Outdoor toys for toddlers are a wise investment for parents compared to indoor toys since a wealth of research and case studies demonstrate the numerous advantages outdoor play has for toddlers and one-year-olds.
The best outdoor toys for toddlers are worth the investment to encourage our kids to get outdoors and enjoy the fresh air.
Many Types of Play to Consider
There are many alternatives to consider when looking to get the best outdoor toys for toddlers and young children:
- from an interactive and classic outdoor toy that keeps your child engaged in outdoor play,
- to the unimaginably creative and inspirational toy,
- to games of exploration that foster enjoyment and engages their interest.
There are many options for you to consider when searching for great outdoor toys to support your developing child's mind as they explore the realm of imagination with outdoor playtime.
We'll be looking at the best outdoor toys for toddlers and 1 years old today in this review. The best outdoor toys enable kids to explore and concentrate on their vision while also promoting healthy development.
The outdoor toys for toddlers listed below can also keep the whole family entertained while teaching kids new skills and keeping them active and enjoying the outdoors. Here are some of the best outdoor toys you can buy for your kids and 1-year-old today.
How We Choose the Best Outdoor Toys for 1-year-old
It's common knowledge that 1-year-old kids love to play with toys that aid their imaginative play, but choosing the best outdoor toys for your child can be very difficult given the wide selection available.
Going through several brands, both new and old, surfing through the out-of-date outdoor toys and items that will suit your one-year-old needs and wants.
Knowing which toys are the best fit for your child might be quite challenging. This is where we step in to assist in the situation.
At Fav Reviews, it's our responsibility to identify current trends, research all customer evaluations of the brands, and evaluate every item that falls under the category of outdoor toys that are age-appropriate for kids and are perfect outdoor toys for your one-year-old.
Below is a summary of the best outdoor toys for your one year old.
Each item on this list has been thoroughly examined to see if it meets the needs and requirements of your 1-year-old. In order to present you with a list of the best outdoor toys for your 1-year-old, our team of writers did their research before writing this piece for you… so hold on tight and fasten your seatbelt and enjoy the ride!
We trust that you'll find your next favorite item from the list we've researched for you. All of these products have been hand-picked by our editors and we won't recommend something we wouldn't use in our own family. Some may even be items that we already use! We may receive a small compensation if you decide to buy something (that's how we keep the lights on). Some reviews have been edited for length and clarity. Have fun searching for your next fav product!
Before we examine the products, let's look at some factors that might help you choose the best outdoor toys for your 1-year-old.
What to Look For When Buying Outdoor Toys for Your One Year Old
The following list will provide you with a few key considerations to make before purchasing your baby's next outdoor toy:
Safety:
The most important thing to put in place is your child's safety. Make sure the toy is therefore produced from eco-friendly, high-quality, and non-toxic components. Before purchasing, make sure the toy is devoid of dangerous chemicals, BPAs, and phthalates.
Engaging:
Your 1-year- old’s creativity and excitement are expected to be encouraged by the toy. Therefore, the outdoor toys and games should have pleasing visuals and interesting gameplay. Consider your child's interests while you choose toys that they might find fun, and buy something that will make them happy.
Durability:
The toy should be sturdy; choose items made of high-quality and resilient materials that will last for a long time, and can be washed.
Portable and Lightweight:
Search for a portable, convenient, and travel-friendly outdoor toys. It should also be simple to put together and take apart.
Stand the Test of Time:
Lastly, we used our own family experiences to share with you toys for 1 year olds that have stood the test of time. Toys that started with our kids and are now still in play with their kids.
We hope this list makes it easier for you to decide on the BEST outdoor toys for your toddlers.
Enjoy our selections for the top 9 outdoor toys we've selected for your 1-year-old.
Best Outdoor Toys for your 1-Year-Old
We've summarized the list of items by 'best' category at the end.
Little Tikes Easy Store Jr. Picnic Table with Umbrella
BEST OUTDOOR TOYS OF ALL TIME (Classic)
This outdoor table for toddlers is just the perfect size for your little ones. We had one similar in our family and it has been passed down from our kids to their kids. If you are looking for a durable outdoor toy for activities and outdoor play, this is a must have for your deck, patio or backyard.
Why It's One of Our Fav's
Without question the Little Tikes brand has stood the test of time. This table for kids makes picnic lunches and clean up easy. It also encourages children to visit and enjoy lunchtime together.
