Buying outdoor toys can seem straightforward. Yet some toys end up in the shed after just a few weeks. A football goal turns out to be too small for the garden, a paddling pool needs more space than expected, or a play set is missing parts that appeared in the product photo.
Use these tips to choose outdoor toys for children that suit the space you have, your child’s age and the kind of play you have in mind.
A large play set can look compact in a photo. Always check the assembled dimensions. For example, a football pitch measuring 426 x 235 cm needs a different kind of garden from a small ring toss game that’s around 50 cm wide.
Check the height too. A low football goal is suitable for young children, but may offer less of a challenge for older players.
Before buying, check exactly what’s included in the box. With a children’s football goal set, there can be a big difference between a goal net on its own and a complete set with a ball, pump, rebounder and ground anchors.
For an inflatable pool with a slide or a water play set, check whether an air pump, garden hose connector or fixings are included. For example, the product details for the bouncy castle with water slide state that the blower isn’t included.
Outdoor toys are often set up on grass, paving, sand or uneven ground. According to the product information, some products with a base need to be weighted down with water or sand. This is important for a children’s basketball set, as it helps reduce the risk of it tipping over.
Age recommendations are useful too. Small parts can pose a choking hazard. Follow the stated age guidance, check toys regularly and supervise children when the safety instructions advise you to do so.
Measure the play area first and leave clear space around the product. For a football pitch with rebounders, it’s not just the length that matters; you’ll also need space beside the goals. Family outdoor games, such as kubb or volleyball, also need a clear area for throwing or playing.
Check the following:
A portable set in a bag is handy for the park, beach or holidays. Wooden games should be stored somewhere dry after use to help prevent damp and rough patches.
Many outdoor toys are made from plastic, PVC, polyester, synthetic leather or solid wood. No material is maintenance-free. It’s best not to leave plastic and inflatable products in direct sunlight for long periods. Check wooden parts regularly for splinters or cracks.
The correct air pressure matters for balls. Overinflating a ball can damage it. According to the product information, the Wilson PXL volleyball has a diameter of around 21 cm and weighs about 270 grams. A pump isn’t included.
Don’t just look at the number of parts; check their size too. For example, the Kubb set contains throwing batons and wooden blocks and, according to the product information, is suitable for ages 5 and up with adult supervision. The ring toss game is listed as suitable for ages 3 and up, but also contains small parts.
For products with a stated standard or declaration of conformity, check the information on the product page and packaging. A manufacturer may state that materials comply with certain EU rules. Treat this as information from the manufacturer, not as a general guarantee for every use.
Why it suits this profile: A volleyball on its own is an easy way to get started in the garden, park, at the beach or on holiday. You don’t need a net to practise rallies or try some simple exercises.
The product information clearly states the size, weight and age recommendation, and confirms that the pump isn’t included. You can factor the extra accessory into your budget before you buy.
Size 5, around 21 cm in diameter and about 270 grams. Suitable for use on sand, grass and outdoor courts.
Why it suits this profile: Families who play football regularly get a complete set-up for the garden, playground or park, with rebounders and two goals.
The contents are clearly listed: rebounders, two goals, a ball, a pump and pegs. The goals can also be used on their own, without the rebounders.
Measures 426 x 235 x 36 cm and weighs 6.2 kg. Includes two goals and ground anchors.
Why it suits this profile: A good choice for families or groups of friends who want to play a sport together on the drive, in the garden, on grass or at the beach.
The set includes four rackets, four balls and a freestanding net. So there’s no need to check separately whether the basic equipment is all there.
A freestanding net almost two metres wide, four rackets and four balls. The set can be stored away after play.
For younger children, water and sand toys and beach toys are easy to take along. The Beach Toys Water Mill Set contains six pieces, including a water mill, watering can, tools and moulds.
A kubb game is great for playing with a group and combines throwing with simple rules. A ring toss game takes up less space and is ideal for a quick round or two. For active play in a smaller garden, you could also look at a children’s basketball set with adjustable height. Always check the base, the recommended age and whether it needs to be filled with water or sand.
We’ve put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
Choose compact games such as ring toss, a ball on its own, water and sand toys, or a foldable pickleball set. Measure the available play area before ordering and allow for enough space around the product.
Let wet parts dry completely first. Store wooden toys somewhere dry and check plastic parts, nets and fixings regularly. Deflate inflatable products and store them out of the sun. A net bag or carry bag helps keep small parts together.
Check the recommended age, remove obstacles from the play area and use ground anchors or weighted feet where needed. Supervise children as advised in the product instructions, and stop playing if any parts are damaged, loose or sharp.