With all the available “screens”, it seems like kids are spending more and more time in front of the tv/video games/computer. Though there are some great resources for learning via “screen time”, physical play is still detrimental to child development (and my sanity, ya?). We’ve tested and gathered up our favorite active play toys.
These will help with the development of coordination and gross motor skills PLUS help kiddos get out ALL that energy. Some of these can even be used indoors during those harsh winter months!
Our Favorite Active Play Toys for Kids
Zombie Nerf Gun
You really can’t go wrong with Nerf guns. This Zombie themed one will get kiddos excited. They can spend hours running around and be shooting each other with the soft darts outdoors…or indoors if you’re a “cool” mom.;)
Stomp Rockets
These stomp rockets have been a long time favorite in our house. If you check out the reviews, over 2k people love them too! When you step on the launch pad, you’ll have a blast watching to Rocket fly into the sky up to 100 ft.
Digger Crane
We got our first digger crane at an FFA auction some years ago. My kids, of all ages, have never stopped playing with it. There’s just something cool about digging in the dirt!
Large Parachute
Some of my greatest memories of Elementary PE involved this baby. Pigs in a Blanket. Hot Potatoe. Tons of fun games that keep kiddos moving. I love that this one is 12 ft in width AND has handles. Your kids will be active AND using their imagination.
Plasma Cars
These are the ride on toys, we just keep coming back to. They’re SO fun, for a variety of ages, and are the ride on toy that gets used the most of our gazillion ride on toys. Even dad likes to try his hand at these babies. You have to “wiggle” the steering wheel back and forth to propel these.
Balance Bikes
Balance bikes are perfect for younger kids who need some preparation for bike riding. These allow kiddos to learn to balance and coast on these bikes without pedals. I can’t tell you how many kids I know who have learned to ride bikes SO easily because they were prepped on these. Skip the training wheel phase!
Foam Pogo Jumper
A totally simple toy that teaches MAJOR coordination and is a challenge all kids love. This little pogo stick is quite wide allowing kids to really get the hang of pogo stick jumping. It’s a great starter and kids love the concept!
Fliker Scooter
These are a HOT item in our area. These are a little different than the traditional scooter in that they have two placements for feet, and require you to “drift” to get enough momentum to go. Basically, you have to wiggle to get things moving (sort of similar to the Plasma Car). This is for bigger kids who have a little more coordination. I would suggest ages 7+. They’re really fun! I enjoy them myself!
If you have a littler kid (ages 2-5), these Micro scooters are THE BEST. They’re the perfect small child size.
Rip Stick
Deemed a modern mix between snowboard and skateboard, these Rip Sticks are loads of fun! They do take some coordination so I would suggest for kids 8+.
Hop Scotch Mat
Hop Scotch is a classic game that never gets old! This Mat allows the game to be played even indoors when the weather outside gets nasty. Plus, it’s from a trusted name -Melissa and Doug!
Cozy Coupe
You’ve probably all seen these, and for good reason, they’re awesome. Every toddler of my 5 has enjoyed time in this. They make the car go using their feet (Fred Flintstone style)! Again, a classic you just can’t go wrong with!
Hopping Balls
Bounce here, bounce there, bounce everywhere! These hopping balls are a hit indoor and outdoor! Fun for a variety of ages and a great way to get ALL their energy out! I have a teacher friend who even uses these in her classroom!
Indoor Trampolines
When the weather is crummy, but you still have kiddos with LOTS of energy, these are a total lifesaver. There are little ones for the small kiddos and even a bigger one for the bigger kids!
Leave a Reply