Get little warriors moving (and tire them out) with these 10 clever obstacle courses for kids. Participants will break a sweat and the best part? Each one of these DIY obstacle courses can be easily set up inside or in the backyard. From an all-star athlete adventure to easy sidewalk chalk, it’ll be hard to pick just one. On your mark, get set, go!

indoor obstacle course for kids
Hands On As We Grow

1. Learning Letters DIY Obstacle Course

Easy as A-B-C! From teaching the alphabet to math problems, kids can learn on the move with this studious obstacle course designed for kids from Hands on as We Grow

2. All-Star Obstacle Course

Whether your little sports star loves to dribble the ball or take free throw shots, this DIY obstacle course deserves a trophy. Find a big bucket and beach balls (easy on furniture!), and you're good to go. Get the details for this sporty idea over at My Big Happy Life.

obstacle course for kids using hula hoops
Be a Fun Mum

3. Circus Obstacle Course

Get ready for the big top! This one is good for a backyard obstacle course; with plenty of room, you can have a circus-themed DIY obstacle course. From jumping through hula hoops to feats on the balance beam, we’ve found plenty of ideas over at Be a Fun Mum

4. Hot Lava Obstacle Course

Look out for the lava! Whether it’s walking over cushions, a balance beam, or traversing a bench, your little explorers need to avoid the hot lava that’s oozing down from the giant volcano. Cruise over to Crumb Bums for directions on making this indoor obstacle course perfect for your adventurous crew.

girl on a bike going through an obstacle course for kids
iStock

5. Bike Obstacle Course

You'll need sports cones and sidewalk chalk to set up this simple tricycle obstacle course for your tiny tike. Create turnarounds and crazy eight loops and then draw chalk arrows (and other helpful suggestions) to keep your tot on track. Once you’ve mapped out the basics, it’s time to get creative. Put in ramps, a cardboard box tunnel or two, and maybe even a sprinkler. Run it as a relay between siblings if you’ve got multiple kids to entertain. Here are even more tricycle race ideas.

6. Sidewalk Chalk Obstacle Course

Grab a piece of colorful sidewalk chalk and give directions to jump, count, turn around, or do whatever your kid loves to do. Then simply draw a start and finish line and you're ready to go! This is perfect for the sidewalk out front or on a patio in the backyard. 

jingle bell obstacle course
Childhood 101

7. Don’t Disturb the Obstacles Course

You'll need to dig out those winter holiday decorations because they’re the centerpiece of this inventive obstacle course dreamed up by the creative minds at Childhood 101. As they make their way over, under, and around your tricky design, your normally noisy kiddos can’t make any sound here. 

8. Tape Obstacle Course

We’re crushing on this simple obstacle course for your crew, and not just because you can set it up as easily inside as you can outside. All you need is a roll of blue painter’s tape—create balance beams, squares to be jumped in or over, squiggly rivers that need crossing… the list is endless. Then it’s up to the competitors to travel safely around, over, between, and through all the imaginatively large obstacles you’ve laid out for them. 

summer bucket list ideas
Anton Darius via Unsplash

9. Glow-in-the-Dark Obstacle Course

If you buy glow sticks in bulk, you're in luck. Once the sun has set, lay out your sticks, creating glowing patches that require jumping, paths that need careful crossing, and even sticks that need to be collected. Then send your crew off and running. A few porch lights or flashlights can help them navigate things safely. 

10. Boot Camp Course

You don’t need to dig out fatigues for your kids to complete this army-inspired obstacle course. But you do need to think like a drill sergeant when you set it up. We’re talking tire ladders (or hula hoops) made for running, string suspended a couple of feet off the ground for crawling under, and boards made for balancing. Add in a few push-ups, jumping jacks, and “sir, yes, sir” along the way and you’ve got a challenging course for your sidekick to soldier through. 

 

 

 

Acts of kindness can be small gestures or big efforts, and they’re all important

Kids are naturally compassionate, so why not take a few minutes today (and every day) to foster that inherent kindness? From simple gestures like giving up your seat on the bus to giving your kids’ teacher a “just because” gift, we’ve found over 75 simple acts of kindness that’ll allow you and the kids to pay it forward.

1. Offer to pick up groceries for an at-risk or elderly neighbor.

2. Compliment a stranger.

3. Collect your child’s old books that they no longer read and donate them to a children’s center, shelter, or local library.

4. Pay the bridge toll of the person behind you.

5. Bring flowers to a coworker or friend.

6. Carry someone’s groceries to their car for them.

7. Send a friend a positive text.

8. Ask a stranger how they are feeling today, and actually listen to the answer.

9.  Bake cookies and deliver them to the local fire or police station.

10. Leave a big tip for a server or delivery person.

11. Make sandwiches and distribute them to the homeless in your neighborhood.

12. Help a senior cross the street.

13. Give up your seat on the bus.

14. Deliver a meal or a potted plant to a random neighbor.

15. Make a kindness calendar with the kids!

kids crafting
iStock

Related: All the Ways Kindness Can Change Who a Kid Becomes

16. Donate dog or cat food to the local animal shelter (call to ask them what brands they need). Many shelters want and need old blankets and towels as well.

17. Send a postcard to someone you love, even if they live nearby (or in the same house!).

18. Make a donation of a birthday box to a local food shelter: include items like cake mixes, frosting, candles, balloons, and party hats.

