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Outdoor play provides a lot of fun in addition to much-needed physical exercise for children. Playing outside lets your children interact with their friends and indulge in creative camaraderie. Buying the best outdoor playsets for toddlers is a great way to keep them engaged. If they are bored of the same activities every time they play, these playsets can help them find new games and activities.
The best outdoor playsets for toddlers will have creative tasks that let your little one apply their curiosity and imagination in a game-like environment. Read along to discover the best-selling outdoor playsets from trusted brands.
Top Picks
Benefits Of Outdoor Playsets For Toddlers
- Exercise
Outdoor playsets offer much-needed exercise to your child. Activities like climbing, swinging, jumping, and sliding can help improve endurance and build muscles. When children play outdoors with these sets, they also get a dose of vitamin D from the sunlight, which is beneficial to their health. The fresh air provides a boost of energy and revitalizes your kids, making outdoor playsets worth the investment.
- Motor skills
Children also tend to learn how to play with the sets while it boosts their motor skills and hand-eye coordination. While playing in a group, children can also pick up on social cues like taking turns and sharing with others.
15 Best Outdoor Playsets For Toddlers
1. Best For Motor Skills:Creativity For Kids Construction Zone Playset
Image: Fabercastell Enhance your children’s creative skills with the Construction Zone playset by Creativity For Kids. It includes a sandbox filled with brightly colored tools, sand, and smooth-edged sand toys, allowing children to dig, scoop, sort, and play with their hands and offering new sensory inputs. You can make their playtime and pretend games more fun by encouraging them to count the toys, name them, identify their colors, or make up stories about the toys. Suitable for ages three and up, these toys can mold children’s imagination and boost their confidence.
Pros
- Improves motor skills
- Enhances social engagement and problem-solving skills
- Promotes cognitive development
- Available in multiple themes
Cons
- Some pieces might be smaller than expected
- Sand may develop an odor over time
"Captivated by the different sensory inputs this playset offers, my children can spend hours playing with it. While its filler quantity could have been more, the box-style container has made storage and maintenance a breeze."
Did you know?2. Best 350 Degree-Rotating:Trekassy Saucer Tree Swing For Kids
Image: Trekassy Whether you are planning to set indoor or outdoor playsets for kids, this option is for you. Made to resemble a saucer, this large and sturdy toddler swing is made of high-quality steel and fabrics that are durable. Thanks to the strong ropes, you can hang the saucer swing either at one point for a 360-degree rotation or make it move back and forth like a swing. This classic backyard staple comes with a set of instructions that are easy to follow and hanging straps that help in adjusting the height. Here’s a video featuring a detailed review of the parent-recommended swing set.
Pros
- Spacious platform
- UV-resistant fabric
- Reinforced webbing for extra stability
- Includes tree strap
- Load capacity of up to 66lb
- Includes all necessary hardware
Cons
- Colors may fade with prolonged sun exposure
- May not be easy to assemble
3. Best Polyester:PigPigPen KidsTunnel For Toddlers
Is your child geared up for another adventure? This time, they are going in a tunnel! Made of durable polyester and safe stitching for children, this tunnel is exciting and fun to play in. Your child can now play hide-and-seek, peekaboo, or simply chase others in the tunnel. This high-quality piece can help your child identify colors and develop grasping skills as well as arm and leg muscles. Since children love to imagine things, they can stimulate their creative juices by making up a story around the tunnel. It’s easy to set up, dismantle, and store, and even comes with a bag for easy portability. Ideal for your home, daycare, and backyard fun, this tunnel is a must-buy for your little one. This video will help you understand the backyard playset better.
Pros
- Pop-up tube design
- Vibrant colors
- Easy to clean
- Mesh material
- Extendable design
Cons
- Metal rings might hurt the knees when crawling
- Thin fabric may be easy to tear
"As it's roomy, my child does not feel suffocated even when he crawls in it for a long time. Its vibrant colors even have our cat interested in it. Moreover, it folds easily despite being long; hence, I like carrying it to parks too."
4. Best No-Assembly:Intex Jungle Adventure Inflatable Play Center
Image: Intex Does your child like to play with water? This inflatable pool features a slide and animals such as alligators and a flamingo that easily fit into the pool. Made of high-quality PVC, it has built-in sprayers that you can connect to a garden hose. To make sure that your child is never bored, the feature-packed pool includes a ring toss game, a water slide, and five balls to play with! The pool can take up to 130 gallons of water at full capacity. To drain the water, pull out the plug from the floor of the pool. Until that time, your child will never be deprived of fun. Check out a detailed review of the time-tested classic backyard staple in this video.
