In a world dominated by screens and technology, encouraging children to embrace the great outdoors is more important than ever. Outdoor gifts for kids offer a gateway to a world of excitement, imagination, and endless possibilities. These gifts provide hours of entertainment and foster physical, mental, and emotional development.
The National Trust research showed that children play outside for an average of just over four hours a week. This compares unfavorably with 8.2 hours for their parents when they were children.
According to a study conducted by the UK government, 10% of the participants last visited natural environments like parks, forests, or beaches a year or more ago.
In this article, we will delve into the enchanting realm of outdoor gifts for kids, highlighting the benefits they offer and igniting your imagination with many gift ideas. So, let’s embark on this adventure and discover the magic that awaits!
The Importance of Outdoor Play
Outdoor play is essential for a child’s growth and development. It allows children to explore, discover, and interact with the natural world, fostering a deep connection with nature.
The benefits of outdoor play are numerous and far-reaching. It promotes physical fitness, enhances gross and fine motor skills, and improves coordination and balance.
Furthermore, outdoor play stimulates cognitive abilities, creativity, problem-solving skills, and imagination. It also nurtures social skills, encouraging teamwork, communication, and conflict resolution. The fresh air and sunshine invigorate the mind, boost mood, reduce stress, and instill a sense of well-being.
Read about What Age Do Kids Stop Playing with Toys?
Best Outdoor Toys for Kids with Our Carefully Selected List:
Tricycles and balance bikes
Tricycles and balance bikes are the ultimate companions for young adventurers. With their sturdy build and three wheels, tricycles provide stability and help kids develop coordination and motor skills. On the other hand, balance bikes introduce children to balancing before transitioning to a traditional bicycle. These toys encourage kids to explore their surroundings, gain confidence, and experience the thrill of independent mobility.
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besrey 5 in 1 Toddler Bik
YGJT Baby Balance Bike
KRIDDO 3-in-1 Kids Tricycles
Yvolution 4 in 1 Push Tricycle
Skateboards and scooters
For older kids seeking exhilarating outdoor experiences, skateboards, and scooters are the perfect choices. Skateboards allow children to develop balance, coordination, and agility as they learn to perform tricks and maneuvers. Scooters offer a smooth and speedy ride, enhancing balance and control. Both options provide an exciting outlet for self-expression and active play.
Skateboards Complete 22 Inch
Retrospec Quip Mini Skateboard
Jetson Kids 2-Wheel Kick Scooter
Mongoose Expo Kick Scooter
Water toys
Water toys transform hot summer days into refreshing adventures. Whether it’s splashing in the pool, running through sprinklers, or enjoying water gun battles, these toys offer endless aquatic fun. Water toys provide relief from the heat and promote physical activity, coordination, and social interaction among kids, making them a must-have for outdoor play.
Jambo Premium Slip Splash and Slide with 3 Bodyboards
HITOP 3 Pack Water Guns for Kids Squirt Water Blaster Guns
Bunch O Balloons Multi-Colored (10 Bunches) by ZURU, 350+ Rapid-Filling Self-Sealing Instant Water Balloons
TEMI 3-in-1 Sand Water Table, 28PCS Kids Beach Summer Toys Sandbox Table
Sand toys
The beach or sandbox becomes a world of endless possibilities with sand toys. Buckets, shovels, molds, and diggers unlock a child’s creativity, allowing them to build sandcastles, create intricate structures, and embark on imaginative adventures. Sand play enhances fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and sensory exploration, fostering individual and collaborative play experiences.
Click N’ Play Beach Toys for Kids 3-10 – 18pc Sand Toys Including Sand Buckets
Dilabnba Heavy Duty Kids Snow Beach Shovels, Jumbo Sand Shovels for Garden, Large Beach Spade Scoop Rake
USA Toyz Sand Molds Beach Toys for Kids
Sand Castle Molds for Kids Set
Building toys
Building toys uniquely blend creativity and outdoor play. Construction sets, magnetic blocks, and interlocking bricks empower kids to design and construct their outdoor kingdoms. These toys stimulate imagination, problem-solving skills, and hand-eye coordination while encouraging children to build, rebuild, and transform their play environment.
