Summer means sunshine, laughter, and plenty of outdoor fun. With longer days and brighter weather, it's an excellent time for kids to get outside and play. When you’re in the backyard, at the park, or by the beach, the right toys can make these moments even more special. Here are some top outdoor toys your kids will love:
Automatic water gun toys. Water gun battles are a great way to cool off on a hot day. They come in many sizes, so kids of all ages can join in. Just set a few simple rules to keep everyone safe and having fun!
Splash Pads: Turn your backyard into a mini water park. Just connect one to your hose, and kids can jump, splash, and play—There for toddlers and younger children.
Kites: Flying a kite is a classic summer activity. Whether your child has a simple diamond kite or a fancy design, running with a kite in the air is always fun. It’s also an excellent way for kids to learn about wind and how things fly.
Frisbees and Flying Discs: Frisbees are great for both the beach and the park, and they can keep kids entertained for hours. They also help improve hand-eye coordination.
Jump Ropes: Fun for solo play or with friends. Kids can use them for games, challenges, or rhythmic movement.
Sand Toys: If you’re heading to the beach, be sure to bring your toys. Buckets, shovels, rakes, and molds let kids build sand castles and sculptures.
Bubble Machines: Kids of all ages love bubbles. A bubble machine can fill your backyard with hundreds of bubbles, turning it into a magical place.
Sidewalk Chalk: A great way to encourage creativity. Kids can draw pictures, make hopscotch grids, and come up with all kinds of games.
Balance Bikes: These bikes don’t have pedals and are perfect for toddlers and young kids, who are just learning to balance. Riding them helps children build essential motor skills.
Garden Tools for Kids: If you have a garden, let your kids help with small rakes, shovels, and gloves made for them. They’ll have fun and learn about plants, bugs, and nature.
They'll: Kids can play tetherball alone or with friends. Set it up in your backyard and watch them enjoy some friendly competition.
Slip 'n Slides: Put a Slip 'n Slide on the grass, add water, and let the fun start. It’s a terrific way for kids to slide and beat the heat.
There are plenty of outdoor toys to choose from. Pick what fits your child’s interests and your space. Most importantly, make sure Schild's toys are safe, age-appropriate, and fun. Here’s to a summer full of laughter, play, and great memories.
Choosing outdoor toys by age
The best outdoor toys for summer fun are the ones that match your child's stage. A toy that is too advanced can be frustrating, while one that is too simple is quickly ignored. Use this quick guide as a starting point.
| Age | Great outdoor picks | Why they work |
|---|---|---|
| 1 to 2 years | Bubble machines, water play mats, sandpit toys, push-along toys | Simple cause and effect, lots of sensory fun and easy to use with an adult nearby |
| 3 to 5 years | Toddler slides, sprinklers, kites, balls and rocket launchers | Running, jumping and early teamwork, with toys that reward practice |
| 6 years and up | Water guns, ride-on cars, sports sets and outdoor games | More speed, skill and friendly competition with friends and siblings |
Water play ideas for hot days
Water play is the easiest way to keep kids cool and busy. A rocket sprinkler or water spray toy turns any lawn into a splash zone, and water guns make for quick games of tag. For younger children, fill a shallow tub with cups, scoops and floating toys and let them pour and splash. Always stay within arm's reach of little ones around any amount of water, and empty tubs and paddling pools as soon as play ends.
Bubbles and backyard games
Bubble machines and bubble guns are a summer classic because children of almost every age love chasing bubbles. Set one up on a table at a birthday party and it entertains a crowd for an hour. Pair bubbles with simple games: who can pop the most bubbles, who can catch one on a hand, or who can follow the bubble trail around the garden. For more ideas, see our toddler slide, ride on car and bubble machine guide.
Active play: slides, ride-ons and sports
Outdoor toys that get kids moving help them burn energy and practise balance and coordination. A sturdy toddler slide gives little climbers a safe challenge, ride-on cars let preschoolers explore the garden on wheels, and simple sports sets like basketball hoops and sticky-ball dart games keep older kids active. Choose equipment that fits your space, place it on soft ground such as grass, and check bolts and fittings at the start of every season.
Summer outdoor safety checklist
- Apply sun cream, use hats and plan play in shade during the hottest part of the day.
- Offer water breaks often, especially during active games.
- Supervise children at all times near pools, paddling pools and water tubs.
- Never aim water guns at faces or eyes.
- Check toys and play equipment for cracks, sharp edges or loose parts before use.
- Store toys out of direct sun when not in use so plastic does not get hot or brittle.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best outdoor toys for summer?
Water guns, sprinklers, bubble machines, beach toys, kites and ride-ons are summer favourites. Pick toys that match your child's age and the space you have.
What outdoor toys suit toddlers?
Toddlers enjoy bubble machines, small slides, sandpit and water-play toys and push-along ride-ons. Always supervise water play closely.
How can I keep kids safe during outdoor play?
Use sun protection, offer water breaks, supervise near any water, check toys for damage and choose shaded play areas on very hot days.
How do I make outdoor toys last longer?
Rinse sand and salt water off after use, dry toys before storing them, keep them out of strong sun when not in use and store them in a dry box or shed.
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