Fun Gifts That Get Kids Moving
We’ve all heard it, or maybe even said it ourselves—kids these days are glued to screens and seem to lack the get-up-and-go of past generations. But here’s the thing: while we want them to be more active, we’re often the ones providing all the electronic entertainment!
The good news? We can take action with gifts that encourage kids to move, create, and explore. Here are some top ideas to get kids off the couch and into activities they’ll love!
1. Roller Skates or Inline Skates
Roller skating is making a comeback, and kids love the freedom and excitement it brings! Roller skates or inline skates provide a fun, low-impact workout that improves balance, coordination, and confidence. Plus, skating is something they can do solo or with friends, making it an activity they’ll want to do over and over again.
Quick Tip: Add protective gear like helmets and knee pads to keep them safe and build their confidence as they learn.
Shop the Essentials:
- Adjustable Roller Skates – Perfect for growing feet, with adjustable sizes that fit for multiple years.
- Helmet and Knee Pad Set – Essential for safe, worry-free skating.
Available on Amazon.com [ad]
2. Trampoline
A backyard trampoline is a fantastic way to keep kids active and entertained for hours. Jumping on a trampoline is a great cardio workout, improving strength and coordination. Whether they’re perfecting flips, practicing jumps, or just bouncing around with friends, a trampoline is a surefire way to make moving fun.
Quick Tip: Look for models with safety nets to prevent falls and keep everyone safe while they jump.
Shop the Essentials:
- Outdoor Trampoline with Safety Net – Provides safe, durable fun for kids of all ages.
- Trampoline Anchor Kit – Keeps the trampoline secure, even on windy days.
Available on Amazon.com [ad]
3. Bike or Scooter
Biking and scootering are timeless activities that encourage kids to explore their neighborhoods, build endurance, and enjoy time outdoors. Bikes and scooters help improve balance, coordination, and confidence, making it easy for kids to stay active. Plus, they’re perfect for family rides or outings with friends.
Quick Tip: Get a model that’s suited for their age and size, and be sure to include a helmet for added safety.
Shop the Essentials:
- Adjustable Kids’ Bike – A sturdy bike that can grow with them, from learning to ride to weekend family adventures.
- Kids’ Helmet – Lightweight and well-ventilated for comfort and safety.
Available on Amazon.com [ad]
4. Backyard Soccer Goal and Ball
A backyard soccer goal is an easy way to encourage kids to get moving, practice teamwork, and develop their coordination. Whether they’re working on their goal shots or playing a match with siblings, having a goal and a ball at the ready invites spontaneous play and activity.
Quick Tip: For extra fun, consider setting up a family game or friendly neighborhood match, so everyone can join in on the action!
Shop the Essentials:
- Portable Soccer Goal – Easy to set up and durable, perfect for backyard games.
- Kids’ Soccer Ball – Just the right size for younger players to practice their skills.
Available on Amazon.com [ad]
5. Gardening Kit for Kids
Encourage a love of nature with a kids’ gardening kit. Gardening is not only a great way to get outside but also teaches responsibility, patience, and the basics of plant care. Kids can enjoy planting seeds, watering their garden, and watching their plants grow—a rewarding activity that’s both relaxing and educational.
Quick Tip: Start with fast-growing plants like herbs or flowers for quick results, keeping kids excited about their green thumb!
Shop the Essentials:
- Kids’ Gardening Kit – Includes child-sized tools, gloves, and seeds for easy planting.
- Raised Garden Bed – A small, contained space for kids to tend to their plants.
Available on Amazon.com [ad]
6. Tool Set for Kids
If your child loves to imitate Mom or Dad fixing things around the house, a real kids’ tool set is a fantastic way to engage them in practical skills. With kid-sized versions of tools, they can safely join in on projects, learning valuable skills that build confidence and encourage creativity.
Quick Tip: Start with simple projects, like assembling a birdhouse or fixing something small, to help kids feel a sense of accomplishment.
Shop the Essentials:
- Kids’ Tool Set – Comes with real tools that are perfectly sized for young hands.
- DIY Birdhouse Kit – An easy beginner project that gives kids something to build and display.
Available on Amazon.com [ad]
7. Balance Board or Wobble Board
Balance boards are a fun way for kids to develop core strength, coordination, and balance. Whether they’re rocking back and forth or trying new balancing tricks, a balance board provides active play indoors or outdoors, making it a versatile addition to any play area.
Quick Tip: Incorporate balance games, like trying to stand on one foot or holding a pose, to keep it fun and challenging.
Shop the Essentials:
- Kids’ Balance Board – Safe and sturdy, perfect for indoor or outdoor balancing fun.
Available on Amazon.com [ad]
![Balance Board Kids, [Natural Wood] Wobble Board...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/417d74ncx8L.jpg)
8. Basketball Hoop
Set up a basketball hoop in the driveway or backyard for endless fun and exercise. Shooting hoops builds hand-eye coordination and encourages teamwork if they play with friends or siblings. Plus, it’s a great way to spend quality time as a family with friendly games.
Quick Tip: Look for an adjustable hoop so it can grow with your child, ensuring years of play.
Shop the Essentials:
- Adjustable Basketball Hoop – Perfect for beginners and young players.
- Kids’ Basketball – Just the right size for little hands to practice their shots.
Available on Amazon.com [ad]
9. Walkie-Talkies
Encourage adventurous outdoor play with a set of walkie-talkies! Kids can explore the yard, communicate with each other across short distances, and enjoy the thrill of outdoor games. Walkie-talkies are also perfect for imaginative play and help foster teamwork and communication skills.
Quick Tip: Set up a scavenger hunt or “explorer mission” using the walkie-talkies for a fun, interactive experience.
Shop the Essentials:
- Kids’ Walkie-Talkie Set – Durable, with clear sound and easy-to-use buttons for young adventurers.
- Adventure Backpack – For carrying treasures they find during outdoor explorations.
Available on Amazon.com [ad]
10. Camping Gear for Backyard Adventures
Camping gear encourages kids to embrace outdoor exploration, whether it’s backyard camping or a future trip to the great outdoors. A small tent, flashlight, and cozy sleeping bag let them set up their own mini-campsite, sparking a love for adventure and the outdoors. They can play pretend, roast marshmallows, or simply enjoy stargazing right from their own backyard.
Quick Tip: Host a backyard camping night with s’mores, stories, and cozy blankets to make their first camping experience memorable.
Shop the Essentials:
- Kids’ Camping Tent – Easy to set up, perfect for backyard fun and sparking imagination.
- Child-Friendly Flashlight – Great for night-time exploration and adds a touch of adventure to their play.
- Sleeping Bag – Cozy and warm, ideal for backyard camping or sleepovers.
Available on Amazon.com [ad]
The Takeaway
Getting kids off the couch and into fun, active play doesn’t have to be a battle—it can be as simple as giving them the right tools! These gifts encourage movement, creativity, and outdoor exploration, helping kids discover the joy of staying active without a screen.
From biking and gardening to building projects and sports, these gift ideas turn holiday presents into pathways for healthier, happier play all year long!
What to Read Next
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Share
As always, I’d love to hear from you! Do you have favorite gift ideas that encourage active play or unique traditions that keep kids off the screen? Share your ideas in the comments below, and let’s inspire each other with ways to make this holiday season engaging and memorable!
Last update on 2025-04-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