Beyond eating this table is perfect for making puzzles, coloring, painting anything you need a table for outside. You can even introduce water play at this table, making it more versatile than a dedicated water table.
Kids love having their own space and this table is exactly that - a safe space for them to eat and play outside.
Fav Features
Our original Little Tikes picnic table didn't come with an umbrella, so we are happy to see that shade protection added in this new model made by Little Tikes. We also like the fact they have added two cup holders in the centre of the table and a space for crayons, or condiments.
This table doesn't require any tools to put it up and down. It is foldable for easy storage if you wish to fold it and store it away.
It is suitable for 4 children, ages 1 to 5 years. It's a very sturdy table living up to the Little Tikes quality standards.
FYI. One customer has answered the 'where is this product made' question: This product is made by the Little Tikes Company in Hudson, Ohio and it says Made In USA.
Prextex Beach Toy Set
BEST OUTDOOR TOYS FOR THE BEACH
Why It's One of Our Favs
This set of beach toys is one of our favorite outdoor toys because it will keep your kids entertained for hours with imaginative play. The set includes; 4 sand molds, a bucket with handle, a rake, a shovel, and a watering can for hours of playtime.
Your children can use the molds to make stunning designs like starfish, crocodiles, turtles, and castle walls.
We also like that is it packaged in a reusable drawstring mesh bag it makes it easy to take them on vacation or to the beach. These toys are a must-buy for the beach, playing with them can help kids develop their motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
Fav Features
This set includes a bucket with an "Easy to Carry" handle. It features 12 entertaining animal molds, an octopus, horse fish, crab, lobster and a bonus ancient castle mold.
We also like the sand sifter, watering can, rake, and two shovels which will provide hours of beach fun.
It contains a reusable drawstring mesh bag that makes it simple to rinse for storage and transportation.
SplashEZ 3-in-1 Splash Pad, Wading Pool
BEST TOYS FOR WATER PLAY
Best Toys for Baby, Toddler Water Play
SplashEZ 3-in-1 Splash Pad, Wading Pool | Safe Low Water Level
Why It's One of Our Favs
If you've been thinking about water tables or some outdoor water activity, you should consider this toddler splash pad. We especially like the safety aspect of this low water level splash pad for young children.
This 60-inch inflatable splash pad is a superb summer wading pool for babies, toddlers and a great replacement for your standard baby pool. You only need to connect it to the hose for your 1-year-old to start having fun, learning, and spending valuable time with you outdoors.
Kiddie pools are a fun way to encourage physical activity and will provide warm weather fun for up to three children.
It can be used to build new skills, like pretend play and is an alternative to having a water table, allowing the kids to stay cool on a warm day.
Fav Features
The Zen Laboratory inflatable wading pool is a wonderful alternative to the typical swimming baby kids pools or water table for 1-year-olds. This fun fountain spray pad for children combines the best elements of a kiddie pool, a water slide, and water toys.
It's made of high-quality materials, and is devoid of BPA and phthalates.
Although adult supervision is required, it is a low water level splash pad and no fine motor skills are required so your 1-year-old will enjoy splashing around in the pool.
It's a good splash pad for your baby, toddler and parents to enjoy on a hot day.
Tupperware Shape-O Ball
BEST FOR PROBLEM SOLVING AND SHAPES
Best Toy For Problem Solving & Shapes
Classic | Tupperware Shape O Blue Red Ball for Kids
In our opinion every household with kids needs one of these! This is one of the classics. A toy that can be used indoors or outdoors and has stood the test of time! Buy this for your 1 year old and watch them still enjoying it at the age of 10 (maybe using a timer on their phone) to see who can put it together the fastest.
Why It's One of Our Favs
This is another toddler toy that our kids had and played with for years, and now their kids have been playing with for years. As a 1 year old, your toddler will start to recognize shapes, and get a sense of achievement when they find the right spot for the block. As 4 -10 year olds (and as parents) they will race to see who can put it together the fastest.
We are watching a second generation, 9 and 11 year olds, use the timer on our phones and write down how fast they can put it together. If you want a toy that is going to last forever, this one is it.
Fav Features
We love this toy because it is dishwasher safe, so you can give it a good cleaning when needed.
