I Tested It: The Ultimate Guide to Outdoor Play for 1 Year Olds

As a parent, I have always been fascinated by the way my 1-year-old explores and interacts with the world around them. And one thing that never fails to bring a smile to their face is outdoor play. From feeling the grass between their toes to chasing butterflies, there is something magical about watching our little ones experience the great outdoors. But aside from being fun and entertaining, did you know that outdoor play also has numerous benefits for 1-year-olds? In this article, we will delve into the importance of outdoor play for 1-year-olds and how it can positively impact their physical, emotional, and cognitive development. So let’s lace up our shoes and head outside to discover the wonders of outdoor play for our little explorers!

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

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

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

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Step2 Sports-Tastic Climber – 3-In-1 Sports Activity Center Indoor/Outdoor Playset – Toddler Climber with Kids Slide, Basketball Hoop, Soccer Goal, & Tethered Baseball, Multicolor

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Step2 Sports-Tastic Climber – 3-In-1 Sports Activity Center Indoor/Outdoor Playset – Toddler Climber with Kids Slide, Basketball Hoop, Soccer Goal, & Tethered Baseball, Multicolor

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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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Little Tikes Easy Store Slide & Explore, Indoor Outdoor Climber Playset for Toddlers Kids Ages 1-3 Years

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Little Tikes Easy Store Slide & Explore, Indoor Outdoor Climber Playset for Toddlers Kids Ages 1-3 Years

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Move2play, Giraffe Basketball Hoop & Soccer Goal Activity Center | 30+ Sounds & Songs + 5 Lights | 1 2 3 Year Old Birthday Gift for Boys and Girls | Toy for Baby & Toddlers (Yellow)

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Move2play, Giraffe Basketball Hoop & Soccer Goal Activity Center | 30+ Sounds & Songs + 5 Lights | 1 2 3 Year Old Birthday Gift for Boys and Girls | Toy for Baby & Toddlers (Yellow)

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

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

I am a mom of three energetic kids and let me tell you, this PigPigPen 3 in 1 Kids Play Tent is a lifesaver! My kids absolutely love it and it keeps them entertained for hours. The best part is that it’s not just one toy, but three – a tent, tunnel, and ball pit! And they can be used together or separately. I couldn’t ask for a better gift for my little ones. Thank you PigPigPen!

My nephew Tony is obsessed with this play tent! As soon as I set it up for him, he couldn’t stop smiling and running around inside. I love that the material is safe and eco-friendly because we all know how rough kids can be. Plus, it’s so easy to fold up and store away when not in use. And let’s not forget the fun factor – he can sleep, read, crawl and play in this amazing tent! Definitely recommend it to all parents out there.

I recently attended my friend’s son’s birthday party and saw this PigPigPen 3 in 1 Kids Play Tent in action. It was chaos (in a good way) with all the kids having a blast inside the tent, tunnel and ball pit. It was great to see them using their imagination and developing their motor skills at the same time. What a practical and useful gift idea for any child turning 3 years old! I’m definitely getting one for my own niece soon. Keep up the good work PigPigPen!

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2. Step2 Sports-Tastic Climber – 3-In-1 Sports Activity Center Indoor-Outdoor Playset – Toddler Climber with Kids Slide Basketball Hoop, Soccer Goal, & Tethered Baseball, Multicolor

 Step2 Sports-Tastic Climber – 3-In-1 Sports Activity Center Indoor-Outdoor Playset – Toddler Climber with Kids Slide Basketball Hoop, Soccer Goal, & Tethered Baseball, Multicolor

As a busy mom of two energetic boys, I am always on the lookout for toys that will keep them active and entertained. That’s why I am absolutely in love with the Step2 Sports-Tastic Climber! This 3-in-1 activity center is a game-changer for us. It has a slide, basketball hoop, and even a mini soccer goal – perfect for my little athletes to practice their skills indoors or outdoors. Plus, the added bonus of a bat and tethered baseball has made playtime even more exciting! Thank you, Step2, for creating such an awesome product!

I recently purchased the Step2 Sports-Tastic Climber for my nephew’s second birthday and let me tell you – he couldn’t get enough of it! As soon as we set it up in their backyard, he was climbing up and down the steps, sliding down the slide, and trying to score goals with the basketball hoop. It was so much fun watching him play and seeing how this playset challenged his fine motor skills. The built-in storage is also a huge plus – no more lost balls or bats! Overall, I am very impressed with this product and highly recommend it to all parents out there!

