Spring has arrived and warmer weather is here which means it’s time to get the kids outside and away from their screens. But what can we do to keep kids entertained while still learning and innovating?
Check out these stimulating and fun outdoor STEM activities that can be made with materials you have at home.
Tiny Rocket This activity is out of this world.
Test different amounts of water and Alka-Seltzer and see how high your rocket can go! When you mix these effervescing tablets with water, a chemical reaction takes place between the citric acid and sodium bicarbonate contained in the tablet and the water. This chemical reaction creates many, many bubbles of carbon dioxide gas. When the lid can’t hold all that gas anymore, the canister goes shooting off! This action can be explained using Newton’s Laws of Motion.
Materials:
– Film canisters
– Alka-Seltzer
– Water
Instructions:
– Fill your film canisters with varying amounts of water.
– Drop ¼ to ½ of an Alka-Seltzer tab into your water and quickly replace the cap and turn it upside down.
– Test different ways to make your rocket go off, just keep faces clear of the exploding canisters!
Exploding Bags A new kind of baking soda and vinegar activity.
Watch as your bag explodes! Popping the inner bag releases the vinegar and mixes with the baking soda causing the solution to quickly make bubbles and gas until the bag can’t take it anymore! Try this activity with different measurements and record your findings!
Materials:
– 1 medium to large zip bag
– 1 small to medium zip bag (this bag needs to be smaller than your other bag)
– Baking powder
– Vinegar
Instructions:
– Pour some vinegar into the small bag and zip closed. Make sure there’s some air left in the bag.
– Pour some baking soda in the larger bag, add the smaller bag of vinegar, and close the bag making sure to get out as much air as possible.
– Lay your bag on a flat surface and smack it until you pop the inside bag, shake, and watch as your bag inflates and eventually pops!
Lemon Juice Balloons Ever needed a new way to blow up a balloon?
How big can you make your balloon? When the acidic lemon juice mixes with the baking soda base, it rapidly creates carbon dioxide and blows up the balloon! What combinations make the biggest balloon?
Materials:
– Balloon
– Lemon juice
– Baking powder
– Bottle or jar (the mouth needs to be small enough for a balloon to fit over it)
– Funnel (optional)
Instructions:
– Add lemon juice to your jar.
– Add baking soda to your balloon using a funnel.
– Stretch the opening to your balloon and fit it over the mouth of the bottle. Tip the balloon up and let it fall into the lemon juice.
– Watch the chemical reaction blow up your balloon!
Tierra Encantada is a warm, community-oriented Spanish Immersion Daycare and Preschool headquartered in Minneapolis, MN and currently expanding nationwide. We offer quality child care for children ranging from 6 weeks – 6 years of age. We focus on the growth of the whole child and believe children learn best by doing. Our award-winning bilingual education program fosters early cognitive development and teaches a respect for diversity.
Get ready for an afternoon of IKEA assembly fun—no tiny hexagonal wrench needed! The Swedish furniture and home goods retailer has a self-assembly chocolate bunny just in time for Easter.
Like just about everything else at IKEA, the VÅRKÄNSLA milk chocolate bunny is an assembly-required item. While you might not need to spend the afternoon figuring out what that sweet little stick man in the 10-page illustrated instruction manual is doing with wooden pegs, a hammer and a hexagonal wrench, the bunny isn’t a buy and eat treat.
Photo: IKEA
Your kiddo will get more than just an Easter basket goody with the VÅRKÄNSLA. Instead of just a sweet treat, they’ll also get a fun-filled holiday activity too. The self-assembly bunny comes in three parts to puzzle together!
Not only is the make-your-own bunny awesomely adorable, it’s a tasty addition to your fam’s Easter candy stash. The VÅRKÄNSLA bunny is made from at least 30 percent UTZ certified cocoa. UTZ certified cocoa is harvested and produced in a way that, “Ensures sustainable farming standards and good conditions for workers.”
Nab your very own self-assembly chocolate bunny in IKEA stores across the country for $4.99.
