The 7 Best Outdoor Fall Toddler Activities for Crisp October Days

1. Leaf Collecting and Collage Making

You see, fall means leaves—lots of leaves. And what better way to embrace the season than by going on a leaf hunt? (Yesterday, I saw a teacher going out with her preschool class, collecting leaves. That got me inspired to try it today with Luca.)

Toddlers love the simple joy of collecting all the colorful, crunchy leaves they can find.

How to Do It:

Grab a basket or bag, head outside, and start picking up leaves of different shapes, sizes, and colors. Once your little one has had their fill, bring the leaves home and make a fun fall collage using glue and some construction paper.

Do you remember those old fat catalogues that clothes companies would send? As a kid we flat dried so many leaves ánd flowers in my grandmas catalogues, makes me kinda nostalgic.

Bonus Tip: While collecting leaves, chat with your toddler about the colors and shapes to build their vocabulary. It’s a sneaky way to work in some learning!

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2. Sensory Play with Fall Nature Bins

Speaking of getting messy, sensory bins are a favorite in the toddler world. Did you know they’re an awesome way to develop motor skills and stimulate sensory learning? Fall brings so many natural materials that are perfect for filling up a nature-themed sensory bin—think pinecones, acorns, twigs, and, of course, those gorgeous fall leaves.

How to Make It:

Create a sensory bin with items from your leaf hunt (or your backyard!). You can throw in some plastic animals or scooping tools to keep things interesting. If you’re new to the sensory bin craze, I’ve got a whole post on how to get started with sensory bins and household items. Check it out here for some budget-friendly ideas.

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3. Pumpkin Bowling

Yes, you read that right—pumpkin bowling! This is such a fun and easy game that your toddler will absolutely love, and it’s perfect for outdoors. Plus, it’s a great way to work on their coordination and balance.

How to Set It Up:

Grab a few small pumpkins and set up a few “pins” (use empty plastic bottles or even toilet paper rolls). Hand your toddler a small pumpkin and let them go to town bowling. You’ll get giggles, and you might even spark a competitive spirit!

Pro Tip: You can use this as a fun Halloween party game, too! (No sewing skills required, P.S: here are some last minute halloween costumes that also require no sewing😉).

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4. Outdoor Chalk Games: Fall Edition

Have you ever tried seasonal chalk activities? If not, you’re missing out! Chalk isn’t just for summer. You can create a fun fall-themed hopscotch game, or even let your toddler go wild creating a giant pumpkin or scarecrow on the pavement.

Get Creative:

Draw a giant tree on the driveway and let your toddler add chalk “leaves” in different colors, or use chalk to create a giant pumpkin patch. And the best part? When the weather turns rainy, it’s time to start all over again.

Here are 25 more outdoor chalk game ideas for inspiration.

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5. Leaf Pile Jumping

Okay, this one’s a classic, but you have to do it. No fall is complete without the timeless tradition of jumping into a big ol’ pile of leaves. It’s free, it’s fun, and it’s guaranteed to burn off some toddler energy.

How to Make It Fun:

You can turn leaf jumping into a game by hiding small toys in the leaf pile for your toddler to “discover” or by making up a story about a magical forest where the leaves are enchanted.

Safety Tip: Just make sure to double-check the pile for any sharp branches or hidden debris before your little one dives in.

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6. Apple Picking and Tasting

October is peak apple season, and there’s nothing like a trip to a local orchard to teach your toddler about where food comes from. It’s also a great opportunity for sensory play—let them touch, smell, and taste all the different apple varieties.

How to Do It:

Many farms and orchards have family-friendly activities, like hayrides or small petting zoos. Let your toddler help you pick apples (the low-hanging ones, of course!), and don’t forget to taste test. Once you’re home, you can use those apples for a baking project like homemade applesauce.

Did you know that tasting new foods is a great way to build your toddler’s sensory awareness? Plus, nothing says fall quite like the smell of apples cooking in your kitchen. Here are 77 apple recipes, you might want to try this fall.

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7. Nature Walk and Storytime

Fall is the perfect time to slow down and take in nature with your toddler. Even a short walk around the neighborhood can be a magical experience when you turn it into an adventure. Collect small “treasures” like rocks, pinecones, or acorns as you walk, then use them to create a nature-inspired story together when you get home.

Get Your Storytelling On:

Did you know toddlers love making up stories? Create a little book about their nature adventure and let them help “write” it (even if they’re just scribbling!). You can even take pictures during your walk and make a simple photo storybook.

For more ideas on storytelling and making every moment magical, check out this adorable Good Night Story.