Outdoor Toys and Activities to Encourage Kid's Summer Playtime Outdoors
Rewritten Article:
Hey there! We've got some fantastic recommendations for you! These bad boys were handpicked by our awesome editors, and some might be nice samples, but they're all top-notch! Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its partners might pocket a tiny percentage of sales from the links in this article.
Now, when school lets out for summer, you've got to figure out a way to keep your little ones occupied. Here are some entertaining ideas that'll make their summer super chill!
1. Melissa & Doug Ice Cream Chalk Set
Want to keep your kids from scribbling on your walls? Get this ice cream chalk set ASAP! It's perfect for drawing beautiful masterpieces on the sidewalk instead.
Raving Review: "This chalk is amazing! I grabbed it for my 3-year-old daughter's Easter basket. All three of my girls (ages 3, 5, and 11) loved it! They played 'ice cream shop' outside for almost three hours. And, even though some broke after being dropped, they didn't seem to mind. They ground them up and made chalk paint!" -Reil07
Pick it up from Amazon for just $17.90.
2. Mud Kitchen
Mud kitchens are the current rage in open-ended play. They're perfect for little chefs who'd happily spend hours preparing mud pies.
Fantastic Feedback: "I bought this as a birthday gift for my granddaughter. She and her 2-year-old sister play outside with it for hours! It's sturdy and great value for money. I'll be gifting it again for sure!" -H.E.
Get it from Amazon for $89.99.
3. Acrylic Paint Pens
If your kids are bored, these paint pens are the perfect solution! They'll add a splash of color to your "go outside and gather rocks" idea.
Lovely Review: "These paint pens are really great and easy for all ages! I purchased them for my son's birthday party, and they were a hit! Both of my kids wanted to do the rock painting project again the next day too!" -mabozich
Grab them from Amazon for just $10.99.
4. Flickin' Chicken Game
This game might be the next big thing in the Olympics and will surely be a hit in your own backyard! It's ridiculous, silly, and safe for all ages.
Great Response: "Our grandkids and family have had lots of fun with this game." -Joe Mama
Get it from Amazon for $19.68.
5. Glow-in-the-Dark Capture the Flag
Have a blast with your kids during cool summer nights with this glow-in-the-dark capture the flag game! It can accommodate two teams of five and is great for all ages.
Raving Review: "I bought this for my kids to enjoy with their friends... well, I had so much fun playing with them too! They love it! The kids love it! The adults love it!" -MMcB
Snag it from Amazon for $39.99.
6. Jumbo Four-to-Score Yahtzee Game
Encourage your kids to play outside with this giant strategy game! It's fantastic for families who aren't into sports.
Adoring Review: "This game is equally loved by kids and adults! If you have the space for it, buy it! When computer time is over, this is the first thing my kids want to play. I was hesitant to buy it because I wasn't sure it would keep their interest, but we're still playing it and it easily slides out of the way. Looking forward to when we can again use it during backyard barbecues with friends." -Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $161.21.
7. Croquet Set
If your kids adore Alice in Wonderland, get them a real croquet set! Enjoy playing outside after screen time with this classic game.
Fantastic Review: "This croquet set is artfully made and really such a steal for the money you will pay! The sticks and mallets are all made out of durable hardwood and the mallets have a rubber sleeve that goes on each end to help protect the mallet from damage over time. The balls are on the heavier side, and they resist weather, so no need to pick them up if you didn't finish your game. All of this comes in a nice carrying case that can handle the weight of the set itself! The colors are vibrant, so there will be no question which ball is yours, and the quality is very high. I would absolutely buy this again!" -Dido
Pick it up from Amazon for $44.99.
8. Water Slide with Bodyboard
Heatwave coming? This water slide with a bodyboard will be a hit! Get it before it's gone. Your kids will love it!
Great Review: "We played slip and slide kickball with a group of teenagers by using four of these. They were long enough to make a great in-field, and they withstood our wild game really well. They didn't get pops or damaging holes." -M Mac
Get it from Amazon for just $19.99.
9. Kids' Bow and Arrow Set
If your family adores shooting arrows, here's a safer alternative! These arrows are made of soft vinyl and are perfect for families who want a bit of archery fun.
Raving Review: "Our 5-year-old son loves to take this to the park with his dad. They definitely love it! It attracts all of the other kids at the playground/park, so be prepared to share!" -J.
Pick it up from Amazon for $29.99.
