Recycled Shoebox Toys

Lots of kids struggle with worries or anxiety, especially around the start of the new school year. These Worry Pets are small enough to fit in a pocket. The cuddle fabric is snuggly soft. The poly-pellets inside provide comforting sensory input and something to rub between worried fingers, and the eyes make them oh, so cute. These are not just for worriers, though! The whole family will want one.

Lots of babies and toddlers like to post and drop objects. Why not turn and empty formula tin into a posting activity for toddlers and babies.

DIY nursery rhyme puppets: use them so that children can choose what to sing. Plus they also make great props to act out the songs.

Turn an old cardboard box into a cardboard box boat in a few easy steps. It's great for adding a new level to kids imaginative play.

Make an awesome origami boomerang that really does come back when you throw it.

Use an old container (like a formula tin) to make this DIY ribbon pull toy for babies. The ribbon pull toy is a great way for babies to develop their fine motor skills.

Make a simple DIY sensory board using old lids from baby wipes and a few craft supplies. You baby or toddler is sure to enjoy exploring all the different textures of it.

Love this post? Then pass it on!

Rainbow stacking stones are great to use as an activity to help calm down children and to use as building pieces in imaginative play.

Make the perfect homemade gift for your loved ones with this DIY photo cube.

DIY musical instruments for toddlers made from items found around the house.

Make your own mini pick up sticks out of toothpicks. They make a wonderful busy bag and will fit into any bag for you to take out and about with you.

Making your own homemade stamp set is really simple. No need to spend a fortune on buying a set when you can just make your own.

Try this easy pom pom blowing activity with toddlers to help aid speech development.

Make a cheap and easy fabric sensory tub for toddlers and babies. They will love taking out all the bits of cloth and putting them back in again. It's hours of entertainment plus great for development.