19. If it’s a hot day, hand out cold bottles of water.

20. If it’s raining, share your umbrella for a few blocks.

21. Make kindness cards from drawings and paintings of kids’ art. Drop a few by the nearest senior center and ask if they can use them for anyone who needs a bit of cheer.

22. Pick up trash off the street.

23. Call an old friend or relative.

24. Thank a teacher.

25. Host a bake sale to end child hunger.

26. Spring for coffee and donuts for your co-workers.

27. Head to the park with some chalk and write sweet messages to the world.

28. Make a thank you card for the postal worker who delivers your mail.

29. Give thanks for everyday things, not just big acts or gifts. “Thank you for making me laugh today,” or “Thank you for helping me figure out that math problem,” or even simply, “Thank you for loving me.”

30. Smile at 10 people.

smiling is an act of kindness
iStock

Related: Why Celebrating Differences & Teaching Kindness Hand-in-Hand Is So Important

31. Slip a note complimenting someone’s parking on the windshield of their car.

32. Distribute random hugs.

33. Buy a cup of coffee for the person behind you in line at the coffee shop.

34. Make a friendship bracelet and give it to a new friend.  

35. Compliment someone sitting near you.

36. Share your toys.

37. Leave your change in a vending machine after you buy something.

38. Paint a picture for a neighbor you don’t know that well.

39. Play with someone new on the playground today.

40. Call a friend or relative, and tell a joke.

41. Leave a positive note on a bulletin board.

42. Read a book with a child.

43. Rake leaves, shovel snow, or do a little yardwork/weeding for your neighbor.

44. Take out your neighbor’s trash for them.

45. Start a Little Free Library.

building a free little library is an act of kindness
iStock

Related: 13 Fred Rogers Quotes about Kindness That We Need Now More Than Ever

46. Walk a neighbor’s dog.

47. Put a post-it note with a positive message like, “Today will be awesome” on a random door.

48. Offer to run an errand for someone.

49. Hide a few toys or Matchbox cars in the sand at the playground.

50. Leave a sweet note in your spouse or partner’s wallet.

51. Leave a dish of fresh water out for neighborhood dogs in front of your house or business.

52. Use sidewalk chalk to say hello to a neighbor.

53. Give your child’s teacher $5 toward classroom expenses or help to pay for a field trip.

54. Write a letter to the first person that pops into your mind (and don’t forget to send it!)

55. Help another kid with his homework.

56. Buy a spare umbrella and find someone who needs it.

57. Get some silly glasses and wear them until you make someone laugh.

58. Do something to make your hometown more awesome.

59. Let a stranger go ahead of you in line.

60. Look in the mirror and give yourself a compliment.

happy mom
iStock

Related: How to Paint Rocks for Kindness & Where to Share Them

61. Consider the flash mob.

62. Do something nice for yourself.

63. Hold the door open for someone.

64. Add extra time to your meter for the next person.

65. Gather up gently used clothing and donate via ThredUp using their Donation Clean Out Kit.

66. Starting today, thank someone once a week for a year. You can send a thank-you via mail, email, text, phone, or in person. Make a little list of thank-yous and revisit them in 52 weeks.

67. Sit with someone new at lunch.

68. Ask a kid you don’t usually play with to play with you at recess.

69. Find a story or post you like, and let the writer know it meant something to you.

70. Be patient while waiting in line.

71. Leave a glowing review for a business or employee who helped you or your kids.

72. Give someone the benefit of the doubt.

73. Be a courteous and kind driver.

74. Be kind to urban animals and wildlife: do not chase pigeons or throw coins in a fountain where fish live.

75. Leave a note of kindness in the pocket of a coat in a clothing store, like “You look great in this!” or “You are more important than you could ever know.”

76. Order a new book from our list of diverse books for kids, and have it sent to a friend.

77. Send a friend or relative a sweet surprise from Sugarwish.

78. Wave hi to someone you don’t know!

79. Ask a friend if they need any help: could you walk their dog or drop off a book to read?

Want more? Check out the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation’s idea page.

—with additional reporting by Taylor Clifton

 

 

Make the most of summer’s sunny days with everything from cloud dough and water play to DIY ice cream and splatter paint

Why does summer always seem to go by so fast? We can’t slow it down, but we can help you make sure it’s packed with fun and amazing memories with activities that take full advantage of the summer season. While you won’t find any indoor activities on this list (hint: you can find indoor play ideas here), what you will find is 21 summer activities for preschoolers that are so easy to do anyone can pull them off. Balloon tosses. making homemade ice cream, and plenty of water-filled activities are on our list. Your job? Squeezing them all in before the weather cools down.

two girls eating popsicles on a summer evening
iStock

1. Make Homemade Popsicles

An icy popsicle on a hot summer day is a snack everybody loves. Especially teething littles, who get soothing comfort along with their sweet treat. Make them at home as a family using these awesome recipes.

2. Break Out the Bubble Machine

Babies love bubbles like new moms love a full night of sleep! So turn on the bubble machine and watch your sweet babe try to catch those bubbles before they burst. Who knows, maybe they’ll get so worn out they’ll sleep better so you can sleep better.

3. Run Through Sprinklers

Nothing screams childhood like running through sprinklers in the summertime. Babies not walking yet will shriek with delight as you take them through the droplets.

4. Design a Masterpiece on Your Sidewalk

Get chalkin’ with some sidewalk art. It’s a great way to be creative outdoors, especially in the evenings. If you need inspiration, try these 15 fun chalk ideas that are sure to bring you and your mini-Matisse hours of fun. Younger babes will love to explore the chalk’s texture and bright colors.