We also like that it is self contained, it pulls apart easily to remove the blocks and yellow pieces, but with all pieces back inside the ball it's ready for easy storage.
Lastly, it's kid proof and well made by Tupperware. It is a toy that has stood the test of time.
Little Tikes Snug 'n Secure Blue Swing
Best Outdoor Swing for Baby to Toddler
Why It's One of Our Favs
This is one of Little Tikes classics. We like this as one of our favorite outdoor toys because of the age group it covers. It can start as a baby swing and transform into a toddler swing as your child grows. It belongs on our list of favorite toys of all time.
Little children will smile from ear to ear as you push them on this baby swing. They will feel safe and secure with the plastic t-bar and shoulder straps holding them in place.
Enjoy your play time together outside.
Fav Features
The 2-in-1 baby to toddler swing has a shoulder harness and plastic t-strap to hold your child firmly in place.
The seat is comfortable as it wraps around the child. The t-bar moves up and down so for easy entry and removing your child.
It will hold a child up to 50lbs.
Fisher-Price Bounce and Spin Puppy
BEST RIDE ON TOY FOR TODDLER
Why It's One of Our Favs
For 1-year-olds, this is one of the ride on toys that is entertaining and engaging: Think about your child grinning and gazing at you while jumping up and down merrily on the puppy!
This ride-on dog introduces the alphabet, numbers, colors, and more as your child spins and jumps up and down as it plays educational songs, sounds, and phrases.
Your infant will develop a sense of independence while strengthening their balance and coordination by climbing up on the dog and bouncing up and down.
Plus we consider the item one of the best outdoor toys because it helps both younger children and older children gain better sensory exploration, preparing them for a balance bike and other balancing activities.
Fav Features
The puppy bounces or spins the child 360 degrees while playing music and instructional videos. It contains buttons to activate additional tunes and sounds, including a Light-up rattle roller, ABC, and 123.
This device has a solid base, handles that are easy to grip, a comfortable saddle, interactive buttons, and multicolored lighting. Its comfortable saddle, durable construction, and easy-grip handles let the baby feel safe while they play.
This outdoor toy is a fun sensory experience for both little kids and older kids and could be considered for age-appropriate toys for bigger kids to, up to the age of 6. It encourages active play and hand eye coordination vs rough play.
Your toddler will find it easy to bounce and spin merrily on this puppy, no fine motor skills required. Making it one of the best toys for your 1-year-old and a great birthday gift idea.
It encourages mental and physical exercise different from toys like a water table, wood blocks, balance bike, tikes cozy coupe, the three bubble wands toy or bubble mower.
EocuSun Kids Ball Pit
BEST OUTDOOR TOY for ACTIVE TODDLERS
The vibrant EocuSun pop-up ball play pen is simple to put together and is effective in improving a child’s coordination. It's suited for infants six months and older and is simple to clean.
Why It's One of Our Favs
This ball pit is excellent for use both inside and outside. It's lightweight and portable. It's made of supple polyester fabric that resists water, lasts a long time, and has a strong pop up memory steel holder.
The 3-piece play pen for children develops the baby's capacity for independence by providing a fun-filled playground where your 1-year-old can play and crawl.
It allows multiple children to have fun while throwing and playing with the balls. Therefore, this will foster friendship from a tender age.
Fav Features
The soft vibrant polka dot fabric has no smell and is non-toxic, so it provides a kid-safe and eco-friendly play environment.
Mosquito-proof, breathable mesh design visualizes the inside perspective for watching out.
This toy aids gross motor activities and eye-hand coordination and is exciting and fun for kids of all ages under 1 year of age which can be said to be better than other toys like t ball.
This play yard is a suitable size to play with three kids' since it's a ball game that can encourage and enhance gross motor skills.
The polyester fabric can be washed, is double-stitched and has a high level of wear resistance. It's easy to fold, assemble, and store. It comes with a lightweight storage box with a zipper.
It is regarded as one of the top toddler toys for playtime indoors or outdoors as well as during birthday celebrations, parks, picnics, and backyard barbecues.
Looking for Super Fun Jump Houses for Kids of all Ages? Check these out.
