Outdoor Learning Inspirations
Nurture early learning and education through outdoor discovery, exploration, and play. Outdoor learning is an ideal way to shed classroom expectations and introduce children to their world through a new lens and alternate perspective. When we take children outside, we introduce them to a new world in which free thinking, innovation, and symbolic play offers them a portal into their imaginations. Intentionally incorporating loose parts along with basic tools and learning materials, children are empowered to investigate, experiment, and formulate new ideas through challenges and exploratory play. Encouraging this natural sense of wonder and curiosity will facilitate a child's lifelong love of learning.
This invitation for children to explore, create, experience, wonder, and grow is possible when providing high-quality outdoor learning experiences for children. Discover what tools and materials educators can use to support dramatic play, science, literacy, art, music, social and emotional, math, building and construction (STEM), and motor skills.
Dramatic Play
Many people envision dramatic play as children pretending to be nurses, doctors, construction workers, or chefs, but these are just a few dramatic play ideas you can explore with children. To stimulate children's imaginations, be creative with the themes and materials you provide and routinely change dramatic play themes. One of the best ways you can facilitate engaging dramatic play is by tuning into your surroundings. Pay attention to what children are interested in and what's happening in your community and incorporate those ideas. Taking dramatic play outdoors is another way you can explore different concepts and encourage children to use their imaginations.
Activity Ideas
Picnic Table for Toddler or Preschool
Item: 49469P
Ships From Manufacturer
$687.00 - $720.00
Toddler or Preschool Picnic Table
Mix & Bake Blender Wooden Play Set
Item: 32894
In Stock
$34.95
3 years & up. Excite your little baker's cooking super power with this fun and interactive baking set. Simply turn the knob on the tabletop mixer and the beaters rotate. The beaters also lift up making it easy to place or remove the bowl. Includes: turntable blender, bowl, flour packet, and sugar packet. Measures 18.2"L x 12"W x 21"H.
Caucasian Family Set
Item: 82487
In Stock
$35.95
3 years & up. Encourage cooperative and imaginative play with these beautifully detailed dolls. A mother, father, son, and daughter, all dressed in colorful clothes, are sure to delight and excite your child. Made from recycled rubberwood and coated with a non-toxic finish. All colors are made from vegetable dye. Adult dolls are approximately 5" high.
African American Family Set
Item: 82488
In Stock
$35.95
3 years & up. Encourage cooperative and imaginative play with these beautifully detailed dolls. A mother, father, son, and daughter, all dressed in colorful clothes, are sure to delight and excite your child. Made from recycled rubberwood and coated with a non-toxic finish. All colors are made from vegetable dye. Adult dolls are approximately 5" high.
Asian Family Set
Item: 82489
In Stock
$35.95
3 years & up. Encourage cooperative and imaginative play with these beautifully detailed dolls. A mother, father, son, and daughter, all dressed in colorful clothes, are sure to delight and excite your child. Made from recycled rubberwood and coated with a non-toxic finish. All colors are made from vegetable dye. Adult dolls are approximately 5" high.
CONSTRUCT-A-SPACE
Item: 32886
In Stock
$309.95
2 years & up. A versatile and fun set for building whatever a child can imagine! Use the flex connectors as hinges to further the design possibilities and bring your imagination creations to life. Set includes 76 durable plastic pieces: 18 beams, 18 large connectors, 24 small connectors, and 16 flexi connectors. Suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Made of 100% recycled plastic.
Learn 2 Grow Playhouse
Item: PL893
Ships From Manufacturer
$3,134.00
2 - 5 years. Playhouse includes two rootview planters. Weight: 211 lbs. Measures 48"W x 48"L x 63"H.
Square Foot Gardening Kit
Item: PL897
Ships From Manufacturer
$970.00
Ages: 2 - 5 years. Size: 24"W x 48"L x 12"H. Weight: 76 lbs. Includes: Raised Garden Bed, Collapsible Garden Grid, Moisture Meter, 20 pack of Organic Vegetable Seeds, and "Square Foot Gardening with Kids" Book.
Eco-Friendly Orange Wagon
Item: 63730
Temporarily Out of Stock
$32.95
3 years & up. Sturdy and durable with a rope handle that tucks inside for convenient storage. With chunky tires and a low-set bed, it is the perfect size for both indoors and outside. Great for the beach, backyard, playroom or classroom. Perfect for developing gross motor skills and encouraging interactive play. Wagon measures 15"L x 9.75"W x 9.5"H.
Grow It! Garden Set
Item: 32248
In Stock
$34.95
2 years & up. Bring out the love of nature in toddlers with this garden full of imaginative play. Includes colorful mix-and-match flowers and vegetables along with essential gardening tools. Great for role-playing and early vocabulary and language development.
Woodland Animals Finger Puppets - Set of 6
Item: 86584
In Stock
$52.95
12 months & up. Set of six finger puppets represent the most beloved woodland animals. Each has an elastic fitting inside to keep them on your finger and are great for hours of creative play. Includes fox, squirrel, gray wolf, frog, rabbit, and field mouse. Animals have full bodies and measure 6"L.
Mini Bugs Finger Puppets - Set of 5
Item: 86586
In Stock
$42.95
12 months & up. Set of five finger puppets represent some of the most common bugs you would find in the backyard. Each has an elastic fitting inside to keep them on your finger and are great for hours of creative play. Includes bumblebee, butterfly, caterpillar, spider, and ladybug. Bugs have full bodies and measure 6"L.
