Toys That Get Kids Outside!

As a teacher, I'd often get asked about certain 'kid products' and whether or not they had any educational value. Now that I'm also a parent, I am always on the search for a fun toy or gift that will help my children develop healthy bodies and minds. 

I decided to put together a list of toys that encourage kids to learn, grow, and explore the world around them (and boy, did I have fun choosing my top ones!). 

Each week, I will share one of these lists:

Toys That Get Kids Outside!

Toys That Get Kids Moving!
Toys That Get Kids Thinking!

Toys That Get Kids Creating!
Toys That Get Kids Reading!
Toys That Get Kids Imagining!
Toys That Get Kids Exploring!

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*** Click on the links to see current prices and customer reviews.

1. Zip Line (with seat)- What kid wouldn't love to have their own personal zip line in his or her backyard? The seat that is included with this model allows younger children to enjoy this toy too.

2. Kick Croquet- This game is a new twist on an old classic. It gets kids moving and any age group can play. (Check the reviews- it seems to be mixed on whether or not these balls are a good fit for the hoops...a bunch of people said it worked great when you used a soccer ball instead.)

3. Ogodisk Game Set- This flying disk game catches and throws balls up to 150 feet! Since it doesn't sink, it would be perfect for the beach or pool. Try it with water balloons- super fun!

4. Stomp Rocket- My little guy got this from his uncle for his 2nd birthday...and it's hard to say who enjoyed using it more! When they say that these rockets fly, they aren't exaggerating! It received the iParentng Media Award for excellent product and Top Toy of the year from Creative Child magazine.

5. HugglePod Swing- Oh man, this one looks sooo comfy! When I was a kid, I loved child-sized places that I could curl up in. This one is a ready-made fort, perfect for swinging or reading.

6. Tight Rope (with teaching line)- Kids can practice their balancing skills or put on a Circus Show for mom and dad with this fun backyard idea. The teaching line makes it fun to use for all ages!

7. Tether Ball Pole- Yards of any size can fit this playground staple! It's a great way to practice eye-hand coordination.

8. Round Tree Swing- Add a little whimsy to the tree in your backyard (or under your deck if it sits off the ground high enough) with this wooden swing.

9. WALKAROO Stilts- This new design is much easier for small hands and feet to learn how to use than the original version.

10. Tree Ladder- Turn any tree into a fort or jungle gym with this free-hanging ladder. They also have a triple version...3 ladders hooked together for extra climbing fun!

Check out the rest of this series for more great toy and gift ideas that are teacher recommended:

Toys That Get Kids Outside!
Toys That Get Kids Moving!
Toys That Get Kids Moving!
Toys That Get Kids Thinking!
Toys That Get Kids Creating!
Toys That Get Kids Reading!
Toys That Get Kids Imagining!
Toys That Get Kids Exploring!

Many of you are teachers or parents...do you have a toy you'd recommend that encourages outdoor play?