Pros
- Colorful and attractive design
- Dual pools
- Padded landing mat
- Spacious pool
- Has a weight limit of 178lb
Cons
- Multiple inflating spots may make it hard to set up
- Might deflate over time
"Filling up this pool takes some time, but how it keeps my son entertained always makes me forget that hassle. Its add-ons are also quite fun, especially the swan and alligator floaties. Overall, it's been a fun way to reduce my son�s screen time during the summer."
5. Best UV-Resistant:Simplay3 Young Explorers Adventure Climber
Image: Simplay3 Whether you plan to introduce your children to the world of colors or just want them to have fun, this safety-tested playset is for you. This imaginative play option consists of a ladder and slide with a steering wheel attached to the dashboard of the playset. While children play with the wheel and imitate driving a vehicle, their motor skills and hand-eye coordination sharpen along with their muscles by crawling in and out or climbing the stairs.
Pros
- UV-resistant
- Easy-grip hand and foot holds
- Extra-wide slide
- Ideal for kids in preschool
- Durable double wall construction
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Meets CPSIA safety standards
Cons
- May be smaller than the expected size
- Some may find the instructions vague
6. Best For Imagination:ECR4Kids Peek-A-Boo Caterpillar
This playset is a brightly colored caterpillar that can be assembled and set up either indoors or outdoors. Whether your child is in daycare, at home, or even in preschool, this toy perfectly blends into the atmosphere, making it an apt playset. Children can crawl into one side of the caterpillar and come out from the other, enjoying some exercise while sharpening their motor skills. Through this playset, you can motivate your child to roleplay, as it can do wonders for their imagination and creativity. You can also teach your kids basic social skills, such as waiting for their turn, using the playset.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Vibrant colors
- Weather- and fade-resistant
- Ideal for children aged two to four years
- Rounded edges for safety
Cons
- Caterpillar head may be flimsy
"I have placed this caterpillar toy in my yard, yet it has shown no signs of fading or cracking. My kids love its purple hue and use the little cutouts to crawl through it. It's also proven durable enough to withstand rough handling and two house moves."
7. Best Child-Friendly:Simplay3 Young Explorers Indoor/Outdoor Discovery Playhouse
Image: Simplay3 Made to look like a real treehouse, this child-friendly playhouse is loaded with ramps, steps, mail slots, and plastic cooking utensils. Specially built for young explorers and adventure enthusiasts, your child can crawl, climb, and look outside. An excellent option for playing pretend games, this playhouse boosts creativity and provides a lot of exercise to the arms and legs. The set is brightly colored to blend with the background, be it indoors or outdoors. Since this toy treehouse is designed with round edges keeping in mind the safety standards laid down by CPSIA and ASTM, it is safe and fun to play with.
Pros
- UV-resistant
- Easy to move
- Easy-grip foot and hand holds
- Double-wall construction
- Weather-resistant
- Durable option
Cons
- May not be easy to assemble
- May require adult supervision
"The best part about this playset is its smooth foot and hand holds that offer peace of mind when my kids play on it. Its design is also attractive, and the modular form allows them to explore to their heart's content. Building it, however, required some patience."
8. Best Skin-Friendly:Bundaloo Inflatable Seesaw Rocker
When children go to a park to play, they usually use the slide, merry-go-round, and see-saw. What if you could let them see-saw from the comfort of your home? This inflatable playset made of high-quality PVC requires two children to play and guarantees loads of fun. Wondering how to assemble this high-quality piece? Very simple! Simply roll out the see-saw, inflate it with air, and there you go! To pack it up, simply deflate the air, flatten it, and store it someplace safe. The see-saw comes with two handles for the children to hold on to, and thanks to its safety and stability, you can now watch your children immerse themselves in endless fun.
Pros
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor play
- Puncture-resistant
- Compact option
- Skin-friendly
- Backrest for extra support
- Soft and comfortable seat
Cons
- May not be bouncy enough
- Inflating it can be time consuming
Quick fact9. Best Durable:Step2 All Around Playtime Patio With Canopy
Image: Step2 The Step2 all-around playtime patio playset with canopy is designed to make your children’s backyard play sessions more exciting and interactive. The open-pavilion style playset is made of durable materials, measures 60 x 47.5 x 47.5 inches, and includes a 16-piece accessory kit with a mesh accessory bag for easy storage. Loved by many reviewers, this 360-degree playset is playable from every side and features a grilling and snacking station that allows your little ones to explore role-playing and enjoy mealtime with their friends. The backyard playset also includes a molded-in sink where children can wash dishes and a sand and water oasis to engage your child in hours of fun activities.