10. WowWee Nerf Super Soaker RoboBlaster
Take your water fights to the next level with this Super Soaker RoboBlaster! It'll count as a bath for your kids, right?
Fantastic Reviews:"This water blaster connects to your garden hose - and then it's so much fun for the kids! We've had some really hot days, and my son and his friends have entertained themselves for hours outside with this SuperSoaker blaster. It comes with some targets to aim at - but the kids like spraying each other." -Kevinbeijing
"Summer fun game changer. My son and his cousins absolutely love this!" -Mary Kate Matthews
Snag it from Amazon for $29.99 (available in two styles).
11. Toss and Catch Ball Set
Bring back memories of playing catch with this Velcro ball set! Pass it down to your kids and enjoy some family fun!
Lovely Review: "My 5-year-old granddaughter loves playing catch with me. She is able to easily develop great eye-hand coordination with this toy. Great for indoors or outdoors." -Barbara Smith
Get it from Amazon for $16.99 (available in 10 colors).
12. Twister Splash
Get your groove on with this splashy version of the classic game, Twister! It'll make your outdoor parties even more fun!
Lovely Review: "Fun for all ages! This is a real twist on an already loved game! This keeps my 4- and 7-year-olds' attention for a while! Each spot you put your hand on sprays water. Whoever stays up the longest wins! Even the adults had to try it out." -Deborah Gaffney
Get it from Amazon for just $13.98 (available in two sizes).
13. Mini Golf Set
Create your very own mini golf course with this cool miniature set! Change the positions to keep the game interesting.
Fantastic Review: "We tried to set it up in the grass, and that wasn't ideal, but on a patio or down a hall, it's so much better. The silicone molding is so light-weight and the little flag centers are marvelous to make you feel like you are more than a new learner! The set is complete with four foam balls and a score card. This set is fantastic to use only a few pieces for a short game for young kids or the entire set for a more competitive experience." -Momakookie
Get it from Amazon for $29.74.
14. Banzai Bump N' Bounce Body Bumpers
If your kids like roughhousing, these body bumpers will provide hours of fun! Don't forget to wear helmets, though.
Glorious Review: "Absolutely hilarious to watch! I got these for my kids (ages 7 and 8) because I thought it would be a perfect way to blow off steam and get out some energy... It was great! They ran at each other pretty hard, but it didn't pop and no one got hurt! If your kids bicker like mine do, get these!" -Sky Moran
Get it from Amazon for $19.99.
15. Giant Bubble Kit
Watch your kids' eyes light up as they create enormous bubbles! They'll have a ball, and so will you!
Radiant Review: "Love this!! Easy for kids to use - my six-year-old son figured it out pretty quickly. And fun for adults as well (my husband and I might have played with it as much as our son did...). Makes amazing bubbles. If you don't have this, I highly recommend you order it!" -Thomas Durant
Get it from Amazon for $15.95 (available in six styles).
16. SunPrint Paper Kit
Let your kids' inner artists shine as they create nature prints with this fun and easy kit!
Marvelous Review: "This works like magic! It's easy to use, and it makes a beautiful gift from the kids!" -Sj773
Get it from Amazon for $20.19.
17. Rechargeable Laser Tag Set
Recreate your kid's favorite video games IRL with this laser tag set! No more stray bullets or ammo covering your yard.
Raving Review: "Pew. Pew. Pew. Pew. My family loves these guns. Last weekend we literally ran around the house and through the woods for two hours playing with these laser guns. There is a stealth mode, which is great for hiding and surprise attacks. Pro advice: While you're running, hit the butt of the handle against your thigh to reload. We set our sensors for 15 lives, and that lasted for about 20-30 minutes per each game. Great family fun, and you can play during the day or night." -Steve Austin
Get it from Amazon for $149.99.
18. Micro Scooter
Parents worldwide swear by three-wheeled micro scooters! They're perfect for keeping your toddler busy during long walks. Plus, they're easily foldable for storage.
Lovely Review: "Best scooter ever! It's an easy assembly. It's a smooth ride, and the perfect size for a 2-year-old. Spend more money and go with the deluxe model especially if your child is only 2. I brought this to the park today, and two more of my mommy friends went home and bought their kids these today, too! They come in the most beautiful colors!" -Tex_spaceman 12
Get it from Amazon for $89.99 (available in three colors).
