Outdoor toys for 6-12 months?

bridesea

Warm weather has me thinking about what kind of toys to buy for the spring and summer months... we have a big backyard, and I want to make it a great playground for the kids so that we (and the nanny) don't have to trek to the park every day.  Not installing any actual equipment (swings, etc) but dreaming of a baby pool and sandbox.  Any other ideas for great outdoor toys for this age?  They are too young for a water table, sadly.

And if anyone has a baby pool in their yard, please tell me whether you have/prefer a shade that just covers the pool, or a larger umbrella that covers the pool and surrounding area.

Thanks! 

 

Mrs. Destructo

I've heard that sand and/or water tables are a lot of fun, and I'm also wanting to get my guys a bubble machine. 

I would shade the entire area the babies will be in.... but I'm SUPER paranoid about the sun.