Don't Waste Your Money is supported by our readers. When you purchase an item through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best Outdoor Kids’ Toy

Last updated on August 15, 2024
Categories Kids, Toys & Games Tags
Best Outdoor Kids Toy

Our Review Process

Don't Waste Your Money is focused on helping you make the best purchasing decision. Our team of experts spends hundreds of hours analyzing, testing, and researching products so you don't have to. Learn more.

Look for the DWYM seal for products that are the best in a category.

Our Picks For The Top Outdoor Kids' Toys

View All Recommendations
Product Overview
Key Takeaway
  The Best Overall

Step2 Sun & Shade Picnic Table With Umbrella

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

Step2

Sun & Shade Picnic Table With Umbrella

Invite your little ones and their friends to join you outside with this picnic table featuring a sun shade. This toddler-sized setup can seat four, and the removable sunbrella will help keep kids cool on hot days.

Overall Take

Backyard Cookout Summer FunThis outdoor kids' toy is a great choice for a kid’s table at a cookout or just enjoying the nice weather for lunch and playtime.

 Runner Up

OUTREE Kids Pod Swing Seat Hammock

OUTREE

Kids Pod Swing Seat Hammock

Usable indoors or out, this comfortable and durable hanging seat will quickly become a favorite hangout spot. The “walls” of the enclosure help to shield little ones from wind and will limit sensory input for a calming recovery space.

Overall Take

Colorful Children’s Sky ChairThis hammock is perfect for children who can get overwhelmed or just for those who enjoy a soft swinging space to relax.

  The Best Value

G & F Products Wood & Metal Garden Tools Toddler Yard Toys, 4-Piece

G & F Products

Wood & Metal Garden Tools Toddler Yard Toys, 4-Piece

Kids can get in on the yardwork, too, thanks to this set. It includes a shovel, rake, hoe and leaf rake. Each tool features extra binding between the stick and metal head to keep it from breaking even with the kind of rigorous use a toddler loves. Each tool is the perfect height for young children.

Overall Take

Great for the BeachIf you have a sandbox or make frequent trips to the beach, this tool set will provide hours of fun play.

 Best Classic Toy

Playskool Sit ‘n Spin Motor Skills Developing Spinning Toddler Yard Toy

Playskool

Sit ‘n Spin Motor Skills Developing Spinning Toddler Yard Toy

This classic Sit 'n Spin toy has a simple design that provides hours of fun for toddlers. A child simply sits on the surface and holds on to the center to spin in circles, using their arms. This type of toy can be great for helping children develop fine motor skills.

Overall Take

Exciting MovementThis spinning toy can be used outdoors or inside, and you can even take it on trips with you for instant entertainment.

Buying Guide

The best outdoor toy for kids is whatever will engage little minds and provide hours of fun-filled play. Consider your child’s preferences when making a purchase. Also, think about what might get the most use in your yard.

Be aware that many outdoor children’s toys are not necessarily intended to be functional. As adorable as a toy umbrella  is, it will have limited ability to keep your little one dry. On that note, if an item does not specifically promote that it’s waterproof, it’s best to assume it isn’t. Similarly, miniature versions of adult outdoor items may or may not be functional; they may just be intended for play.

Consider making more expensive purchases than you might initially plan for, based on product ratings and reviews. While higher costs do not inherently entail higher quality, lower costs sometimes do imply a lack of quality. As the old saying goes, “you get what you pay for.” When it comes to outdoor toys for little ones, which must be long-lasting, durable, safe and sturdy, there’s little room for poorly made items.

What to Look For

  • When getting your child a toy to encourage going outside, consider their personality and energy levels.
  • Kids who like to investigate trees and rocks and are always asking questions might enjoy educational toys or scientific ones.
  • Children who prefer to enjoy the outdoors in shade and comfort will appreciate toys that allow them to do just that.
  • Think about the height of your child, as well as their weight, when buying items like chairs, slides or play sets.

From our partners