Outdoor, unstructured play is an incredibly important aspect of childhood development. In fact, unstructured play in general is vital. Why? Unstructured play greatly aids in neural development as well as helping improve general skillsets. Running, climbing, and sliding may all help to release endorphins, build a stronger sensory system, and have overall positive effects on their entire muscle and brain system. That's why, whether indoor or out, having a slide for your toddler is important from a very early age. The ones below are some of our absolute favorites. Little Tikes First Slide Basic Slide for Loads of FunIf you're looking for a slide that's basic, but totally fun and sturdy, this is it.Best OverallFind on Amazon Looking for a straightforward, no-frills slide? This indoor/outdoor toddler slide from Little Tikes hits all the must-have marks. At three feet long, it’s the ideal size for youngsters just beginning to explore slide play. It has a super sturdy base on both the slide end and the ladder portion, so you don’t have to worry about the slide tipping while your kiddo is climbing. It’s made in the USA out of tough, high-quality plastic, too, so it can definitely withstand being left outdoors in the elements. But don’t think that this slide is an outdoors-only kind of a slide; rather, because it folds so easily and compactly, it makes a wonderful indoor play space addition, too. At only nine pounds, it’s not cumbersome to switch locations on a whim, either. Pros: Weight limit of 60 lbs. Doesn’t require any tools to assemble or disassemble, making set-up and take-down hassle-free. Small enough that it can be used as an addition to a toddler pool for a fun waterslide. Cons: You have to apply a fair amount of pressure or weight to effectively snap the ladder in place. You must make sure to fully snap it in place prior to use; otherwise, it’s not safely attached. Little Tikes Easy Store Large Slide Five Feet of Sliding PerfectionMuch like the one above, this slide features two extra feet of sliding fun.Best Long SlideFind on Amazon Although we love this slide for more than two reasons, these two particular reasons are a pretty big deal: first, it’s a five-foot slide; second, it’s a five-foot slide that is so easy to fold, and thus, transport. That means you can keep it inside for some fun, rambunctious indoor play, and then almost effortlessly fold it up for storage when it’s time to move on. And even though it’s a five-foot slide, it’s still totally appropriate for younger kids. It features a gentle slope as well as sturdy, easy-to-climb steps for young ones just learning how to climb. With a weight limit of 50 pounds, your youngster will get years of play with this. Pros: Wide, steady base for extra stability. Steps are spaced well for easy climbing. Able to support up to 50 pounds, this slide is recommended for ages 24 months to 6 years. Cons: The directions for assembly are a bit confusing. Whitsunday Slide for Kids with Basketball and Hoop A Gentle, Safe Slide for Indoor UseFeaturing a gentle slope, easy-climb stairs, and a basketball hoop, this slide is great for indoor use. Best for IndoorsFind on Amazon Even though this slide comes in at just under five feet, it’s totally appropriate to keep it indoors. Why? Four words: “gentle slope” and “smooth landing”. These two features seamlessly ensure that your kiddo will have a gentler sliding experience, which is definitely conducive to calmer sliding. It also features enclosed steps, making the climbing process a bit safer for the younger tots. In fact, there’s even a raised guard baffle that works to prevent any falls. And for a bit of extra fun, there’s an attached basketball hoop with a basketball included, making this a fantastic option for rainy or cold days spent inside. Pros: Made from the highest quality, non-toxic PE, which makes it safe for both indoors and outdoors. No tools required for set up or storage. Each step is enclosed and features a textured, anti-slip step and a railing on either side. Cons: The lower portion of the end is such a gentle slope that it slows sliding down pretty dramatically. This can be a wonderful and safe indoor option for younger kiddos, but older ones might become bored rather quickly. Simplay3 Young Explorers Adventure Climber The Ultimate Sliding AdventureThis jungle gym is a great adventure-based play structure for more than just sliding fun.Most VersatileFind on Amazon Okay sure, this indoor/outdoor climber does have a pretty fun slide. But that’s not the only reason why it made the list. The reason why it’s on this list is that this is a fun slide, but it’s also so much more. Helping young explorers boost their gross motor skills while getting some energy out, this climbing gym features open windows and doors for secret hideouts, a steering wheel and dashboard for pretend play, and two tiered platforms for even more adventure. Because of the size and stability, multiple kids can play on this structure at once (it can hold up to 60 pounds per child and up to 3 children at once playing). Pros: Strong, durable, UV-resistant plastic construction. Easy set-up. The construction of the structure, when fully assembled, is incredibly sturdy. Cons: There’s not much of a safety railing for the top tier. Step2 Game Time Sports Climber and Slide Hoop and Slide ComboWith steps, a platform, a hoop, and (of course) a slide, this structure is the ultimate play structure for your slide-loving basketball player.Best Hoop and SlideFind on Amazon This one is another climbing structure featuring more than just a slide, but this time, it’s a bit simpler. Sometimes that’s ideal – especially if you don’t have as much room, have other climbing structures, or your kiddo just gets overwhelmed easily. Featuring two open doors for a crawl space under the structure, sloped climbing stairs, and (of course) a slide, this gym also has an attached basketball hoop for a bit of extra fun. Pros: Low maintenance plastic that’s easy to clean and very durable. Basketball is included (but requires air prior to use). Small enough to combine with other play structures for added adventure. Cons: This structure is a bit on the small side, making it a great option for younger kids but not so much for older ones. Frequently Asked Questions Are toddler slides safe? Yes, toddler slides are totally safe. Of course, kiddos always find ways to push the limits and might end up hurt. But being adventurous, learning one’s limits, and building self-confidence, stamina, and endorphins? Yeah, it’s all worth it. As for toddler slides, they’re typically as high as is appropriate for a toddler’s age and capabilities, which helps little ones master slides they feel safe on before moving on bigger. How do I encourage my timid child to play on slides? You know your child best, of course. However, one of the best ways to encourage a timid child is to ignore the timidity. Let them watch other children, show them what it’s for, and then let them do what feels right to them. Depending on the slide, maybe you could even go down the slide with them a few times, showing how much fun it is. The more you expose your child to situations that make them feel shy or unsure of themselves, the more confident they become by tackling these situations head-on. Show them compassion, empathy, and a hefty dose of genuine encouragement, and they’ll be sliding the big slides in no time. What are the possible benefits of playing with slides? Besides the strength and cardiovascular benefits of playing with slides, there are plenty of other, perhaps unseen, benefits as well. Playing with slides and other outdoor climbing structures builds on gross motor skills, boosts endorphins, aids in sensory development, and if other children are present, helps with social-emotional development, as well. Slides and other outdoor playground equipment may help develop vestibular, tactile, and proprioceptive areas of the brain. In a world where more and more children are plugged in rather than playing in the outdoors, slides are a fantastic addition to your little one’s life. Related posts:Powered by SearchIQ The Best Puppy Toys Read more The Best Puppy Diapers Read more The Best Interactive Pet Toys Read more