19. Paint and Plant Garden Set
Let your kiddo grow their own plants! What a fantastic opportunity to encourage your kids to eat their veggies!
Raving Review: "Worth every penny! I ordered this as a gift for my 6-year-old niece. She absolutely loves it. She painted the container and planted the seeds all by herself. She talks to the little plants every day, and it's so heartwarming! Absolutely recommend!!" -Honey
Get it from Amazon for $11.99 (available in two sizes).
20. Fat Brain Jump 'n Toss Game
Got a wild child on your hands? This game will tire them out in no time! It involves jumping, running, tossing, and loads of outdoor fun.
Glorious Review: "I needed something that would keep my 3-year-old busy while I cooked dinner in the kitchen. This thing is amazing. It fits nicely in my small kitchen, and I can even toss the bean bags with him! Children ages 4 and up can stand it up or lay it down, offering two different levels of difficulty. It folds up easily and comes with a carrying case, so it's easy to take it with us on vacations!" -Joann
Get it from Amazon for $25.95.
21. Dino Blasters Rocket Launcher
Unleash your inner paleontologist with this epic dinosaur rocket launcher! It's perfect for keeping your kiddo entertained.
Ace Review: "This toy is so much fun and different from the usual dinosaur fare. It's very easy to assemble and, once complete, all that's required is a stomp on the air bubble, and the darts, or dino missiles, actually launch straight upward for quite a ways, depending on the force of the stomp. You will believe you can launch it to the moon, but I suggest taking it easy, as I'm sure too much force would damage or ruin the bubble. Happy with this purchase!" -SD GIRL
Get it from Amazon for $19.99.
22. Big Dig Sandbox Digger Crane
Treat your little civil engineer to some serious excavation projects with this durable metal crane!
Lovely Review: "We bought this for our 2-year-old kid, and even our 6-year-old grandson uses it, too. It's sturdy and great quality." -Varun
Get it from Amazon for $39.90 (available in three styles).
23. Rollplay Flex Kart XL Pedal-Powered Go-Kart
Give your little Formula 1 driver a thrill with this pedal-powered go-kart! It even folds for easy storage.
Lovely Review: "We bought this for our 4-year-old daughter, and it's a fantastic present! The quality is very good and sturdy. It's easy to assemble. My daughter loves it." -Eka
Get it from Amazon for $191.24.
24. Bean Bag Toss Game
Keep your little ones entertained outside for hours with this exciting bean bag toss game!
Fantastic Review: "I needed something to keep my 3-year-old busy while I cooked dinner in the kitchen. This thing is amazing! It fits nicely in my small kitchen, and I can even toss the bean bags with him! Children ages 2 and up can stand it up or lay it down, offering two different levels of difficulty. It folds up easily and comes with a carrying case, so it's easy to take it with us on vacations!" -Joann
Get it from Amazon for $19.99 (available in three styles).
25. Whirly Board Spinning Balance Board
Experience agility training at its finest with this spinning balance board! Made from Canadian maple skateboard decks.
Glorious Review: "We bought this for our 4-year-old daughter, and even my 2-year-old son can take a turn! It's great for improving coordination and balance!" -SJP
Get it from Amazon for $149.95 (available in two styles).
26. Hanging Indoor/Outdoor Seat Pod
Give your young bookworm a cozy corner to read outside with this fun hanging seat pod!
Raving Review: "We are so happy with our pod swing! The fabric is so cute and durable. Our boys will get years of use out of this, unlike the thin toys we've purchased in the past. Very comparable to a true kitchen mixing bowl and measuring cups." -Kevin
Get it from Amazon for $39.99 (available in eight colors).
27. Inflatable Remote-Controlled T-Rex
Nothing screams summer fun quite like this remote-controlled T-Rex! It'll turn, spin, stomp, and roar its way into your child's heart!
Raving Review: "This thing is the coolest RC I've ever had. It inflates quickly and drives really easily. Because of the size, it's best in a room with some space to move around, but the soft material of the body is fine if/when it bumps into something. It is great fun to chase your friends or pets with it. It is a must-have for fans of Jurassic Park or dinosaur fans in general. I can't wait to have it out for Halloween as well." -Chris
Get it from Amazon for $126.09.
28. Inflatable Sprinkler, Splash Pad, and Wading Pool
Cool down with this 3-in-1 inflatable pool decorate with colors, letters, and numbers. A great way for kids to learn while having fun!
