kept them away from screens and encouraged physical movement, refining their hand-eye coordination and muscle memory.
One thing to note is that the set might show wear after a while if used roughly. It’s best suited for gentle play and younger children. Additionally, having a parent guide younger children in the beginning can be helpful.
Buying Guide
When picking out the best outdoor toys for kids, there are several things to keep in mind. We want to make sure our kids have fun and stay safe. Here’s what to look for:
Age Appropriateness
Different ages enjoy different kinds of toys. Toddlers need simple, safe toys while older kids enjoy more complex ones. Always check the age range suggested by the manufacturer.
Safety
Safety is very important. Make sure the toy doesn’t have sharp edges or small parts that could be swallowed. It should be sturdy and well-made. Look for toys that meet safety standards.
Durability
Outdoor toys should be durable. They will face different weather conditions. Choose toys made from strong materials like plastic or metal. Check for water-resistant features.
Size and Portability
Consider the size of the toy. Some toys can be very big and need a lot of space. If space is limited, look for compact or foldable toys that are easy to store.
Educational Value
Look for toys that can teach as well as entertain. Toys that encourage physical activity, creativity, or problem-solving can be beneficial.
Cost
Outdoor toys come in a wide range of prices. Set a budget and try to stick to it. Sometimes, spending a bit more on a quality toy can be a good investment.
Customer Reviews
Reading reviews from other parents can give insights into the toy’s performance and durability. Look for toys with high ratings and positive feedback.
| Feature | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Age | Suitable for the child’s age |
| Safety | No sharp edges or small parts |
| Durability | Strong materials like plastic/metal |
| Size | Fits your outdoor space |
| Educational Value | Encourages learning and creativity |
| Cost | Fits your budget |
| Reviews | High ratings and positive feedback |
Frequently Asked Questions
We often hear from parents looking for the best outdoor toys to suit different age groups. Here, we provide clear recommendations tailored to each stage of childhood from toddlers to pre-teens.
What are the top-rated outdoor toys for toddlers aged 1 to 3?
For toddlers, we recommend toys that focus on safety and stimulation. Think of soft play sets, large building blocks, and mini slides. These toys help develop motor skills without posing safety risks. Water tables and push toys are also popular choices.
Which outdoor playthings are recommended for children aged 4 to 5?
Kids in this age group enjoy toys that promote creativity and physical activity. Sandbox playsets, tricycles, and balance bikes are excellent options. Small climbing structures and themed outdoor playhouses can also keep them engaged for hours.
Can you suggest durable outdoor toys suitable for kids aged 6 to 8?
Durability is key for this age range. Look for bikes, scooters, and sports equipment like soccer goals and basketball hoops.
Adventure-themed playsets and sturdy kites designed for outdoor use are also great picks, encouraging both imagination and physical exercise.
What types of outdoor toys are best for fostering active play in 8 to 10-year-olds?
Active play becomes even more important as children grow older. Consider toys like skateboards, rollerblades, and zip lines.
Outdoor game sets like badminton or volleyball nets can also be a hit. Climbing walls and obstacle course kits are excellent for physical challenges.
Which outdoor toys are most appropriate for pre-teens aged 10 to 12?
Pre-teens may enjoy more complex toys. Look into drones, advanced sports gear, and intricate playsets.
Bicycles suitable for longer rides, go-karts, and even beginner’s archery sets can be great choices for this age group. These toys usually offer a mix of fun and skill development.
How do I choose safe and age-appropriate outdoor toys for kids of varying ages?
Safety should always come first.
Check for age recommendations on the packaging.
Look for non-toxic materials and sturdy construction.
Additionally, consider toys that offer both fun and educational value.
Reading reviews and consulting safety guidelines can also help us make informed decisions.