The pandemic has been hard on parents, there’s no doubt about that. But it’s also been really hard on kids: not only have they had to adjust to unique school experiences, they’ve also lost a lot of the freedoms they’ve had to just…well…play. I never thought an Apple Watch would be a way to give my kid some of that freedom and independence back but I recently tried one out and I’m here to say: this thing is the bomb. Let me explain…
Three main things have changed dramatically in our lifestyle in the last year:
1) After nearly a year of school closures, our district reopened elementary schools.
School hours and how and where parents pick kids up is quite different than non-COVID times. In addition to school changes, this year my son is a Crossing Guard/Patrol, which means that every two weeks his afterschool schedule changes. I work full time (I’m the Managing Editor for Red Tricycle, obtw) and have a lot on my plate, so his schedule changing can throw things off for me, like meeting times and deadlines.
Plus, parents are essentially not allowed in the school unless it’s an absolute emergency. Running late? Your kid is waiting for you outside (they will bring the kids in if it’s super cold). And with the added responsibility of Patrol, his pickup time changes slightly depending on how many kids are crossing, how fast he checks in his equipment, etc. In short, the time is a little different EVERY. DAY.
2) We live in Minnesota, so “afterschool/outside school activities” means hockey. The “no parents” rule is similar for hockey practices and even most games. Parents are only allowed in the rinks if you need to help your kid get his gear on (my son is a goalie, so he still needs a little assist sometimes). You just drop them off outside or come in at the very last minute if they need help. This is very different than years past, where hockey culture frequently includes parents hanging out and helping out at practice (at least at this younger age).
3) Grandma moved into town.
I don’t believe my son is old enough to have a phone (he’s in 4th grade) but increasingly we found that we wanted him to be able to let us know when he was ready to go. He also started asking if he could walk to (his now fully vaccinated) Grandma’s house after school sometimes.
WALK?? ALONE??? I don’t consider myself to be a helicopter parent, and we live in a pretty safe community, but I also listen to a lot of true crime podcasts and occasionally panic about horrible potential scenarios. How do you balance that line between fear and teaching your kids fear, between safety and independence?
As it happened, right around this time of internal, moral debate, Apple Watch reached out to me to see if I could try the Family Setup feature. So they sent a (loaner) Apple Watch for us to try and, honestly, it really was transformative.
Features I Love the Most
Schooltime: From my phone I can set Schooltime hours, which makes the Apple Watch essentially only functional as time-piece during those hours. It does still track activity, but the majority of the features on the Watch go dormant. They can be accessed only temporarily during schooltime, for such things as emergency text or updates, but overall are “disabled” allowing for fewer distractions.
I was hesitant to send him to school with this watch on, but was actually thrilled to hear that my son’s teacher didn’t even notice he was wearing an Apple Watch: this meant it was not a distraction in class for him or anyone else.
Texting & Calls: As the parent, you control the contact list entirely. This is critical. With Family Setup your child cannot add any contacts to their list on their own. It is all controlled by the parent. I added friends and relatives we trust, not just for emergencies but so he could keep in touch on his own. He’s an only child, so having a cousin to “chat” with now and again is a lifeline.
He can also text via WiFi, but we found calls didn’t work great on WiFi to non-Apple numbers. You’ll want to add the Apple Watch to your cellular plan, which typically sets you back about $10/month when tacked onto an existing plan.
Emergency contacts are also an option: whomever you put on for emergency contacts can be contacted and called for under one minute without requiring a cellular plan.
Handwashing: There is actually a tracking device that shows if the kids have washed their hands long enough! WUT!
So, for the first time in his life, my son walked a few blocks on his own to his Grandma’s apartment after school. And, yes, I was using the tracking feature to see where he was.
Features My Son Loved the Most
I asked my son what his favorite parts of the watch are, beyond having more independence and he, like the kid he is, said:
I like the activity tracker. It’s fun to try to have a goal to reach for activity and get rewards when you complete certain things. There’s a cool planetary alignment feature where you can track the movement of the planets. And I like the easy communication with my family. Today, my dad was late picking me up and I was able to text both my parents, “Where are you?” Also, Memojis are cool. You can even have your Memoji wear a mask.