Nutmeg
Little Tikes Go Green! Jr. Play Slide
Best Outdoor Toys for Active Kids
Best Outdoor Toys for Active Toddlers
Little Tikes GO GREEN! Jr Play Slide | Recycled Plastics
Why It's One of Our Favs
Spending time outside with the kids is a fun way to burn off energy. This Little Tikes slide encourages motor skills and is great for active children. We like this slide because it could be set up inside or outside. We also like the fact, this new "Go Green!" version of this Little Tikes slide is made using recycled plastics and it can be recycled itself!
Fav Features
We like that this slide has minimal set up required and no tools are needed. It also folds up to store away the slide when it is not in use. It's an outdoor activity and toyF that will grow with your child and will provide hours of climbing and outdoor fun.
Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Crawl Around Car
BEST GIFT FOR ANY 1 YEAR OLD
Why It's One of Our Favs
I had to add this car to our list. My husband and I have likely given six of these Laugh and Learn Crawl Around Cars for gifts over the years. It is perfect for indoors or outdoors play, for any baby that is at the crawling around stage. We've even had parents prop their babies (about 7 months on) inside the car with pillows around them to help them sit up.
The car is perfect for the baby learning to stand, or crawl around. The lights, steering wheel and music add an element of discovery and fun for the child.
This is a gift that will continue giving for a long time. I've seen children who have grown up with it still sitting in it enjoying it at the age of 4! Then not wanting their parents to re-gift it or sell it.
Fav Features
Here are some of the features we love with this stationary 'little red car'. It encourages baby to sit up, crawl, pull themselves up, stand and move all around.
It will introduce your baby to letters, numbers, colors, first words, greetings and more. We loved singing along with the songs (based on where we pointed the weather dial at the front of the car).
The dashboard has lights, sounds and busy activities to stimulate the child. The whole experience takes your child along on an exciting journey of learning and discover. You get to watch them grow and learn as they play.
We can guarantee you will create cherished memories, and great photos, together that will last a lifetime with this amazing age-appropriate toy (use it indoors or outdoors).
FAQs for Buying the Best Outdoor Toy for your 1-year-old
Are you looking for the best outdoor toys for your one-year-old? It's important to find outdoor toys that are safe and age-appropriate, but it can be difficult to know which ones are the right ones for your little one.
We've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about outdoor toys for one-year-olds so you can make the best decision for your child.
With this information, you'll be able to find the perfect outdoor toy that will give your one-year-old hours of fun and entertainment.
What can a 1 year old play with outside?
A one-year-old can enjoy playing with a variety of different objects and materials outside. Just being outside with you to explore their surroundings is important.
Some simple ideas include filling up sensory bins with sand, water, and small toys; playing with balls of various sizes; stacking blocks; or exploring nature by looking at leaves, flowers, and bugs.
With supervision, a one-year-old can also safely play on simple outdoor equipment such as swings, slides, and small bounce houses. Gardening is another fun activity that young children can do outside with some help from an adult.
Ultimately, the best way to figure out what your one-year-old will enjoy playing with outside is simply to let them explore and have fun!
What toys should my 1 year old be playing with?
There are lots of different types of toys that are perfect for 1-year-olds. Some examples include blocks, balls, and dolls.
Blocks are a great toy for this age group because they can help with hand-eye coordination and problem solving skills. Balls are also a good choice because they promote physical activity, which is important for toddlers. Dolls can help teach empathy and social skills.
It's important to remember that it's important for toddlers to be active, so make sure to provide plenty of opportunities for them to play outdoors or move around. Toys that require movement or interaction like these are ideal for helping toddlers develop their skills and grow healthy and strong.
What outdoor activities can I do with my 18 month old?
There are a number of great outdoor activities that you can do with your 18-month-old. One option is to take a trip to the park. Many parks have playgrounds specifically designed for young children, which your 18-month-old will likely enjoy.
Other outdoor activities that your 18-month-old may enjoy include going for walks or hikes, visiting a farm or petting zoo, playing in the backyard, or even just sitting outside and exploring nature (leaves, flowers, even bugs).
Ultimately, the best outdoor activity for your 18-month-old is one that he or she enjoys and that you feel comfortable with. Try out a few different activities and see what works best for you and your little one!
How can I dry off my outdoor toys?
When cleaning, rinsing, and wiping other toys with a towel, invert them to let them dry completely, preferably outside in the sun to air dry.