Related: 15 Ways to Have Fun with Sidewalk Chalk

mom reading to daughter outside
iStock
iStock

5. Read a Book in the Shade

Being outside in the summer months doesn’t have to be about high-energy, sweaty activities. Slow it down with a children’s book under your favorite tree. Choose one of these kid classics or opt for one of baby’s faves. Either way you’re fostering a love of reading and spending time outdoors.

6. Go on a Picnic

Move meals outside by packing some easy snacks and a few toys in a diaper bag or wagon, and you’re ready for a no-fuss summer adventure with minimal clean-up.

7. Have a Water Balloon Toss

On a hot summer day, a water balloon toss is always a hit. Younger babies can touch and roll the squishy, colorful balloons, and toddlers will be all about throwing them.

kids watch an outdoor movie during summer activities for preschoolers in the backyard
iStock

8. Set Up a Sensory Station

Nothing engages preschoolers quite like a sensory bin filled with things to touch, smell, and see. Find recipes and ideas for cloud dough, sponge bombs, rainbow spaghetti and more in our sensory play guide

9. Visit a Farmers Market (or Plant a Garden at Home)

Here’s the upside of kids who wake up super early—you can be the first to arrive anywhere on the weekend. Farmers markets open early, so they’ll be ready for you and your sweet pea. If you want to avoid crowds, plant herbs or flowers and watch them grow with your kids at home. When it comes to summer activities for preschoolers, you can’t go wrong with this one.

10. Watch a Movie in the Backyard (or Living Room)

Skip the high-priced local cinema and cuddle up under the stars to watch your family’s favorite flicks. An outdoor theater is not hard to set up, and it’ll be a summer memory everyone cherishes. No yard? Find a blank wall in your home (or hang up a white sheet), and set up blankets and pillows on the floor to re-create the experience indoors.

preschoolers sit and lick homemade ice cream on a bench
iStock

11. Make Homemade Ice Cream or Gelato

Once you’ve perfected your popsicle recipe, move on to the creamier stuff. Making homemade ice cream or gelato is easier than it sounds; there’s a reason it makes out summer activities for preschoolers hit list. We found a kid-friendly recipe that shows how you can make it with just a Ziploc food-storage bag.

12. Visit a Petting Zoo

Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of local petting zoos, where kids can spend hours meeting and greeting their favorite furry animals.

13. Go to a Concert at the Park (or Dance to Laurie Berkner)

Check your neighborhood listings to see if there are concerts in nearby parks. If not, check out kid-favorite singer Laurie Berkner’s website for videos you can sing and dance along with.

14. Go Stargazing

Clear, mild summer nights are ideal for gazing at the stars. Here are handy tips on how to have a stargazing adventure that your toddler will be talking about for years to come. Download one of the many apps that tell you what you’re looking at.

person pointing at the sky with telescope stargazing
istock
iStock

15. Visit a Water Park (or Set Up an Epic Kiddie Pool at Home)

Water parks can offer hours of fun on a hot summer day. Choose a weekday, if you can, when they tend to be less crowded. You can also wow your kids with an epic kiddie pool at home (hint: it’s one of our favorite summer activities for preschoolers because it’s an easy win). Dress up a plastic or inflatable pool with a plastic kiddie slide and small chairs, adding bubble bath to the water, and tossing in plastic balls, bath toys, or pool noodles.

16. Host an Outdoor Tea Party

A royally fun way to move an indoor activity outside for the summer. Set up your tea party under a shady tree or in a kiddie pool for maximum fun. Drink chilled tea or water; the fun comes in nibbling on pastries and small sandwiches.

17. Fly a Kite

On the next windy day, go fly a kite. One of the easiest summer activities for preschoolers this one doesn’t take much prep. Simply, choose a smaller kite that kids can control. Once it’s up, let your child help hold the string to watch it soar and glide.

painted rock saying have a great day with a flower
iStock

18. Paint Rocks

Painting outdoors is an easy way to let toddlers get messy without worrying about destroying the furniture. First, gather and clean some rocks, and then paint them. Finally, place them together in the yard for all to enjoy.

19. Splatter Paint

Summer is a great time for kids to take it outside. And that means their art projects too. Check out our guide to messy, fun outdoor art projects to get kids splatter painting on a massive canvas, making bubble art, and even using squirt guns to color a canvas.

20. Host a Family Bike Wash

Get your whole family outside to give your tricycles and bikes a good washing. Suds plus water always equals a good time, especially when the temps heat up.

21. Pitch a Tent in the Backyard (or Living Room)

Not ready to take the plunge into a full family camping excursion? Test the waters by pitching a tent outside to play in or sleep in. Your little one will feel all of the excitement and you’ll have none of the stress of realizing you forgot something your baby needs! No yard? Camp in the living room!

It’s Virgo season (we see you, September babies), which means the early fall air is crisp, mild, and perfect for al fresco birthday celebrations. Convenient and budget-friendly, we’re here to help you take the classic backyard birthday party to the next level! Bonus: snag these party-perfect goodies and your kiddos are sure to get a ton of use out of them for years to come.


Macy's

Bump n' Bounce Body Bumpers

$19 BUY NOW

High-energy kiddos will adore this bump and bounce activity, and parents will love that it's soft and safe!


Bed Bath & Beyond

360 Quad Swivel Kids Seesaw

$115 BUY NOW

Add some group play to their big day! Up and down and all around, this seesaw is sure to be a hit.