Calls and texts with family and friends: My mom put people like my grandma, aunts and uncles and even my cousins in California, on my contact list so I can check in with them sometimes without having to make a call on. my mom’s phone.
Conclusion
We’ll reluctantly send back this trial Apple Watch and I have to say, we’re putting it on the birthday wishlist now. Just a few weeks giving this new Family Setup a try and we are happy to see how much it’s allowed us to stay in touch, but not too in touch with a device that doesn’t distract with lots of screen-time. Unlike a phone, this watch isn’t heavy on the screen/game features (there are some) which for us is a win. Yes, the price-tag is higher than what you’d consider for a kid, but I do think it’s actually worth paying for, and the cost to add it to our plan is way more affordable than adding an additional line. Definitely worth considering for any parent who wants the right balance between freedom and worry.
Family Setup is supported in Apple Watch Series 4 or later with cellular, including the new Apple SE
Your fam’s fave hazelnut spread just got cuter! Ferrero recently announced a bevy of the beloved brand’s spring debuts—and one of the highlights is the Mini Nutella Easter Jar.
As if Nutella couldn’t get any better, now the super-sweets spread comes in awesomely adorable 1.05 ounce mini jars. The Easter themed jars have the same cocoa-infused hazelnut spread your family has come to know and love. The newest version of the tasty treat also has either a yellow or green Easter-themed lid.
Where can you nab one of these spring-time jars? The pastel-hued topped mini Nutella is available nationwide at retailers, like Target for just $1!
As if Mini Nutella Easter Jars weren’t enough, Ferrero also has plenty of other fun-filled spring/Easter time picks. The Kinder Kalendar helps your kiddos count down to Easter in an activity-packed way. The calendar includes crafts, recipes, and more!
Along with the Kinder Kalendar, the brand’s new products (aside from the mini Nutella jars) include Easter-themed Kinder Joy Eggs, Kinder Mini Hollow Easter Figures, a Kinder Chocolate Happy Plush Easter Gift Box, Ferrero Eggs, Ferrero Rocher Bunny Gift Box, Ferrero Roche Egg Gift Box, Fannie May Milk Chocolate Bunny, the CRUNCH Bunny, and Butterfinger and CRUNCH NestEggs.
While most of us appreciate a homemade project, not everyone has the time or skillset to whip up craft like a toddler busy board at home. Perfect for busy little hands, these activities are great for parents who want to keep littles entertained and learning at the same time. If you’re looking for a quality sensory board, you can find just what you need on Etsy. We’ve scoured the online marketplace and found some of the most creative and cute busy boards that any kiddo will love.
Is your little obsessed with trucks and construction? Let them take the wheel on this totally customizable and personalized busy board. Add your own colors, name and let imaginations run wild with a play telephone, lots of locks and other fidgeters.
Classy and stylish, this simple activity board is perfect for the senses. Complete with chains, keys and locks, this perfectly sized board can be customized with both name and colors.
Looking for a travel-friendly sensory board? This wooden 8"x12" toy is perfect for pint-sized adventurers. Take in the car or stroller, and let the littles enjoy the modern design that comes with plenty of finger fun.
There's something about the magical feel and sound of zippers, especially for kiddos! This simple zipper board comes with rainbow-colored zippers and is one page of others you can order to create a quiet book. Zippers can help with fine motor and dressing skills, and are just plain fun.
Ribbons, tags and buttons, oh my! This sweet busy blanket is great for sensory learners and is easy to take on-the-go. Made with a variety of fabrics and tags, babies and toddlers will love the unique sensory experiences this blanket brings.
This adorable wooden, concrete mixer-shaped activity comes with tons of fun. From jingly bells and locks, to knobs and a fidget spinner, your toddler's going to be keeping quite busy with this board.
We all know how tempting those light switches can be for young ones, but now they can redirect their energy! Made with LED lights and switches, this unique activity board is easily powered by AA batteries that can be swapped without fuss.
