Best Sports Toys & Games for Active Play This Season
As the days get longer and brighter, it’s the perfect time to head outdoors, stretch little legs, and burn off some energy. Whether it’s garden games after school, half-term activities, or just encouraging a bit more movement and a little less screen time, active play is a brilliant way to support children’s health, development, and happiness.
And let’s be honest—it’s also great fun!
From skipping ropes to table tennis, here’s your friendly guide to sports toys and active games that inspire children to run, jump, balance, and giggle their way through spring and beyond.
Football Fun for Future Champs
With the FA Cup finals just around the corner, there’s no better time to channel some of that big-match energy into your own back garden. Football is a year-round favourite for many families—easy to pick up, brilliant for teamwork, and perfect for all ages.
⚽ Pair of Pop-Up Goals – A garden essential! These lightweight goals are perfect for quick matches and penalty shoot-outs. They fold flat for easy storage and are ready to go in seconds.
⚽ 7” Playballs – Great for football, catch, or even a quick game of dodgeball. Choose from fun animal, rainbow, or other designs to suit your child’s style.
Play tip: Host your own mini FA Cup final in the park or garden—set up your goals, mark out a pitch with cones or jumpers, and let the cheering begin!
Jump, Skip & Balance
Active play is even more fun when it comes with a bit of bounce, wobble, and spin. These toys are fantastic for developing balance, coordination, and confidence—and they’re a joy to use!
🌼 Flower Skipping Rope – A sweet twist on a classic. Skipping is great solo or with friends, and perfect for building rhythm and stamina.
💫 Slot Together Hula Hoop – Easy to pack, store, and adjust, this hoop is fun for all ages and helps strengthen core muscles and coordination.
🦘 Retro Space Hopper – A joyful bounce down memory lane! Kids love hopping about the garden or racing siblings in space hopper relays.
🤸 Pedal Racer – This balancing toy is a great challenge for adventurous children. It’s brilliant for strengthening legs and improving balance while they race around.
👉 Looking for more? Explore all our Sports & Fitness Toys for even more active inspiration.
Brilliant Ball Games
Throwing, catching, bouncing, and aiming—it’s all part of the fun! Ball games help children build hand-eye coordination and confidence while getting those all-important wiggles out.
🎯 Catch Ball Set – A classic two-player game that’s easy to learn and great for quick bursts of play. Ideal for the garden or beach.
🎯 Crazy Golf – Bring the fun of the mini golf course home! Children will love navigating wacky obstacles and trying to beat their own scores.
🎯 Hop Skip Jump Game – Combine movement and memory with this engaging game that challenges children to complete a sequence of actions. Perfect for indoor or outdoor fun.
Top tip: Turn these games into challenges—who can make five catches in a row? Who can skip the longest without stopping? Add stickers or small prizes to make it even more exciting!
High-Energy Indoor Options
Because let’s be honest—sunshine isn’t always guaranteed! Luckily, some of the best active toys can be enjoyed indoors too.
🏓 Instant Table Tennis – Just add a table! This kit transforms your kitchen table into a mini tennis court. Great for hand-eye coordination, focus, and a bit of family competition.
🎲 Travel Games – Fun-sized sets that can be taken anywhere—perfect for staycations, holidays, or rainy day play.
🧘 Animal Yoga – A calm and creative way to encourage movement and mindfulness. Children can copy fun animal poses and enjoy stretching and breathing in a playful way.
Classic Challenges & Playground Favourites
Sometimes, the old favourites are still the best! These retro-inspired toys have stood the test of time and continue to delight generation after generation.
🤹 Diablo – A circus classic that’s both challenging and rewarding. Great for older children who love trying new tricks and improving over time.
🦘 Pogo Stick – A high-energy favourite that never goes out of style. Brilliant for coordination, stamina, and, let’s face it, a bit of good old-fashioned silliness.
Extra ideas: You could also try DIY obstacle courses, homemade relay races, or even just a “who can balance the longest on one foot” challenge. Sometimes, it’s the simplest games that get the biggest giggles.
Ready, Steady, Go!
Whether your child loves kicking a ball, bouncing on a hopper, swinging a hula hoop, or mastering the art of yoga, active toys are a wonderful way to encourage movement, spark imagination, and enjoy time together.
These toys and games aren’t just fun—they’re tools for growing strong bodies, curious minds, and happy hearts.
🌟 Browse the full collection of Sports & Fitness Toys at Mulberry Bush and find the perfect way to keep children moving this season.