How We Selected and Tested Outdoor Toys for Toddlers and Preschoolers
We chose the best outdoor toys for toddlers by researching reviews from customers and competitors and studying the features of more than 50 products on the market. We surveyed 875 parents to find out what brands they buy from and why they love them. Moreover, we asked parents what toys their kids enjoy playing with and how they play with them.
We also consulted with Maddie Michalik, senior editor at The Toy Insider, and Kristin Morency Goldman, senior communications specialist at the Toy Association, for any considerations or product recommendations, while reviewing guidance from the AAP on toy buying safety, how to stay safe outdoors, and the importance of physical activity in children.
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What to Look for in Outdoor Toys for Toddlers and Preschoolers
- Age Level: Before buying your child an outdoor toy, check the manufacturer’s age recommendation to ensure your little one meets the requirements. Goldman says if a child uses a ride-on toy or another toy meant for older kids, they can potentially get hurt, frustrated, and discouraged. Keep in mind that this age group is continuously growing and developing, so toys that grow with kids—physically or with skill-building—are packed with major play value, Michalik says.
- Play Type: Toddlers like variety. If you’re investing in two or three outdoor toys, choose a few different types of play. For instance, get one toy that incorporates water (like the Step2 water table or SplashEZ splash pad), one for pretend play (the Lydaz Bubble Lawn Mower), and one for creativity (check out the Crayola Washable Sidewalk Chalk). The goal is to keep your child occupied and for them to build new skills. Changing it up will keep them engaged.
- Safety: Unlike indoor toys, your child probably won’t be as careful when playing with their outdoor toys. Both younger and older children may play with toys like slides and trikes, and just like at a park, accidents happen. Take safety into consideration when choosing a toy. For example, when it comes to ride-on toys, Michalik emphasizes the importance of the age recommendation set by the manufacturer, protective gear like a helmet and pads, and adult supervision. Moreover, ensure to properly store the toys, especially ones with batteries, to prevent damage and keep littles from wandering into a potentially dangerous situation, she adds.
- Durability: Regardless of where you live, your outdoor toys will see all kinds of weather and should be built to withstand rough play and seasonal changes. Avoid anything with small, breakable pieces or anything that tears easily. Plastic can typically hold up against the weather elements.
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Deanna McCormack is a freelance writer who specializes in family and lifestyle products. In her spare time, she researches and reviews the latest kids’ toys and gear. She has two kids of her own and lives in sunny Arizona, so she knows the value of great outdoor toys.
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Katrina Cossey is a commerce writer, enthusiastic shopper, and devoted mom. She spent several years in broadcast journalism but found her true passion in writing about the best products for families, pregnant people, and kids of all ages. She’s researched thousands of baby products, toys, gifts, and more and personally tested many of them. In her spare time, you’ll likely find her in the beautiful outdoors of Oklahoma with her husband and 3-year-old son.
More Toys for Kids
When it comes to toys for kids, our team has you covered. The Verywell Family team of editors (who are parents or have nieces and nephews of their own) have tested, gifted, and personally recommend every item we feature. Find more of our top toy picks for every developmental stage and personality phase here:
- The Best Christmas Gifts for Kids
- The Best Developmental Toys for Babies
- The Best Tummy Time Toys
- The Best Active Toys for Toddlers
- The Best Toys for Toddlers
- The Best Educational Toys for Toddlers
- The Best Phonics Toys for Preschoolers
- The Best Toys for Learning Letters and Numbers
- The Best Musical Toys for Children of All Ages
- The Best Montessori Toys to Encourage Thoughtful Play
- The Best Sesame Street Toys
- The Best Outdoor Toys for Kids of All Ages
- The Best Dinosaur Toys
- The Best Toys for Fine Motor Skills Development
- The Best Toys for Independent Play
- The Best Indoor Toys and Games for Active Play
- The Best Snow Toys for Kids
- The Best STEM Toys for Kids
- Best Laptop Toys for Kids
- The Best Social Emotional Learning Toys
- The Best Robot Toys
- The Best Ride-On Toys
- The Best Cleaning Toy Sets
- The Black-Owned Gift Guide
Source: https://gardencourte.com
Categories: Outdoor