Combining absolutely beauty and craftsmanship, this busy board transports kids to another place. Littles can visit Rome, Paris and London while working latches, spinners and gears. Pretty enough for your family room, this board is one you won't mind keeping out day after day.
Why is an infant play mat or baby gym such a must-have for little ones? Floor exercise is an essential part of every stage of baby’s development, from your newborn’s first tummy time to crawling and beyond. Whether you’re looking for a space-saving option, one that’s full of all the bells, whistles, mirrors and rattles, or something to fit in with your home décor, you’ll find it in these baby play mats below.
Infantino 5-in-1 Epic Developmental Learning Gym
This open-ended play gym keeps kids occupied with lots of ways to play and learn. There's an electronic light-up piano, a tropical-themed play mat theme, wild animal flashcards, baby toys, a mirror, rattle and much more. Give your baby four different tummy time experiences and three new ways to play once they can sit up. Use the included prop-up booster pillow for more comfortable tummy time or to keep a new sitter upright.
This plush playmat boasts more than 30 features to support a child's motor skills and sensory and cognitive development. Made from hand-embroidered cotton muslin, this generously sized mat (45 x 45 inches) is big enough for adults to share and has removable plush toys and a sun mirror baby can play with. Babies will also be excited to discover that the leaves crinkle and some items rattle. It's machine-washable and reversible, with a subtle gray print on the reverse side.
Tinkle Crinkle & Friends Activity Gym by Baby GUND
GUND
Bright colors, eye-catching patterns and a host of cute and cuddly characters encourage babies to learn, play and interact. The fluffy cloud is a helpful tummy-time friend, and the sun mirror is baby-safe. Press the caterpiller to hear fun sounds, and the bunny, bird and hedgehog offer opportunities to grasp and rattle. The activity gym can be set up in just a few minutes.
This soft, foldable mat means play time and tummy time can easily be moved to any room, outside or to a park or Grandma's house. It's made from soft foam and wipeable with a wet cloth, and there's an included carry bag with a strap for easy portability. One side of this reversible mat features the alphabet and cute cartoon characters, while the other side is a tasteful gray chevron pattern.
The versatile Twist and Fold Activity Gym from Infantino will catch any baby’s eye with its bold colors and design. Your little one will love the hanging toys and catching a glimpse of their face in the peek-a-boo mirror. It also comes with a pillow to prop baby up during tummy time. The mat itself is super easy to clean with the wipe of a cloth. The exclusive twist and fold feature makes for easy transport and for quick storage under the crib or tucked away in a corner of the closet.
For your Mozart-in-training, the Deluxe Kick & Play Piano Gym from Fisher-Price is the perfect choice. Laying down, younger babies learn cause and effect as they kick and the piano plays and play with overhead toys that hang low so little arms can reach them. During tummy time, babies will have lots to explore on the mat. And older babies can sit at the piano and bang away at the keys to activate the music.
Get down on the mat and play with baby on these super comfy Toki Mats. Once baby is mobile, their falls are cushioned by the breathable, eco-friendly foam made from rubber-tree sap. The washable covers come in a selection of modern designs that are interchangeable. The mat folds in half for storage, but it’s fashionable enough you may just want to leave it out.
Designed by a team of experts (including a neuroscience professor, Montessori teacher and occupational therapist), the Lovevery Play Gym has something for each stage of babyhood. The hanging toys are safe for chewing, batting, and grasping. There are hidden pockets, different textures, sounds, and a selection of visually stimulating cards for older babies to explore. It even has a cover that converts it into a fort! Plus, parents get a play guide for a full year’s worth of ideas to keep baby engaged.
The Bright Starts 5-in-1 Play Activity Gym comes with lots of fun features. The toy bar has hanging toys and teethers, the electronic elephant has flashing lights and plays more than 20 minutes of music, and there is a tummy-time pillow. Best of all, the sides of this gym fold up to convert it into a ball pit for toddlers. There are 35 balls included in a handy storage bag.