LEGO Icons Bonsai Tree Building
MAGNA-TILES Classic 100-Piece Magnetic Construction Set
Melissa & Doug Wooden Building Set – 100 Blocks in 4 Colors and 9 Shapes
LEGO Classic Large Creative Brick Box
Best Outdoor Games for Kids:
These are great for kids who love to play with their friends. There are a variety of outdoor games to choose from, including tag, hide-and-seek, badminton, and volleyball.
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ArmoGear Laser Tag – Laser Tag Guns with Vests Set of 4
Franklin Sports Badminton Net Sets + Equipment Set – (4) Rackets + (2) Birdies + Portable Net Included – Adults + Kids Set
WILSON Outdoor Recreational Volleyball – Official Size
Franklin Sports Volleyball Volleyball Set for Kids + Adults – Volleyballs + Nets with Poles
Board Games
Board games are a fantastic way to encourage social interaction and strategic thinking while enjoying the fresh air. From treasure hunts and scavenger hunts to educational quizzes and team challenges, there’s a board game for every interest and age group. These games spark imagination, boost problem-solving skills, and foster healthy competition, making them an excellent choice for outdoor entertainment.
MONOPOLY Deal Card Game
Connect 4 Strategy Board Game
Twister Party Classic Board Game
Hasbro Gaming Candy Land Kingdom Of Sweet Adventures
Card games
Card games are portable, versatile, and perfect for on-the-go outdoor fun. Whether it’s a game of Go Fish, Crazy Eights, or Uno, these compact games can be played virtually anywhere. Card games enhance memory, concentration, and critical thinking while providing endless laughter and friendly competition. So grab a deck of cards, gather your little ones, and let the card games extravaganza begin!
Regal Games – Kids Classic Card Games
Continuum Games Old Maid Classic Card Game
UNO – Classic Colour & Number Matching Card Game
Arizona GameCo Go Fish Untamed Oceans Card Game
Best Outdoor Sports Equipment for Kids:
Bikes
Bicycles are more than just a means of transportation; they are a gateway to adventure, independence, and a healthy lifestyle. Riding a bike improves cardiovascular fitness, strengthens leg muscles, and enhances balance and coordination. Whether cruising around the neighborhood or embarking on family cycling adventures, bikes provide endless fun and the joy of exploring the world on two wheels. With a wide range of sizes and styles, finding the perfect bike for your child’s age and skill level is a breeze.
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Huffy Kids Hardtail Mountain Bike for Boys, Stone Mountain 20 inch 6-Speed, Metallic Cyan (73808)
Royalbaby Freestyle Kids Bike Bicycle for Boys Girls Ages 3-12 Years, Multiple Color Options
Elite BMX Bicycle 20” & 16″ Freestyle Bike
Hyper E-Ride BMX Fat Tire Electric Bike
Skateboards
For young thrill-seekers and those looking to master gravity-defying tricks, skateboarding is the ideal choice. Skateboards offer an exciting outlet for physical activity, coordination, and self-expression. From cruising along the pavement to honing ollies and kickflips at the local skatepark, skateboarding introduces kids to the art of balance, agility, and perseverance. Encourage their creativity and watch them thrive as they carve their paths on the skateboard.
Retrospec Zed Longboard Skateboard
Magneto Complete Skateboard
WeSkate Skateboards for Beginners
RIMABLE Complete 22 Inches Skateboard
Hiking Boots
Exploring Nature’s Playground: Outdoor exploration is a magical experience for children, and proper footwear is essential for their comfort and safety. Hiking boots are the perfect companions for young adventurers, providing support, traction, and protection during nature expeditions. Whether hiking trails, climbing rocks, or splashing through streams, these sturdy boots keep little feet comfortable and shielded from rugged terrains. Instill a love for nature and ignite their curiosity as they embark on unforgettable journeys while wearing reliable hiking boots.
