When the summertime comes, most parents feel like keeping the little ones entertained is much easier. You can get outside more often, though it can be challenging to convince kids to get out of the house and play with so much of today’s entertainment delivered through screens. Encouraging outdoor play can bring physical and developmental benefits, so it’s worth the try.
Kids need to run, jump and play in outdoor spaces where they can explore and learn new things. To help them spend more time out in the fresh air, buy outside toys for kids and bring the fun to the beach, the poolside or the backyard. Here are some of the reasons why these toys are so popular with both kids and parents.
Reasons to Buy Kids’ Toys for Outdoor Play
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Improve Motor Skills
Being able to run around the garden, climb up and down, swing and do all sorts of fun things with water are all activities kids love to do. The good thing is that they improve children’s motor skills, enhancing their strength, balance, and hand-to-eye coordination.
Embrace the Outdoors
Spending more time outdoors can lead to developing love and appreciation of nature. Outdoor toys can help children enjoy the beauty of nature while having fun, and they may learn to appreciate it more.
Promote a Healthy Childhood
When playing outside of the house, children can enjoy the sun and stretch their muscles, which is essential for their overall health and well-being. As soon as several kids get together to play outside, they can play with their peers and learn how to nurture their friendships through having fun and disagreements, both as part of childhood socialisation.
How to Choose the Right Outdoor Toys for Kids?
Make Safety a Priority
Safety always comes first. Ensure the outside toys for kids are age-appropriate and meet safety standards. At two years old, they may prefer simple push-and-pull toys or balls to play with, but as they grow they may prefer more challenging activities that test their physical capacities. Selecting toys that are suitable to your child’s age group ensures they can use them safely and enjoyably, meeting developmental milestones without frustration.
Choose a Trusted Supplier
To stay on the safe side, check the warranty of the product before making a purchase. Buy from a reputable supplier so you can have the peace of mind knowing that you’re getting something of quality and made according to the safety standards.
Look for Durable Products
Look for outdoor toys made with durable, weather-resistant materials that will stand up to heavy use and won’t tear or wear down easily.
Remember It’s About Having Fun
Pick toys that your child will love. Keep their unique preferences in mind and choose toys that will keep them engaged. If your child loves building things, you can get them a sandbox with construction toys; if they’re interested in learning to swim, you can get them a super fun kickboard, or if they’re into sports you can opt for an outdoor sports kit.
Consider the Space You Have Available
Consider the size of your outdoor space before buying toys. The size and the shape of your backyard can play a big role in choosing the right toys for outdoor play. They come in different lengths, widths and heights, so you can surely find some that match your space and preferences. Keep in mind that there should be enough space to play, but also to ensure safe entry and exit and adequate water drainage for the water toys.
Even if you’re working with a small space, you can still find toys that will crank up the fun, such as inflatable splash pads or smaller slides instead of adrenaline-pumping ones. They’re super fun and take up a little space. Most water toys need to be set on flat, grassy areas free from rocks and sticks. For that reason, make sure to measure only the adequate areas in your backyard.
Some of the Most Popular Outdoor Toys for Summertime
Balls and Throwing Games
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Seeing your child throw a ball around without endangering a lamp, vase or the TV is a huge relief for any parent. Introducing balls and throwing games to the backyard can help your child practise aiming, improve coordination and compete with other kids.
Slides
Slides, especially water slides, are easily the outdoor toys kids love the most. They’re available in different shapes and lengths and provide hours of entertainment.
Slide Mats
They are simple yet effective water toys, perfect for summer fun in the garden. Children of any age can use them, and they are a great solution if there is not enough space in your backyard for a water slide.
Splash Pads
They’re designed to keep kids entertained throughout hot summer days. A splash pad in your backyard can provide a refreshing break from the summer heat without the need for a pool.
Final Thoughts
Summer is the perfect time to explore, whether it’s a day trip to the beach or spending time in the backyard. To make it fun and memorable, you’ll need some outside toys for kids for heaps of laughs and moments both you and your little ones will enjoy.