Dear Midge,
My first thought on an outdoor play place for toddlers is safety. If you have a playset with swings or a slide, placement is the key. Toddlers can be unsteady when walking and playing so protecting them from falls is important. Playing on grass or sand is the softest choice but if you’re planning on placing a small playset on the concrete, how about using those snap-together square play mat pieces? That would give cushion to a hard surface and help to protect against bumped heads and scraped up knees. A firm surface is great for riding a tricycle or other ride-on toys. Sidewalk chalk is another fun and creative outlet, what’s cuter than toddler art? And last but not least a sandbox can be a toddler’s dream! You can find these fairly inexpensively and fill them with play sand (purchased from your local home improvement or hardware store). Keeping your sandbox covered when not in use is a smart (and healthy) choice for your toddler. Creating a fun play place will be exciting for Sarah and you! Get your camera ready.

Love ya,

Molly