Simple Transitions for Infants and Toddlers - Paperback
Item: 39410
In Stock
$21.95
An insightful resource which offers over 400 tips, ideas, and activities to help infants and toddlers move smoothly through the day. Includes book lists on different topics and great ideas to help parents and teachers deal with big transitions in the child's life, such as separation anxiety and more. Age focus: Birth - 24 months. 168 pages.
Play Today: Building the Brain Through Creative Expression - Paperback
Item: 72384
In Stock
$14.95
When young children are engaged in imaginative play, they are not just having fun; they are developing skills and concepts that are foundational to their learning. Teachers can get the most out of this critical development time with thoughtful preparations that allow the children to freely explore their creativity and learn from each other. Using simple props and donated items, the book shows how centers can be transformed into rich and rewarding learning spaces for children. Play Today offers dozens of easy-to-do scenarios that will spark open-ended play explorations. Play strategies discussed boost brain development in many ways, including: Memory and flexible thinking, Communication, Social-emotional skills, Mathematics, Science, and Literacy.
Planning for Play: Strategies for Guiding Preschool Learning - Paperback
Item: 89711
In Stock
$14.95
Play is learning! But play in the early years is endangered by the emphasis on push-down academics, mounting parental expectations, and pressures on early childhood teachers to prepare young children for the rigors of kindergarten and beyond. With all of that, gains made by play experiences, including readiness skills and social-emotional development, have fallen away. Young children learn best through play. This book helps educators understand the different types of play and the rich opportunities offered through carefully planned time and environments designed for valuable pre-K play experiences. Paperback. 184 pages.
Learning is in BLOOM: Cultivating Outdoor Explorations - Paperback
Item: 72385
In Stock
$19.95
The movement to connect young children with nature continues to grow, as more parents and educators become passionate about bringing learning outdoors and letting children explore outside the bounds of traditional lessons. In the full-color Learning Is in Bloom, teachers and caregivers will find 40 hands-on activities effective in engaging young children in investigating nature, both indoors and outdoors, on the school grounds, and on excursions around the neighborhood. Through fostering a love of nature, the activities promote all areas of early childhood education and development. Readers will learn how to support child-directed explorations within all kinds of learning in a nature-rich setting, including: Science investigations, Mathematical thinking, Art explorations, and Literacy development.
Science
Engaging children in outdoor play naturally incorporates science based learning. There are a variety of science activities and topics children will naturally engage in, including weather and climate, plants and animals, and light and shadow. Be sure to incorporate a thermometer, rain gauge, bird feeder, and other science materials you think the children in your care will enjoy in your outdoor learning space. A sand and water table for children to experiment with water and sand, an activity bin filled with dirt and fossils for children to excavate, and a garden for children to plant flowers, herbs, and plants are other wonderful explorations for outdoor learning.
Activity Ideas
- Paint Throwing Activity
- Eco Snails
- DIY Nature Bracelet Activity
- Fun Dino Activities
- Quick Guide for Selecting Different Types of Sands
Splashology! Water Lab
Item: 147582
In Stock
$29.95
3 years & up. Discover the wonders of water! This 19-piece Splashology! Water Lab features waves of water-ready activities that introduce aspiring scientists to the concepts of volume, buoyancy, flow, and more with every splish and splash. Kids can dive into seven splash-filled experiments or explore all of the splashes and bubbles of each piece with parental supervision. Ride the waves with the Floaty Boat tray, squirt streams of water with the Splash Syringe, or turn your sink into homemade bubbles kit with the lab's three bubble wands. Designed for the bathtub, sink, or water table, this engaging science kit supports guided and open-ended STEM-based play. Lab pieces are made from durable plastic and foam that can be easily cleaned. Included: Floaters, Flasks, Hands-On Tools, and Waterproof Experiment Cards.
Sea Beans Loose Parts - 2 lb Bag
Item: 55505
In Stock
$47.95
Sea Beans are seeds from trees and vines that grow along tropical shores. They wash into the ocean, drift and are collected. The seeds are a beautiful, natural element for investigations, sorting, sand and water play and more.
Sand and Water Play Book: Simple, Creative Activities for Young Children - Paperback
Item: 97734
In Stock
$12.95
Packed with more than 70 ways to invigorate play with sand and water tables while encouraging problem solving skills, fine and gross motor creativity, and imagination. Children will learn creative ways to explore and discover on their own!
Primary Treasure Blocks - Set of 8
Item: 91353
In Stock
$61.95
3 years & up. What can we find today? Children can collect sensory objects, natural materials and trinkets to place in the beautiful Treasure Blocks. Smooth hardwood frames with inset, colored transparent acrylic windows have a removable panel to place small objects. Ideal for display, observation, color exploration, light table activities and more. Largest Block measures 5.5" L x 5.5" W x 2" H. Set of 8.
Clear Treasure Blocks - Set of 8
Item: 91346
In Stock
$54.95
3 years & up. What can we find today? Collect trinkets, natural materials and sensory objects to place in the beautiful Treasure Blocks. Smooth hardwood frames with inset, transparent acrylic windows have a removable panel to place small objects to observe or display. Ideal for color exploration and light table activities. Holds marbles, beads, twigs, leaves, small toys and more. Two screws on the removable panel keep objects securely in place until ready to be replaced. Set of 8. Largest Block measures 5.5" L x 5.5" W x 2" H.
