Top 10 Outdoor Toys for Tots as Recommended by You

07/23/2013

I remember having no clue what supplies, accessories and toys to buy for my baby before I officially became a mom. I ended up buying way too many baby carriers and not enough stimulating toys. At the time I didn’t have many other expectant friends or friends with kids.

Now that my daughter is 17 months old and our yard is finally finished, I need some great toy ideas for outside to keep her busy playing. Once at the toddler stage, toys become more expensive; borrowing, DIY, buying used, and asking other moms for advice is the best way to go. Below are your top recommendations.

10. Bubbles – These are fairly inexpensive and are a hit with most age groups. There are many more styles to choose from now than when I was a kid.

9. Paintsicles – I love this idea suggested by a crafty mama. Her instructions are to freeze tempra paint in molds. They can be used on the sidewalk or fence and will wash off in the rain!

8. Push Bike – I keep hearing about these bikes. There are no pedals, instead little ones ‘Flintstone’ it!

7. Little Tykes Trampoline – This sounds like a great way for toddlers to expend some of that extra energy they are so well known for.

6. Water and Paint Brushes – A clever momma suggests a bucket of water and paint brushes for your little one. Her daughter ‘paints’ the patio for hours on end. This was passed down four generations from her grandfather.

5. Beach Toys – One moms says these are on sale right now at Target for as low as $0.50!

4. Small Slide – You’d be hard-pressed to find a tot who doesn’t love slides. The small slides made especially for toddlers mean parents can let their little ones climb and slide independently, expending more of that excess energy.

3. Balls – These are simple, safe and cheap. Our daughter loves to throw, kick and chase these whenever she can!

2. Sandbox –  I grew up with a huge homemade sandbox in my backyard and I just couldn’t imagine not making one for my daughter. If you make a cover it’s also a great place for toy storage. I remember rushing to the backyard and frantically tossing all the toys in the sandbox before sliding the cover on whenever there was a tornado watch or warning.

1. Water Table – This is the most popular toy according to you! Just be careful, one mom says, as they’ve found DVDs, stuffies and remotes in the water! Here is a great post for a DIY Water or Sand Table.

Thank you everyone for your fabulous recommendations. I can rest easy knowing that these are mommy-approved and tot-tested!

What do you have in your backyard for your toddler? I will be making a sandbox and water table for my daughter, buying more balls and a hula hoop for she and I.

Have any other great suggestions? Feel free to comment below!

~chelsey