If the toy is dishwasher safe, take the item apart wash it and let it air dry. You may like the BertiesBuzz article The Safest Baby Dishwashing Detergents For Your Kitchen on the Market Today
For a sandbox, you must thoroughly rake the area, breaking up any wet clumps, and then leave the sand to dry uncovered. A damp toy would be made moldier and milder by being covered.
How should I keep my outdoor toys?
Any outdoor toy should be kept indoors when not in use or at least kept sheltered from the elements, in the garage or in a storage shed, to increase its lifespan.
Ventilation is crucial for moist toys, so a container with slatted sides or open shelf works best. Aim to have toys air dry then stored away out of the elements.
What advantages does outdoor play offer?
One of the many benefits of outdoor play is that it helps children to develop their gross motor skills. Gross motor skills involve the large muscles in the body, such as those in the arms and legs. These muscles are used for activities like running, jumping, and climbing.
Outdoor play also allows children to explore their surroundings and learn about their environment. In addition, playing outdoors can help improve a child's mood and relieve stress. Lastly, spending time outdoors can help increase vitamin D levels, which is important for good health.
Most of all starting a child young, to enjoy everything the outdoors has to offer, establishes a healthy outdoor lifestyle early, which will many benefits for them throughout life.
How Much time should toddlers and 1-year-old spend outside?
It’s really good practise to let your 1-year-old get some play outside every day.
Every child younger than 6 years old should play outside two to three times every day… In fact, kids need 60 to 90 minutes of outside play regularly, according to the Early Head Start National Resource Center.
Playing outdoors helps enhance the emotional development of kids and aids in improving their social skills.
Therefore, kids require at least one hour of unstructured playtime and at least half an hour of structured play, with several hours being ideal, according to Penn State University's Better Kid Care Program.
What age is appropriate for sidewalk chalk?
We found most sidewalk chalk is recommending use for ages 4+.
But knowing playing with chalk adds to the creative process and is a fine motor activity we dug a little deeper and we found a chalk that is non toxic, it's made out of Calcium Carbonate, which is the main ingredient in Tums, and other antacids. We don't recommend eating it though, it's made for drawing! You can check it out here on Amazon, 20-pc Jumbo Chalk Set with Bucket!
Why Outside Play is So Good (for all of us)!
Exploring the outdoors and being adventurous has many benefits for all of us. Your child can express themselves, enjoy games, push their physical limitations, and gain confidence.
Additionally, playing outside might result in getting dirty, and getting dirty is frequently a sign of fun! It's okay to get dirty outside.
Your child has usually more room and freedom for activities like running, jumping, kicking, and throwing when they are outside. These physical activities are beneficial for your child's physical growth and fitness.
Spending time outside may help to reduce your child's risk of becoming short-sighted. Sunshine at safe levels can also be beneficial since it increases vitamin D levels in the body.
Children can unwind and feel at ease by engaging in outdoor play and spending time in natural settings. This implies the outdoors might also be beneficial for your child's well-being and mental health.
Outdoor Toys and Outdoor Play Essential for a Child's Early Development
Outdoor toys are an essential element of a child's early development. In addition to being entertaining and interesting, outdoor toys teach newborns to explore nature in new ways and will keep them active.
Of course, indoor toys that inspire creativity are equally important to a child's early development. We love crayons and art supplies designed specifically for young children too!
The finest indoor or outdoor toys for a 1-year-old are those that are safe, reliable, entertaining, and lightweight.
For outdoor play, you might pick from a variety of options, such as ball pits, sand toys, splash pads, sprinklers, ride on toys and more, to provide fun for your children while simultaneously fostering the development of their motor skills and hand-eye coordination.
Here is our List Summarized of the 9 Best Outdoor Toys for One Year Old:
Each of these toys has stood the test of time and enjoyment with toddlers.
Best Outdoor Toys for All Time
Best Outdoor Toys for the Beach
Best Outdoor Toys for Water Play
Best Toys for Problem Solving and Shapes
Best Outdoor Swing for Baby to Toddler
Best for Ride on Toys for Toddler
Best Outdoor Toys for Active Kids
Best Outdoor "GO GREEN" Toys for Active Kids
Best Gift for Any 1 Year Old
Happy Shopping!
Your FavReviews Team
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Deborah Clarke
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Reviews have been edited for length and clarity. Enjoy finding your next favorite thing! Happy Shopping! Your FavReviews Team