Easy Hold Discovery Viewer - Set of 6
Item: 146993
In Stock
$79.95
12 months & up. Alter the world around you with these Easy Hold Discovery Viewers by Learning Advantage. Different lenses provide different views. Change the color of everything you see with the red, blue and yellow lenses. Distort and magnify things around you with the giant magnifier and the two different types of mirrors. Frame size: 7.25" x 4.75" x 7.5" (insert size is 3.25" in diameter). Included: 6 Easy Hold Discovery Viewers: Magnifier (3x magnification), Concave Mirror, Plane Mirror, Transparent Red, Blue and Yellow Lenses.
Loose Parts
Item: 72295P
In Stock
$39.95 - $42.95
The Loose Parts set of books serve as inspiration with hundreds of beautiful full color photographs illustrating ways children enjoy using everyday items in their play, encouraging their curiosity, giving free reign to their play, and encouraging creativity. Books are available individually.
Wooden Magnification Stacking Blocks - 6 Pieces
Item: 63019
In Stock
$43.95
2 years & up. These versatile hardwood-framed stacking blocks have six stacking squares and smooth, rounded corners and edges for safety, with inset magnified acrylic windows. The magnification stacking blocks are ideal for exploring natural, tactile, and other detailed materials found inside or in nature. This set also promotes fine motor skills and block play. Encourage children to build their own unique structures. Enhance STEM-based activities with this set, perfect for group or individual play. Use these blocks indoors or outside. Each block has 2x magnification. Stack blocks together to intensify. Largest square measures 7" W x 7" D x 2" H. Includes 6 squares.
Woodland Footprints™ - 8 Pieces
Item: 32628
In Stock
$39.95
2 years & up. This unique set of engaging woodland footprints is a great way for children to start their woodland explorations! Each set includes a footprint for a fox, squirrel, rabbit, frog, deer, hawk, owl and mouse. Compare, explore, investigate, sort, and match eight different familiar woodland animals by their footprints. Take the stones on a group walk to compare them with any animal tracks the children discover.
Farmyard Footprints™ Stones - Set of 8
Item: 32278
In Stock
$39.95
2 years & up. Compare, explore, investigate, sort and match eight different familiar farm animals by their footprints. Perfect for sensory exploration and learning about animals. Each stone shows a raised footprint on the front and the owner's image imprinted on the back. Raised impressions on the stones allow to tracks to be made in the ground. Set includes 8 stones.
Adjustable Sand and Water Table
Item: 92752
In Stock
$559.95
18 months & up. Encourage sensory exploration, science experimentation and dramatic play both inside and outside the classroom with a mobile, durable Sand and Water Table. This sturdy, single station table provides plenty of room for group play and collaboration at just the right height and with a small footprint. The round, organic design allows easier access to sand and water activities. A secure, stepped drain at the bottom of the table makes it a simple task to switch between sensory elements. With convenient handles, a secure lid and freely-rotating caster wheels, the Sand and Water Table can be easily moved between indoor and outdoor environments. Sturdy, powder coated steel table legs with stainless steel hardware and capped feet adjust from 19" to 25" high. For indoor/outdoor use. Store indoors when not in use. Minor assembly required. Table has a 5 year warranty.
Treasure Tubes - Primary Colors Set of 8
Item: 31386
In Stock
$71.95
3 years & up. Children can easily collect, curate, experiment with, and display found objects and liquids with these sturdy, colorful acrylic Treasure Tubes for 360 degree viewing. The lids sit on top of the tubes and do not secure, making it easy to add trinkets, natural materials, and sensory objects to observe, display, and rattle. Ideal for color and sound exploration and light table activities. Holds marbles, beads, twigs, leaves, small toys and more. Stack the tubes on top of each other to customize play experience. Easy-to-remove wooden top keeps objects securely in place until ready to be replaced. Set of 8 tubes. Largest Tube measures: 3" diameter x 5.75"H. Smallest Tube measures: 3" diameter x 3.5"H.
Treasure Tubes - Clear - Set of 8
Item: 31286
In Stock
$60.95
3 years & up. Children can easily collect, curate, experiment with, and display found objects and liquids with these sturdy, clear acrylic Treasure Tubes for 360 degree viewing. The lids sit on top of the tubes and do not secure, making it easy to add trinkets, natural materials, and sensory objects to observe, display, and rattle. Ideal for color and sound exploration and light table activities. Holds marbles, beads, twigs, leaves, small toys and more. Stack the tubes on top of each other to customize play experience. Easy-to-remove wooden top keeps objects securely in place until ready to be replaced. Set of 8 tubes. Largest Tube measures: 3" diameter x 5.75"H. Smallest Tube measures: 3" diameter x 3.5"H.
STEM Play: Integrating Inquiry into Learning Centers - Paperback
Item: 81378
In Stock
$24.95
Most early childhood teachers are using learning centers in the classroom, but do not approach them in ways that fully support a variety of learning opportunities. This book approaches learning centers through the STEM lens, and shares how themes can be integrated into centers to promote creativity and higher-level thinking. "STEM Play" provides varied activities for the most common centers: art, blocks, dramatic play, literacy, math, science, music and movement. Full of beautiful, full-color photos that show the activities in real early childhood classrooms, teachers can easily use the book's ideas immediately in their curriculum. Also includes a "How To" section for teachers who wish to expand on the STEM focus and use themed activities in their learning centers. Paperback. 174 pages.
