I can hardly believe the first Spring of the new decade is already approaching. It’s time to get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful sunshine.
For most, springtime is the time for cleaning, purging old toys, and renewal. Ahead of summer, I am sharing some of my favorite outdoor toys to have on hand to motivate kids to play outside.
Times Have Changed
I remember playing outside for hours on end as a kid. I’d play until the street lights came on. I did not have a swing set, trampoline, or an acre lot to run around. Yet, my sibling and I could easily find something fun to do while outside. Sometimes it was climbing a tree and other times it was having a foot race.
Kids No Longer Playing Outside?
Has your kid ever asked to go outside and play? You let them out into the yard. Then, they return to the door 2 minutes after actually being outside. Maybe your child complains of boredom or is simply unenthused when going outside to play.
As a mom, I’ve learned that some children need a little more motivation than others to get outside and play. One of my children would only play outside if I or dad were playing with them.
I have another child who thinks a bead of sweat on his forehead is a sign of danger. I can hear him now. “Mom, we need to come inside because I am sweating!”
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Motivate Kids to Play Outside With Toys and Equipment
A giant bubbles kit, yard games, water toys, and hammocks are some of the best outdoor toys to motivate kids to play outside.
They can be used for day-to-day play and or as entertainment for your next party or playdate. We personally have or have used the items on this list. We’ve enjoyed them tremendously throughout the years.
Amazing Outdoor Toys for Kids
STEAM Toys for Outdoors
STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math. Learn more about STEM and STEAM-related toys from The Toy Association.
It is true that kids love bubbles. It is especially true that kids will go crazy for giant bubbles. Giant bubble kits are an amazing toy to have on hand. I was sent 2 of the bubble wand kits from South Beach Bubbles to try out. Our entire family had a ball using the kits to create giant bubbles. The kids giggled nonstop as they ran and leaped to catch the bubbles. As seen in the photo above, my kids thoroughly enjoy playing with giant bubbles.
I was surprised by how enthused my kids were with the stomp rocket. They even enjoy making up their own competitions to have using it. Some include, who can make the rocket fly the farthest and who can make it fly the highest. This is a cool toy.
Outdoor Water Toys
The best water toys to have for outdoor water play.
The next best thing to having access to a pool is a water table. My children have been playing with their water table since they were toddlers. They can play with it for hours and hours on end. We like to add water beads to our water table. They make for great sensory play.
Best Outdoor Swings
Have a shaded area in your yard? The entire family will enjoy having a hammock in the backyard. Children and adults will love swinging or lounging in a sturdy hammock.
Outdoor Games
Everyone can get in on the fun with Oversized Jenga. It’s a great game to have on hand for day to day play and it’s a really nice item to pull out when hosting a party.
Who doesn't love a teetertotter?
Add a swing set and slide to your backyard. Your children will get years of use from it. I even swing on our wooden swing set sometimes.
We take hide and go seek and many of our favorite outdoor games to the next level with these walkie talkies. My children enjoy using them for everything from nature walks to playing cops and robbers.
Children can hours of sensory play outdoors with a sandbox.
Balls and Sport Toys
Wiffle balls can be used to play so many games. We’ve used them to play catch, Tball, and even a makeshift version of basketball. I set up a basket (like this) and the children stand in front of the basket at a reasonable distance and try to toss wafer balls into the basket.
Have an energetic little one? The Hopper Ball is the perfect toy for them. Children can enjoy bouncing around the yard with this exciting toy.
We've had our Step 2 picnic table for over 5 years! They make the perfect outdoor command center for children the sit, eat, draw, and more!
Outdoor Toy Storage
Lastly, you'll need someplace to store all the outdoor toys. A resin storage container is a wonderful solution. Teach children to put everything away after use and keep all of your outdoor toys and gear protected from the rain and sun.
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