Toddler Discovery Box

I don't usually post crafts on my blog. But this is food based and plus I'm really excited about it.

We went to the park the other day and this smarty-pants mom had brought this discovery box to the park. My son definitely had his eye on it and I had to keep ushering him away since it wasn't ours. The sweet mom came over and said she really didn't mind if he played in it. Well, he LOVED  it! In talking to this girl, she told me she runs a pre-school and this is something she uses with her students. What a great idea! I've been so excited to put one together for my little guy ever since. And it was a success!

Honesty check: Yes, you do end up with some spills. I remind my little guy that the rule is everything needs to stay in the box. If he spills (on purpose), then we'll have to put it away for the day. And I figure 2 minutes of vacuuming for 45 minutes of fun with a 2-year-old, is TOTALLY worth it. You toddler-moms HAVE to know what I'm talking about, right? Plus, rice and beans are MUCH easier than sand to clean up.

Let me know if you try it. Enjoy!

{TODDLER DISCOVERY BOX}

1 large tupperware container (make sure you have a lid!)

10 lb. bag of long grain rice (get the generic brand; toddlers don't care!)

8 lb. bag of pinto beans

Measuring cups, scoops & other interesting containers

Cut up manila folder with the letters of the alphabet printed on each

Shapes and other objects to search for in the pile

Note: This wise girl said she also uses oatmeal, spaghetti, and other dried pasta.