Australia’s vast and diverse landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor play, fostering a sense of adventure and physical activity in children. In a world increasingly dominated by screens, encouraging kids to embrace the outdoors is crucial for their overall development. To make the most of nature’s playground, we’ve curated a list of the top 10 outdoor toys for kids, ensuring endless hours of fun, creativity, and active play.
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What Are Some Good Outdoor Toys for Kids?
As the home of some of the most stunning beaches and surf culture, the water and seaside are an enormous part of everyone’s life in Australia, including the youngest ones. It’s no wonder that some of the most entertaining kids’ outdoor toys are created for water play. Then, there are also the toys designed for developing motor skills, as well as educational toys that can be used to discover the great outdoors. You will also find out about the benefits of outdoor play.
Surfboards and Boogie Boards
Introducing kids to surfing early on not only promotes physical fitness but also instils a love for the ocean. Child-sized surfboards and boogie boards are perfect for beginners, allowing kids to catch waves and build confidence in the water. This is definitely one of kids outdoor toys Australia children will enjoy.
The main difference between a surfboard and a boogie board is that the former requires more balance and coordination while the latter allows for easier paddling and control. Both will provide hours of fun in the water, along with the opportunity to learn new skills. They’re made from durable materials such as foam or fibreglass, which can ultimately help kids become more comfortable with the water.
Water Play Toys
Given Australia’s warm climate, water play is a must. Invest in water guns, inflatable pools, water slides, or water balloons for hours of refreshing fun in the backyard. With these toys, your children will have a fantastic pool time all summer long. Water play not only keeps kids cool but also enhances sensory experiences and promotes social interaction.
Inflatables, in particular, are certainly some of the most popular kids’ outdoor toys Australia has to offer. They’re imaginative, interactive, and can be easily set up with minimal effort. Plus, they’re often customised to suit different age groups, ranging from more simple options for toddlers to elaborate obstacle courses for older kids.
For those learning to swim, pool noodles and floaties are fantastic water play toys that provide additional buoyancy and support. With these, children can confidently explore the water and begin to develop their swimming skills. You could even go for animal-inspired floaties, such as a cute unicorn or fierce shark, to make the experience more fun.
If you add water slides into the mix, you’ve got a winner! They’re not only fun but also provide an excellent opportunity for kids to learn balance and coordination. They normally feature a stable base and a smooth slide, ensuring hours of safe and slippery fun.
As for water guns, they’re not only great for keeping kids entertained but can also be used to promote teamwork and communication. Some of the more advanced models even come with adjustable nozzles and multiple spraying options, encouraging strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
Kites
With wide-open spaces and breezy conditions, Australia is an ideal location for flying kites. Whether it’s a simple single-string kite or an elaborate stunt kite, children can experience the thrill of watching their creations dance in the sky. Kite flying promotes coordination and patience while connecting kids with the elements.
Climbing Frames and Playsets
Encourage the development of motor skills and imaginative play with climbing frames and playsets. From basic backyard structures to more elaborate setups with slides and swings, these toys provide endless entertainment while fostering physical strength, balance, and social skills.
Bikes and Scooters
Exploring the outdoors becomes an exciting adventure with bikes and scooters. Australia’s many bike paths and parks offer the perfect setting for kids to ride, promoting cardiovascular health, coordination, and a sense of independence. Don’t forget the importance of safety gear like helmets and knee pads.
Outdoor Trampolines
This is undoubtedly one of the most well-liked kids’ outdoor toys. Jumping on a trampoline is not only exhilarating but also an excellent way for kids to burn off energy. Outdoor trampolines come in various sizes and shapes, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for children to engage in active play while improving balance and coordination.
Nature Exploration Kits
Australia’s unique flora and fauna offer endless opportunities for nature exploration. Nature exploration kits equipped with magnifying glasses, bug catchers, and field guides encourage kids to discover the wonders of the great outdoors, fostering a love for wildlife and environmental awareness.
Outdoor Art Supplies
Bring out the artist in your child with outdoor art supplies. Chalk, watercolour paints, and large canvases provide a creative outlet while allowing kids to enjoy the beauty of nature. Sidewalk chalk, in particular, offers a canvas for vibrant and temporary masterpieces.
Why Is It Important for Children to Play Outdoors?
Playing is a fundamental aspect of a child’s life that offers numerous developmental benefits, and when it’s done in nature and with fun kids’ outdoor toys, it comes with a whole lot of benefits. Research has shown that children who engage in outdoor play are more likely to exhibit physical, social, and cognitive advantages.
These advantages are not only essential for their current well-being but also contribute to their long-term development. Exploring the outdoors allows children to encounter new challenges and solve problems independently. They learn to adapt to different environments, navigate obstacles, and make decisions, fostering a sense of independence and self-confidence.
Outdoor toys and play expose children to fresh air and natural sunlight, which can help improve their immune systems, sleep patterns, and overall health. Activities such as running, jumping, climbing, and playing sports and games are vital for developing motor skills and coordination.
Being outdoors provides opportunities for sensory experiences, as children interact with different textures, temperatures, and natural elements. This stimulation enhances their sensory perception and cognitive development. Spending time outdoors can reduce stress and anxiety in children. The natural environment, with its calming sights, sounds, and smells, has a soothing effect, promoting emotional well-being and mental health.
