Long school holidays are a great chance to swap screens for fresh airLast updated: July 23, 2026 | 10:004 MIN READThe right outdoor toy should suit your child's age and confidence, feel sturdy enough for regular use and be easy to store when playtime is over.Long school holidays are a great chance to swap screens for fresh air, whether that means learning to ride a scooter, splashing around in the garden or enjoying family time by the pool. The right outdoor toy should suit your child's age and confidence, feel sturdy enough for regular use and be easy to store when playtime is over. Our top pick is the Micro Mini Foldable LED Scooter, thanks to its durable design, smooth ride and excellent reputation for growing with younger riders through the early years.Micro Mini Foldable LED ScooterA premium scooter that combines stability, portability and long lasting build quality for younger children.Key specificationsThree wheel lean to steer designFoldable handlebarAdjustable heightMotion powered LED wheelsRear foot brakeWhat we likeStable platform that helps young riders build confidenceFolds quickly for travel or storageReplaceable parts can extend its usable lifeBest for: Children beginning their scooter journey who want a scooter that can stay with them for several years.Micro's Mini series has become one of the best known children's scooters for good reason. The lean to steer system encourages balance rather than sharp handlebar turns, making it intuitive once children become familiar with it. Parents.com also highlights its stable ride, lightweight construction and durable modular design that allows worn parts to be replaced rather than replacing the whole scooter. The battery free LED wheels add colour without adding maintenance, while the folding mechanism makes it easy to carry into the car or store in a hallway. The specifications also highlight the adjustable handlebar, allowing the scooter to adapt as children grow.Globber Junior Foldable Lights ScooterAn excellent value scooter with thoughtful beginner friendly features.Key specificationsSuitable from age 2+Three height adjustable handlebarPatented steering lockFoldable frameBattery free LED front wheelsWhat we likeSteering lock helps beginners learn balanceCompact folding system simplifies transportWide anti slip deck feels reassuring underfootBest for: Younger children learning to steer before progressing to faster scooters.Globber's Junior Foldable Lights focuses on confidence building. One standout feature is its steering lock, which limits front wheel movement while beginners develop coordination before switching to full lean steering. The wide deck provides plenty of foot space, and the adjustable handlebar accommodates growing riders over several seasons. The front wheels illuminate through motion rather than batteries, while the integrated folding system makes carrying and storage straightforward. With a maximum rider weight of 50kg, it can continue serving children beyond the toddler years.Playgro Sensory Explorer Water TableA simple way to encourage imaginative outdoor play on warm afternoons.Key specificationsWater activity tableMultiple sensory play featuresIncludes accessories like scoops and moldsWhat we likeEncourages open ended creative playSuitable for several children togetherEasy way to cool down outdoorsBest for: Preschool children who enjoy imaginative water play in the garden or on the patio.Water tables remain popular because children can invent different games every time they play. Pouring, splashing and moving water between accessories helps develop coordination while keeping youngsters entertained without complicated setup. This Playgro model is designed around sensory exploration, giving children different textures and activities to discover. It can also become a social toy, with siblings or friends sharing the same play space.Kids Trampoline with Enclosure and Basketball HoopAn energetic outdoor centrepiece for families with enough garden space.Key specificationsSafety enclosure netBasketball hoopSteel frameMaximum user weight: 200 lbsFrame size: 47.5 inchesWhat we likeEnclosure adds reassurance during playBasketball hoop encourages varied gamesSuitable for regular active play sessionsBest for: Families with outdoor space looking for an activity children can enjoy repeatedly throughout the holidays.A trampoline encourages active movement without needing organised games, making it attractive for children with lots of energy. An enclosure net is one of the most useful features because it helps keep jumpers within the jumping area during normal play. A basketball hoop also introduces a fun challenge beyond simple bouncing.Intex Giant Gator Ride On A colourful inflatable that makes pool days more entertaining for groups.Key specificationsHeavy duty Vinyl constructionMultiple grab handlesRepair patch includedWhat we likeLarge enough for shared playBright design makes it easy to spot in the poolIntex has a long track record in inflatable pool productsBest for: Families spending holidays by the pool with confident swimmers under adult supervision.Large ride on inflatables quickly become the centre of attention during pool days. This Intex model accommodates several children together, encouraging group games rather than individual floating. Sturdy handles provide extra stability while climbing aboard, and the durable vinyl construction is intended for repeated seasonal use. Like any inflatable, it works best in calm pool conditions and should be viewed as a toy rather than a flotation or lifesaving device.What to look forAge suitability should always come first. Younger children generally benefit from stable three wheel scooters with lower decks, while older riders often prefer two wheel designs once their balance improves. Adjustable handlebars also extend the useful life of a scooter as children grow.Build quality matters because outdoor toys spend plenty of time on rough ground, patios and pavements. Look for reinforced decks, quality wheels and reliable rear brakes on scooters. Foldable designs are particularly useful if you regularly travel between home, parks and holiday destinations.For larger toys, check the recommended user weight and available space before buying. Water tables need enough room to splash safely, while trampolines require clear space around the enclosure.A properly fitted helmet is a sensible companion for scooter riding, and younger children benefit from active adult supervision during outdoor play. The aim is simply to help them enjoy their activities safely and confidently.VerdictThe Micro Mini Foldable LED Scooter remains our overall recommendation because it combines excellent build quality, smooth handling and portability in a package that can grow with young riders. Families looking for a slightly more budget friendly alternative should also consider the Globber Junior Foldable Lights, particularly if the steering lock appeals to first time riders. The Playgro water table offers imaginative outdoor fun for preschool children, while the trampoline delivers energetic garden play for families with more space. If your school holidays revolve around the pool, the Intex three rider float brings plenty of shared entertainment for older children during supervised swimming sessions.Gulf News earns a commission on purchases made through links in this article, at no extra cost to you. Our editorial team selects products independently.Also In This PackageGet Updates on Topics You ChooseUp Next