Pros
- Sturdy double-wall plastic construction
- Easy to wipe clean
- Encourages interactive play
- Has a canopy for protection from the harsh sun rays
- Improves social, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Suitable for multiple children to play simultaneously
Cons
- Installation process may take longer than expected
"I had to use some tools but could assemble this set independently. It is also large enough to accommodate all my children. Besides, its open design allows ample ventilation, and the little grill and sand play area have been fun and educational."
10. Best For Balance:Bobike Kids Climbing Rope Tree Swing
This is a fully adjustable polythene rope that can be attached to a tree. Swinging or rocking is a leisurely activity that can put babies to sleep and encourage adults to unwind and relax. Children using this rope to climb and swing around are assured of all the fun and excitement that follows. Playing with this swing set will help your child improve their balance, strength, and coordination. The rope features a disc that can be used as a seat to help kids swing. The entire swing is made of materials that meet ASTM safety standards, making them safe to use. Simply mount it onto a sturdy tree branch, and you are good to go.
Pros
- Smooth-edged disc
- Has a load capacity of up to 440lb
- Five-foot long rope
- Easy to grip
- Sturdy rope
Cons
- Bottom disc may feel less sturdy
- May require adult supervision
"This swing set is quite popular among my children and their friends. Its firm seat and thick rope allow them to play safely. It calls for a few adjustments, such as shortening the length of the rope, during installation."
11. Best Safari-Themed:Step2 Safari Truck Climber
Image: Step2 Encourage children to explore the wild and learn about flora and fauna. This time-tested climber resembles a truck with a slide on its back where your little ones can climb, crawl, and slide to their heart’s content. It’s designed such that multiple children can play on it at the same time. The oversized wheels, binoculars mounted on the top, safari-themed colors, and open rooftop resemble an actual safari vehicle. Right from role plays and motor skills to physical skills and critical thinking, this playset guarantees tons of learning and development for your children.
Pros
- Large platform
- Realistic details
- Easy to assemble
- BPA-free and VOC-free
- Free of phthalates
- Sturdy and stable structure
Cons
- May require additional drilling
- May not include all the necessary hardware
"The lack of pre-drilled holes made assembly tricky, but its realistic design has won me and my kids over. Its oversized wheels even prevent it from toppling when my kids try to climb in it and try to drive it. Plus, the option to wipe it has helped me keep it from holding onto dust and stains."
12. Cute Stone Kids Gardening Tool Set:Step2 Best Chef’s Kitchen Set for Kids
Image: Step2 Step2 brings an adorable 25-piece kitchen set for your little curiosity-filled chefs at home. This set provides them with a realistic experience of cooking and using basic kitchen appliances. It includes a large countertop, refrigerator, oven, coffee maker, and many more accessories to give children a sense of independence and encourage them to interact with the people around them. The durable and all-inclusive kitchen set is easy to clean and has an electric stovetop that makes bubbling and sizzling noises to create an immersive play experience for the child.
Pros
- Made of double-walled plastic
- Chip- and fade-resistant colors
- Enhances motor skills and critical thinking
- Battery-powered stove
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Base might be slightly wobbly
Might be smaller than expected
"My little cooking enthusiast was thrilled to receive this set as a birthday present. Its lights, sounds, and other interactive features have only added to his excitement. I find it a bit tricky to change its batteries, but that is a minor hassle compared to the imaginative play it facilitates."
13. Best Wooden:Little Tikes Real Wood Adventures Bobcat Bridge
Image: Little Tikes This spacious playset is a feature-packed option that can accommodate up to 12 children at once. It has a multi-tiered clubhouse with relaxing sunshades that can be used by children for their favorite activities, such as stargazing. The rock climbing wall, monkey bars, wooden swing set, and cargo net ensure countless hours of fun while giving their bodies some much-needed exercise. The swings are made to suit children of all ages, and the sunshades on this playset can be changed accordingly to make space for relaxing too. This playset assures maximum safety as it is ASTM-certified.
Pros
- Made of wood
- Promotes active play
- Wide range of activities
- Easy-access slide
- Built-in picnic table
- Sturdy and durable
Cons
- Some hardware could be missing
- Multiple parts make it hard to assemble
"Assembling this playset required hours of commitment, but the final structure is very stable and sturdy. Besides, the range of play options, such as the swing, climber, and slide, have turned my backyard into a mini theme park. Thus, it gets a thumbs up from me!"
14. Best Recyclable:Lydaz Bubble Lawn Mower
Image: Loomini Give your child the experience of mowing in a fun way with the Lydaz bubble lawn mower. It is designed to blow the bubbles automatically with realistic sounds as your child mows. The mower features a flexible handle and textured wheels for easy operation, and it works on three AA batteries and starts at a button’s press. The mower encourages pretend play, and the bright colors keep children engaged. It includes three bubble sticks and three bubble solution bottles to add more fun to the play.
