Fun Outdoor Activities For Toddlers

Anyone that has stayed inside for an entire weekend with a toddler knows that it’s not a great idea. Toddlers have endless amounts of energy. So, if you don’t want them to be bouncing off the walls, you’re going to want to head outside to burn it off. But, just what should you do outside? Read on for a few ideas.

The Art Of The Tricycle

Not every toddler will be able to ride a tricycle. The level of coordination required to pedal can actually be too much for a lot of two-year-olds. That said, at some point during toddlerhood, a lot of kids do get the hang of it. Once they do, this activity can be both a great way to get some exercise and a wonderful way to get around town. Some tricycles have a handle in the back for parents to push. These are particularly nice since they give toddlers a chance to practice balancing and steering, even before they are able to pedal.

Go For A Hike

Hiking is great exercise for parents and toddlers alike. While a lot of adults enjoy getting outside and experiencing nature, the experience is even more amazing for toddlers. For young children, hiking is truly an adventure and a way to explore the world. They are likely to see all kinds of new plants, trees, rocks, and animals that they have never seen before. One word of advice though, it can be a good idea to bring a carrier. While toddlers may start out with a lot of enthusiasm, those little legs do get tired after a while.

Swim At A Pool Or A Beach

If you have access to a pool or a beach, you will want to take advantage of it. While most toddlers aren’t able to swim on their own, they are certainly capable of splashing around as long as they have a floatation device on. If you go to the beach, not only will they get to play in the water, they will also get to run along the coast, and maybe even build a sand castle. If you don’t have access to a pool or a beach, a water table can be a great way to get outside and splash around when it’s warm out.

Wash The Car

Washing your car might seem like a chore, but it can actually be a ton of fun for toddlers. Hand them a rag and a bucket of soapy water, and they are sure to want to pitch in. Then, watch their eyes light up as you spray down the car with a hose to rinse it off. Now, you shouldn’t expect too much actual help from your little one. In fact, the task of washing the car will probably take twice as long with their assistance. But, it will also be twice as much fun.

Head To The Park

Parks can be a great family destination since there are all kinds of activities that you can do once you arrive. You can bring a ball to kick or throw around, or perhaps a kite to fly. Some parks also have slides, playgrounds, and other activities on site. You might even toss a couple of sandwiches, snacks, and beverages into a bag along with a blanket, and make a picnic while you’re there.

Final Thoughts

Getting outside to play is a great way for toddlers to get some exercise, and burn off some energy. This generally leads to them being happier during the day and tired when it’s time to go to sleep at night. The key is finding enough good activities to do outside so that you are able to keep things fresh and exciting. Hopefully, these ideas help a little.