Outdoor Toys

These days it's a miracle to see children playing in the outdoors, and who can blame them? Considering the modern toys on the market, there is hardly a reason to leave the house. This is why it astounds me when I see a cluster of children playing outdoors with some primitive toy, maybe a ball  if I'm lucky. When I do see such a spectacle, I tread quietly so as not to disturb the creatures--for my very presence may frighten them back into their homes, and I don't want to disturb them--who knows when I will see this again? I pull out my trusty digital camera just in case the answer is never. But then I have a thought: maybe if we re-introduce the children to their natural play environment, I will not need to use my camera; and suddenly I am filled with hope--of course I snap a photo anyway; if all else fails, there are always pictures and black and white cinema.

Here's to hoping:

Garden Games and Toys

Outdoor Play Equipment These large outdoor toys are great because they can occupy children for hours. Although they can be expensive, toys such as climbing frames,  playhouses,  and swing seats  will keep kids interested for years--and they are fun to play with all year round. Other good examples of this type of toy are see-saws,  spring see-saws,  sandboxes,  or slides.	Trampolines Trampolines are another good investment because they provide exercise, entertainment, and fun for all ages. Like swimming pools, there are many different trampoline models and sizes from which to choose.	Garden Games and Giant Games  Have you ever seen the film "Honey, I Shrunk the Kids"? This film shows that when things are bigger than average, they become new and adventurous. When it comes to outdoor toys, classic giant games have big appeal.  Some toys designed specifically for the outdoors are: noughts and crosses,  giant ludo,  giant connect four,  sack race,  high tower,  hoppin' mad,  quoits,  gigantic chess  and draughts,  giant dominoes,  lawn darts,  cannonball drop,  limbo,  and hopscotch.

Sports Toys

Garden Games Sets Not Just Cricket : As the title suggests, this set is "not just cricket;" it is garden football, cricket, and badminton. Garden Games Set : Another three in one, it comes with tennis, badminton, and volleyball. If you already have the balls and racquets, you may want to get the TP Garden Games Set  with jumping pole.  Two in One Penalty Shoot Out Game : These penalty goals can easily be converted to a regular goal by removing the front cover. Dunlop Four in One Games Set : This game set has something for the whole family! The blue fabric bag includes a Velcro ball set, catch set, bat and ball set, and a flying disk.	Toss Around Toys or Toss Around Yourself Boomerangs : Because of its curved design, the boomerang can give the illusion of a second player. This means that even if you're alone, you can head out for a catch with yourself (after all, you've never been a straight shooter). So have fun and toss the wooden stick. Flying Disks : This may require a second player, or a fetching animal--either one will do. Gym Rings : These can be attached to a climbing frame, play set, or a tree. Once it's fastened securely, bring out your inner gymnast.  Trapeze Bar : This is another play centre accessory that can be attached to any secure bar or tree branch. Some models even come with gym rings attached to the trapeze.	Ball Games Garden Netball : There's a basket, there's a ball, there's a plane, there's a game. Tennis : It's fun whether or not you're preparing for Wimbledon (actually it's probably more fun if you're not). Volleyball : All you need is a ball and a net. Garden Golf : Who needs to join a country club? Skittles : Throwing something to knock something else over--endless fun.  Lawn Croquet : For those sophisticated afternoons. Croqkick : For those afternoons when you just want to kick something.  Boules  (Bowls): You may want to prepare for this game by hitting the gym for a few hours; I hear those bowls can be quite heavy.

Seasonal Toys

Snow Toys for Winter There are many more outdoor winter toys than one would think. Sure, someone says snow and immediately your mind goes to toboggans  and skis,  or maybe even snow boards  and ice skates  if you are imaginative. But what else is there? For starters, you may want to amp up those snowball fights a little--think outside the box--and buy a state of the art snowball maker.  But wait, why not take it a step further? You can really destroy the opposition by pelting those balls from your super fast snow bike--they'll never know what hit them! After you have successfully won the war, maybe you would like to craft your very own mascot with the snowman decorating kit,  and then let everyone know who won by proudly painting your team's logo and name in the snow with snow paints.

Beach and Water Toys for Summer The warm weather of summer provides the best environment for outdoor fun. You may want to go to the beach or lounge around in the pool all day long; for those warm summer months, there is nothing better than getting some playtime in the water with beach  or water toys.  And if getting wet isn't really your thing, how about doing a little gardening with your watering can  and garden tools?  If the backyard is too big for a simple garden, then by all means, work that land with a tractor.  And when you have finished cleaning the freshly mowed grass with the wheelbarrow, treat yourself to a ride on the town in your go kart,  sit and ride,  or powered ride on vehicle.   For a complete set of wheels, check out our ride-on toys guide, and don't forget your bug vacuum  for those pesky critters.

Related Guides

Toys and Games	Travel and Outdoor Fun	Sports and Recreation	Bikes for Kids	Individual Sports