The Best Outdoor Toys to Keep Your Toddler Entertained and Active All Summer Long

As parents, it’s important to keep our little ones active and engaged in their surroundings. With warmer temps inviting us outside and school breaks upon us, it’s time to invest in the great outdoors. Or at least those in the backyard, anyway.

Not only is outside playtime a fun and stimulating activity, it gives young kids a chance to think creatively, solve problems on their own, and better understand the world around them. Whether it’s playing in sand or grass, digging with play machines, kicking balls, or climbing trees, outside playtime is a perfect physical activity that also supports mental development. So whether you’re looking for a new toy overhaul, or just want to invest in some stimulating outdoor kid entertainment, today’s lineup is for you.

While entertainment is definitely the name of the game, we also found outdoor toys that support developing motor skills, hand-eye coordination, and cognitive abilities. So, get out there, enjoy the sunshine, and let your toddlers have fun with these cool outdoor toys.

Peg Perego John Deere Mini Tractor

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Edx Education Step-a-Logs

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These yard balancers are perfect for toddlers and budding little athletes. Six brightly colored, sturdy logs are connected with nylon rope in this fun and useful tool for building balance and coordination. Practice balancing across the whole obstacle course, pull out a stopwatch for races, and more.

Step2® Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table

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Time for fun in the sun! A toddler favorite with over 500 5-star reviews. Toddlers can enjoy backyard play time while developing their fine motor and sensory skills with the Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table. Scoop up water and watch it cascade back down through spinners and ramps. This set comes with 13 accessories that are sure to keep your toddler occupied for hours of fun!

SKIP*HOP® Zoo 3-in-1 Ride-On Dog

Get that toddler energy out! This SKIP*HOP version grows with your toddler, providing hours of fun for years to come. The ride-on converts from a walker, to ride on or scooter. It also has a headlight, melodies and fun sound effects.

The Little Tikes Cozy Coupe Float

An adorable twist on a classic! The Little Tikes Cozy Coupe is the classic car we all know and love — except now it’s built to float on water! With a motor! Available at Walmart, the Cozy Coupe is the perfect pool float for your little ones. The inflatable boat is designed to look just like the classic Cozy Coupe car, complete with a steering wheel and an adorable smiling face. The inflated roof of the Cozy Coupe will keep out the sun, while the motorized propellers safely and gently move your little one around the pool. Perfect for kids ages 1 to 3.

GeoSafari Jr. Bugnoculars from Educational Insights

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Little scientists can catch and observe critters, leaves, flowers, and more in this bug-friendly, kid-cool, transparent container. It's perfect for STEM learning and independent exploration!

Learning Resources Solar Lantern

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Let kids see the concepts of renewable energy in action. Small solar panels on the lantern's top collect energy from the sun during the day, storing it in batteries that power the lights within. With the help of their lanterns, kids can plan an evening expedition into the backyard, add a soft glow to blanket forts, or light the way through darkened rooms during nighttime fun around the house.