Overstock.com

4-to-Score Jumbo Game Set

$180 BUY NOW

Fun and educational (hello, cognitive and motor skills!), we’re loving this 4-to-score jumbo game set!


Crayola

12 Individual Packages of Special Effects Sidewalk Chalk

$43 BUY NOW

Leave the decorating to the kids with neon sidewalk chalk (and it comes in a 12-pack, so party favors are ready to go!).


Fat Brain Toys

Obstacle Course Race Set

$63 BUY NOW

Including an adjustable hurdle bar, adjustable limbo bar, four agility rings, and two high-bounce hop balls, this is one epic obstacle course!


Boscov's

Football Goal Post Set

$55 BUY NOW

While you’re in the fall sports spirit, pop over and snag this Football Goal Post Set that’ll make them feel like pros


Overstock.com

Hover Air LED Soccer Game

$40 BUY NOW

Soccer just got a makeover with motorized technology that allows the disc to float on a cushion of air in this Hover LED Soccer Game.


Overstock.com

Tri Toss Cornhole Game

$60 BUY NOW

No backyard get-together is complete without cornhole, and this set adds a twist with a bouncy surface and scoring holes.


Fat Brain Toys

Swurfer Kick

$70 BUY NOW

Sky surfing is the ultimate backyard adventure, and this strong and sturdy swing is designed to amp up the excitement!


Michael's

CAT Sand & Water Play Table

$80 BUY NOW

Versatile enough for year-round use, this play table gives you the option to add sand, water, or both for littles’ sensory party play!


Macy's

American Ninja Warrior Dome Climber

$125 BUY NOW

This Dome Climber is super easy to set up, allowing your kids hours of physical fun during party time and beyond.


Macy's

Fire Truck Play Tent

$65 BUY NOW

Don’t worry about leaving anyone out; this Fire Truck Tent is big enough for multiple little ones!


Macy's

Light Up Bean Bag Toss Game Set

$100 BUY NOW

It may be getting darker earlier, but this light-up bean bag toss game will keep the party bright!


Nike

Nike Playground Football

$20 BUY NOW

Nothing says fall like football, and this durable and, let’s be honest, super cool official size football will please even the most die-hard fans!

-Kate Cartia

Editor’s Note: Prices and availability reflect the time of publication. Images

courtesy of retailers.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.


Related Stories:
Back-to-School with Nike: Moms’ Style Guide
Back-to-School Shopping Guide

 

Earth Day is a great reminder to love and cherish our planet and we can do that through books, reducing plastic waste and even upcycled crafts! So whether your Earth Day celebrations involve taking to the streets for climate change, attending an Earth Day festival or helping with a beautification or habitat restoration project, let’s remember that every day can be Earth Day.

California State Parks Foundation
Celebrate Earth Day the  entire month by signing up for an Earth Day Kit or drop by an REI to pick up gloves and a compostable trash bag and get to work on beautifying your community. The foundation is also sponsoring community events at Half Moon Bay (Apr. 9), Angel Island State Park (Apr. 16) and Candlestick Point (Apr. 23), pre-registration required.

giraffe, zoo, animals, safari park, petting zoo
Chelsea D. via yelp

April 16 

Earth Day at Oakland Zoo
Join the zoo’s “Regeneration Celebration” for a day of action, fun and exploration combined with their centennial birthday celebration!

We Love Earth Festival
Education and family-friendly activities at this festival will all be geared towards learning about creating a climate-friendly home, sustainable eating and energy use as well as climate advocacy.

April 22

March and Rally for Our Earth
Take to the streets to rally for a better earth in celebration of Earth Day as we push for a more sustainable future.

Earth Day Walk & Talk
Join a guided sunset walk at the Wetlands Edge Park & trail while learning about the environmental and climate changes challenging the wetlands. Hikes leave every half hour beginning at 5:30 p.m. for an easy 1.5 mile flat loop with the last hike leaving at 7 p.m.

Aquarium of the Bay

April 23

Golden Gate Conservancy
Volunteers ages eight and up can help out at Crissy Field, Ocean Beach or Stinson Beach through habitat restoration or beach clean ups.

Earth Day SF
Build environmental awareness while enjoying neighborhood fun with  live music, kid’s activities and vegan chef demos all while celebrating our planet. 

Earth Day Celebration on the Green at Alemany Farm
Come to the farm on Earth Day for kids games, farm tours, live music and “Ask a Gardener” sessions. 

Restore and Create: Earth Day Beach Clean-up and Art-Making
Families can engage in making art with natural elements of Stinson beach followed by some clean-up love after.

Earth Day Clean Up Richmond
Unity Park needs you! Beautification, weeding and clean-up projects are all available to help out with. 

Oakland Clean up
Join the community in the 28th annual clean up at creeks, neighborhood sites and parks all throughout Oakland. 

Kelly Sikkema via unsplash

I Heart Oakland-Alameda Garbage Clean Up
Clean up teams choose to work “on land” by foot or “on water” through rented kayaks or SUP so that you get some exercise while cleaning up the waterways and surrounding areas. 

San Leandro Family Earth Day Festival
Casa Peralta is host to this festival with hands-on kids activities and crafts such as a  zero-waste bird feeder craft and  eco-pledge tote decorating, a story time, sidewalk chalk and more. Be sure to bring a  reusable cup for free coffee and have kids bring a toy for the "Buy Nothing" Toy Swap!

Berkeley Waterfront Cleanup
Meet at the Nature Center and spend your Earth Day beautifying the waterfront. 

