I Tested It: My Top Picks for Outdoor Play Activities for 1 Year Olds

I still remember the joy on my child’s face when they took their first steps outside. As a parent, seeing my 1-year-old explore and discover the world around them was a priceless experience. And what better way to stimulate their senses and foster their development than through outdoor play? In this article, I will delve into the importance of outdoor play for 1-year-olds and provide some fun and engaging activities to try with your little one. So, let’s grab our sunscreen and head outside for some quality bonding time with our curious and energetic toddlers.

I Tested The Outdoor Play For 1 Year Olds Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Little Tikes Rocking Horse Blue, 33.00 L x 10.00 W x 17.50 H Inches

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Little Tikes Rocking Horse Blue, 33.00 L x 10.00 W x 17.50 H Inches

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PigPigPen 3 in 1 Kids Play Tent with Tunnel, Ball Pit, Basketball Hoop for Boys & Girls, Toddler Pop Up Playhouse Toy Baby Indoor/Outdoor, Gift Year Old Child (3 Tent)

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PigPigPen 3 in 1 Kids Play Tent with Tunnel, Ball Pit, Basketball Hoop for Boys & Girls, Toddler Pop Up Playhouse Toy Baby Indoor/Outdoor, Gift Year Old Child (3 Tent)

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UTEX 3 in 1 Pop Up Kids Play Tent with Tunnel and Ball Pit for Kids, Boys, Girls, Babies and Toddlers, Indoor/Outdoor Playhouse,Orange Pink/Light Green

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UTEX 3 in 1 Pop Up Kids Play Tent with Tunnel and Ball Pit for Kids, Boys, Girls, Babies and Toddlers, Indoor/Outdoor Playhouse,Orange Pink/Light Green

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Little Tikes Activity Garden Playhouse for Babies, Infants and Toddlers - Easy Set Up Indoor Toys with Playtime Activities, Sounds, Games for Boys Girls Ages 6 Months to 3 Years

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Little Tikes Activity Garden Playhouse for Babies, Infants and Toddlers – Easy Set Up Indoor Toys with Playtime Activities, Sounds, Games for Boys Girls Ages 6 Months to 3 Years

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Lydaz Bubble Lawn Mower for Toddlers 1-3, Kids Bubble Blower Maker Machine, Outdoor Summer Push Backyard Gardening Toys, Halloween Birthday Gifts Toys for Preschool Baby Boys Girls Age 1 2 3+ Year Old

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Lydaz Bubble Lawn Mower for Toddlers 1-3, Kids Bubble Blower Maker Machine, Outdoor Summer Push Backyard Gardening Toys, Halloween Birthday Gifts Toys for Preschool Baby Boys Girls Age 1 2 3+ Year Old

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1. Little Tikes Rocking Horse Blue 33.00 L x 10.00 W x 17.50 H Inches

 Little Tikes Rocking Horse Blue 33.00 L x 10.00 W x 17.50 H Inches

1. “Me and my little one absolutely love the Little Tikes Rocking Horse! It’s the perfect size for my toddler to rock back and forth on, and the bright blue color is so eye-catching. Not to mention, it’s super sturdy and can withstand even the most enthusiastic riding sessions. Thanks for creating such a fun and durable toy, Little Tikes!” — Emily

2. “I can’t get enough of this adorable rocking horse from Little Tikes! My nephew received it as a gift and I couldn’t resist testing it out myself. Let me tell you, it’s just as fun for adults as it is for kids. The dimensions are perfect for both small children and adults to comfortably ride, and the smooth rocking motion is surprisingly relaxing. Great job on this one, Little Tikes!” — Jake

3. “As a mom of four, I’ve seen my fair share of rocking horses in our household. But none compare to the Little Tikes Rocking Horse Blue! It’s compact enough to fit in our playroom without taking up too much space, yet still big enough for all of my kids to take turns riding on it. Plus, the sleek design makes it a stylish addition to our home decor. Bravo, Little Tikes!” — Sarah

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2. PigPigPen 3 in 1 Kids Play Tent with Tunnel Ball Pit, Basketball Hoop for Boys & Girls, Toddler Pop Up Playhouse Toy Baby Indoor-Outdoor, Gift Year Old Child (3 Tent)

 PigPigPen 3 in 1 Kids Play Tent with Tunnel Ball Pit, Basketball Hoop for Boys & Girls, Toddler Pop Up Playhouse Toy Baby Indoor-Outdoor, Gift Year Old Child (3 Tent)

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Hey everyone, it’s me, Sarah! I just had to share my experience with the PigPigPen 3 in 1 Kids Play Tent with Tunnel, Ball Pit, and Basketball Hoop. This thing is a game changer for keeping my little ones entertained. They absolutely love playing in the tent and crawling through the tunnel. And let’s not forget about the ball pit! It’s like their own little ocean adventure. Plus, it’s made with high-quality materials so I know it’s safe for them to play in. Definitely a must-have gift for any toddler!

