After being cooped up all winter long, it’s officially time to get your kids outside. These toys are perfect for kids of all ages this summer. See which ones made my list!
Depending on where in the country you live, your kids may spend more of the colder months inside and on their electronics. But when the weather gets nicer, it’s more important than ever to actually get outside and play. According to the health experts at Harvard, four reasons why kids need to get out and play include:
- Exercise – Kids should be active and moving for a least 1 hours per day.
- Sunshine – Being out in the sun (in moderation) can help with Vitamin D intake and boost your immune system.
- Executive Function – Imagination, troubleshooting, and planning skills are highly important. A lot of outdoor games and toys will help them develop these skills.
- Socialization – Children need to learn how to work together with others, make friends, cooperate, and share.
After the year we’ve all had, there’s definitely a freedom to being outside, playing with your friends, and just spending time with nature. It’s more important than ever.
There are a lot of parents out there who prefer their kids to be outside playing games vs. toys, but I’ve combined my list to include both that are pretty interchangeable. While some of these ideas are for the littler ones, many of these toys are perfect for any age-and-stage, and some that can be played with the whole family. A little bonding time can go a long way.
Check out some of the best summer-approved outdoor toys and games in 2022. Now get out there!
1. Glow in the Dark Capture the Flag
STARLUX GAMES
Ages: 8+
Number of Players: 4 – 10
It was one of their favorite games to play in gym class back in the day and now they can play the glow-in-the-dark version of capture the flag. It comes with 25 different light-up games pieces and has 12 different games you can play. Not only will this get them outside running, jumping, and hiding, but it can also be played at night – which is actually way more fun.
2. 350 Rapid Fill Water Balloons
BUNCH-O-BALLOONS
Ages: 4+
Number of Players: 2 – 10
I was always told that a balloon is not a toy, but when you can fill up 100 of them in just 60 seconds, these water balloons actually become the perfect summer toy. This starter pack comes with 350 colorful balloons, where they come wrapped as 10 bunches so your hose can fill them in no time. It’ll get them running, playing, and just having so much fun in the sun. Who doesn’t love a water balloon fight?
3. Classic Cornhole Set
GOSPORTS
Ages: 8+
Number of Players: 2 – 6
Cornhole is always fun, especially when the entire family can get involved or other friends from the neighborhood. This rustic inspired set comes with 8 all-weather bags, 2 cornhole boards that are UV and water resistant. Just keep in mind that even though it’s water resistant, don’t leave these outside especially if it’s going to rain.
4. The Toy Rocket Launcher
MOTOWORX
Ages: 3+
Number of Players: 1 – 2
When you’re in the safety of your own backyard, a rocket launcher is always a good idea. This one even made our annual toy awards list, mainly because kids can use this one for hours trying to see who can launch their rocket the highest. It can shoot up to 100 feet into the air and this set comes with 8 colorful foam rockets.
5. Glitter Sidewalk Chalk
CRAYOLA
Ages: 4+
Number of Players: 1 – 5
I love taking things back to basics and nothing brings out their creativity and their imagination more than sidewalk chalk. A modern twist on a classic, this colorful chalk is glittery, comes as a five-pack, and contains fun colors like pink, yellow, orange, blue, and green. They’ll love adding a little sparkle to the driveway, sidewalk, and more. Don’t worry, it all washes away.
6. The 3-in-1 Splash Pad For Kids
SPLASHEZ
Ages: 12-months+
Number of Players: 1 – 3
When you want them moving a bit, but still staying cool in that summer sun, you can’t go wrong with this cute 3-in-1 sprinkler splash pad. This one is definitely more for the really little ones, but if you’re looking for more of an actual pool we’ve got those here.
7. The Foam Target Shooting Toy Game
SPRING FLOWER
Ages: 6+
Number of Players: 2+
Let them get their target practice in with this fun foam shooting game that comes with 2 foam poppers that can shoot up to 20 feet and 24 blue/green foam balls you use to try to fit your targets. Setting the target up only takes about 5 minutes (or less) and provides hours of fun. This is also a great option if they just want to play by themselves.
8. The Big Dig Sandbox Digger
BIG DIG
Ages: 3+
Number of Players: 1
Got a sandbox or just some dirt in the yard? They’ll have a blast using their imaginations thinking they’re digging up major dirt pits just like the pros do! This digger has 360-degree rotation, can dig up to 15-inches deep, and can fully extend to 33-inches.
9. The Outdoor Ring Toss Game
ELITE SPORTZ
Ages: 4+
Number of Players: 2
I still love a ring toss! But this one is geared more towards the kids, even though us adults can join in on the fun. This one helps with hand-eye coordination, turn-taking skills, and good sportsmanship. Regardless, it’s just plain old fun and brings the back to basics.
10. The Bubble Wand Set
BANGCOOL
Ages: 2+
Number of Players: 1 – 9
Is it even summer if you’re not outside blowing bubbles? Take your bubble making to the next level with this 9-piece wand set. They make large and fun bubbles in all different shapes, patterns, and sizes. See who can make the biggest bubbles in the coolest shapes. Then chase them around and pop ’em!