About
About Valerie
Hi, I’m Valerie, the mom and educator behind Outside the Toy Box. With a Master’s degree and 15 years of experience in everything from Montessori to Reggio Emilia schools, I’ve seen firsthand the magic that happens when kids learn through play.
Learning through play isn’t just about ABCs and 123s—it’s about developing crucial life skills like empathy, problem-solving, and social-emotional skills. I’ve witnessed children absorb these skills naturally through engaging, fun activities.
The birth of my daughter inspired me to share my passion for play-based learning with other parents and educators. That’s when Outside the Toy Box came to life. Here, I provide practical, hands-on activities that encourage deep learning and curiosity. Join me in fostering creativity and empowering the next generation of lifelong learners!
Why I started Outside the Toy Box
As I searched for childcare when I was considering going back to work, I realized many places fell short of what babies and toddlers deserved. This led me to found Outside the Toy Box, with a mission to spread more knowledge about developmentally appropriate learning and play in early childhood.
That is ultimately why I am here. I think it is even more crucial now more than ever before to teach children HOW to think not just WHAT to know. I believe that creative, hands-on play encourages that type of deep learning and thinking.
Now that I am taking on a new role as stay at home mom, I want to share realistic and attainable activity ideas and tips for getting children excited to learn from the perspective of both an early childhood teacher AND mom of two.