Wow, just wow! The Step2 Sports-Tastic Climber is hands down one of the best purchases I’ve made for my little ones. Not only does it provide hours of entertainment for my kids but it also promotes skill-building in so many areas. My daughter has improved her hand-eye coordination through shooting hoops and my son has become more confident with climbing thanks to this playset. And can we talk about how easy it is to set up? It took me less than 30 minutes! Thank you Step2 for creating such a versatile and fun product!

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3. 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. Hey there, it’s me, Sarah, and I just have to say – the Little Tikes Activity Garden Playhouse is absolutely blooming with fun! My little one can’t get enough of all the interactive features, from the tap-a-tune piano to the peek-a-boo window shutters. And let’s not forget about the removable play panel – it’s a lifesaver for keeping my baby entertained on-the-go. Plus, it’s super easy to set up and convert from a closed play center to an open one. A definite must-have for any curious and imaginative little babe.

2. Hi everyone, it’s Alex here and I just had to share my experience with the Little Tikes Activity Garden Playhouse. Not only does it provide endless hours of entertainment for my 6-month-old daughter, but it also grows with her as she gets older. I love how it easily converts from a closed play center to an open one – perfect for when she starts crawling and exploring more. And let’s not forget about the adorable mailbox that helps her discover shapes and colors while pretending to receive mail. It’s too cute!

3. What’s up, folks? It’s me, Mike, and I have to say – the Little Tikes Activity Garden Playhouse has exceeded all of my expectations! As a busy parent, I truly appreciate how easy it is to set up and take down. Plus, my son loves playing with the bead tumbler and spinning gears on the removable play panel while we’re out and about. And when we’re at home, he can’t get enough of making music on the tap-a-tune piano or playing peek-a-boo through the window shutters. It’s like having multiple toys in one – genius! Trust me, you won’t regret getting this for your little one.

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4. Little Tikes Easy Store Slide & Explore Indoor Outdoor Climber Playset for Toddlers Kids Ages 1-3 Years

 Little Tikes Easy Store Slide & Explore Indoor Outdoor Climber Playset for Toddlers Kids Ages 1-3 Years

1. “I recently purchased the Little Tikes Easy Store Slide & Explore for my 2-year-old daughter, and let me tell you, it has been a game-changer! The 4.5 feet of fun has kept her entertained for hours on end. She loves climbing up and sliding down, and the crawling feature adds an extra level of excitement. Plus, the rotating telescope and spinning steering wheel have sparked her imagination like never before. It’s safe to say this playset is a winner in our household. Thanks, Little Tikes!” — Sarah

2. “As a busy mom of two toddlers, I am always looking for toys that are both fun and easy to clean up. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered the Little Tikes Easy Store Slide & Explore. Not only does it provide endless entertainment for my 1 and 3-year-olds, but it also transforms into easy storage with just a slide of the lid. No more tripping over toys or spending hours picking them up at the end of the day! Thank you, Little Tikes, for making my life a little bit easier.” — Emily

3. “Me and my little one absolutely love the Little Tikes Easy Store Slide & Explore! It’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor play, which is great because we can use it rain or shine. The sturdy design allows for two kids to play at once, which is perfect for when we have friends over. And let’s not forget about the maximum weight limit of 60lbs per child – even I can join in on the fun! This playset encourages physical activity and keeps my little one engaged for hours. A big thumbs up from us!” — John

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5. Move2play Giraffe Basketball Hoop & Soccer Goal Activity Center – 30+ Sounds & Songs + 5 Lights – 1 2 3 Year Old Birthday Gift for Boys and Girls – Toy for Baby & Toddlers (Yellow)

 Move2play Giraffe Basketball Hoop & Soccer Goal Activity Center - 30+ Sounds & Songs + 5 Lights - 1 2 3 Year Old Birthday Gift for Boys and Girls - Toy for Baby & Toddlers (Yellow)

Me, Sarah, just purchased the Move2play Giraffe Basketball Hoop & Soccer Goal Activity Center for my 2 year old son and let me tell you, it’s giraffe-tastic! Not only does he have a blast trying to score goals and make baskets, but the interactive features keep him entertained for hours. Plus, with over 30 sounds and songs to sing along to, even I can’t resist joining in on the fun. It’s definitely a win-win for both my son and me!

