The holiday season is upon us, and finding the BEST Outdoor Christmas Gifts for Kids can turn the festive season into a memorable adventure for the little ones.
Amidst the twinkling lights and holiday wonder, consider elevating their outdoor playtime with gifts that combine excitement, creativity, and the joy of active exploration.
It is Summer in Australia, and Christmas will be here before you know it. If you are still thinking about what sort of gifts to buy your kids, you NEED to read this first. Consider a family gift, a gift for all the kids – that everyone can enjoy. A gift that gets everyone outside, getting exercise, a bit of sun, and away from screens.
Remember as a kid you were rarely inside? Let’s bring the good old days back!
More reading:
- The Best Christmas Gifts To Get Kids OUT of the House!
- 100+ Fun Christmas Gifts Under $20
- 30+ Christmas Gift Ideas for Teenage Boys
- 50 Gift Ideas for 12-Year-Old Boys That They Actually Like
- 10 Gender-Neutral Christmas Gifts for Kids
- 20+ Gift Ideas for Primary School Aged Girls
A Telescope
Okay so the kids won’t get a whole lot of sun and exercise when playing with a telescope, but it deserves to be on the list. Telescopes are such a great Outdoor Family Gift. Not only are they fun to look into the stars, but they are a great way for the kids to learn about the universe.
Pros of a Telescope:
- It gets the family outdoors, even if it is only at night
- Educational gift
- Kids are not likely to get bored.
- There are telescopes available in all price ranges and on all budgets.
Cons:
- You will always need an adult to set up a telescope (unless you have older children) and it may not be suitable for little kids.
- It doesn’t really give the kids any exercise.
- Setting up and taking down could be a pain.
Pricing: From $79 – $5500.00
Our Pick:
Solomark Telescope For Kids Equipped with a 1.5X Barlow lens, BAK-4 prisms and multi-coated optics which offer crisp clear images with improved light transmission – perfect for bird watching and stargazing, too. This comes with a smartphone adapter and adjustable tripod. Price: $201.05 | |
Foldable HD Astronomical Telescope Perfect for astronomical observations as well as observing terrestrial wildlife, birds, monuments and more. Price: $24.95 | |
Sky-Watcher SolarQuest 70 Refractor Telescope For the keener home stargazer! Price: $832.37 |
A Jumping Castle
Jumping Castles are now available for people to buy and home their very own personal version. With water, slides, ball pits and a pool area, the kids will be squealing with joy this Christmas!
Pros of a Jumping Castle:
- Hours and hours of outdoor fun, running, jumping and playing
- Kids get loads of exercise.
- You can have dry or wet versions
Cons of a Jumping Castle:
- Putting the jumping castle up and down as required.
- Might blow away in a storm
- Can get the odd puncture.
Pricing:
From $300 – $3000 depending on the size
Our Picks:
The Lifespan Kids Inflatable Bounce Fort Mini Compact enough to fit in most backyards but large enough to take two kids at a time. Tough for maximum durability. A pump is included. Price: $296.65 | |
Air My Fun Inflatable Bounce House Made from high-quality tough material, includes a slide and a huge jumping area. Comes with a 350W blower and large capacity storage bag. Price: $518.51 | |
PINK – Doctor Dolphin Inflatable Toddler Bounce House Strong and durable, the Doctor Dolphin Bounce House is made with toddlers in mind. Easy to set up and store and comes with a low-sound blower. Price: $198 |
A Swing and Slide Set
Swings and slides have never gone out of fashion. They are still a popular option to get those kids outdoors and play! But the old-style swing sets have come a really long way.
Pros of a Swing Set:
- Swing sets last for years and years – so you get bang for your buck.
- Modern swing sets can be added to as the kids get older.
Cons of a Swing Set
- Some kids can get bored very easily.
- Accidents are really common.
- Smaller swing sets can lift up and out of the ground.
