Easy Outdoor Activities for Toddlers to Enjoy This Spring

Easy Outdoor Activities for Toddlers to Enjoy This Spring

Spring is here, which means two things: (1) your toddler is bouncing off the walls like a caffeinated squirrel, and (2) you need to get them outside before they turn your living room into a jungle gym. But don’t worry! We’ve got some fun, easy, and toddler-approved outdoor activities to help your little adventurer burn off energy while you enjoy some fresh air (and hopefully a coffee that’s still warm).

1. Bubble Chase & Pop

Let’s be real—toddlers think bubbles are magic. Grab a bottle of bubbles and let them chase, pop, and even try to catch them on their noses. Want to go pro? Get a bubble machine and sit back as your toddler entertains themselves for a solid 15 minutes. (Which is basically an eternity in toddler time.)

2. Sidewalk Chalk Picasso

Hand your little artist some sidewalk chalk and let them go to town on the driveway. Whether it’s a wobbly-looking cat, an attempt at writing their name, or just random scribbles, chalk art is mess-free, easy to clean, and keeps them busy. Bonus: You can draw a hopscotch grid and teach them the joy of jumping!

3. Toddler Obstacle Course

Set up an easy outdoor obstacle course using whatever you have—hula hoops to jump in, pillows to step on, or a play tunnel to crawl through. Your toddler gets to run, jump, and tumble while you get to be the “official referee” (a.k.a. sit and cheer from the sidelines).

4. Nature Scavenger Hunt

Turn a simple walk into an adventure! Make a checklist of things for your toddler to find: a flower, a bug, a rock, something green, something soft, etc. They’ll feel like explorers while you sneak in a mini science lesson.

5. Water Play (Without the Pool)

It’s not summer yet, but water play is still a hit. Fill a bucket with water, hand your toddler some plastic cups and spoons, and let them splash to their heart’s content. For extra fun, throw in some toy boats or rubber ducks! (Also, grab a towel—this will get very wet.)

6. Backyard Picnic Party

Take snack time outdoors! Lay out a blanket, pack some toddler-friendly snacks, and enjoy an easy, mess-free meal outside. Bonus points if you bring stuffed animals and call it a teddy bear picnic.

7. Planting Fun

Give your toddler a small pot, some dirt, and seeds to plant. They’ll love playing in the soil, and you’ll get the satisfaction of teaching them about nature. (Just prepare for the possibility that they may try to eat the dirt. It’s part of the process.)

8. Catch the Wind

Kites, pinwheels, or even just running with a ribbon—springtime breezes are great for fun, easy activities that don’t require much setup.

Spring is the perfect season to let your toddler burn off some energy while you soak in the sun (and maybe even sit down for five whole minutes). So grab the sunscreen, pack some snacks, and head outside for some memory-making fun!