If you liked our list of outdoor toys that are actually worth the money, you’re going to love this one! We’re all about helping kids burn off energy and build important skills while they’re at it. Gross motor skills—like balance, coordination, and full-body movement—are a big deal in early development, and there’s no better place to work on those than outside in the fresh air. So we’ve rounded up 7 of our favorite outdoor toys that get kids moving, jumping, balancing, and having a blast!
Obstacle Course
These obstacle course pieces are not only fun, but so good for little ones and their growing bodies. With so many ways to configure them, fun textures and various heights/sizes, the possibilities are endless and will provide your child with the perfect opportunity to work on balance and coordination as well as a sensory experience when used with bare feet. An added bonus, they can be used inside on a rainy or cold winter day as well!
Tball
This Tball set is the best! It starts more simple with a hanging option and then evolves with your little one changing into a traditional t-ball tee! The balls velcro to the stand for easy storage and we can’t think of a more fun way to work on hand-eye coordination than this!
Balance Bike
This is by far our most used outdoor item. This was recommended to us instead of using a bike with training wheels because it allows children to become familiar with balancing on two wheels which makes transitioning to a traditional two wheel bike with petals much more smooth. My youngest even began riding this before her 2nd birthday. Be sure to grab a helmet to go along with it! We have loved this one because it’s easy to use and top of the line when it comes to safety!
Scooter
Another beloved outdoor toy on wheels. These scooters with three wheels are a great place for little ones to start providing a little more support than a traditional, two wheel scooter. This is another great way to work on those balancing skills!
Wheelbarrow and Gardening tools
Kids love to help! This wheelbarrow and these gardening tools not only provide the opportunity for heavy lifting and advantages for their growing bodies, but will give them the opportunity to help out while you do yard work! Plus, children love to transport items from one place to another and this is the perfect tool to help them do this!
Bounce House
Little bodies crave movement, crashing and bouncing. You won’t regret adding this to your backyard this summer! With a fun slide and the ability to bring it inside into a basement or large room during colder months – worth every penny!
Tree Swing
There is something so calming about a swing for little ones. These are our favorite swings – the saucer swing, the pod swing, or the best toddler swing are all great options for adding to a tree or from any sturdy overhang in your yard. What a fun place to enjoy a book outside!
Looking for more outdoor play ideas? Check out our post, Outdoor Toys That Are Worth the Money!
We hope our favorite things add A LOT of play time to your summer!
By Becca Thiemann and Kathleen Koester