Earth Day on the Bay
The Marine Science Institute celebrates Earth Day with events on land through a BioBlitz and on water with a discovery boat voyage. 

Coyote Valley Earth Day Celebration
Join Santa Clara Open Space staff and other special guests on a walk, arts and crafts and honey sampling and check out the rest of the week’s Earth Day celebrations.

Earth and Arbor Day Festival
Hands-on activities, food trucks and live music will bring the community together to learn about environmental issues and solutions in this family-friendly festival.

Earth Day Trail Clean Up
Ages 10 and up can join in to give a little love to Guadalupe River Park with beautification projects. 

PVPLC

April 24

Spring Into Green
After a two year hiatus, Spring into Green is back in Los Gatos! Plant trees, check out the Farmer’s market, live music, family-friendly activities, information booths and a bike safety course will all be back, too! 

Muir Woods Earth Day
Join in habitat restoration and boardwalk care to celebrate Earth Day at Muir Woods.

Earth Day Napa
This year the Earth Day Napa community cleanup features ten different sites so a bring a bucket, gloves and then head to the Napa Earth Day Festival after!

Jarrod L via yelp

At Home
If you’d rather celebrate Earth Day at home (and save gas which is also environmentally friendly!), check out the following options: 

National Park Service Virtual visit 
Pick a park. ANY park. Virtual visits means you can get up close and personal with a national park through digital tours or webcams at any time from anywhere. Where do you want to go? 

City Nature Challenge
The annual City Nature Challenge is set to take place in cities throughout the world in two parts from April 29-May 2 with the picture taking of animals and plants and May 3-8 for identification of what was found. The global event, co-organized by the Natural History Museums of Los Angeles County and San Francisco’s California Academy of Sciences, calls on current and aspiring community scientists, nature and science fans, and people of all ages and backgrounds to observe and submit pictures of wild plants, animals, and fungi using the free mobile app iNaturalist

Disney X National Geographic 
Three new titles are being released in collaboration by Disney and National Geographic: Disneynature’s Polar Bear, a wildlife nature story about…you guessed it, polar bears; Explorer: The Last Tepui which is National Geographic’s newest “Explorer” series following Alex Honnold from Free Solo to the Amazon jungle and The Biggest Little Farm: The Return, based on an award-winning documentary about a couple who ditch urban Los Angeles life to live on a farm and grow their own food. 

RELATED STORIES: 

18 Books About Protecting the Environment
Bay Area Volunteering Opportunities for the Entire Family
25 Ways to Reduce Plastic Waste that Are Actually Doable
15 Creative Upcycled Crafts for Kids

To make the most of this endless summer, local moms have to get creative. With a little help from Amazon and our Facebook mom group, we came up with these awesome picks for 21 splurges and budget-friendly toddler staples that will make this an epic—and super-memorable—summer.


Wayfair

Little Tikes Cozy Coupe

$62 BUY NOW

Every kid likes having sweet wheels, and the Little Tikes Cozy Coupe is sized just right and comes in a variety of colors and themes. You push it Flintstone-style with your feet, and it rides well on grass or sidewalks.


Radio Flyer

Radio Flyer 3-in-1 Folding Wagon

$119 BUY NOW

Whether you go for a luxury ride like the Veer Cruiser or a more budget-friendly model like this Radio Flyer 3-in-1, you need a wagon. They're big enough to tote your kid and all their gear, and they're a handy accessory for all sorts of toddler situations, from naps on the go to zooming through the splash pad with friends.


Wayfair

Step2 Unicorn Up & Down Roller Coaster

$160 BUY NOW

Slides are great, but kiddie roller-coasters are magic. Toddlers love wheeling the car up the track almost as much as they love racing down the ramp. The Step2 Unicorn Up & Down Roller Coaster separates into stackable pieces for easy storage.


Costzon

Costzon Ride On Sand Digger

$59 BUY NOW

Find a patch of gravel, sand or dirt and watch kids emulate their heroes: construction workers. On this ride-on digger, kids control the levers and can ride, pivot, scoop and dump to their heart's content. Pro tip: Break out these wheels again in the winter after a big snowfall.


Strider Classic Balance Bike

$119 BUY NOW

Your toddler can cruise with the big kids on a balance bike. These rides help your child find their balance, which makes the transition to a big-kid bike easier than it is from a trike. We like this Strider model designed for kids 18 months to 5 years, but do your research to find the right one for your child. Things to consider: the bike's minimum and maximum seat height, the frame material (aluminum is lighter for kids to carry; steel is durable even with rough-and-tumble toddlers) and whether the bike has a hand brake, which is important if you plan to venture out to hilly areas.


Costzon

Costzon Foldable Triangle Climber

$149 BUY NOW

Provide a safe surface for climbing and sliding with this climbing triangle ladder. It strengthens motor skills and balance and is stable enough to support kids from 6 months up to age 6. Great for indoor or outdoor activity, this Costzon ladder folds away when not in use.


Best Choice Products Wooden Sandbox

$119 BUY NOW

If you can't get to the beach, bring the beach to your backyard. Build a sandbox to save money or splurge on this one from Best Choice Products. Made from cedar, it has a lid to protect the sand from rain, debris and bugs, and the lid converts to chairs with backrests. The bottom is a liner, so moisture drains out of it.


Hey Play Bubble Lawn Mower

$33 BUY NOW

Tire out your toddler before nap time with bubble makers and a good-quality solution (we love Gazillion Bubbles). Buy a machine with a fan to blow them out and get wands for kids to create their own floaters, and you'll have a rockin' party in no time. For a solo child, bubble lawn mowers like this Lydaz one are always a big hit.