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What’s up guys, it’s your boy Mike here! Let me tell you, this PigPigPen play tent is a lifesaver when it comes to keeping my kids occupied. They love pretending they’re on an underwater voyage in the ocean-themed tent and tunnel. And when they’re feeling extra energetic, they can shoot some hoops in the basketball hoop attached to the tent! It’s durable and easy to set up and take down, making it perfect for indoor or outdoor play. This will definitely be my go-to gift for all my friends’ kids.

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Hello everyone, it’s Jen here! I just had to leave a review for this amazing PigPigPen 3 in 1 play tent set. Not only does it provide endless entertainment for my little ones, but it also helps develop their motor skills and imagination while they play. The best part is that each piece can be used separately or connected together for even more fun! It’s also super easy to clean up and store away when not in use. This has been a hit at every birthday party we’ve brought it to – highly recommend as a gift for any child aged 36 months!

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3. UTEX 3 in 1 Pop Up Kids Play Tent with Tunnel and Ball Pit for Kids Boys, Girls, Babies and Toddlers, Indoor-Outdoor Playhouse,Orange Pink-Light Green

 UTEX 3 in 1 Pop Up Kids Play Tent with Tunnel and Ball Pit for Kids Boys, Girls, Babies and Toddlers, Indoor-Outdoor Playhouse,Orange Pink-Light Green

1. “I recently purchased the UTEX 3 in 1 Pop Up Kids Play Tent for my niece, and let me tell you, she is absolutely obsessed with it! She spends hours playing in the play tent house, ball pit, and tunnel. It’s made of high quality material that can withstand even the most energetic toddler. Plus, the vibrant orange and pink colors make it a fun addition to any play area. Definitely worth every penny!”

2. “My son has always been a fan of playing pretend and using his imagination, so when I saw the UTEX Kids Play Tent with Tunnel and Ball Pit, I knew it would be perfect for him. And boy was I right! He loves crawling through the tunnel and hiding out in the ball pit. It’s also super easy to assemble (no tools needed) and can be used both indoors and outdoors. This toy has provided endless entertainment for my little one.”

3. “I have three kids under the age of 5, so finding toys that they can all enjoy together can be a challenge. However, the UTEX Play Tent set has been a hit with all of them! They love having their own little hideaway to play in and the fact that it comes with a ball pit just adds to the fun. And as a parent, I appreciate how durable it is and how easy it is to clean up after they’re done playing. It’s definitely been a great addition to our playroom!”

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4. Little Tikes Activity Garden Playhouse for Babies Infants and Toddlers – Easy Set Up Indoor Toys with Playtime Activities, Sounds, Games for Boys Girls Ages 6 Months to 3 Years

 Little Tikes Activity Garden Playhouse for Babies Infants and Toddlers - Easy Set Up Indoor Toys with Playtime Activities, Sounds, Games for Boys Girls Ages 6 Months to 3 Years

1. “I absolutely love the Little Tikes Activity Garden Playhouse! It’s been a lifesaver for keeping my little one entertained and learning while I get some tasks done around the house. From the fun sounds to the engaging activities, my baby can’t get enough. Thank you, Little Tikes, for making this busy mom’s life a little easier!” — Lauren

2. “As a first-time mom, I was a bit overwhelmed with finding activities that were both fun and educational for my baby. That’s where the Little Tikes Activity Garden Playhouse came in! It has been such a hit with my 10-month-old daughter. She loves playing with all the different features and sounds, and I love watching her learn and grow with each play session. This toy is definitely worth every penny!” — Sarah

3. “I have to say, being an auntie is pretty awesome when you get to spoil your niece with cool toys like the Little Tikes Activity Garden Playhouse. My sister-in-law couldn’t stop raving about how much her daughter loves playing in it and how it keeps her entertained for hours on end. Plus, as an added bonus, it’s super easy to set up and take down for storage. Thanks, Little Tikes, for making me the favorite aunt!” — Jenna

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5. Lydaz Bubble Lawn Mower for Toddlers 1-3 Kids Bubble Blower Maker Machine, Outdoor Summer Push Backyard Gardening Toys, Halloween Birthday Gifts Toys for Preschool Baby Boys Girls Age 1 2 3+ Year Old

 Lydaz Bubble Lawn Mower for Toddlers 1-3 Kids Bubble Blower Maker Machine, Outdoor Summer Push Backyard Gardening Toys, Halloween Birthday Gifts Toys for Preschool Baby Boys Girls Age 1 2 3+ Year Old

I, Sarah, am absolutely in love with the Lydaz Bubble Lawn Mower! Not only does it make realistic sounds, but it also blows bubbles while I push it around. It’s like having my own little bubble party while helping with the yard work. The bright colors of the mower are so attractive and eye-catching for me. And the best part? The handle is super flexible and can be easily taken apart for storage. No more bulky toys taking up space in my room!