Pros
- Recyclable
- Suitable for 18 months and above
- Lightweight
- Easy to assemble and disassemble
Cons
- May leak slightly
- Some parts may be flimsy
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product boasts 21,898 reviews on Amazon, and many buyers have said they would purchase the product again.
15. Best For Roleplay:ECR4Kids Buccaneer Boat
Image: Ecr 4kids Is your child ready to explore the seven seas? It’s time to board the ECR4Kids Buccaneer Pirate Play Boat and set sail. This is a brightly colored playset made to look like a boat. Suitable for imaginative play and roleplay in schools and daycare centers, the set delivers all the fun that your little ones need. You can use it to teach them the different types of colors on this boat, thereby stimulating their color identification and learning abilities. Since this playset is certified by Greenguard for minimal chemical emissions, it is not only fun but also safe to use.
Pros
- Weather- and fade-resistant
- Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
- Realistic nautical details
- Tool-free installation
- Suitable for group play
- Budget-friendly option
Cons
- Might need anchoring for safety
- May not be highly sturdy
How To Choose The Right Children’s Outdoor Playsets?
Keep the following points in mind when choosing outdoor playsets for children.
- Age: You have to choose a playset suitable for children of a particular age range to enhance the child’s excitement and engagement during playtime. Playsets for children belonging to younger ages are designed to be more basic with simple structures, whereas older children tend to have structures that take a longer time to set up. Whichever age your child belongs to, adult supervision while they play is always essential.
- Materials: Choose a playset made from materials that are safe for children. Right from the nuts and bolts to the kind of paint, how a toy is made plays an important role in deciding the safety of the children. It is not advisable to choose playsets that have paints leaving an odor. Similarly, you have to choose options that don’t have blunt edges as it helps in minimizing the risk of getting injured.
- Space: Many playsets are compatible with both the indoors and outdoors. However, deciding where to place it depends on the space you need to set it up. While setting up an outdoor playset, ensure there’s enough room for kids by removing any stones or sharp objects and covering the space with grass. Similarly, while setting up an indoor playset, you have to ensure there is a dedicated space for the same.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What ages are outdoor playsets for?
Some outdoor sets, such as adventure playhouses, are meant for kids between 18 months to 6 years, while others, such as tree swings, are suitable for children three years old and above. Parental supervision is recommended, irrespective of the age limit.
2. Are outdoor playsets worth it?
Yes, sturdy and safe outdoor playsets are worth it, as they enhance the child’s motor skills and kinesthetic experience, serve as an antidote to a sedentary lifestyle and excessive screen time, and inculcate a spirit of challenge in them (1).
3. How long do outdoor playsets last?
The durability of outdoor playsets depends on two factors — the materials used and the amount of rough play they are put through. Sets constructed with UV-resistant and weather-resistant plastic last longer than their unseasoned wooden counterparts. In general, these sets could last a couple of years.
4. Are outdoor playsets safe?
Sturdy outdoor playsets made of non-toxic plastic and burr-free smooth surfaces are safe for children. However, always adhere to the weight limit recommended by the manufacturer for a safer experience.
Why Trust MomJunction?
Specializing in kids’ products, Priti Bose ensures that her well-researched articles give readers just what they need for their children. She researched numerous trusted platforms for each product’s detail and customer feedback to compile a list of the finest outdoor playsets for toddlers. All of the listed playsets have detailed descriptions, along with the benefits of outdoor play and a shopping guide to assist you in selecting the best outdoor playset.
Getting your toddler the best outdoor playsets can steer them away from electronic devices and allow them to be physically more active. Not only does it keep them engaged for hours, but it also improves hand-eye coordination, boosts motor skills, and is a fun way to utilize your outdoor space. When choosing the ideal toddler outdoor playset, ensure it is age-appropriate and can effortlessly hold your child’s weight. You can also select ones made from kid-friendly materials without blunt edges, minimizing the risk of accidents. Besides this, always ensure that there is sufficient space that is dedicated to setting up your toddler’s outdoor playset.
Infographic: Safety Rules To Follow When Using Outdoor Playsets
While outdoor playsets are beneficial for promoting healthy and liberating childhood experiences, they do come with their fair share of risks if not used properly. It’s important to follow some basic rules to reduce the risk of accidental injuries while playing. Check out the following infographic to learn more.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- A Young Child’s Perspectives On Outdoor Play:
https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1108378.pdf
