I’m Valerie, a mom and early childhood educator who’s passionate about making learning fun and meaningful.
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.
Finding stocking stuffers for little kids that they will actually use can be a challenge, especially when you're looking for gifts that spark their creativity and keep them entertained well beyond the holiday season. I’m much more a fan of stuffing the stocking with...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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.