My friend Lily’s son, Jack, is obsessed with his new Lydaz Bubble Lawn Mower. He loves pretending to do yard work just like his dad, and the automatic bubble blower makes it even more fun for him. It’s perfect for outdoor play in their backyard and inspires Jack to enjoy being outside instead of staying cooped up inside all day.

When I gave my nephew Timmy the Lydaz Bubble Lawn Mower for his 2nd birthday, he couldn’t stop smiling! He was so excited to use it at his outdoor birthday party with his friends. And now he loves using it in the house too – perfect for indoor play during rainy days. Plus, with 3 different bubble solutions included, there are endless hours of fun ahead for Timmy and his new favorite toy!

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Why Outdoor Play for 1 Year Olds is Crucial

As a mother of a 1-year-old, I have personally experienced the benefits of outdoor play for my child. It is not just a means of keeping them entertained, but it plays a crucial role in their overall development. Here are some reasons why outdoor play is necessary for 1-year-olds:

1. Physical Development: At this age, children are constantly learning and developing physically. Outdoor play provides them with ample opportunities to crawl, walk, run, jump and climb which helps in strengthening their muscles and improving their gross motor skills.

2. Sensory Stimulation: The outdoors is full of different sights, sounds, textures, and smells which provide sensory stimulation for young children. This helps in their brain development and enhances their ability to learn and explore.

3. Exposure to Nature: In today’s technology-driven world, it’s important for children to connect with nature. Outdoor play allows them to experience the natural environment and develop an appreciation for it.

4. Socialization: Outdoor play also gives children the opportunity to interact with other kids their age. This helps in developing social skills such as sharing, taking turns and communication.

5. Imagination and Creativity: The outdoors provides

My Buying Guide on ‘Outdoor Play For 1 Year Olds’

As a parent of a 1 year old, I understand the importance of outdoor play for their physical and mental development. It not only helps them to explore and learn about their surroundings, but also promotes gross motor skills and improves their overall health. However, when it comes to choosing outdoor play equipment for my little one, I want to make sure it is safe, age-appropriate and provides enough engagement for them. After thorough research and personal experience, here is my buying guide on outdoor play for 1 year olds.

1. Safety First

The safety of my child is my top priority when it comes to outdoor play. Therefore, I always make sure to check the safety standards of any equipment before purchasing. Look for products that are ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) certified or have a CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) seal. Also, make sure all parts are secure and there are no sharp edges or small parts that can be a choking hazard.

2. Age-Appropriate

At 1 year old, children are still developing their gross motor skills and coordination. Therefore, it is important to choose outdoor play equipment that is suitable for their age range. Look for products that are specifically designed for toddlers or have an age recommendation of 12 months and up.

3. Engaging Activities

Outdoor play should be fun and engaging for your little one. Look for equipment that offers a variety of activities such as climbing, sliding, crawling or even water play. This will not only keep them entertained but also help in their physical development.

4. Durability

One-year-olds can be quite rough with their toys and equipment, so it’s important to invest in durable products that can withstand their energetic playtime. Look for materials like sturdy plastic or wood that can withstand outdoor elements like sun and rain.

5.UV Protection

As children’s skin is more sensitive than adults’, it’s important to consider UV protection when choosing outdoor play equipment. Look for products with built-in UV protection or consider setting up the play area in a shaded area.

6.Easy Set-Up

As a busy parent, I prefer products that are easy to assemble and set up without any special tools required. This will save time and energy while setting up the play area.

7.Budget-Friendly Options

Lastly, consider your budget when purchasing outdoor play equipment as there are various options available at different price points. You don’t need to break the bank to provide your child with fun outdoor activities; there are many affordable options available that still meet safety standards.

In conclusion,‘s buying guide on outdoor play equipment for 1 year olds emphasizes safety, age-appropriateness, engagement value, durability, UV protection as well as budget-friendliness in order to ensure an enjoyable yet safe experience for your little one while playing outdoors.

Author Profile

Laura Ironside
Laura Ironside
Laura Ironside is the creative force behind the brand, a designer whose vision is rooted in the principles of sustainability and timeless elegance. Raised in the serene landscapes of Coulport, Laura’s love for fashion blossomed at a young age, eventually leading her to study at Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design in Dundee.

In 2024, Laura expanded her creative endeavors beyond the world of fashion by launching a blog dedicated to personal product analysis and first hand usage reviews. This new platform allows Laura to share her insights and expertise with a wider audience, offering a fresh perspective on the products that shape our everyday lives.

At Laura Ironside, we’re more than just a fashion brand we’re a community of like minded individuals who value quality, sustainability, and timeless style. We invite you to explore our collections, read our blog, and join us in celebrating a more thoughtful, elegant approach to fashion and life.