Home1-2-YearsOutdoor toys
1-2-Years

Outdoor toys

Outdoor toys encourage active play and physical development. These durable, engaging options are perfect for gardens, parks, and sunny days outside.

Top pick

Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set

Best basketball hoop

Little Tikes Easy Score Basketball Set - Best basketball hoop

This adjustable basketball hoop grows from 2 to 4 feet tall, growing with your child. The oversized rim and junior-sized ball make scoring easy, building confidence. The stable base can be weighted with sand for outdoor use. Develops gross motor skills and hand-eye coordination through active play.

Pros

  • Adjustable height (6 settings)
  • Oversized rim for easy scoring
  • Stable base
  • Indoor/outdoor use
  • Encourages active play

Cons

  • Takes up space
  • Ball may get lost
  • Can tip if not weighted
  • Assembly required
View product

Step2 Play & Shade Pool

Best paddling pool

Step2 Play & Shade Pool - Best paddling pool

This large paddling pool includes a built-in canopy providing UPF 50+ sun protection. The spacious design fits multiple toddlers, whilst the moulded seats and cup holders add comfort. The drain plug makes emptying easy, and the durable plastic construction lasts for summers. Perfect for hot days in the garden.

Pros

  • Built-in sun canopy (UPF 50+)
  • Large capacity
  • Moulded seats
  • Easy drain plug
  • Durable construction

Cons

  • Large storage footprint
  • Heavy when full
  • Canopy may blow in wind
  • Expensive
View product

Little Tikes 3-in-1 Trike

Best grow-with-me trike

Little Tikes 3-in-1 Trike - Best grow-with-me trike

This clever tricycle adapts through three stages: parent-controlled push trike, learning-to-ride trike, and independent classic trike. The adjustable push handle, safety harness, and sun canopy make it perfect for young toddlers, whilst these features remove as your child gains confidence. Provides years of use from one product.

Pros

  • Three stages (grows from 9m-3yrs)
  • Parent push handle
  • Safety harness
  • Sun canopy
  • Good value for longevity

Cons

  • Bulky and heavy
  • Expensive upfront
  • Complex adjustments between stages
  • Takes storage space
View product

Things to consider when choosing outdoor toys

When selecting outdoor toys, consider your lifestyle, budget, and specific needs. Every family is different, so what works for one might not work for another.

All our recommendations meet UK safety standards and have been chosen based on parent reviews, expert testing, and real-world usability. We only recommend products we genuinely believe in.

Affiliate disclosure: Little Essentials earns from qualifying purchases through affiliate links. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you.