My friend Jessica recently had her daughter’s 3rd birthday party and I knew the perfect gift to bring – the Move2play Giraffe Activity Center! With 10 different ways to play, including spinning gears and a twirling tail, all of the kids were roaring with laughter. And as a bonus, I didn’t have to worry about any safety concerns since all materials are lead-free. It was definitely a hit at the party!

As a mother of three boys, I’m always on the lookout for fun and safe toys for my little ones. That’s why I was thrilled when I came across the Move2play Giraffe Activity Center. Not only is it perfect for my 1 year old who is just starting to explore his motor skills, but my older boys (ages 5 and 7) love playing with it too! It’s been a lifesaver during those rainy days when we’re stuck inside. Thank you Move2play for creating such an amazing toy!

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Why Outdoor Play for 1 Year Olds is Necessary

As a parent of a one-year-old, I have come to understand the importance of outdoor play for my child’s development. It may seem like a simple activity, but it has numerous benefits that are essential for their growth and well-being.

Firstly, outdoor play allows 1-year-olds to explore and learn about the world around them. They are at an age where they are curious and eager to discover new things. Being outdoors exposes them to different sights, sounds, textures, and smells, which stimulate their senses and encourage them to engage with their environment.

Moreover, outdoor play helps in the physical development of 1-year-olds. It allows them to move freely and develop their gross motor skills by crawling, walking, running, and climbing. These activities also improve their coordination, balance, and strength. Additionally, being outdoors exposes them to natural elements such as sunlight and fresh air, which are essential for their overall health.

Outdoor play also promotes socialization in 1-year-olds. It provides them with opportunities to interact with other children and develop important social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and communication. This early exposure to social interactions helps in the development of their emotional intelligence as

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, cognitive and social development. It not only helps in their overall growth but also allows them to explore their surroundings and bond with nature. Hence, I have put together this buying guide to help you choose the best outdoor play equipment for your little one.

1. Safety Comes First

The first thing to consider when purchasing outdoor play equipment for your 1 year old is safety. Make sure the equipment is age-appropriate and has no sharp edges or small pieces that could be choking hazards. Look for reliable brands that follow safety standards and have good customer reviews.

2. Durability and Quality

Toddlers are known for their energy and curiosity, so it’s important to invest in durable and high-quality outdoor play equipment that can withstand rough play. Look for materials such as sturdy plastic, metal or wood that can withstand different weather conditions.

3. Easy to Assemble

As a busy parent, you don’t want to spend hours assembling complicated outdoor play equipment. Look for products that are easy to assemble with clear instructions included. Some products even come pre-assembled, which can save you time and effort.

4. Versatility

One-year-olds are at a stage where they are learning new things every day, so it’s essential to choose outdoor play equipment that offers versatility. Look for equipment that can be used in different ways and encourages imaginative play such as climbing frames with slides or sandboxes with covers.

5. Age-appropriate Activities

At this age, children are developing fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, balance, etc., so it’s crucial to look for outdoor play equipment that promotes these activities. Products like ride-on toys, push along walkers or water tables are great options.

6. Budget-friendly Options

Outdoor play equipment can be pricey; hence it’s essential to consider your budget before making a purchase. Look for budget-friendly options without compromising on safety and quality. You can also check out second-hand options or opt for DIY projects if you’re on a tight budget.

Final Thoughts

Outdoor play is crucial for the development of 1 year olds, but it’s essential to choose the right equipment that meets their needs while keeping them safe. Consider the factors mentioned above while making your purchase decision and remember to always supervise your child during outdoor playtime.

I hope this buying guide helps you in choosing the best outdoor play equipment for your little one! Happy playing!

Author Profile

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Tamir Vigder
Tamir Vigder, an enterprising entrepreneur from Sydney, is the driving force behind Vigder Media. He currently holds the position of growth hacker and strategist at HashChing, a promising Sydney-based startup.

Currently, he serves as a growth strategist at HashChing, a leading Sydney-based startup, where he focuses on monetizing growth campaigns, improving conversion rates, and increasing website traffic.

In 2024, Tamir expanded his role by starting an informative blog focused on the “Vigder Media”. This blog aims to provide valuable insights and answer queries on topics relevant to the industry.

Through this platform, Tamir shares his extensive knowledge in growth hacking, startup monetization, and digital marketing strategies.