Toys as Tools to Explore Nature

Wide open spaces are getting to be hard-to-find these days, but you don’t need lots of land to get a taste of Mother Nature. A backyard garden, beach, neighborhood pond or local nature center could be the beginning of a lifelong relationship with living things and our planet.Here are a few tools to enhance that natural experience. All are available at Dot’s Toys

Bug Nets and Bug Boxes – Every child needs a bug net to capture and study butterflies, fireflies and pond critters. Our bug boxes have a Lucite and screen view so the specimen gets air while under observation. This year we have a new pond net with a telescoping handle and a round, flat bottom. It makes reaching much easier and safer.

Antworks – Antworks was developed by NASA engineers and is now available for your boy or girl wonder. Just poke a few holes in the nutritious gel, add the ants and watch as they dig tunnels. By keeping and caring for animals children learn tons about their pets. (Did I say ants were pets?!)

Leaf Presses – You can use a book or better yet try a leaf press. I know some people who have pressed leaves and the colors have stayed for years. Children can learn to identify the trees they came from based on the leaf pattern. Our leaf press is made by tweber in Wisconsin.

Nature Kits – An easy-to-tote guidebook is important to take along on nature hikes. Our About Bugs, Pond Dipping and About the Seashore Kits include instructions, identification cards, a net and notepad and pencil to record detailed observations.

Butterfly/Praying Mantis Home – If you haven’t been to a butterfly, or praying mantis exhibit you can start your own garden with the World Alive kits. Just order the eggs and watch the entire metamorphosis begin.

Block and Tackle –Children can learn the fascinating fundamentals of a block and tackle to raise and lower playthings and gear from a bunk bed, a backyard deck or a tree fort. (Parental supervision is recommended for children under 8 years of age.)