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

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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.

💧 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.


“Bluey Water Table for toddlers with lazy river and 4 characters”


🌟 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.

🏖️ 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!

“Kinetic Sand Kingdom with castle molds and fold-out tray”

🌟 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.

🫧 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.

“Toddler splash pad with water sprinkler play mat”

🌟 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.

🎨 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.


“Melissa and Doug Giddy Buggy Play Tunnel for toddlers – colorful sensory crawl toy for indoor or outdoor use”


🌟 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.

🎨 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.

“Melissa and Doug Water Wow activity pads for toddlers – reusable water-reveal coloring books in Jungle, Safari, and Farm themes”

🌟 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


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