Rethinking the Classroom Landscape - Paperback
Item: 81334
In Stock
$34.95
An early childhood classroom should reinforce and enhance young children's sense of belonging and connection to their environment, each other, their families, and their community. This book invites educators and administrators to rethink the traditional classroom, with inspirational examples showing how to weave elements that reflect each center's community into the classroom design. Colorful photos show what teachers can do to encourage a sense of community unique to each classroom. Easy-to-implement ideas and strategies are based on five guideposts that help educators create early childhood environments that vividly connect children, adults, and the surrounding community. These community environments include connections to past and present, geography, typography, flora, and fauna. Paperback. 264 pages.
Literacy
The outdoors is a great place for children to learn new vocabulary words and to document their learning experiences. Place sticky notes or tape note cards with new words on corresponding objects in the outdoor space. This will help children learn to expand their vocabulary and associate these new words with a variety of learning environment can also foster creative writing. Encourage children to write about their surroundings and what they see, hear, smell, and touch. Reading is another literacy activity children of all ages can enjoy outdoors. Strategically place blankets, chairs, and outdoor pillows in the space to encourage children to read a good book and enjoy the fresh air.
Activity Ideas
Chicka Chicka Books and Story Props
Item: 91252
In Stock
$119.95
3 years & up. Who can win the race up the coconut tree? Find out with the Chicka Chicka Books and Story Props set. These two beloved children's books depict letters and numbers racing up a tree. Now, children can join the race! With comprehensive sets of letters and numbers, children can face off against one another to see whose letter (or number) gets to the top first.
Alphabet Acorns Activity Set
Item: 63754
In Stock
$42.95
3 years & up. Learn letters and vocabulary with acorns! Match uppercase and lowercase letters and match color-coded figures to their appropriate beginning letter. Includes 26 two-piece acorns and 26 color-coded figures, 1 for each letter! Acorns measure 2"L x 2.5"H.
Crayola® Air Dry Clay - 5 lb. Bucket
Item: 88609
In Stock
$15.95
Easy-to-use clay enables students to make solid, durable forms without the need for baking in an oven or firing in a kiln. Softens easily with water and quickly cleans from hands and surfaces. Convenient reusable plastic bucket helps keep clay fresh. Can be painted with tempera, acrylic or watercolors when dry. AP Certified nontoxic.
Simple Signing with Young Children - Revised - Paperback
Item: 92919
In Stock
$29.95
Because their vocabularies haven't yet caught up with their thoughts and emotions, young children often struggle to communicate. Sign language can help them express themselves effectively to adults and peers--without the emotional outbursts caused by frustration! This book features the latest research to equip educators and caregivers with the tools and resources to teach young learners how to effectively communicate. Paperback. 208 pages.
Hand Sign Language Numbers 1-10
Item: 32537
In Stock
$31.95
2 years & up. This 10-piece set features impressed numbers, counting dots, and American Sign Language illustrations that help children learn numbers in various ways.
Wooden American Sign Language Tiles with Alphabet A-Z
Item: 32536
In Stock
$53.95
2 years & up. This 26-piece set features an impressed lower case letter and corresponding American Sign Language picture. Colorful and tactile way to add variety to your knowledge of alphabets. Learning the American Sign Language alphabet develops awareness and sensitivity to cultural and linguistic diversity. Made from sustainable rubberwood. Colors are made from vegetable dye, and coated with a non-toxic finish.
Literacy for All Young Learners - Paperback
Item: 72302
In Stock
$29.95
Mary Jalongo, PhD, offers 65 strategies to support literacy learning with children from preschool through the third grade. With specific suggestions for ELL students, Jalongo includes recommendations for hundreds of great children's books, websites, and apps to make teaching easier. Each strategy is designed to be simple to use with all of the children in your classroom-from the not-yet-readers to the fluent readers-and each strategy is tied to the Common Core State Standards for kindergarten through third grade. Paperback. 272 pages.
Art
Art provides wonderful learning experiences for children by giving them opportunities to explore color, texture, symmetry, and other design elements. Many art activities are done in traditional classroom settings, but art is a great subject to take outdoors and use in outdoor learning. Children of all ages will enjoy creating works of art with natural objects combined with a variety of art supplies. Encourage them to draw pictures in the dirt with a stick or use an outdoor easel to draw or paint the animals and plants they see. Sidewalk chalk is another great art alternative for fostering creativity outdoors.
Activity Ideas
- Nature Paintbrush Art Activity
- Why Getting Messy Is Essential to Early Childhood Development
- Tree Rubbings Activity
- Carrot Pulling Activity
8 Watercolor Paint Trays with Brush - Set of 12
Item: 47329
In Stock
$29.95
Inspire your future painters with this wonderful set of 8 Bright Color Washable Art Watercolor Paint Trays with Brush. This set is great for promoting creativity, arts and crafts, fine motor skills, imagination, and hand-eye coordination. This medium encourages imaginative thinking and helps children express their ideas, emotions, and stories through art. The flexibility of watercolors, with their ability to create different textures and effects, further enhances the creative process. The plastic tray gives each child their own washable semi-moist color palette. Encourage your children to identify the color of the paints as they create a unique masterpiece. This set includes 12 trays of 8 watercolor paints.
4 Station Space Saver Easel
Item: 60432
In Stock
$369.95
Great for indoors and outdoors. Tuff all-plastic frame with a strong clear plastic easel. Includes hanging dowel drying brackets with easy access in the middle of the cube easel to dry art work. Includes 4 super caddies and 16 easel clips. Some assembly required. 21"W x 21"L x 44"H.
