3 Things to keep your backyard fun for toddlers
I want to start off by prefacing that backyards or any space can be super fun with a little creative imagination and nothing else. I never want my posts to make people feel less good about what they are able to provide for their children. I only want to share tips and things I’ve grown to love or stuff I’m excited about. With that being said let’s get into the fun finds!
None of these items are water related because I don’t know about you but it is colllld 🥶 where we’re at 💗
🤍First thing is these jumbo blocks my kids are entertained by for HOURSSSSSS. One of the best finds to date in my opinion. I found these on offer up for $20 (what a steal) and I would also check fb marketplace before paying full retail but they’re available online if you’re not able to find them used.
🤍Next is this smaller sized trampoline. It’s the perfect size for both my toddlers and even dad or I will jump with them at times. We got it for a Christmas gift for them for $60 on Amazon. They get all of the energy out and I mean alllllll of it out. Lol. We even bring it inside of it’s too cold out because it’s the perfect size!
🤍best for last (at least in my book, not sure my kids would agree. Hehe) this hammock is a dream. I can relax with both of my littles for a quiet nice long time. Just listening to nature with our eyes closed (or mine at least. Lolol) they also use it as a swing and love it for that too.
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As fellow parents, we all know the struggle and joy of keeping our energetic toddlers engaged, especially outdoors! While specific items like the jumbo blocks, mini trampoline, and hammock swing I shared are fantastic, creating a truly dynamic backyard for toddlers goes beyond just a few purchases. It’s about cultivating an environment that sparks curiosity, encourages movement, and offers a safe space for imaginative play. From my own experience, I've found that breaking down the backyard into different 'zones' can be incredibly helpful. Think about a sensory zone: even if it's too cold for a full water table, a simple bin of dried beans, rice, or even just dirt and some small digging tools can provide endless entertainment. My kids absolutely adore a 'mud kitchen' setup – old pots, pans, and spoons with some soil and a bit of water (on warmer days!) can lead to hours of concocting magical potions. This type of play, often involving giant legos or these jumbo blocks, really taps into their creative side and fine motor skills. Then there's the active zone, where that mini trampoline truly shines! Beyond just jumping, we sometimes turn it into part of an obstacle course with cushions, tunnels made from cardboard boxes, or even a low balance beam. Incorporating different textures and heights encourages gross motor development and problem-solving. We also love bringing out things like soft balls, hula hoops, or even just a large sheet for parachute play – simple items that offer big fun. For imaginative play, sometimes the simplest things are best. A pop-up tent or even just a blanket draped over chairs can become a secret fort, a pirate ship, or a cozy reading nook. The hammock swing, as I mentioned, is perfect for quiet time, but it also transforms into a magical flying carpet or a gentle nest for their stuffed animals. We often gather natural elements like leaves, sticks, and pinecones to create 'nature art' or use them as props in their imaginary worlds. Don't underestimate the power of DIY and budget-friendly activities. Pavement chalk masterpieces are always a hit, and they wash away with the next rain, offering a fresh canvas. A simple treasure hunt, hiding a few toys around the yard, can turn a regular afternoon into an exciting adventure. You can even make your own outdoor musical instruments using old pots, tin cans, and wooden spoons. The key is to rotate activities and sometimes let them lead the play – you'd be amazed at what they come up with! Finally, always prioritize safety. Whether they're bouncing on the mini trampoline, building with jumbo blocks, or relaxing in the hammock swing, constant supervision is crucial. Ensure play areas are free of hazards, provide adequate sun protection, and make sure any equipment is age-appropriate and securely installed. Creating a fun backyard for toddlers is truly an evolving journey, filled with discovery and precious moments. Happy playing!