Macy's

Hey Play Saucer Swing

$119 BUY NOW

If you have sturdy trees, you need a tree swing. This one from Trekassy seats more than one and grows with your child so you'll get years of use out of it.


Crayola Sidewalk Chalk

$12.99 BUY NOW

Get creative without leaving behind a giant mess. Let your child draw what they like with this Crayola sidewalk chalk or create a chalk obstacle course with things to hop, jump and walk on. We like to draw our course near the street so kids walking by can have fun with it, too.


Babymoov Anti-UV Tent

$49 BUY NOW

Pop-up tents are great for limiting exposure to the sun and strong winds while still staying outside. Stock your child's tent with books, toys and water for chill-out time or naps al fresco. Pop up this Babymoov tent in the backyard and take it with you to the beach or park. At 1.5 lbs., it's easy to bring along on your outdoor adventures.


Amazon

Intex Kiddie Pool

$19 BUY NOW

A kiddie pool means hours of fun for kids of all ages, and this Intex one has served us well. If splashing around in the pool isn't holding their interest, dump in their bath toys and beach toys and watch them go to town. When the weather isn't cooperating, drag the pool indoors (empty the water first) and fill it with ball pit balls for a whole new way to party.


Little Tikes Water Table

$60 BUY NOW

We like the looks of this Little Tikes wave-making water table, but there are lots of themes and accessories to choose from. Add a watering can, measuring cups and other water toys and watch the science experiments and imaginative play begin. To keep kids interested, add dish soap to the water to create tons of bubbles (and sneakily give the water table and toys a good cleaning).


BigMouth Giant Inflatable Dinosaur Sprinkler

$69 BUY NOW

When kids are cranky, add water. Preferably in the form of a sprinkler. Run through the water with your child or let them invent their own games of keep away. And if you're getting a sprinkler, why not get a BigMouth inflatable dinosaur that's over 6 feet tall?


KEEN Unisex Closed Toe Water Sandal

$48 BUY NOW

Whether your choose Crocs or Keens, a sturdy shoe that kids can run in and get both wet and dirty are a must to protect feet and prevent falls while enabling maximum outdoor fun. These Keens will take you from climbing on rocks to the lake to the splash pad and back again. Hose them down when the day is done (some brands can even be cleaned in the washing machine).


Crazy 100 Rapid-Filling Self-Sealing Water Balloons by ZURU

$7 BUY NOW

You know playtime is on when someone busts out the water balloons. We like these rapid-fill, self-sealing balloons from Bunch O Balloons so you can get them into eager toddlers' hands more quickly. When the water balloon fight is over, set up a contest to see who can pick up the most balloon bits. Like all balloons, you'll want to dispose of them so wildlife doesn't eat them.


U.S. Art Supply 25-Piece Paint Brush Set

$9.99 BUY NOW

Give your child some paintbrushes and a cup of water and watch them paint the sidewalk, rocks, trees, pets, really whatever is around them. It's amazing how much little kids like getting to do what adults do, and painting makes them feel important. This is an especially good activity for kids while you're doing yard work or some exterior painting yourself. Try this set from U.S. Art Supply so your child can find the size and brush shape that suits them. Save the other brushes for art projects.


Stearns Kids' Basic Puddle Jumper Swim Vest

$24.99 BUY NOW

Stearns Puddle Jump life jackets are sized for little kids and help keep them safe in the water with your supervision. Always stay within arms reach of a young child who can't swim. Cute designs and bright colors encourage kids to want to put them on.


Helistar Popsicle Mold

$22 BUY NOW

Make healthy treats with your child with Helistar's silicone popsicle molds. Keep 'em hydrated and get some vitamins in them with fruit juices or by blending up fruit and spinach smoothies to cool down with on a hot day.


OXO Tot 2-in-1 Go Potty

$16 BUY NOW

If your child is getting the hang of potty training, you'll want to store this Oxo travel potty in your car or in a large backpack for emergencies when you're out and about. Fold legs down and you have a sturdy seat kids can use in the car or on the ground, or fold legs up and place it over a public toilet to keep things more sanitary.


Babiators Kids Navigators

$24 BUY NOW

Sure, you can get cheap kids' sunglasses that are all kinds of adorable, but you'll want to choose a pair that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection to keep eyes safe. These Babiators protect kids' eyesight and help them see well when they've whipped off their sun hat, as you know they will.

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Shopping for a four-year-old’s birthday present is so much fun—this age is bubbling with curiosity, creativity and is full of non-stop energy. Of course, you want to gift something extra special for your little mover and shaker so whether you’re a parent, friend, aunt or uncle looking for a cool birthday gift for kids or a unique birthday gift for kids, we’ve gathered our favorite picks for four-year-olds below.

This article is sponsored by LeapFrog, a leader in electronic learning toys that’ll prepare your child for a lifetime of learning. Learn more information about LeapFrog here.