Creative Investigations in Early Art - Paperback
Item: 92918
In Stock
$18.95
While the visual and performing arts are powerful curricular companions to early STEM experiences, educators may not have the tools and resources to introduce art beyond painting and drawing. Creative Investigations in Early Art provides them with an inquisitive, explorative approach to boost young learners creativity and critical-thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills through artistic expression. Paperback. 112 pages.
Banish Boredom: Activities to Do with Kids That You'll Actually Enjoy - Paperback
Item: 81384
In Stock
$19.95
Author, Rebecca Green, takes readers on an inspiring journey using beautiful color photos that she took of her children doing activities she describes in the book. This book takes a lighthearted approach to the serious business of parenting, and helps parents find activities that they enjoy, while their children learn and have fun. Green suggests ways for parents to maintain their own identities and pursue their own interests while raising children who are creative, confident, and independent thinkers. The book emphasizes adapting activities to suit the particular interests of each child, while also taking into account the personality of the parent. Paperback. 120 pages.
Music
Encourage children to listen to their surroundings when they go outside. Whether it's the wind blowing through the trees, wind chimes jingling, or the thump of someone's shoes as they walk by, everyday noises can inspire students to make music with simple sounds. You can also bring instruments, such as Boomwhackers, maracas, and bells outside to facilitate hand-on learning through music and movement. Explore rhythm, beat, and tempo with children, and you'll have a miniature orchestra in no time!
Tenor Tree
Item: PL1052P
Ships From Manufacturer
$6,120.00 - $7,099.00
Size: 15"W x 62"L. Height: Finished height 23" to 37". Weight In-Ground Mount: 85 lbs. Weight Portable : 125 lbs. Weight In-Ground Mount (Toddler) : 75 lbs. Weight Portable (Toddler) : 115 lbs. Drums create a tom-tom like sound. Each drum varies in sound and size. Durable and perfectly tuned. Research has shown that drumming can provide therapeutic benefits. Also available in primary colors. Assembly Required.
Musical Flowers
Item: PL576P
Ships From Manufacturer
$1,733.00 - $1,871.00
Size: Between 19" - 26"W, 11" - 15"D, 37" - 48"H. Weight: Between 28 lbs. - 37 lbs. Available individually in four colors (indigo, orange, turquoise, and yellow) or in an ensemble of all 4 colors. Choose between In-Ground Mount or Portable. Assembly Required.
Djembe Jr. Drums
Item: 32984P
In Stock
$24.95 - $71.95
3 years & up. The djembe drum is handcrafted from wood and carved making no two exactly alike. Produces a playful sound and can be played with fingers. Measures 8"H x 3"W. Available individually or in a set of three.
Large Rhythm Scarves
Item: 84674
Temporarily Out of Stock
$57.95
3 years & up. Help children bring music to life with these light, colorful scarves! These lightweight scarves will easily float through the air like a delicate butterfly when thrown or waived around. Children can add music or use for creative expression. Including 12 scarves, two of each rainbow bright color! Scarves measure 27" in length.
Musical Scarves & Physical Activity CD Set
Item: 48086
In Stock
$47.95
3 years & up. These scarves and music CD activities encourage creative and musical expression, imaginative play, color recognition, gross motor skills, and collaborative work. Children will love waving their bright-colored scarves through the air as they follow along to an activity or freestyle. These activities also address tactile, auditory, visual, and kinesthetic skills. Set includes individual and group activities, 12 scarves, and 1 CD.
Exploring the Science of Sounds - Paperback
Item: 89713
In Stock
$16.95
Most preschool teachers have musical instruments in their classrooms, but may not realize they can use them for science explorations. In this book, discover 100 activities that let children ages 3-6 explore the science of music and sound using materials easy to find for a preschool classroom. Children will use their bodies to create sounds, explore the relationship between size and pitch, investigate how tempo affects the way we listen to sounds, create musical instruments, and much more. From the drops of rainwater to the tinkling of wind chimes, the science of sound is all around. You will indulge young children's curiosity and engage them in scientific inquiry as they explore, listen, observe, experiment, think, and discuss different kinds of sounds and the tools for making them. Paperback. 200 pages.
101 Rhythm Instrument Activities - Paperback
Item: 22071
In Stock
$14.95
2 years & up. You have the instruments! Now you can add new activities for more musical fun. This book includes 101 ideas, a subject index, monthly planning pages and teacher tips to fit every curriculum. Paperback. 120 pages.
Shake, Rattle, and Roll - Paperback
Item: 72300
In Stock
$16.95
Music and movement go together like books and reading--they spread joy! It's no secret that quiet doesn't always equal quality learning. At times, we struggle to help children settle down so they can listen and learn. However, we can also encourage them to move to the beat so they can listen and learn in more active ways. In this book, you will find activities that inspire curiosity, exploration, and creativity. When children are singing, moving, listening, and playing music, their creative energy enhances their learning in many areas such as: Language, Math, Science, and Music. Because there is not just one right way to play rhythm instruments or move to the beat, children can explore their own capabilities while they dance, sing, and play. Paperback. 184 pages.
Social and Emotional
Helping children develop social and emotional skills at a young age paves the way for success in academia and life. For children to be successful, they have to be able to work with others and manage their emotions. If a child has strong social and emotional skills, he or she is much more likely to be happy and confident and able to overcome any challenges or tough experiences. Practicing yoga to help children relax, playing parachute games to encourage cooperation, and building with LEGO® sets to develop teamwork skills are three ways you can take social and emotional learning outdoors. Moving circle time outside and reading to children are also great options.
