10 Easy Outdoor Activities for Toddlers

20 Fun and Easy Backyard Activities for Toddlers

Hey there, fellow parents! If you're like me, always on the lookout for simple yet engaging activities to keep our little ones entertained, then you're in the right place. As a mom of three, I've mastered the art of creating fun and educational outdoor play without needing too much prep. Here are 20 backyard activities that have been hits with my toddlers, and I'm sure your little ones will love them too!

1. Bubble Blowing

There’s something magical about bubbles! My toddlers love chasing and popping them, which is great for developing their motor skills. We use different sized wands or bubble guns to create various bubble sizes, which adds to the fun and excitement. It’s a wonderful way for them to learn about cause and effect. Plus, it's the perfect activity for those days when you need a quick setup with maximum entertainment.

2. Water Play

Setting up a mini water station has never been easier. I use whatever containers I have on hand and add small toys, cups, and funnels. Water play is fantastic for teaching little ones about concepts like floating and sinking, and it helps with their hand-eye coordination. Just make sure to always keep a watchful eye on your kids during water play to ensure safety. Or just get one water sensory table from Amazon here!

3. Sidewalk Chalk Art

Give your toddlers some chalk and let their creativity run wild on the driveway or a concrete slab in your backyard. They love drawing their favourite animals and objects, and we often turn it into a learning game by drawing shapes and letters. It's also a great opportunity for them to express themselves freely and proudly show off their artwork.

4. Nature Scavenger Hunt

I create simple scavenger hunt lists with pictures or descriptions like "something green" or "a small rock". We then explore our backyard to find these items. It’s a fantastic way for toddlers to practice their observation skills and learn about the natural world. Plus, it keeps them engaged and moving, which is always a win in my book! Get your free printable Scavenger Hunt checklist!

5. Picnic Time

Who doesn’t love a picnic? We often have spontaneous picnic lunches in our backyard. I lay down a blanket(waterproof!) and bring out some snacks, and sometimes we even read stories or play games. It’s a relaxing way for us to enjoy meals and spend quality time together, without any fuss.

6. DIY Backyard Obstacle Course

Using items like soft pillows, small boxes, and ropes, I set up a safe obstacle course. It’s a blast watching my toddlers navigate the course, and it’s excellent for their physical development. They learn to follow directions and understand sequences (first this, then that), which are important cognitive skills.

7. Sandbox Fun

Our sandbox is a treasure trove of fun. We bury toys and dig them up, build castles, and sometimes just enjoy the feel of the sand. It’s particularly good for sensory play, and adding items like small shovels and buckets can extend their playtime and imagination.

8. Garden Helper

Inviting the kids to help in the garden is a wonderful way to teach them about plants and nature. They help with watering flowers and digging small holes for planting, which are great for their fine motor skills. They learn about responsibility and the lifecycle of plants in a very hands-on way. They are really happy when they had their own gardening set.

9. Animal Safari

We set up a mini safari with animal toys hidden around the yard, and the kids go on a hunt with their toy binoculars. It's a fun way for them to learn about different animals, their habitats, and sounds. We sometimes mimic animal walks, which adds a layer of physical activity and laughter to the game.

10. Hopscotch

Drawing a simple hopscotch grid is a quick setup with endless fun. It teaches my toddlers about balancing and numbers as they hop through the squares. It’s a playful way to introduce them to following rules and taking turns—key social skills. You can buy one if it's easier for you just follow the link here!

These activities are not only a blast for the kids, but they also offer valuable learning opportunities. They keep our little ones busy, help burn off their boundless energy, and give us parents a chance to breathe (or join in the fun!). So, grab some sunscreen, head out to your backyard, and enjoy these simple pleasures of childhood with your toddlers. Happy playing!