Fantastic Review: "This is hands-down the best sprinkler we've purchased. Sturdy and high-quality material. Our boys love it! We have had it for months now, and it holds up well with daily use. So far, it's worth every penny, especially for kids who love to play with water." -JMG
Get it from Amazon for $19.99.
29. Melissa & Doug Sand Baking Play Set
Let your little chef create sandy masterpieces with this adorable sand baking set. Come on, sand castles!
Satisfied Customers:- "This is hands-down the best sand toy we've purchased. Sturdy and high-quality materials." -Kevin
- "Super cute set for the beach...my daughter loves it!! It's kind of hard to think of fun stuff for the beach, so when I saw this on Amazon, I had to get it. She was totally amazed when I showed her what I bought! She played with this on the beach in Hawaii for our trip last week, and she played with it for hours. This is definitely worth the money, especially for kids who like playing with sand but are sick of the usual beach 'stuff.' This is a must-have for fans of Dune!" -Monica Main
Get it from Amazon for $15.99.
30. Bubble Toy Lawn Mower
Get ready for an explosion of bubbles with this bubble toy lawn mower! It's a hit for kids who love lawn work.
Raving Review: "Lots of bubbles! We bought this for our 2.5-year-old, and it's the hit of the party! You can easily control the size of the bubbles by adjusting the flow of the solution." -Jennie
Get it from Amazon for just $23.99.
31. Shark Water Slide
Get ready to slide down a thrilling shark's mouth! This shark water slide is a favorite among kids and adults alike.
Glorious Review: "Y'ALL... This thing is the bomb! I have three wild children who jump and bounce on anything inflated and this thing has lasted MONTHS. It was super easy to blow up and assemble (recommend having a pump). The kids LOVE it. We play on it if not every day, every other day. Once it's blown up, you just have to hook up the hose and it's ready to go. This thing is crazy durable. I'm sure it'll pop eventually, but it's been going strong! If you're considering getting this, DO IT. It's well worth the money. Cannot recommend enough!" -Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for a cool $88.99.
What your kids will be up to when you wonder where they are all summer:
Enrichment Data:Outdoor summer activities for kids help keep them entertained and active throughout the season. From water balloon fights, sidewalk chalk art, and nature scavenger hunts to DIY birdhouses, backyard camping, and pool noodle boat racing, these activities are both fun and educational. They encourage creativity, learning, and physical development while creating lasting memories. For more information on specific prices and benefits of these activities, please refer to the full article above.
Price Ranges:- Water Balloons: $5-$10- Sidewalk Chalk: $5-$15- Nature Scavenger Hunt: Most materials are free or minimal cost (field guide or app)- DIY Birdhouse: Materials vary widely depending on desired design- Backyard Camping: Tent, sleeping bags, camping gear (prices vary)- Boat Racing with Pool Noodles: Pool noodles, scissors, twine (minimal cost)- Sun Prints and Shadow Art: Sun-print paper, scissors, objects for tracing (minimal cost)
Remember to check Amazon or similar platforms for all materials and tools needed to create a memorable, enjoyable summer for your kids!
- In the market for a priority post? Consider the 'Micro Scooter' for your little ones. It's a three-wheeled scooter popular among parents worldwide and perfect for keeping your toddler occupied during long walks. (market-priority-post, Micro Scooter)
- If you're looking for a major Amazon purchase, check out the 'Jumbo Four-to-Score Yahtzee Game'. It's a fun strategy game that can accommodate the whole family. (market-amazon-majority, Jumbo Four-to-Score Yahtzee Game)
- Need some content for your blog or website? Why not write a buzzfeed-style article about the 'Flickin' Chicken Game', the next big thing in outdoor games, and a potential Olympic event! (comtent, Flickin' Chicken Game)
- Requires handling? You might want to chalk it up as a job to review the 'Melissa & Doug Ice Cream Chalk Set'. Perfect for drawing masterpieces on the sidewalk instead of your walls. (chalk, Melissa & Doug Ice Cream Chalk Set)
- In the mood for some fun? Why not enjoy a game of 'Twister Splash', the splashy version of the classic game, during cool summer nights. It can accommodate two teams of five and is great for all ages. (enjoy, Twister Splash)
- On the lookout for unique accessories? Consider the 'handlebar mustache' to add a bit of quirk to your 'Tex_spaceman' bike helmet. (handlebar, Tex_spaceman)
