You know that look on your kid’s face when they’re flying down a zipline or climbing to the top of that playground structure? That pure joy isn’t just about having fun (though there’s definitely plenty of that!).
What’s really cool is that all this outdoor play is secretly working wonders for their development in ways that just don’t happen when they’re cooped up inside. Let me tell you why getting your little ones outside to play is such a game-changer…
Adventure awaits outdoors…
As parents, we’re always searching for that perfect balance between entertainment and enrichment. The good news? Your backyard might just be the ultimate classroom. When children engage in active outdoor play, they’re developing crucial motor skills, building confidence, and getting that all-important sensory input that helps their growing bodies understand the world around them.
Top Backyard Equipment for Growing Bodies and Minds
1. Ziplines: The Ultimate Backyard Thrill
Nothing quite captures the imagination like flying through the air on a zipline. Beyond the obvious excitement, ziplines offer incredible benefits for your child’s development:
- Builds upper body strength
- Improves grip strength and coordination
- Provides intense proprioceptive input (body awareness)
- Develops risk assessment and confidence
For a quality zipline that prioritizes both fun and safety, check out the Slackers Zipline Kit on Amazon. This all-in-one kit includes everything needed to create a safe flying adventure right in your backyard, with easy setup and durable construction that will keep the thrills coming season after season.
Bijou Build
For the following Bijou Build products, use my coupon code to save 15% on your purchase. Bijou Build products are eco-friendly, aesthetically pleasing, and they’re even portable!
CODE: earthmonth
2. The Bijou Build Mainstay: A Modular Play Paradise
The world’s first collapsible, adaptable and expandable play system. The Bijou Build Mainstay revolutionizes backyard play with its innovative approach to outdoor fun. This versatile structure challenges children to:
- Problem-solve with different configurations
- Build whole-body strength through climbing and exploration
- Develop spatial awareness in a customizable environment
- Practice persistence when faced with new challenges
Designed for ages 3-103, this remarkable play system assembles in just one hour and is built from durable, weather-resistant materials that stand up to year-round use. The Mainstay‘s modular design allows it to grow with your family, offering:
- Modular Design With Endless Possibilities
- Climb, Swing, Play, Or Relax In The Shade
- Durable Outdoor Material with a 5 Year Manufacturer’s Warranty
- Easily Set Up, Move, Take Down, & Store
- Aesthetically Pleasing… No Eyesores Here!
Unlike traditional bulky playsets that dominate your yard, the Bijou Build Mainstay blends seamlessly with your outdoor aesthetic while providing endless opportunities for adventure.
3. Bijou Portable Rope Bridge: Cross Into Adventure
Take your backyard adventures to new heights with the Bijou Rambler Rope Bridge! This thrilling addition to the Bijou outdoor system features:
- Adjustable rope for perfect suspension and stability
- An 8ft crossing area with an additional 3ft on each end for secure attachment
- Heavy-duty, UV-protected materials for lasting durability
- Multiple ways to play: cross, climb, run, or hang
This versatile bridge offers tremendous developmental benefits:
- Enhances vestibular development (balance)
- Improves focus and concentration
- Strengthens core muscles and coordination
- Builds confidence with each successful crossing
The Rope Bridge connects easily to your Bijou Mainstay or a tree, creating a complete adventure system that encourages children to navigate their way through a self-created challenge course.
4. The Bijou Sway: Swing Into Action
Complete your Bijou Build system with the Sway, a specialized arm designed for hanging swings that provides:
- Classic swinging motion that delivers essential vestibular input
- Options to attach various swing types for different sensory experiences
- Durable construction that integrates seamlessly with the Mainstay
- Easy customization as your child’s preferences and abilities change
Swinging isn’t just fun—it’s a powerful sensory activity that helps children develop their sense of body position and movement while calming their nervous system and improving focus.
5. Giant Bubbles!
I saw a recipe on Pinterest to make HUMONGOUS Bubbles and ordered the wand on Amazon. I got the four-pack so my daughter and her friends could do it together.
If you want a shortcut, you can just order the solution.
But we went the homemade route.
Awwwah, she’s so little! This picture is from two years ago, but she still LOVES giant bubbles! (And who doesn’t?!)
6. Obstacle Course to Practice Bicycle Skills
It may be best to set this up on a flat driveway, or with supervision in a quite cul de sac—the bike obstacle course! this doesn’t even require any special equipment other than a bicycle, tricycle, skateboard, scooter, scooter board—or whatever the kids have on hand. You can use buckets, cones, whatever is in the garage as obstacles. Encourage kids use their imaginations!
Creating Your Backyard Adventure Space
The key to a successful backyard play space is variety. Children thrive when they can move between different types of equipment that challenge different skills. Consider creating zones in your yard:
- Active Zone: Slackers Zipline, Bijou Build system, swings, bubble station
- Creative Zone: Art station, building materials, sensory tables
- Rest Zone: Shaded reading nook, hammock, or picnic area
Is your child working on crossing the monkey bars or mastering the zipline brake? Plan regular outdoor time dedicated to practicing these specific skills. Breaking complex movements into smaller steps helps children build confidence and competence without frustration.
Remember that the best backyard equipment grows with your child, offering new challenges as they develop new skills. Modular systems like those from bijoubuild.com are perfect examples of equipment that can be adjusted and expanded as your child grows in confidence and ability.
What backyard adventures are happening at your house? Share your favorite outdoor equipment in the comments below!
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