Hi friends! I asked if you guys would be interested in this type of series on my IG stories one day and so many of you showed interest so I figured we would start with outdoor toys. The weather has been just beautiful here and we’ve spent the majority of our days playing outside.
While my daughter is happy with just a shovel and some dirt (to be honest), she does enjoy the toys she has outside currently. Some are big ticket items (but were well worth the price tag, in our opinion) and some are small… but all are well-loved.
NOTE: This post contains affiliate links, which means that I’ll receive a commission if you purchase from this link. This will not change or increase the cost of your purchase. This extra income provides for my family and keeps The Friendly Fig running strong.
1. Backyard Discovery Swing Set
When I say big ticket, I pretty much just mean this. But this swing set has been the best investment because it is going to grow with both girls and just seeing the look on Willow’s face when she saw it was worth it. She exclaimed “MY PLAYGROUND!” It’s a simple one with just two seats, rock climbing ladder, chalkboard, and slide, but it is just enough. She asks to swing every. single. day.
If you are looking for a swing set on the affordable side and doesn’t take up too much backyard space, I highly recommend this one.
It took a while to set up but instructions were straightforward and we had no missing pieces (thankfully!)
2. Water “Table” & Aquatic Animals
From the most expensive to the cheapest. Instead of buying a water table, I found a large bin we had around the house and place it on our table outside. I fill it with water, aquatic animals, dirt/sand, flowers, and some kitchen utensils and Willow will be busy for over an HOUR with this. It’s the most simple form of fun and deserved a spot on this list.
3. Kiddie Pool
We’re not going to get a pool (personally, we feel like summers are too short in New England to invest in something like that) but we can get down with a kiddie pool. It’s a small investment for endless summer fun. PLUS there are so many cute ones on Amazon – we got one similar to the above but please go check out all options.
4. Sprinkler
We were gifted the above sprinkler and it provides a lot of fun and relief from those hot summer afternoons (for kids AND adults). We were gifted this flower one but honestly, any sprinkler system goes!
5. Construction Vehicles
Green Toys is one of my very favorite brands to support and their construction vehicles are awesome for transporting dirt, sand, flowers, you name it. We love this one and this one.
6. Gardening Tools
For the little gardener in your life, a small set of tools and watering can is a must.
7. Magnifying Glass
I think everyone can relate to a kid who is very much interested in any and all bugs outside.
8. Binoculars
“Can you see the woodpecker in the tree?” is something I say A LOT. A cute pair of binoculars will keep your little explorer busy.
9. Shovel, Pails, and Sand Toys
A must-have! You can find these cheap at the Dollar Store near you, too. We have a set similar to this one.
10. Sidewalk Chalk
Nothing better than a fresh set of sidewalk chalk for the spring and summer.
11. Bubbles
We always load up on bubbles at the beginning of the season. Find at your local Dollar Store. Linked ones similar to what we usually have above.
12. Radio Flyer Tricycle
Another gift from grandparents. Our girls’ first tricycle! She isn’t 100% there yet but we are working on it.
13. Basketball Hoop
We were gifted this because Willow was going on and on about basketball one day and she absolutely loved it.
I think this is going to be a 4-part series – outdoor, toddler, infant, and art. Stay tuned for the rest – toddler toys will be coming shortly. x