Activity Ideas
Jumbo Emotion Stones - Set of 8
Item: 32607
In Stock
$41.95
2 years & up. Designed with young learners in mind, these eight jumbo-sized pebbles are perfect for small hands, making them accessible and engaging for all children. Encourage interactive learning and emotional recognition through sorting and matching activities, allowing children to explore and understand different feelings in a tangible way. Made from a unique and durable stone mix, these emotion stones are washable, ensuring longevity and versatility for both indoor and outdoor use. Each stone features one of four distinct facial expressions: happy, sad, angry, and surprised, with two stones representing each emotion. These beautiful stones offer a tactile and visual way of introducing young children to emotions. Each stone is engraved to provide important sensory feedback. Set of 8 stones measure approximately 2.75"L each.
Mindfulness Mat Kit
Item: 33590
In Stock
$153.95
3 years & up. Bring mindfulness into your environment and enjoy the benefits the practice brings with the Mindfulness Mat and accompanying guide and activity card(s). Mindfulness helps increase our ability to regulate emotions, decrease stress, anxiety and depression and can help us focus our attention, as well as, help us center our thoughts and feelings in an intentional way. Measure 60"L x 60"W.
Getting to the Heart of Learning - Paperback
Item: 72299
In Stock
$16.95
Through the activities in this book, teachers and caregivers are shown how easy it is to foster children's sense of curiosity through group explorations that promote social connection and positive development. With step-by-step instructions, "Getting to the Heart of Learning' weaves social-emotional learning into activities that support math, science, literacy, and motor skills. Rather than adding in activities throughout the day, these explorations integrate social-emotional learning across the curriculum through group involvement and building community. Learn how to strengthen home-to-school connections, too, with easy strategies that help families develop a shared vision for student's social-emotional and academic success. Paperback. 180 pages.
Math
Before children can learn more advanced math skills, they have to develop number sense and learn how to count, sort and pattern. Understanding basic math skills will ultimately influence their success in school. A delightful way to make math more appealing is to bring it outdoors! You can use natural objects, such as acorns, leaves, pebbles, seashells, and sticks and a variety of outdoor learning materials for activities that encourage younger children to learn how to count, add, and recognize shapes. The Cone Math activities, Ladybug Stones, and Geometric Bubble Wands are great examples of math related materials and activities that can be done outdoors. Natural objects and outdoor sets can also be used to help teach older children higher level mathematics. You can even create real world math scenarios based on the animals and objects in your outdoor space.
Activity Ideas
Size Sorting Eggs - 8 Pieces
Item: 55531
In Stock
$45.95
3 years & up. These highly appealing and tactile eggs will help develop children's comparison and sorting skills. Stimulate both language development and mathematical skills as children sort the eggs by size and weight. Perfect for indoor or outdoor exploration. Contains eight eggs measuring between 1.5" to 3"H.
Honey Bee Stones with Activity Cards
Item: 55530
In Stock
$73.95
3 years & up. Children will love these hands-on interactive opportunities that introduce and reinforce beginning math skills. From number recognition, counting, and sequencing to matching, counting by twos, and more - this set of 16 durable photographic activity cards, paired with two sets of honey bee stones numbered 1-10, provide children with endless opportunities to strengthen their math proficiency.
Sort and Count Cups - 30 Piece Set
Item: 32264
In Stock
$35.95
18 months & up. Learning how to sort and count made fun and easy! These brightly colored bowls will help promote early math skills like sorting, counting, matching and sequencing. Bowls come in five colors: Red, green, orange, blue, and yellow. Includes smooth, round disks of each color. The disks measure 1.5" x 0.25". each.
Math in Minutes: Easy Activities for Children Ages 4-8 - Paperback
Item: 50073
In Stock
$19.95
The engaging, exciting introduction to early math concepts will be a sure-fire hit with young children. They can go on geometric shape hunts, measure with pompoms, or find the missing numbers. Includes activities that relate to the National Standards in the back of the book. 208 pages.
Building and Construction
Construction can involve building anything from dens and forts to replicas of famous buildings. Helping children gain confidence in their design and building abilities can encourage them to pursue a career in STEM, such as engineering or architecture. You can provide children with more freedom to build and be creative by taking block play and construction outdoors. In addition to using blocks and other types of building materials, children can take advantage of natural materials into their outdoor designs. Encourage children to create a construction worksite or build habitats for animals. Having children build examples of animals' habitats can facilitate appreciation of their environment and the animals that live in it. Creating an outdoor marble run or doing the Apples and Boats Activity can also help children develop problem-solving skills as they learn about motion and force.
Activity Ideas
Notch Builders - 89 Piece Set
Item: 31203
In Stock
$626.95
3 years & up. Great for indoor or outdoor use, this 89 piece set is made from FSC certified eucalyptus wood and weathers to a soft gray if left outdoors. Feature smooth sanded edges and notches that lock together allowing for big structures and endless building possibilities. With varying shapes and sizes, there are plenty to share, encouraging group participation. Smallest piece measures 6"L x 3"W. Largest piece measures 30"L x 3"W.
Notch Builders Storage Cart
Item: 32881
In Stock
$425.95
Transport your Notch Blocks inside and outside the classroom easily with the spacious, durable Notch Blocks Storage Cart. Barrel bolt construction keeps the wide, solid wood cart sturdy when holding all of your Notch Blocks. Features freely rotating, u-bracket casters for easy movement in any direction. Cleats on the top of the cart provides additional piece storage. Ships ready to assemble. Store in a cool, dry place. Measures 32.5"W x 27"H x 18"D. Notch Builders sold separately.
