One-year-olds are natural explorers—curious, energetic, and ready to move. The best outdoor toys for 1-year-olds offer a stimulating space for physical activity, sensory play, and creative imagination. With the right toys, your backyard or local park can become your toddler’s favorite classroom.
In this guide, we’ve curated the best outdoor toys for 1-year-olds in 2025, designed to promote gross motor skills, sensory development, and active fun.
🌱 Why Outdoor Play Matters for 1-Year-Olds
Outdoor time isn’t just about fun—it’s essential for your baby’s healthy development. Here’s why outdoor toys are a must:
🧠 Stimulate brain development through new sights and sounds
💪 Strengthen gross motor skills like walking, climbing, and crawling
😄 Encourage social interaction and independent play
🌞 Improve mood and sleep with fresh air and sunlight
👣 Foster confidence in movement and balance
🧸 Top 10 Outdoor Toys for 1-Year-Olds in 2025
1. Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set
A beginner hoop for early dunkers
This adjustable toddler-sized hoop is perfect for helping kids practice aim, coordination, and balance.
Why It’s Great: Grows with your child; great for motor skill development
Age: 1–3 years
2. Step2 Play and Fold Jr. Slide
A safe starter slide for outdoor fun
Compact and easy to fold, this slide offers a thrill without the height risk. Helps toddlers learn to climb, slide, and move independently.
Why It’s Great: Durable, safe, and foldable
Age: 18 months+
3. Radio Flyer 4-in-1 Stroll ‘N Trike
A versatile ride-on that grows with your toddler
This tricycle transforms from stroller to trike. It’s perfect for outdoor walks while building your child’s pedaling and steering skills.
Why It’s Great: 4 stages = long-term use
Age: 9 months – 5 years
4. Little Tikes Gas ‘n Go Mower
A pretend lawn mower that makes sounds
Toddlers love mimicking adults! This toy mower features pull-cord sounds and popping beads, giving them a role in backyard chores.
Why It’s Great: Encourages pretend play and movement
Age: 1–3 years
5. SplashEZ 3-in-1 Splash Pad
Outdoor water fun with learning built-in
This shallow splash pad combines water play with printed animals and letters for added sensory and cognitive development.
Why It’s Great: Easy setup; fun way to cool off
Age: 12 months+
6. VTech Explore & Crawl Elephant
A crawling companion for active toddlers
Although this toy is also great indoors, it’s perfect for smooth outdoor patios too. It crawls, plays music, and encourages your baby to chase and move.
Why It’s Great: Movement-based learning
Age: 9–24 months
7. Step2 Rain Showers Splash Pond Water Table
Hands-on water and sensory fun
This elevated water table lets toddlers scoop, pour, and splash. Promotes hand-eye coordination and cooperative play if shared with siblings.
Why It’s Great: Multi-sensory and mess-friendly
Age: 18 months+
8. Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn Push Walker Lawn Mower
Combine push-walking with outdoor discovery
This mower makes fun sounds and encourages standing and walking outdoors, keeping little legs moving.
Why It’s Great: Combines pretend play and walking support
Age: 12 months+
9. Pop2Play Toddler Slide by WowWee
A collapsible cardboard slide for safe backyard fun
This eco-friendly slide is great for decks and patios. It folds flat, making it ideal for smaller homes or travel.
Why It’s Great: Lightweight and space-saving
Age: 1–3 years
10. Foam Ball Pit + Outdoor Tunnel Set
A combo set for physical activity and crawling exploration
Great for grassy yards, this set includes a collapsible tunnel, ball pit, and targets for throwing practice.
Why It’s Great: Encourages crawling, sensory play, and coordination
Age: 1–3 years
🛒 What to Look for in Outdoor Toys for 1-Year-Olds
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Safety First | No sharp edges, small parts, or tipping hazards |
| Weather-Friendly | UV-resistant, water-safe, and washable |
| Age Appropriateness | Ensures toys match your baby’s abilities |
| Multi-Use Value | Toys that grow with your child = smart investment |
| Gross Motor Appeal | Walking, crawling, climbing encouraged |
❓ FAQ: Outdoor Toys for Babies
Q: How much outdoor play is recommended for toddlers?
A: The CDC recommends at least 30–60 minutes of physical activity per day for toddlers.
Q: Are water toys safe for 1-year-olds?
A: Yes, with supervision. Choose shallow splash mats or water tables over deep pools.
Q: Should I sanitize outdoor toys regularly?
A: Absolutely. Clean them every few days—especially after water or messy play.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Let the Outdoor Adventures Begin!
Outdoor toys give 1-year-olds the perfect platform to grow, explore, and have fun. Whether they’re pushing a mower across the lawn or splashing in a sensory pad, these toys support essential developmental milestones in joyful, natural ways.
With the right tools in your backyard, you’re not just giving your baby toys—you’re giving them confidence, coordination, and curiosity that lasts a lifetime.