We all know that spending time outside is good for our children. So, many parents try to take their kids to the park or for a bike ride. The problem is there is not always enough time available to do this as much as you would like. So, you have to do what you can to encourage your kids to go outside and play on their own more. A great way of doing that is buying them toys that are more suited for playing with outdoors than inside. Here are a few suggestions.
Radio-controlled toys
Potentially, kids can play with radio-controlled cars, robots, and trucks inside the house, but they are a lot more fun when they are used outdoors. As you can see here, you do not have to spend a fortune to buy one. If there is a boating lake near you or you have a paddling pool in the garden, radio-controlled boats and submarines are a fantastic option.
Bikes
Provided you are comfortable with letting your children go out riding on their own, buying them a bike is a fantastic way to encourage them to get more exercise. If it is their first bike, consider buying a second-hand one. This is a good way to make sure that they will actually use it. Once you know that they will, you can buy a more expensive one.
Scooters
Kick scooters are another option. Provided you teach your children the proper etiquette they can ride them in parks and potentially on un-crowded pavements, as well. That is great news because it keeps them off the road.
If you do decide to buy them, I suggest you take a look at this article. It includes 7 really practical tips that you can use to make sure that your child has a good time without hurting themselves or others while riding a micro scooter.
Solo ball games
Kids love ball games, which is why they play so much football, cricket, catch, and rounders. The only problem with these games is that you need at least two people, often more to really be able to play them. This is fine for big families; someone is always likely to be up for a kick around. If you are a smaller family unit consider installing a basketball ring or getting a swing ball pole. That way they can play solo if necessary.
A trampoline or pool
If you have sufficient space, set up a trampoline or swing. Kids will play on these for hours. In the summer months, once your kids are old enough a plastic pool can be a great addition to your garden.
Teach your children some traditional games
Teaching your kids how to play hopscotch, jacks or marbles can also help. These games can be played indoors or out, but most children naturally gravitate to playing them outside. To encourage this type of play, all you need to do is to set aside a small smooth area of path or driveway that they can use.
If you have enjoyed this toy-themed article, why not take at some of my to toy review articles. Over the years, we have reviewed loads just click here to read some of them.
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Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.
Yes, my kids super love ball games, especially football. We’re lucky since I have 4 boys and they mostly play together.
Thank you also for the reminder. I badly need to get a new basketball post.