Merrell Unisex-Child Trail Chaser Jr Hiking Sneaker
Deer Stags Unisex-Child Drew-K
zpllsbratos Boys Girls Outdoor Ankle Hiking Boots
Mishansha Outdoor Ankle Hiking Boots Boys Girls
Gardening Kits
Nurturing Green Thumbs: Introduce children to the wonders of gardening with specially designed gardening kits. These kits include child-sized tools, seeds, and instructions to help young ones appreciate nature, learn about plant life cycles, and cultivate their green space. Gardening promotes responsibility, patience, and an understanding of the environment. Watching seeds sprout into flourishing plants nurtures a sense of pride and accomplishment, fostering a lifelong connection with the natural world.
Play22 Kids Gardening Tool Set 12 PCS – Kids Gardening Tools
CUTE STONE Kids Gardening Tool Set
POMIKU Kids Garden Tools Set
DIY Gardening Kit For Kids Plant Growing Kit
Camping Gear
Embracing the Great Outdoors: Camping is an extraordinary adventure that allows children to disconnect from screens and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Equipping them with age-appropriate camping gear, such as tents, sleeping bags, and camping cookware, encourages self-reliance, problem-solving skills, and a deeper appreciation for the great outdoors. Camping trips provide opportunities for bonding with family and friends, star-gazing, storytelling around campfires, and creating lifelong memories.
Space World Play Tent-Kids Galaxy Dome Tent
oaskys Camping Sleeping Bag
EVERYDAY KIDS Nap Mat with Removable Pillow
Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Hammock
Best Outdoor Nature Toys for kids:
Bug kits
Bug kits are the perfect companions for budding entomologists, providing them with the tools to observe and study fascinating insects up close. These kits typically include a magnifying glass, containers, and field guide, enabling children to collect and examine various bugs safely. From ants and ladybugs to butterflies and beetles, kids can embark on bug-hunting adventures, learn about insect habitats, and witness the intricacies of their behavior. Bug kits nurture scientific curiosity and instill a sense of respect and appreciation for the tiny creatures that inhabit our world.
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Kit & Bug Catcher Kit with Binoculars, Flashlight, Compass, Magnifying Glass
Nature Bound Bug Catcher Vacuum with Light Up Critter Habitat Case
Insect Lore – Butterfly Growing Kit
GIFTINBOX Outdoor Explorer Kit & Bug Catcher Kit
Birdhouses
Birdhouses bring the wonders of the avian world right into your backyard. These charming structures provide bird shelters and nesting spaces, creating opportunities for kids to observe their behaviors and witness the magic of bird families. Installing a birdhouse encourages children to become amateur ornithologists as they learn about different bird species, their feeding habits, and the importance of creating bird-friendly environments. Birdhouses foster empathy, environmental awareness, and a deeper connection with the natural world.
Wren Birdhouses for Outside – Cedar Bluebird Houses
COLEBA Bird Houses for Outside
CARTMAN Hanging Colourful Birdhouse Bird Feeder
Dawhud Direct Hanging Bird Houses for Outside
Rock tumblers
Rock tumblers offer a captivating hands-on experience, allowing kids to transform rough stones into polished gems. With these tumblers, children can collect rocks from nature or start with a rough selection provided in the kit. The tumbling process smoothes and polishes the stones, revealing their hidden beauty. This activity engages children in scientific concepts like erosion and polishing and cultivates patience and an appreciation for the natural geological wonders surrounding us.
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Rock Tumbler Kit
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Break Open 10 Premium Geodes
Byncceh Rocks Collection for Kids
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Rock Tumbler Grit and Polish Refill Kit
Other Best Outdoor Gifts of Kids:
Swimming Gear
Swimming gear is an essential gift for water-loving kids, enabling them to dive into pools, lakes, or the ocean with confidence. This gear, from colorful swimsuits to sturdy goggles and swim caps, ensures comfort and protection during water activities. Whether learning to swim, playing water games, or embarking on aquatic adventures, swimming gear provides children with the tools to enjoy water-based activities to the fullest. Encourage their aquatic skills and watch as they embrace the joys of swimming while staying safe.
