As temperatures start to climb (it’s happening—finally!) and summer seems more real than ever, it’s time to turn your attention to your backyard a.k.a. the future go-to spot for epic toddler playdates. Because who wants to worry about the hassle of a crowded play place or waterpark—not to mention loading up the car just to schlep across town?
To help you snag the best outdoor toddler toys before they inevitably sell out, we nailed down parents’ most popular Little Tikes picks that offer all the essentials for keeping kids entertained for hours. From a fun water table and classic sandbox to a swing staple and more, your house will be the place kids beg to visit. Keep reading for all five must-have outdoor toddler toys!
Build & Splash ™ Water Table
Parents know that kids can’t get enough of splashing water around. And with the Little Tikes Build & Splash ™ Water Table, you can keep little ones cool and busy during hot summer days without having to worry about cleaning up a mess in the house.
With over 25 pieces for little hands to interact with, including colorful construction blocks, funnels, pipes, boats, and a pitcher, the water table encourages sensory play and helps develop fine motor skills. It also has enough room for a friend or two to join in on the fun, which checks off all the boxes of a perfect playdate toy!
Little Tikes Build & Splash ™ Water Table ($49.99)—Buy Here!
Turtle Sandbox
There’s a reason the Turtle Sandbox has been around for decades (fun fact: Little Tikes released this O.G. product back in 1979!). It’s a surefire winner that parents swear by to keep tots engaged in playtime while inspiring creativity and stimulating their tactile senses. Plus, what kid wouldn’t love having their own version of a beach right outside their house?
This iconic playset features a spacious design, with little seats on each side of the turtle, so several children can play together at once. And when the day is over, you can use the turtle shell to protect the sand from the weather elements and seasonal pests to keep the fun going all summer long.
Little Tikes Turtle Sandbox ($59.99)—Buy Here!
2-in-1 Indoor-Outdoor Slide
Create your own waterpark in your yard this summer with the versatile 2-in-1 Indoor-Outdoor Slide. You can connect a hose to the easy-to-install sprinklers that’ll spray water onto the slide, then watch your water babies have a blast, so much so, they might not want to come back inside.
Faced with a rainy day? No problem. This multipurpose slide can also be used indoors to keep the excitement going. Its gentle slope and sturdy steps are ideal for little ones who are just learning to climb and slide, making it a great tool to help safely promote balance and coordination.
Little Tikes 2-in-1 Indoor-Outdoor Slide ($49.99)—Buy Here!
Cape Cottage Playhouse ™
Little Tikes’ adorable Cape Cottage Playhouse ™ screams childhood nostalgia while adding a modern touch of “cottage core” aesthetic (as Gen Z would put it). Its realistic design makes it a popular choice among toddlers who love to engage in make-believe—we sense some tea parties and “house” dates on the horizon—while giving them a space that’s just the right size and made especially for them.
With its durable construction and easy assembly (we built it in less than 30 minutes!), this playhouse is great for both indoor get-togethers and backyard adventures. Add in some personal touches that’ll upgrade your kid’s tiny home and spark their imagination, like bean bags for seating, an outdoor welcome mat, and even some window box planters to really make it feel like home.
Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse ™ ($139.99)—Buy Here!
Snug ‘N Secure ™ Swing
The Snug ‘N Secure ™ Swing is a toddler staple that’ll turn any backyard into a mini playground, all without the hassle of building a massive playset. Its secure design and adjustable straps will keep your little ones safe and comfortable, whether they’re 18 months or 4 years old.
Hang it from a sturdy tree branch or a swing set and get ready to hear those sweet giggles for hours. And if your arms need a break from all that pushing (friends, they will), encourage your little ones to sub in a doll or stuffed animal for some role-reversal fun mixed with a bit of balance and coordination practice. A win-win!
Little Tikes Snug ‘N Secure ™ Swing ($29.99)—Buy Here!
These five outdoor playsets from Little Tikes are perfect to keep your little ones and their pals entertained all season long. Not only are they durable and safe, but they also provide a ton of benefits that help kids learn and grow. Discover more outdoor toddler toys to transform your backyard into a summer hotspot for playdates.