LeapFrog® LeapLand Adventures™

$35 BUY NOW

Take learning to the next level with LeapLand Adventures™, the perfect gift for a child’s first video game experience. Kids can explore a world full of letters, shapes, numbers and colors. Set up is easy so little gamers can jump right into a learning adventure. No downloads or Wi-Fi required – just plug in and play!


birthday gift ideas for 4 year old

Pop Up Birthday Card

$11 BUY NOW

Whether you're celebrating in person or need to send a gift through the mail, this happy, colorful and adorable animals 3D pop-up birthday card will make their day extra special—becoming a keepsake they'll cherish year, after year.


best gift idea for a 4 year old

World Map Coloring Tablecloth

$30 BUY NOW

Great for on-the-go kids, this creative map can tuck in your car to pull out at the park, while camping, at a restaurant or anywhere you need a fun project to engage them.


birthday gift idea for a 4 year old

Personalized Super Hero Cape

$35 BUY NOW

For your little superhero—this personalized cape comes in 21 color combinations and an optional accessory kit.


best gift idea for a 4 year old

Balsang Scooter Bag

$30 BUY NOW

For little ones that love to scoot, bike and be on the go! State's first bike and scooter bag comes in three color options and has a variety of snapped and zipper pouches that can carry a water bottle, small toys and more. It easily clips on, so kids can have everything they need on their adventures.


best birthday gift idea for a 4 year old

Cat Eye Sunglasses

$20 BUY NOW

Fashionistas and those who love to accessorize will adore these cat-inspired, two-tone sunglasses that are so on-trend, we're wondering if they make them in adult sizes to match our mini-me.


best birthday gift ideas for a 4 year old

Chalkscapes Mandala Stencils

$22 BUY NOW

Little artists will adore being able to upgrade their sidewalk chalk skills with eye-catching stencils that also inspires good vibes.


best birthday gifts for a 4 year old

Hape Dollhouse

$171 BUY NOW

This award-winning, classic 3-story wood dollhouse comes fully furnished and all but guarantees hours of imaginative, independent play.


best birthday gift ideas for a 4 year old

An ABC of Equality

$11 BUY NOW

It's never too early to introduce social justice ideas. We adore this beautifully illustrated book that teaches kids how to celebrate differences.


Space Elevator Marble Run

$60 BUY NOW

Get those engineering gears running with this infinite loop marble run that also glows in the dark for late-night play.


birthday gift ideas for a 4 year old

Super Smalls Super Stack Bracelet Set

$44 BUY NOW

Give your mini fashionista a cool stack of stretchy bracelets that add a touch of sparkle to everyday outfits. Even better, split the set for a mommy and me matchy-matchy dress up day.


best birthday gift idea for a 4 year old

Wooden Play Kitchen

$500 BUY NOW

This classic pretend toy play toy is giving us major design envy. Watch in wonder as your kids cook, put away dishes and even plan the week's menu on the chalkboard.


best birthday gift for a 4 year old

Mystery Center Fantasy Dough

$15 BUY NOW

This sculpting putty is so pretty in its container, you may be hesitant to play with it but let your kid at it and watch as they smoosh their way through compostable glitter and clay to create something even prettier than what showed up in the package.


birthday gift ideas for 4 year old

Giant Inflatable Dinosaur Bowling

$40 BUY NOW

Essential for any dino-loving kid, this indoor/outdoor bowling game isn't just fun, it's hilarious watching those T-Rex's get knocked over.


HABA Hanging Doorway Puppet Theater

HABA Doorway Puppet Theater

$60 BUY NOW

Let their imaginations go into overdrive with this puppet theater that attaches to any doorway using a tension rod. Bravo!

—Andie Huber

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

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If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.


Your tot just keeps growing and is ready to hit big number three. In addition to their growing independence, three-year-olds are learning to play with their peers, can count and are generally learning through physical activity. That means gifts for your little’s third birthday are nothing but fun! From role-playing games to awesome art supplies, keep scrolling for great ideas on cool birthday gifts for kids turning three.

This article is sponsored by Vtech, the global leader in electronic learning toys for babies, infants, toddlers, and pre-k learning levels. Learn more information about Vtech here.


VTech® Level Up Gaming Chair™

$50 BUY NOW

Give the best gift ever with the Level Up Gaming Chair™ from VTech®! Little gamers will love to play just like big kids with their very own gaming station including a chair that swivels, a joystick, pretend headphones and a cool interactive tablet that teaches letters numbers and more. Detach the tablet for on-the-go fun!


Birthday King and His Circus Troupe Gift Set

$70 BUY NOW

Every birthday kid want a crown for their special day. Add in a charming wooden circus set and they might not even want to open anything else.


Putt-n-Play Wooden Golf Set Fat Brain Toys

Putt-n-Play Wooden Golf Set

$35 BUY NOW

With five wooden obstacles, two holes and two kid-size putters, you can turn any room into the mini golf course of your child's dreams.


Sam's Sliders Sidewalk Chalk

$53 BUY NOW

Sidewalk chalk just got tasty looking! This six-piece set includes four crinkle-cut fries and a two-piece burger in a glitter finish. Even better, TWEE will donate $2 to GLSEN, an organization that ensures that peope in every school community are valued and respected, with every purchase.


Little Partners 2-Sided A-Frame Art Easel

$150 BUY NOW

Contain all your art supplied in one place with this easel that has both a chalboard side and a dry-erase side.


Kidkraft Play Kitchen

$169 BUY NOW

Even picky eaters love playing in the kitchen. This one comes complete with lights, sounds, an ice maker, and planter boxes so kids can at least grow their own vegetables.


BRIO Motor Building Set

$67 BUY NOW

It's a truck! It's a helicopter! It's a 67-piece kit with endless posibilites for curious minds. They'll love that there's a pull-back motor to make their creations move, you'll love that there are no batteries and that's compatible with other BRIO sets.


Coffee and Donut Playset

$50 BUY NOW

Sure, they might already have some traditional grocery items to play with. But don't they deserve their own (fake) caffeinated cup?


