What do you do with your toddlers in the garden?

[Ewemoo]

My dts aren't walking by themselves yet but as the weather is so lovely we are wanting to be outside more. I can't put them down on the ground as our garden is at the front and next to our driveway so too dangerous. They are not the sort of babies who are happy to just sit there and watch the world go by in a buggy so I'm struggling to know what to do. Also they wouldn't last 2 seconds on a rug before they'd be playing with the cars on the road!

Sounds tricky - if you can't put them down that's difficult. When I saw the thread title I was going to suggest paintbrushes and water - just get them to paint anything outside. Also small paddling pools are great, or buckets or trugs with lots of cups and containers to pour water with.

I think you may need a play pen type thing, although I know many children don't really like being cooped up like that.

Or fence your garden in - gates on the drive, or a fence of some sort between your drive and your garden.

A swing? The ones for babies strap 'em in so they can't escape! (downside is you have to push them!)

I would put a fence up - it's only going to get worse when they are walking! And you will be so thankful for it - my 2 year old can spend hours pottering around in the garden.

Otherwise, as someone else said, a paddling pool that can be filled with either water or balls. Or stick them in a travel cot with some toys?

Put the highchair outside, because its waterproof and pour water over them, you and let them chuck it over themselves. It will give the highchair a good clean too.
Watch the ants
Play hide under a muslin cloth
There are some big playpens you could buy and fill with balls as others have suggested.
Watching bubbles is fun
I will have a think and get back to you.