Top 5 Sensory Toys for Summer Play – Best Toddler Activities Under $100

As a home daycare provider, I know how challenging it can be to keep toddlers engaged and calm during the summer months — especially when the heat limits outdoor time. That’s why I rely on sensory toys for summer that are fun, mess-friendly, and packed with learning benefits.

Whether you're a parent or early childhood educator, these top sensory toys for toddlers are perfect for summer play. They support motor skills, calm-down routines, and screen-free fun — and the best part? They’re all under $100 and toddler-tested in real daycare settings.

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💧 1. Little Tikes Bluey Water Table – $79.97

🛒 Buy on Amazon – $79.97 (Affiliate link – no extra cost to you!)

Bring your toddler’s favorite character into sensory play with this Bluey-themed water table! Designed for ages 1–6, it’s packed with hands-on features that encourage imaginative, social, and sensory-rich play — perfect for summer fun.

🌟 Why We Love It:

• Includes 4 floating characters: Bluey, Bandit, Chili, and Bingo

• Outer ring creates a Lazy River for splashing and pouring

• Inner triangle cavity holds extra water or sand (not included)

• Includes 6 accessories: crab & alligator sand molds, shovel, fill cup, and more

• 2-in-1 design: use with or without legs (table or floor play)

• Functional drain plug + cover for easy cleaning and storage

• Perfect size for patios, small yards, and home daycares

💡 Tip: Add this to your summer routine and pair it with visual cues like “bubbles,” “stretching,” or “quiet play” for smoother transitions.

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🏖️ 2. Kinetic Sand Beach Sand Kingdom Set – $24.99 (On Sale)

🛒 Buy on Amazon – $24.99

This award-winning Kinetic Sand Beach Sand Kingdom is a calm, mess-friendly sensory activity perfect for patios, indoor corners, or quiet summer afternoons. It includes everything your child needs to build epic sandcastles — no beach required!

🌟 Why We Love It:

• Feels like wet beach sand but stays dry and mess-free

• Includes 3 lbs of kinetic sand, 6 molds, 2 tools, and a fold-out play tray

• Molds build walls, towers, bridges, and more

• Easy to clean, reusable, and doesn't stick to hands

• Wheat, gluten, and casein-free for peace of mind

• Great for calming, tactile play that supports creativity

• Award-winning: PAL Award, Parents’ Choice & Good Housekeeping Best Toy

💡 Tip: Add this to your “quiet play” or “take deep breaths” visual routine for peaceful, screen-free downtime.

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🫧 3. Splash Pad Sprinkler Mat – $33.99

This upgraded splash pad from LIKETURE is made from extra-thick 0.55mm material — over twice as thick as standard splash mats. It’s durable, non-slip, and designed for both toddlers and pets, making it a fun, safe, and long-lasting summer sensory toy.

🌟 Why We Love It:

• 2025 upgrade: water inlet moved to bottom for better spray control

• Non-slip surface = safer for jumping and running

• Thicker 0.55mm design means less tearing, more play

• Large size for kids, babies, or even pets

• Perfect for hot days, backyard parties, or daycare fun

💡 Tip: Use after structured play or routines as a reward. Pair with your “bubbles” or “stretching” calm-down visuals for an outdoor sensory break.

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🎨 4. Melissa & Doug Giddy Buggy Play Tunnel – $67.47

🛒 Buy on Amazon – $67.47 (Affiliate link – bright, durable, and movement-friendly)

This colorful Giddy Buggy Tunnel from Melissa & Doug is a fantastic way to support your toddler’s sensory needs through movement. Whether indoors or outdoors, it encourages crawling, stretching, and imaginative play — all in a calm, screen-free way.

🌟 Why We Love It:

• 1.5-meter tunnel for gross motor and sensory exploration

• Folds flat for simple storage (47 x 56 x 8 cm when folded)

• Water-resistant and durable fabric

• Perfect for movement breaks, imaginative play, and calm-down routines

• Ideal for preschoolers aged 3 to 5

💡 Tip: Add to your routine with visuals like “stretching” or “quiet play” to help toddlers regulate their energy.

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🎨 5. Melissa & Doug Water Wow! Reusable Painting Books – $27.96

🛒 Buy on Amazon (Great for travel and calm moments)

This Water Wow! 3-pack is perfect for calm-down time, travel, or quiet play at home. Each spiral-bound pad includes 4 reusable pages that reveal color with just water — then dry back to white for endless reuse.

🌟 Why We Love It:

• Includes 3 themed books: Jungle, Safari, and Farm

• Refillable chunky water pens are easy for little hands

• No mess, no cleanup — just calming, creative fun

• Seek-and-find activities and fun facts on every page

• Certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)

• Great for ages 3–6 and perfect for calming routines or car trips

💡 Tip: Use during “quiet play” time or keep one in your calm-down corner, paired with visuals like “take deep breaths” or “ask for help.”

📌 Final Tip for Parents & Educators

Pair these sensory toys with  calm-down visuals to help toddlers manage transitions and big feelings during summer play.

✅ Try visuals like:

• Take deep breaths

• Hug a toy

• Quiet play

• Ask for help

• Fidget time

• Stretching

• Bubbles

🎁 Free download: Calm-Down Choice Board
🛒 Shop full Cal-Down Choice Board: KidRoutinePrintables.etsy.com