Patio Season, Part 2 : Kids’ Outdoor Essentials
Welcome back! If you loved our Part 1 post on Patio Entertaining Essentials, you're in for a treat. In this follow-up, we're highlighting the best outdoor essentials to keep the kids entertained. Whether you're making memories with your littles, entertaining the grandkids, or giving the kids some precious outdoor playtime while you garden or catch up with friends, these picks are guaranteed to provide hours of summer fun!
As lovers of patio time, you can bet these items are tried, tested, and kid + parent-approved! Read on for details and tips on how to extend the play and make the most of the real happy hours this patio season.
1 - Step2 Rain Showers Water Table
If your toddler loves water and you only buy one thing for outdoor entertainment, make it a water table! We had this less expensive version which was great, but if I’d known how many years the water table would continue to be our son’s favorite, I would have sprung for this Step2 with all the bells and whistles!
2. Green Toys Construction Vehicles
Oh how I love Green Toys! We just passed our collection on, meaning it lasted us a good 5 summers (even being stored outdoors year-round in Colorado) and was still going strong. Pro Tip: When these get dirty, create a “car wash” with two shallow bins (one for washing, one for rinsing), a little dish soap, a sponge, and an old toothbrush to occupy your kid(s) for hours!
Our wonderful neighbors passed down their Zupapa Trampoline after years of use by their three boys, and it's still in fantastic shape. Our son LOVES it, and it's the best outlet for his boundless energy. Even my husband and I find ourselves joining in on the fun!
These sand art kits are so much fun for playdates! Be the cool parents who let their kids + friends make a mess with sand…but do it outside where cleanup will be a breeze.
5. Backyard Discovery Modern Outdoor Playhouse
We have the unpainted version but if the white one had been around when we purchased it, I definitely would have snatched it up! We’re just getting ready to pass this on as our 7-year-old has announced he’s too old for it. Sniff. It provided so many years of imaginative play and is just so darn cute, that it’s hard to let go of! It comes with pots, pans, and utensils perfect for mud pies and is even more adorable when you add some flowerpots! This makes a great gift idea for the grandparents.
Just purchased these a few weeks ago, and so far so good! With great reviews, I'm hopeful they'll last more than one summer, unlike the less expensive ones. Pro Tip: Use a plastic 10-gallon bucket for easy refilling, so the kids can stay in the action without needing adult assistance.
Crayola’s sidewalk chalk is so vibrant and comes in fun varieties like this glitter as well as tie-dye and neon. If the novelty wears off, just add water! Soaking a stick of chalk turns it into a paint-like tool for even more creative fun.
Before water guns took over, these bubble blasters were our go-to! They can provide hours of fun…just make sure to stock up on extra bubble solution to keep the party going!
A true American classic, cornhole is great for all ages! It might start as a game for adults, but once the kids hit grade school, expect some serious competition. It’s the perfect sure-to-please activity for family gatherings and barbecues.
10. Little Tikes First Slip and Slide
This simple slide has been a favorite for years. When our son was younger we’d move it indoors during the winter, but now it’s strictly an outdoor toy. At 7 he doesn’t slide down it anymore, but it’s become a key part of obstacle courses, car races, and ball games!
We had this one for years and it was a family fav! You can adjust the spray height by turning the hose up or down, making it suitable for all ages. Combine it with the slide above during the toddler years for a winning combo…and hours of giggles and fun!
This stomp rocket is another no-fail option that entertains kids of all ages! It’s been our go-to gift and a summer staple for years. The light-up feature adds a magical touch for extended evening play!
This was a gift years ago that was an instant hit. We love having contests to see how far our planes can fly, making it a fun and competitive activity that has stood the test of time in our house!
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