Winter into Spring can he hard. The kids are inside more and have so much energy to burn off. Mel and I love movement toys and setting up an obstacle course for your kids is an excellent way to keep them entertained and moving. We have rounded up all of our tried and true obstacle course items to share with you! If you have been a follower for a while, you probably have a few of these items ready to use.
1. Stairslide: Starting with a Stairslide is the ultimate way to begin an obstacle course. You can even incorporate the slide within play couch cushions to maximize fun!
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2. Ballpit: We typically have our kids slide into the ball pit or run/jump through as they are maneuvering through play couches. The balls add extra sensory fun to the experience. Use code: TOYTESTINGSISTERS at checkout for 15% off your purchase!
3. Tunnel: There are so many tunnels you can pick from on Amazon. This one is $18 and is great for adding an extra element of skilled movement to the course.
4. Bilibo: These "turtle shells" can be used two different ways. Start off by having your kids step and balance on each Bilibo. Then, add some complexity and require a certain number of ground spins.
5. Elements: This element set is great because it includes a balance board. You can stack the elements different heights and add in the balance board for difficulty.
6. Sensory Tiles: The bright colors and sensory fluid is fun for little feet to cross. Perfect for adding an obstacle row to follow.
7. Wobble Board: These can be used to wobble or flip upside down and they become a bridge. Wobble boards can be incorporated into the play couch build of the obstacle course.
8. Stepping Stones: Excellent budget stepping stone for $50. You can also add additional stepping stones for $10. This set comes in fun colors but doesn't include a balance board.
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9: Balance Beam: You need to have some sort of balance structure in your obstacle course and this one is great for younger kids. It is very stable and also works well on wood and tile--no slipping.
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10: Tumblers: Use as bridges in the course or really challenge older kids and let them balance on the rounded sides.
11: Climbing Triangle: Many homes have a version of this climbing triangle. Mel and I own one that our brother made for each of us a few years ago. Vertical climbing is great for gross motor development.
12: LeoMat: The trifold tech on this play couch makes incorporating mountains into your obstacle course a breeze. My kids love their Leo. It has different dimensions than the Nugget and its base pieces are the same thickness and size.
13: Gym Bar: Kids can get some swinging power and catapult themselves into a crash area like a play couch!
14: Soft Balance Beam: The soft balance beam is fun because you can keep adding to it. It has velcro ends so you can start with 2 and add more as your kids grow.
15: Nugget Play Couch: I have 4 of these at my (Mandy here) house! My kid's favorite thing to do is make obstacle courses with their Nuggets. There are so many build ideas on the Nugget website or let your kids create their course.
16: Monkey Bars: Last year Mel had these installed at her house! She did have a contractor put in but if you are handy, it's totally doable. Her monkey bars run along her ceiling.
17: Wedges: These mega wedges add stability to an obstacle course and work well for younger kids!
18: Rock Wall: Mel had this installed two years ago and her kids use every day! You can incorporate in the obstacle course by having your kids climb to the ceiling and touch it.