Symbolic Animal Adoption

$60 BUY NOW

Your tiny animal lover gets a sweet plush and certificate of adoption; your donation that helps support WWF's global conservation efforts around the world


Rainbow Counting Bears

$16 BUY NOW

These cuties are great for sorting exercises, fine moter skill development and just building a tiny army of bears in a pretend play land.


Jasonwell Kids Drawing Pad

$20 BUY NOW

This LCD pad comes with a pen, is perfect for travel and allows kids to create new drawings over and over again.

 

All photos: courtesy of manufacturers

 

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Getting your kids excited about math is as easy as 1-2-3: just introduce them to these awesome learning games. You’ll jump-start their number knowledge while also giving them a chance to work on their fine motor skills and play with bubble wrap, sidewalk chalk and stickers. Read on to get the skinny on all our favorite counting games.

Feed the Sharks

Days with Grey

Grab some stickers and markers and get your kiddos counting with this fab idea from Days with Grey. They’ll get to feed each shark using colorful dot stickers.

Race to Lose a Tooth

Toddler Approved

This fun game from Toddler Approved is sure to make your little ones smile. They’ll roll the dice and practice counting as they pull marshmallow “teeth” from a mouth. 

 

Pom Pom Challenge

NurtureStore

This idea from NurtureStore is a two-for-one: kids can practice counting while also building their fine motor skills. Challenge them to use just a straw to move the right number of pom poms to the correct container. 

Pop Goes The Number

Hands On As We Grow

They're going to do it anyway, so why not make popping bubble wrap an educational opportunity? Hands-on mama-of-three Jamie Reimer has the details at Hands On As We Grow.

Counting Rocks!

Fun-a-Day

Young counters can play a variety of counting games with these handmade number rocks: match number pairs; line them up from 1-9, and see what happens when you put one number in front of another. Fun-loving mom Mary Catherine shares the step-by-step scoop on her site, Fun-a-Day.

Splashing Digits

Melissa Heckscher

Would your kiddo like a few water balloons to smash? Yes, please! When the weather warms up, let your cute calculator get a little wet with this easy number identification game that requires only water balloons and chalk. Check out the details on Coffee Cups and Crayons.

Apples Up on Top!

Buggy and Buddy

This activity pays homage to a rhythmic little story (by Dr. Seuss) about a bunch of silly animals stacking apples on their heads. Using felt and Velcro, kids can stack up apples and compare their load to a friend or siblings. Check out Buggy and Buddy for the details.

Shoot the Sum

Melissa Heckscher

We love this easy activity because there are just three steps: stack up numbered cups, ask your kids to knock them down, and (if they can) add up the total. Kids will delight in shooting and knocking stuff down, but really they’re (Shhhhh!) learning simple addition as well as simple number identification. Parents who don’t allow toy guns can substitute with ping-pong balls or air rockets (see above). Get the details over at No Time For Flashcards.

Roll for Results

Buggy and Buddy

Let your kids roll the dice and plink their beads into a bowl. This simple counting game lets kids practice counting while they race to get all their beads (or jellybeans, or goldfish, or whatever small object you choose) into their bowl before you do. Get the instructions from Chelsey at Buggy and Buddy.

Linear Learning

Melissa Heckscher

Learning numbers doesn't have to be a desktop affair. Instead, use this equation for getting antsy kiddos outside and moving: sidewalk chalk, a paved place to scribble and a simple running game. Draw a line, mark out numbers, then tell your running mathematician to sprint to the numbers as you call them out. More advanced counters can add and subtract their way up and down the line. You can thank Coffee Cups and Crayons for the idea!

Number Maze

Melissa Heckscher

Here's another easy outdoor activity that requires only sidewalk chalk. Kids will learn how to count to 10 (and figure out their lefts and rights) by winding through a simple number maze. Find out more at Hands On As We Grow.

 

—Melissa Heckscher with Susie Foresman

 

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Feature photo: iStock

Between decorating, sending cards, getting gifts and finding time to make family memories, you have a lot on your plate this holiday season. To make gift giving a little easier, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite items that little ones will love! Check out these mom-tested holiday picks when you’re making your list (and checking it twice) this year:


Melissa & Doug Examine & Treat Pet Vet Play Set

With help from this pretend vet set, our pet lovers can go the extra mile to nurse their (stuffed) animals back to health.

$32.49 BUY NOW

Squishville Mall

Your littles will be thrilled with this new playset that opens up a whole world of huggable fun and includes two of everyone’s favorite Squishmallows: Pei the Rainbow-Banded Panda Pegacorn and Rhiannon the Pink Fox—in a 2-inch size.

$29.99 BUY NOW

Solar System Sidewalk Chalk Set

A universally adored gift! We love how artsy explorers get a peek into the colorful core, layers and crusts of each planet (plus Pluto!) after multiple uses.

$43.00 BUY NOW

Melissa & Doug Take-Along Shape Sorter Baby and Toddler Toy

A shape sorter that isn't a massive plastic or wooden contraption that takes up too much room? Yes, please.

$24.79 BUY NOW

Hello Nature Activity Book

We love encouraging our kids to go wild—in this case, drawing, coloring and recording outdoor adventures in a beautiful nature scrapbook.

$18.99 BUY NOW

Eco Finger Paint

When our kids are inevitably covered in from head to toe, we prefer it be with these adorable paints, made from organic fruit and vegetable extracts.

$18.99 BUY NOW

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