Pricing:
From $199.00 through to $1700.00
Our Picks:
Bo Peep Kids Slide Swing and Basketball Ring For ages 3+ Easy to install, no tools needed. Price: $174.99 | |
Wooden Lookout Tower with Monkey Bars Recommend for ages 6+ Price: $1299.00 | |
Backyard Discovery Buckley Hill Play Centre Recommended for ages 3-6 Price: $799 |
A Slackline or Zipline
A slackline is a suspended flat webbing material that is tensioned between two anchors (usually two trees). It is a bit like tight-rope-walking, but much easier. They are HELL FUN!!!!!
Pros of Slacklining:
- Insane fun
- Great for learning balance
Con’s of Slacklining:
- Can be hard to master at first
- Falls can be common
Our Picks:
Slackers 50′ Slackline Classic Perfect for beginners, this 5cm wide nylon webbing is strong and easy to set up. Price: $105 | |
Slackline Kit Line Monkey Bars Kit Obstacle Outdoor Play This kit contains the mainline, ratchet, overhead training line, arms training, tree protector set and a cloth carry bag. Price: $220.45 |
Motorbikes, Quad Bikes, Go Karts and Rideables
Some kids are mad keen motorbike riders from a really young age. Others have really over-protective Mothers that won’t allow them to get one (yep that’s me!). But they are a family-orientated activity that can develop into a full-blown sport!
Pros:
- Fantastic outdoor fun
- The whole family can ride together.
- Kids are less likely to be ‘bored’.
Con’s:
- They are expensive to buy and require ongoing maintenance.
- Accidents can and do happen at speed.
- Transporting them can be tough if you don’t have the appropriate vehicle.
Pricing:
Depends on many things including brand and size.
From $400.00 – $8000.00
Where to Buy Them Online:
- Ozsale
- Thumpstar
Rigo Kids Ride On Motorbike Motorcycle Toys Black White The Rigo Kids Ride On Motorbike is a great toy for any little ones who love motorcycles. It’s easy to assemble and ride, and it looks just like a real motorcycle. The black and white colours are eye-catching, and the rider can ZIP around on the bike using the hand accelerator. Price: $130.99 | |
Kids Go Kart Pedal Ride On The Kids Go Kart Pedal Ride On is the perfect toy for active kids. They can pedal their way around the backyard or park, exploring their surroundings. With its durable construction, it can stand up to even the roughest play. The go-kart has a forward, reverse, and pedal brake. Price: $138.57 | |
Goodyear Licensed Toddler Kids Sport ATV Ride-On Toy Mini Quad Bike Looking for a fun and safe way to get your toddler started on four wheels? Check out the Goodyear Licensed Toddler Kids Sport ATV Ride-On Toy Mini Quad Bike! Price: $69 | |
Mazam Kids Ride On Car Electric Forklift Truck Toy 12V The Mazam Kids Ride-On Forklift is a safe and imaginative addition to your child’s playtime, featuring sturdy construction and child-friendly controls. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, this forklift is a perfect gift for children aged 3 and above, providing a memorable and safe playtime experience. Price: $210.55 |
A Sand Pit
Every single kid should have access to a Sand Pit. Great for creative play, motor skills and sensory play. If you are building your own version at home, make sure you buy a good-quality tarp to keep it covered.
Pros of a Sand Pit:
- Cheap to buy or make and install.
- Solid and safe
- Fantastic for all kids, particularly those on the Autism Spectrum.
Con’s of a Sand Pit:
- You need to keep them covered when they aren’t in use as animals can use them for toileting.
- They can take up a bit of space.
- They can get a bit mucky with time.
- Dragging sand into the house on the bottom of little feet.
Pricing:
If you make one from scratch at home, just the cost of the sand. Buying them pre-made costs from $150 – $500.00
Where to Buy Them Online:
- MyDeal.com.au
- Onsport.com.au
KEEZI Sandpit Toy Box Kids Large Square Sand Pit Wooden Outdoor Play The sandpit is made from high-quality wood, and it has a durable liner to prevent leaks. The toy box has a lid that doubles as a seat, so kids can take a break from playing in the sand. Price: $84.95 | |
Plum Store-it Wooden Sand Pit The Sandpit Toy Box is the perfect addition to any backyard. It’s great for kids of all ages, and it’s large enough to accommodate multiple children. Price: $116.95 | |
Kids Sandpit Toy Box Canopy Wooden Outdoor Sand Pit Kids love to play in the sand, and a sandpit is the perfect way to let them enjoy all the fun of the beach without leaving home. A sandpit toy box canopy wooden outdoor sand pit is the perfect addition to any backyard. Price: $217.95 |
A Bike
Bikes are one of those Christmas Traditions for finding on Christmas morning. More kids should own a bike – they are so good for keeping fit, learning road rules and finding a bit of independence.
