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Summer is a wonderful time for toddlers to explore and have fun outdoors. Aside from just letting your toddler run free outside, you might be looking for creative and engaging activities to keep your little one entertained during the sunny days. Here I have compiled a list of easy and fun activities to do with your toddler outside this summer!
1. Water Play Fun
Set up a mini water park in your backyard with things like a small kiddie pool, water table, sprinklers, or a splash pad. Toddlers love splashing around and staying cool in the water. You can also add some non-toxic bubble bath solution for extra bubbly fun.
Don’t forget some water toys for endless splashy fun! Our favorites include:
Magnetic Fishing Rod with Sea Animals
Wrist Water Squirt Gun – Perfect for toddlers!
2. Nature Scavenger Hunt
Explore the outdoors in a different way by taking your toddler on a nature scavenger hunt! Create a list of items (with or without pictures) for them to find, such as flowers, leaves, rocks, and insects. This activity not only encourages exploration but also teaches them about the natural world. This idea is so versatile, you could stick to exploring your backyard or you could go to your local park and scout it out there! This is a fun one that you can do again and again and will always uncover something different and unique.
3. Picnic in the Park
Pack a picnic basket with toddler-friendly snacks and head to the nearest park for a relaxing outdoor meal or snack. Bring a blanket, some toys, or books, and enjoy a leisurely afternoon under the shade of a tree. It’s a great way for toddlers to socialize and enjoy the fresh air. After lunch head to your local playground so your tot can get out some extra energy! Bring another mom friend and make it a play date for even more fun.
4. Outdoor Art
Let your toddler unleash their creativity with sidewalk chalk art. Use colorful chalks to draw shapes, animals, and hopscotch grids on the sidewalk or driveway. This activity is not only fun but also helps with fine motor skills development.
If you don’t have a place to color with chalk, don’t worry! Your toddler can still unleash their inner artist outdoors. Try bringing a standing art easel outside and watch your child paint, use dry-erase markers, or color on the chalkboard that comes with it! This is a great investment for indoors and outdoors alike. Encourage your child to create art by being inspired by what is around them. This is a creative activity for any season.
5. DIY Bubble Station
Create a DIY bubble station using a large bucket filled with bubble solution and various bubble wands. Toddlers will have a blast blowing bubbles and chasing them around the yard. You can also add some music for a bubbly dance party. This is an excellent idea if you are having a get-together with multiple children! Watch the growing smiles on their faces and listen to their laughter ringing out with this awesome idea.
If bubbles for one is what you are looking for, I can’t recommend Fubbles enough. Gone are the days of your toddler spilling the bubbles all over! These refillable bubbles are a must-have for every toddler in my eyes.
6. Gardening Together
Get your toddler involved in gardening by planting some easy-to-grow flowers or vegetables in pots or a small garden patch. Let them water the plants and watch them grow over the summer. It’s a hands-on learning experience that fosters a love for nature. The best part is experiencing the awe they have as they harvest their items! A memory you will share together and never forget.
7. Outdoor Storytime
Set up a cozy outdoor reading nook with a blanket or mat and a basket of your toddler’s favorite books. Enjoy storytime together under a shady tree or on the porch. You can also make it interactive by acting out parts of the story, especially if the book you are reading takes place outdoors! This is a simple idea that will be much more fun for your toddler than you could ever imagine.
8. Sensory Play with Sand and Shells
Bring the beach to your home! Invest in a sandbox or toddler sensory table and encourage sensory play by letting your toddler dig in the sand and collect shells or toys. It’s a tactile experience that stimulates their senses.
Some great toys to provide endless fun in the sand include:
John Deere Dump Truck Toy and Tractor Toy with Loader
Learning Resources Helping Hands Sensory Scoops – Love this one!
The Big Dig Sandbox Digger Excavator Crane – Super fun for older toddlers!
9. Outdoor Music and Dance Party
If your toddler is anything like mine, they love to boogey! Put together a playlist of upbeat songs and have a dance party with your toddler in the backyard. Use instruments like shakers or tambourines for added musical fun. It’s a great way to bond and burn off some energy.
10. Stargazing Campout
On a clear summer night, pitch a tent in your backyard or set up a makeshift fort with blankets and pillows. Lie down together and gaze at the stars, pointing out constellations and listening to night sounds. It’s a magical way to end a summer day.
Years ago we got this kid’s camping set for my niece and they have had numerous campouts with this set! She even uses it now beyond the toddler years. It is an exciting and fun way to experience nature after the sun goes down. Don’t forget to complete the experience by catching lightening bugs and making smores!
Summertime is so fun and these activities for toddlers are not only enjoyable but also promote learning, creativity, and outdoor exploration. Remember to prioritize safety by applying sunscreen, staying hydrated, and supervising your little one during outdoor play.
What are some of your favorite outdoor summer activities to do with your toddler?
XOXO,
Katie
