Whether or not you’re able to head to the local pool or the coast this year, one thing is for certain: Your kids are going to play outside. Here are 10 items that can help you make your backyard the place to be all summer long.
Why not bring the playground to you and let the kids play all day long? Plus, lunch and snacks are just steps away inside and you can always keep the kids in sight. //Belmont All Cedar Swing Set, $629; The Home Depot
Bringing color and all of the fun to your backyard is this rainbow sprinkler that allows kids to run through the water on hot days, and brings cheer on the overcast ones too. // Rainbow Inflatable Sprinkler, $159; Pottery Barn Kids
What’s backyard fun without games? This unicorn-themed bowling set is perfect for family game night again and again, especially if you can’t make it to the local bowling alley. // Antsy Pants Unicorn Lawn Bowling Set, $25; Target
Bring the beach to your backyard with this crab-shaped sandbox, and your kiddos can dig, shovel and play all summer long (with no long road trip required). // Crabby 4’ Rectangular Sandbox with Cover, $165; Wayfair
Give your kids a mini home of their own with this backyard cottage. They can bring their toys, have their own personal space or make it their own as they grow. // Little Tikes Cape Cottage Playhouse, $130; Walmart
Are your kids missing restaurants, or love pretending to be chefs? This playhouse is perfect for their imaginations. Plus, it can be popped up inside too when the weather doesn’t cooperate with outdoor play. // Snack Shack Playhouse, $200; Crate&kids
Whether it’s doing messy arts and crafts outside, or simply having a picnic on the porch, give your children a place to sit and play with this kid-sized picnic table. // RESÖ, $50; IKEA
Have a budding gymnast or topsy-turvy toddler? This tumbling mat is perfect for keeping them on padded ground while they spin, roll and jump through the season. // Antsy Pants Tumbling Mats, $46; Target
You just can’t beat the simplistic fun of a swing set. This one is bound to last as your kids grow, and even offers a third web-like swing for little ones. // Little Brutus Metal Swing Set, $450; The Home Depot
If you’re going to be hosting kids of all ages all summer, it’s time to set up this badminton and volleyball combo net. No matter what game the kids want to play, it will give everyone the chance to get up and moving. // Baden Champions Volleyball Badminton Combo Set, $90; Amazon
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