Brick, Blocks, and Rock Builders
Item: 30298
In Stock
$679.95
3 years & up. Build to new heights with this fantastic collection of realistic pretend bricks, blocks, and rocks! This set of lightweight foam builders stack easily for endless creative building projects. Included: 20-piece Cinder Block Set, 25-piece Rock Wall Builder Set, 25-piece Brick Builder Set, and 25-piece Ice Brick Builder Set. Activity cards included.
PowerClix® Frames Natural - 74 Piece Set
Item: 32460
In Stock
$154.95
4 years & up. PowerClix® Naturals integrate elements of natural play and loose parts theory with the innovative STEM toy building platform of PowerClix®. With organic, neutral colors, Naturals encourages children to build architectural constructions using familiar shapes. In keeping with STEM toy attributes, PowerClix® magnetic building toys encourage children to think like engineers while having fun. Children can build unlimited 3D forms by visualizing the underlying design structure of an object, then creating a wireframe model of it using magnetic frames of geometric shapes. Naturals are designed to integrate flawlessly with all PowerClix® system sets. Organize and store PowerClix® pieces easily with the new metal plate built right into the packaging. The metal plate may be used as a building base as well. Includes 74 pieces.
Block Box Blocks and Sorter - Set of 50
Item: PL1082
Ships From Manufacturer
$1,615.00
2 years & up. Block box includes 50 blocks which can be sorted and stored in the box. The lid converts the sorting box to storage. Measures 12"W x 26"L x 12"H.
Giant Polydron Giant Gears
Item: 32885
In Stock
$174.95
2 years & up. Encourage children to explore their creativity as they build and discover basic engineering skills. Assemble structures using squares and triangles and add gears by simply pushing them into place. Once connected, turn one gear and see the rest of them rotate! Contains 58 durable, lightweight plastic pieces suitable for indoor and outdoor use. Includes: 24 squares, 4 triangles, 10 square gear panels, and 20 gears. Made of 86% recycled plastic.
Resources: Earth's Elements at Play - 144 Pieces
Item: 91277
In Stock
$73.95
3 years & up. Inspire and be inspired with this set of 144 unique, soft formed loose parts that mimic elements we see in the world around us. The law of gravity will test a child's patience, concentration and problem solving skills while creating imaginative structures. The set includes loose parts that represent water, trees, bricks, wood, steel, stones, a ball and people. The idea guide is full of images that will help spark imaginations and inspire new creations.
Kid's Stanley 10-Piece Tool Set with Tool Belt
Item: 32978
In Stock
$99.95
5 years & up. Specially designed tools to fit a child's grip, this set of carpentry tools includes all the tools necessary to build simple creations to more complex projects. Tools are sharp and require adult supervision. Use this opportunity to share tool safety and carpentry knowledge while building teamwork and learning together. Includes: tool belt, handsaw, safety goggles, 6"ruler, 10' tape measure, phillips and flat head screwdrivers, file, 6.5" hammer, and clamp.
Kid's Stanley Toolbox with 5-Piece Tool Set
Item: 33000
In Stock
$57.95
5 years & up. Specially designed tools to fit a child's grip, this set of carpentry tools includes all the tools necessary to build simple creations to more complex projects. Tools are sharp and require adult supervision. Use this opportunity to share tool safety and carpentry knowledge while building teamwork and learning together. Includes: toolbox, safety goggles, 10' tape measure, phillips and flat head screwdrivers, and 6.5" hammer.
Creative Investigations in Early Engineering & Technology - Paperback
Item: 90591
In Stock
$16.95
Early childhood teachers continue to seek activities that promote STEM-based learning. But most STEM books focus on science and math, excluding technology and engineering. Creative Investigations in Early Engineering® & Technology helps teachers create a more well-rounded STEM learning program. Encourage children to think, make, tinker and innovate. Introduce engineering skills such as coding in a developmentally appropriate way. Leverage children's use of digital technologies to help them learn new skills. Promote active engagement and participation in classroom learning. Paperback. 112 pages.
Wooden Rainbow Arches and Tunnels - 12 Pieces
Item: 33142
In Stock
$152.95
2 years & up. The Colorful Wooden Rainbow Arches and Tunnels set is a vibrant addition to traditional block play. With 10 painted arches and 2 natural tunnels, children will love creating independent structures with these tunnels and arches, or incorporating them into their other blocks for endless building possibilities. Featuring rounded edges and smooth surfaces with a matte finish, these arches and tunnels are the perfect tool for enhancing early engineering skills and introducing concepts such as balance to children. Arches measure 11"W x 3"D x 5.5"H and tunnels measure 11"W x 11"D x 5.5"H. Set of 12.
Wooden Exploration Set - 50 Pieces
Item: 63290
In Stock
$136.95
18 months & up. The Wooden Exploration Set encourages independence and self-directed exploration. The open-ended components of this award-winning wooden set will inspire children's natural curiosity and joy of learning. Young children instinctively investigate objects that interest them and make discoveries through taste, touch, smell, sound, and sight.Toddlers crave new experiences while enjoying the comfort of the familiar. With opportunities to manipulate the objects over and over, young children will follow their natural curiosity and love of repetition to engage all of their senses. Providing new opportunities and challenges nurtures a child's growth, development, and understanding of the environment. Children will independently and instinctively explore, experiment, and solve problems which leads to self-confidence, creativity, and strong reasoning skills. Set of 50. Sturdy bag included.
