Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Please check out our disclosure...
So glad you're here!
Juggling the demands of busy parent life can be overwhelming!
I get it. As a parent (or teacher), you’re super busy, but I also know that you want to make sure you’re encouraging your child to be the happiest and best they can be, but its so hard to find the time and resources to do it all.
That's why I want to give you the tools to help bring out the absolute best in your little ones by turning playtime into powerful learning experiences that go way beyond just ABCs and 123s!
Explore the Blog
Already know what you are looking for?
Unique 2 Year Old Gifts for Every Budget
My guess is you are here because you are looking for 2 year old gifts that are a little more unique than the average advertisement from Target or Amazon. Well, I have curated a list that works with any budget, plus aids in development, stands the test of time, and...
How to Teach Letter Recognition with an Autumn Theme
Looking for a way to integrate letter recognition in a fun and festive way? Try this Letter leaves match and stick activity for some letter recognition with an Autumn theme.We had done a similar activity before when my toddler wasn’t even quite a year and a half (you...
Learning Through Play with this Magnetic Halloween Sensory Bin
A little bit of science, a little bit of Halloween. This Magnetic Halloween Sensory bin is the perfect way to balance learning, play, and the Fall season. I am truly inspired as soon as it hits the Fall season. I am not sure if it is because the weather is finally not...
10 Unique Toddler Pumpkin Activities
If you love Halloween and the Autumn season, but dread carving a pumpkin, then this post will offer you 10 unique toddler pumpkin activities that don’t involve Jack-o-Lantern faces. These unique toddler pumpkin activities come from years of teaching preschool and...
7 Amazing Ideas to Support Social Emotional Learning for Toddlers
What exactly is social and emotional learning (SEL) for toddlers? You may understand that these are important skills for your child to learn, but what exactly do they need to learn and how? What is developmentally appropriate for a toddler? The Collaborative for...
Hey there, I'm Valerie!
Your Go-To Creative Teacher-Mom Friend!
With a Master’s degree and 15 years of experience in everything from Montessori to Reggio Emilia schools, I’ve seen the magic that happens when kids learn through play.
But guess what? It’s not just about ABCs and 123s—it’s about sparking those big, beautiful life skills like empathy, problem-solving, and social-emotional growth.
When my oldest was born, my passion for play-based learning exploded, and I knew I had to share it with other parents and educators. That’s how Outside the Toy Box was born. Here, you’ll find practical, hands-on activities that fill kids with curiosity and a love for learning.