Looking for outdoor activities for toddlers that are also a brilliant way to learn? The toddler and preschool years should be full of hands-on play that helps little ones grow, explore and discover the world around them — and getting outdoors is one of the best ways to make that happen.
Here are 20 of the best outdoor activities for toddlers to get you both outside, active, and having fun — muddy puddles included.
Play is one of the most important ways toddlers learn. Being outdoors adds a whole extra layer to that learning, as children use their senses, build confidence, and explore nature at their own pace. These outdoor activities for toddlers will keep them happy and occupied for hours of fun learning.
Outdoor Activities For Toddlers
#1. Get Creative
If the weather isn’t too windy, pack up the paints and drawing pads and head outside for an outdoor art session. Hang each painting on the clothesline to dry and you’ll have created your very own outdoor art gallery.
Invite friends or family over to admire the masterpieces — and best of all, there’s no indoor mess to clean up afterwards.
You may also enjoy: 50 Brilliant Ideas for Arts & Crafts and 16 Super Easy Craft Activities for Toddlers & Preschoolers
#2. Play Hide and Seek
!toddler playing hide and seek outdoor activities
A firm favourite for a reason — children of every age love hide and seek. Take a turn being “on” and count to 20 while they hide. Take your time finding them; they’ll be delighted to think they’ve outsmarted you.
#3. Go to the Playground
A trip to the playground is always great fun, even if you have play equipment at home. It’s also a lovely chance for toddlers to meet and interact with other children, and older siblings will usually be happy to tag along too.
You may also enjoy: 15 Nature Activities for Kids
#4. Obstacle Course
!getting active outdoors and games mini sports day
Create a simple obstacle course using things you already have around the house or shed:
- A paddling pool filled with plastic balls makes a great homemade ball pool.
- A fishing net can be used to pick up small objects and move them from one place to another.
- A soup ladle is perfect for transferring water between containers.
- Place a hula hoop on the ground and get them to throw soft toys into it.
- Add a few simple jumping and skipping sections to keep everyone amused for hours.
You may also enjoy: 11 of the Best Outdoor Activities to Ensure Kids Stay Fit
#5. Play Outdoor Ball Games
Set up goals in the garden or park and let your toddler practise kicking the ball past you. Or place a bucket or basin on the ground and see if they can throw a soft ball into it, moving further away each time.
You may also enjoy: Smiles Guaranteed with these 15 Fun Toddler Party Games
#6. Jumping in Puddles
!child jumping in puddles outdoor activities for toddlers
Who doesn’t love jumping in puddles? Pop on the wellies and rain gear and head out — a warm bath afterwards is half the fun.
You may also enjoy: Top 10 Things to do Outside in the Rain, Galoshingly Good Rainy Day Activities for Kids Outdoors and 12 Kids Rainy Day Games Outdoors
#7. Take a Trip to the Beach
Pack the buckets and spades and head to the beach. Build sandcastles, take turns burying each other, or go paddling.
Have a look in rock pools to see what treasures you can find, or gather shells