Bambino Wooden Shape Branch Blocks - 12 Pieces
Item: 71213
In Stock
$42.95
18 months & up. Allow children to explore nature with this unique set of wooden blocks. Each block is a peculiar shape that invites and makes balancing and stacking a challenge to conquer. The unique shaped pieces, combined with the unlimited building possibilities, will help develop hand-eye coordination and spatial skills while having fun! This set will also promote fine motor skills and block play. Includes an eco-friendly cotton storage bag. Set of 12 unique wooden shapes.
Wood Stackers: River Stones - 20 Pieces
Item: 32426
In Stock
$69.95
2 years & up. Cultivate children's love of nature alongside their love of block play with this Wood Stackers Set. Inspired by the natural, polished shapes of river stones, these stones encourage children to build structures that resemble what they see when they explore nature. The stones are sanded smooth to highlight the beautiful gradient of the wood pieces. The variety of sizes will also help children understand concepts like weight, dimension, and balance. Set of 20. Smallest stone measures 1.75"L x 1.5"W x 0.75"H. Largest stone measures 5"L x 2.5"W x 1"H.
Wood Stackers: Standing Stones - 20 Pieces
Item: 32427
In Stock
$70.95
2 years & up. Invite children to build thoughtfully and creatively with these Wood Stackers. Made with organic, natural materials, these geometrically intricate stones spark a child's curiosity to create structures that resemble ancient landmarks. Each wooden block is sanded smooth to highlight the beautiful gradient of the original wood. The variety of sizes will also help children understand concepts like weight, dimension, and balance. Set of 20.
Creative Investigations in Early Engineering & Technology - Paperback
Item: 90591
In Stock
$16.95
Early childhood teachers continue to seek activities that promote STEM-based learning. But most STEM books focus on science and math, excluding technology and engineering. Creative Investigations in Early Engineering® & Technology helps teachers create a more well-rounded STEM learning program. Encourage children to think, make, tinker and innovate. Introduce engineering skills such as coding in a developmentally appropriate way. Leverage children's use of digital technologies to help them learn new skills. Promote active engagement and participation in classroom learning. Paperback. 112 pages.
Motor Skills
From playing a game of hopscotch or basketball to riding trikes and scooters, there are a variety of outdoor activities that facilitate healthy growth and development in young children. Movement is a natural and essential part of childhood, and giving children opportunities to go outside and play gives them the freedom to move and explore. Encouraging physical activity also promotes the development of healthy habits that will guide them into adulthood.
Tot Tree
Item: 96616
Ships From Manufacturer
$5,295.00
6 - 23 months. This enchanted unit encourages social interaction and exploration for up to 10 children. It is loaded with hidden objects and play events. Easy to supervise. Size: 7' x 8'7". Weight: 435 lbs.
Thermal Ball
Item: 67632
In Stock
$26.95
6 months & up. This heat sensitive ball will surprise children with its color changing properties. Introducing children to science during active play, the ball is purple when chilled and turns a light blue when heat is applied. Measures 7" in diameter.
Outdoor Pillows - Set of 4
Item: 62401
In Stock
$319.95
Oversized and durable, these bright indoor-outdoor pillows add comfort to any environment. The weather-resistant nylon cover zips off for cleaning, and a sturdy handle provides for easy carrying and versatile storage options. 27" square. Four piece set includes one each of the four different colors. One year warranty.
Easy Grip Textured Balls - Set of 4
Item: 32877
In Stock
$59.95
Birth & up. Rubber balls with a honeycomb pattern surface which aids grip. Set includes one each of red, green, blue and yellow. Improves hand-eye coordination and ball skills. Supports collaborative and sensory play and development of gross motor skills. Ships deflated and includes inflation needle. Great for individual play or group activities. Each ball measures approximately 10" in diameter.
Baby Sensory Ball Set - 6 pieces
Item: 33305
Temporarily Out of Stock
$21.95
6 months & up. Sized just right for small hands to grasp, these balls come in six different fun textures to explore. Soft and squeezable in bright colors, they are excellent for developing motor skills and learning cause and effect as they feel and roll differently. Approximately 2.5" diameter each.
On the Go Traffic Signs - Set of 9
Item: 63297
In Stock
$104.95
$89.95
3 years & up. Your little one can learn to navigate the roads safely with these traffic signs! Teach children to recognize essential road signs and safety rules at an early age. Set includes 9 different road signs; stop, go, yield, one way, and more. These road signs are designed with lightweight, durable plastic and are easy to assemble, making them the perfect addition to any roadway! Approximately 27.5" tall.
Encouraging Physical Activity in Preschoolers - Paperback
Item: 72306
In Stock
$19.95
Preschoolers are constantly using their bodies to play and learn, whether you encourage activity or not. You can help them stay active as they grow by providing instruction in physical skills, motivating them to develop strength and fluid movements, and challenging them to improve their skill levels. Not every child will become an athlete, but all children use motor skills to move around their environment, interact with others, play games, and learn. Paperback. 192 pages.
Little Walks, Big Adventures: 50+ Ideas for Exploring with Toddlers - Paperback
Item: 90586
In Stock
$19.95
While most activity books encourage indoor explorations, countless adventures and learning opportunities await outside! Going for a walk or exploring the local community can bring about much more than just exercise. Little Walks, Big Adventures helps you teach your toddler about his/her surroundings through fun and adventurous local explorations, outdoor games and activities that promote and enhance learning. Parents and caregivers will help their toddlers enhance their vocabulary, language skills, cognitive skills, motor skills, and more! 160 pages.