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Oceans 7 U SCoast Guard Approved, Infant-Child-Youth Life Jacket Vest
Gintenco Kids Snorkel Set, Diving Mask for Children as Unisex Kids Swimming Goggles
Pool Noodle, FixFind 5 Pack of 52 Inch Hollow Foam Pool Swim Noodle
EverSport Kids Swim Goggles
Backpacks
Backpacks are more than just storage solutions; they are trusty companions for young explorers. A well-designed backpack provides ample space to carry essentials like water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, and extra layers of clothing, ensuring that kids are prepared for any outdoor excursion. Look for lightweight, durable backpacks with comfortable straps and multiple compartments, allowing for easy organization and accessibility. With their essentials on their backs, children can embark on hikes, bike rides, and nature walks with everything they need within reach.
PUMA KIDS’ EVERCAT BACKPACK & LUNCH KIT COMBO
Asge Boys Backpack for Kids Camo Bookbag for Middle School Bags Travel Back Pack
sunhiker Cycling Hiking Backpack
ZOMAKE Lightweight Packable Backpack
Hats and Sunglasses
Protection from the sun is paramount during outdoor activities, and hats with sunglasses offer a stylish and functional solution. A wide-brimmed hat shields the face, neck, and ears from harmful UV rays, preventing sunburn and reducing the risk of heat-related issues. Coupled with sunglasses that provide UV protection, these accessories ensure that young adventurers can explore under the sun without compromising their safety. Encourage wearing hats and sunglasses as a routine part of outdoor adventures to instill healthy sun protection habits from an early age.
PolarSpex Sunglasses
4E’s Novelty Cowboy Hat with feathers With Heart Shaped Sunglasses
MaxNova Baby Sun Hat Smile Face
KALIYADI Polarized Sunglasses for Men and Women
Tips for Choosing the Best Outdoor Gifts for Kids:
- Consider the child’s age, interests, and developmental stage.
- Prioritize safety by selecting toys with appropriate age ratings and safety features.
- Choose durable and weather-resistant materials for long-lasting enjoyment.
- Look for educational value to promote learning and skill development.
- Encourage physical activity and outdoor exploration with gifts that inspire movement and curiosity.
- Consider the child’s preferred outdoor activities and hobbies.
- Personalize the gift to make it unique and special for the child.
- Read reviews and recommendations from trusted sources.
- Set a budget and consider the value and longevity of the gift.
Finally, follow your instincts and choose a gift you believe the child will enjoy.
FAQs about Best Outdoor Gift for Kids
1. What are some of the most popular outdoor gifts for kids?
Some of the most popular outdoor gifts for kids include:
- Tricycles and balance bikes
- Skateboards and scooters
- Water toys
- Sand toys
- Building toys
- Outdoor games
- Board games
- Card games
- Bikes
- Hiking boots
- Camping gear
- Gardening tools
- Seed packets
- Bug kits
- Birdhouses
- Rock tumblers
- Swimming gear
- Backpacks
- Hats and sunglasses
2. What are some of the benefits of outdoor play for kids?
Outdoor play has many benefits for kids, including:
- Increased physical activity
- Improved cognitive development
- Enhanced social skills
- Reduced stress levels
- Increased self-confidence
- Improved appreciation for nature
3. What are some tips for keeping kids safe while playing outdoors?
To ensure the safety of children while playing outside, here are some helpful tips:
- Supervise kids at all times.
- Choose a safe play area that is free of hazards.
- Teach kids about safety rules, such as not running into the street and not playing with sharp objects.
- Dress kids in appropriate clothing for the weather.
- Apply sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Bring water and snacks with you.
This article has helped you find the perfect and best outdoor gifts for kids!
