Parents today are searching for ways to get their children outside, away from screens, and engaged with the world around them. This creates a valuable opportunity for toy retailers, gift shops, and buyers who want to meet that demand. Outdoor toys that support nature exploration are trending, and customers are actively seeking options that are fun, educational, and durable.
Whether you're curating a seasonal display or planning next quarter's inventory, outdoor toys offer a powerful way to increase foot traffic and grow repeat business. In this article, we’ll explore top-selling nature toys, key features parents care about, and merchandising tips for boosting sales both in-store and online.
Market Insight: Outdoor Toys Are Gaining Momentum
Outdoor and nature-themed toys have become more popular with families who want to encourage active, screen-free play. Parents are looking for products that blend fun with learning and allow kids to explore their surroundings in meaningful ways. Retailers who invest in these types of toys are well-positioned to drive seasonal traffic and create year-round demand.
We offer a wide range of outdoor toys that are easy to stock, quick to sell, and supported with retailer-friendly resources.
What Parents Want in Outdoor Toys
Parents are becoming more intentional in their purchasing habits. When choosing outdoor toys, they often prioritize:
- Durability that withstands active use in backyards, parks, or trails
- Educational value that supports science, curiosity, or creativity
- Portability for travel, nature walks, and outdoor adventures
- Safety features like rounded edges, age-appropriate designs, and non-toxic materials
- Eco-conscious packaging that reflects thoughtful values
As a retailer, these are selling points worth highlighting on packaging, signage, and product descriptions to drive in-store and online conversions.
Top Toy Categories That Inspire Nature Exploration
Offering a curated selection of nature-focused toys helps you reach a broader audience and support year-round sales. Here are the top categories to prioritize:
1. Exploration Tools and Adventure Kits
These encourage curiosity and hands-on learning, perfect for adventurous kids.
Examples:
2. Gardening and Nature Craft Sets
These toys combine creativity and outdoor time, supporting both fine motor skills and mindfulness.
Examples:
- Wholesale Gabby’s Dollhouse™ Mini Cat Box Sensory Kit Assortment
- Minecraft™ Pixel Art Fuse Bead Craft Kit
3. Gross Motor Toys for Outdoor Movement
These encourage active play while engaging with the natural world.
Examples:
Seasonal Merchandising Tips for Outdoor Toy Sales
How you display your products can be just as important as what you carry. Consider the following strategies:
- Launch outdoor toy displays early in spring and promote through back-to-school
- Bundle exploration kits with books, drawstring bags, or sun hats
- Use props like faux grass, camping gear, or wood crates to enhance visual merchandising
In-store signage could say “Backyard Explorer Picks” or “Toys for Nature-Loving Kids”
Online, feature a gift guide titled “Top Outdoor Toys Under $25”
Social Media Promotion Ideas for Outdoor Toys
Showcase your nature-inspired inventory with engaging content across your social platforms.
Try these strategies:
- Share reels or short videos showing kids playing with your toys outdoors
- Run giveaways with nature kits or gardening sets as prizes
- Partner with parenting influencers to demonstrate your toys in action
- Encourage customers to tag you in photos using branded hashtags
You can also reach out to your wholesale partner, such as License 2 Play, for marketing materials, product photos, or demo content that makes posting easier.
Wholesale Tips: Sourcing Outdoor Toys That Sell
Choosing the right supplier makes all the difference. When sourcing outdoor toys, consider the following:
- Prioritize bundled kits that are ready to merchandise
- Look for educational, nature-themed items that appeal to multiple age groups
- Confirm all products meet CPSC and ASTM safety standards
Ask your wholesaler if they provide display materials, marketing kits, or content
Rotate seasonal selections with the help of updated catalogs and order early for spring and summer launches
Support Exploration, Boost Sales
Today’s families want toys that inspire movement, creativity, and curiosity. By stocking outdoor toys that promote nature exploration, you can meet that need while increasing your store’s seasonal and year-round revenue.
Offer kits and tools that encourage adventure, highlight their benefits in-store and online, and connect with customers through authentic messaging and playful presentation.
Ready to expand your outdoor toy inventory? Register with us today to explore best-selling nature kits, educational outdoor toys, and retail-ready displays that help your store stand out.