Get Outside and PLAY!

How about this weather we’ve had lately in DFW?!?!  Isn’t it great???

If your kids are like mine, they could spend the entire day outside!  Even though it’s their favorite place to be, they have to have a little bit of entertainment while they’re out there, or they tend to start wandering.  Since we play in our front yard a lot, I have to be sure to have things that hold their interest or I’m very likely to see them head over to the neighbor’s flower pots to throw dirt.  They’re boys, through and through.

I wanted to share some of our favorite outside toys with you and hopefully try and get some ideas from you, too!

• My 17 month old can’t get enough of the Cozy Coupe.  We even bring it inside sometimes to let him wheel around the house.  He loves to be pushed and even loves figuring out how to make it move on his own.

• A water table can keep your kids entertained for a LONG time!  My kids love water and the laughter I hear from them as they splash the water around is priceless!  There are many different water tables out there and it seems that the more accessories they have, the more expensive they are.

• Any kind of plastic fort they can climb in to and slide down makes my kids happy campers!!  They love to climb in to them with their friends and squeal as they slide down together.  The bigger they are, though, the more expensive.

• How about a change of scenery for meal time?  A picnic table can be used not only for meals, but arts and crafts, too!  Want to take on a messy craft?  You need a picnic table outside!  I love the umbrella for sun protection, too!

• When I feel the need to get a little exercise, I load my two boys (2.5 yrs and 17 months) up in their wagon.  The ride keeps them quiet and they love being on the move!

• For a couple of cheap alternatives, how about bubbles or sidewalk chalk?  Both of these can easily be thrown in to your diaper bag for some fun on the go.

Looking to get outside toys for your kids??  Check Craigslist out if you don’t care about “brand new.”  I can always find toys in great condition for half of the retail price or even less!

And if all else fails, head to the PARK!!

What are your favorite toys or things to do when outside?  I’d love to hear more ideas!