Pros of a Bike:
- You can add items like training wheels for little kids to learn.
- There are bikes to suit everyone at all price points.
Con’s of a Bike:
- Adults will need to teach kids how to ride and use the road. But this makes it a great family activity.
Pricing:
Bikes are quite affordable. Pricing can start from as little as $129 through to $750.00 for a kids bike.
Where to Buy Them Online:
- Kmart
- Big W
- Ozsale
Fortis 24″ Kids Mountain Bike (Yellow) The Fortis 24″ Kids Mountain Bike is the perfect way for your child to get outside and enjoy some fresh air. This bike is designed for kids ages 8-11, and features a lightweight aluminum frame that is easy to maneuver. Price: $165 | |
Cyclops Alpha Kids Dual Suspension Mountain Bike Stand out from the crowd with this 50cm Dual Suspension MTB. The tough steel frame construction will handle any rough terrain while front and rear brakes will provide you with sure stopping power. The 3 piece crank makes it easier to pedal up rugged terrain on the single speed drive train. Price: $159 |
A Flying Fox Zipline
Okay don’t be scared – but I had to include this one as I grew up always having a Flying Fox in my backyard. They are soooo much fun. Ours was only 30cm off the ground and didn’t go that fast, so even though we had loads of spills, there was never ever injuries. You can adjust height and speed as the kids get more daring!
Pros of a Flying Fox:
- Exhilarating fun for the kids.
- Guaranteed to wear them out.
- No boredom factor
Con’s of a Flying Fox:
- You have to have the space to install one.
- Not for really small children
Pricing:
Depends on size, height and location, but they start at $189 and upwards.
Where to Buy Them Online:
- Ozsale
- Crazy Sales
- Go and Play.com.au
A Cubby House
Oh there are some really adorable cubby houses around now and loads of prices to suit all budgets. They aren’t just for little girls either, there are so many different styles and options – perfect for all the kids in the family!
Pros of a Cubby House:
- They are sturdy and relatively safe
Cons of a Cubby House:
- Can get boring for kids
Pricing:
From $199.00 to $3000.00
Where to Buy Them Online:
- Kogan
- Kmart
- My Deal.com.au
AND THE WINNER OF THE BEST OUTDOOR CHRISTMAS GIFT FOR KIDS IS……
A Springfree Trampoline!!!
Yes, these trampolines are just incredible – my boys have had one for years and years, and they spent hours outside (getting tired). I love the fact that they have a great safety net and no springs – so no getting your toes or fingers stuck between springs or broken arms from falling off.
Pros of a Springfree Trampoline:
- The kids will spend hours and hours jumping and playing on a Springfree Trampoline without fear of falling in between the springs or falling off the side.
- Even the full weight of an adult on the net won’t make the trampoline budge!
- They last for a really really long time – so an excellent bang for your buck! Even the net doesn’t disintegrate like other brands tend to do.
- Has a 10-year-warranty.
- You can buy accessories for your trampoline such as the tgoma, turning your Springfree Trampoline into a real-life computer game! Four sensors on the mat connect wirelessly via Bluetooth to a tablet and using your body as a controller, the sensors track movement creating an outdoor interactive Smart Play experience.
Cons of a Springfree Trampoline:
- Hmmm after owning one and being a huge fan for many years, I really can’t think of a con. Perhaps struggling to move it when I need to mow as it is pretty heavy! But I heard they have shifting wheels, so I might need to get myself some!
Pricing:
- From $999 for a top-of-the-line trampoline. Bargain!
Where to Buy one:
What are some of your favourite outdoor Christmas gifts for kids? What would be your top pick for an outdoor Christmas gift for a child?