Want a mat you don’t have to hide when entertaining grown-ups? Look no further than the DOUBLEPLAY Reversible Playmat from Skip Hop. One side of the cushioned mat features either a village or animal theme (with Skip Hop's menagerie of cute creatures), while the other has one of two sophisticated, contemporary looks. In case you do want to store it or bring it with you, simply roll it up.
Your budding chef wants nothing more than to play all day in the kitchen. While you’ve already nixed the notion of stove-side play, your kiddo is still all-in for creative cooking fun. Here’s where KidKraft’s new Foody Friends line comes in to play!
KidKraft will debut two all-new kitchen-themed activity centers this coming August. With imaginative animal themes, bright colors, and plenty of gadgets to explore, these must-have picks are the perfect addition to your child’s pretend play area.
The KidKraft Foody Friends Cooking Elephant Activity Center ($99.99) features a water spout trunk, a pop-o-matic popcorn pan, color change eggs, a fridge door maze, and so much more! The 360-degree play center is two-feet tall and includes 18 awesome accessories.
Along with the Cooking Elephant Activity Center, KidKraft is also debuting the Deluxe Baking Fun Puppy Activity Center next summer (also $99.99). Like the elephant-themed kitchen center, the puppy-inspired baking center also features 360-play, 18 accessories, and is two-feet tall. This center gives kiddos the chance to cut out cookies, roll dough, stack cake tiers, and “bake” cookies in the oven.
Both kitchen-themed play centers are made for children ages two and up. The sets will be available for purchase this coming August.
We love this slime project. Not only is it cool—in more ways than one—to touch and feel, it’s also a blast to make snowmen and watch as they melt into a soft puddle. We’re also betting any tiny Frozen toys your kids have stashed around the house would make an excellent addition to this activity. For a complete run-down on how to make this oozing goo, skedaddle over to Little Bins for Little Hands.
Got a pair of white socks? If so, get started making these adorable snowmen that require just a handful of supplies. Darkroom & Dearly blog has the full tutorial here.
Deck out your mantel with an easy snowman garland that's easy enough for your two-year-old to make. The blog Pure Heart has all of the directions here.
Build and melt a snowman faster than you can say Olaf. With just a few household items, whip up a batch of foaming dough, courtesy of Fun at Home with Kids. Snow-dough pro Asia Citro explains why it’s important to have waterproof tidbits for snowman parts, and why a squeeze bottle full of vinegar is the easiest way to create massive amounts of foam.
An assembly line never looked so good. Not only will little hands get a workout while molding snowmen, your kids will get a chance to use their fine-motor skills when they get busy adding all the extra parts. We love this easy (afternoon time-filler!) activity from Buggy and Buddy. Get the scoop over at Buggy and Buddy.
Looking for a new way to connect the kiddos with grandma? Spending time in the kitchen is a great bonding experience for everyone––and once it’s safe to do so, Little Bridges has a great option.
The Grandma & me: in the kitchen activity kit has everything you need fun a fun afternoon with Grammy. Each box comes with instructions, a book, keepsake potholder and apron, fabric paint and an activity recipe journal.
The kit was created by award-winning children’s book author, Kate Jerome, and offers a way to have meaningful connections with grandparents. It makes for the perfect birthday, Valentine’s Day or grandparents gift, or just as a fun way to say “I love you.”
The Grandma & me: in the kitchen Kit retails for $34.95, is for kids four and older, and is available at littlebridges.com.
Enjoy some home-baked sweets with your little sweethearts this Valentine’s Day. Pillsbury is introducing two limited-edition heart-shaped cookie dough varieties to help families celebrate.
Hearts Shape Sugar Cookie Dough: Hearts Shape sugar cookies are a Valentine’s Day classic and the perfect way to celebrate the holiday with your family and loved ones.
Heart Shape Cutout Sugar Cookie Dough: A perfect Valentine’s Day activity, Pillsbury’s Heart Shape Cutouts are precut so you can make perfectly shaped heart cookies – decorate with frosting, sprinkles or enjoy fresh out of the oven.
Both cookie doughs are available at grocery stores nationwide. Each package retails for $2.50.
