Ten Cheap or Inexpensive Toys To Add Fun To Backyard Exploration
Are you looking for some cheap and easy ways to make exploring your backyard more fun? I’ve got just the things!
If you’re staying at home or doing a quarantine with the kids, you’re likely keeping your walks and exploration close to home. These simple toys will add a little fun to your day even if you don’t go further than the walk in front of your house, or your own yard!
I’ve included my Amazon affiliate link to each of these, but I also encourage you to explore local businesses offering curbside pick up like the Curious Bear. I’ve also include a no-spend or very low-spend option for each! Happy exploring!
A magnifying glass
Obviously, I like this one from Melissa and Doug because it has a snake handle. Need two? This set seems like a good deal.
Budget option: You can probably find one at the dollar store if these are too pricey. Inexpensive ones may shatter, so do be attentive if you’re using one of those.
Seeing things up close is amazing for young children!
A nature guide
I love this one and right now it’s part of Amazon’s 3 for the price of 2 promotion!
Budget option: The Point Defiance Zoo has lots of free nature guides and resource online right now on their new Nature at Home page.
A flower pressing kit This one looks kid friendly.
Budget option: Use a heavy book.
PS I also love thissolar print paper. It would be great for some school-at-home science!
A hula hoop!
Got a hoop? Put it on the ground and challenge your child to examine every little thing inside it. You would be amazed at how much there is to explore inside a circle!
Budget option: Use a string or draw a circle with a stick. You may also find hoops at the dollar store or drug or grocery if you’re venturing out.
A Bug Container
Here’s a handy place for your kids’ new friends.
This BugView Quick-Release catcher and magnifier is another cool option.
Budget Option: Any container you’re willing to sacrifice as long as it’s got breathing holes and what not!
Water Magnifier
Make those puddles more fascinating! These are surprisingly cool and well worth the spend. This one looks like a boat! PS Think water specific magnifying glass if you’re wondering what these do.
Budget Option: Sara wrap on the end of a paper towel tube.
Explorer’s Kit
Do you need this? No. But my children had a similar kit, and they got years of play value from it as they had real and imagined adventures all over our house and yard. One of mine was also heavily into Diego and his magic backpack.
Binoculars
but there are lots of options, in all price ranges. Another idea is to get a durable pair for the whole family.
Budget option: Two paper towel tubes trimmed and tapped together.
A Hiking Guide
This is a complete tease, since we’re all staying at home right now, but why not do some summer (we hope!) dreaming? This guide is our absolute favorite, and there are plenty of hikes challenging enough for all ages. My family has been using this guide for years, and we haven’t worked our way through it yet.
If you’ve been having fun adventures close to home, I’d love to hear about them!