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Science is all around us, and what better way to learn about it than by exploring nature? Outdoor science experiments are a great way for kids to discover the wonders of the natural world and to learn about scientific concepts in a fun and interactive way. Here are some ideas to inspire parents, teachers and caregivers to help kids explore and learn about the world around them.

Plant a Garden

Planting a garden is a great way for kids to learn about plants and their life cycles. They can learn about soil, water, sunlight and the different types of plants that grow in their region. Encourage kids to plant a variety of plants, including flowers, vegetables and herbs. They can also observe the different insects and animals that visit the garden and learn about their role in pollination and plant growth.

Investigate Rocks

Rocks can tell us a lot about the history of the Earth and the forces that have shaped it. Kids can go on a rock hunt and collect different types of rocks. They can observe the colours, shapes, and textures of the rocks and learn about the different types of rocks, such as sedimentary, metamorphic and igneous. They can also investigate how rocks are formed and the processes that cause them to change over time.

Study Insects

Insects are fascinating creatures that come in all shapes and sizes. Kids can observe and learn about the different types of insects in their area, such as ants, bees, butterflies and ladybugs. They can investigate the different body parts of insects and their functions, as well as their life cycles and behaviours. Kids can also learn about the important role that insects play in our ecosystem, such as pollination and decomposition.

Explore Water

Water is a fascinating and essential element that surrounds us, and there are many ways kids can explore its properties and role in the environment. For example, kids can investigate how water moves and interacts with other materials by creating a DIY water table or conducting experiments with floating and sinking objects. They can also learn about the water cycle and the importance of conserving water resources.

Build a Birdhouse

Building a birdhouse is a fun and creative way for kids to learn about birds and their habitats. Kids can research the different types of birds in their area and design a birdhouse that meets their needs. They can learn about the different features of a birdhouse, such as the size, shape, and materials, and how they affect the types of birds that will use it. Kids can also observe and learn about the different behaviours and habits of birds that visit their birdhouse.

These are just a few examples of the many outdoor science experiments that kids can do to explore and learn about the natural world. By engaging in these activities, kids can develop their science skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. Most importantly, they can develop a lifelong love and appreciation for science and the environment.

JCB Explore is dedicated to advocating and promoting outdoor play for kids. Recognising the importance of constructive and imaginative play, we encourage children to engage with their environment through outdoor activities. By fostering a connection with nature and emphasising the benefits of constructive play, we aim to inspire children to explore, learn, and have fun in the great outdoors.

Ride-on toys are a great way to provide fun and exercise for your child while encouraging their development and growth. But choosing the right ride-on toy can be a challenging task, especially with so many options available. In this blog post, we’ll explore some important factors to consider when selecting the appropriate ride-on toy for your child’s age and abilities. 

Age Appropriate Toys 

For children under 18 months old, ride-on toys are not recommended as they are not yet able to fully control their movements and balance. It is best to wait until they are older and have developed their gross motor skills before introducing them to ride on toys. 

For children 18 months and older, manually operated ride-on toys like the Baby JCB Ride on Tractor or JCB Fastrac foot to floor ride on can be great options. These toys allow the child to use their legs to push themselves forward and develop their gross motor skills. They also offer the child a sense of independence and control as they move around. 

For children aged 3 to 5 years old, ride-on toys like the JCB Dumper Ride On can be a great option. These toys often come with pedals that the child can use to control their speed and direction. This helps to further develop their gross motor skills and hand-eye coordination. 

For older children, larger ride-on’s with added functional features such as rear excavator and front loaders are the most appropriate. The JCB Kids Tractor with Front Loader is a premium ride-on with a huge range of functional features that will allow children to feel like they are operating their own Backhoe Loader around the garden or yard!

Size and Weight 

The size and weight of the ride-on toy should also be considered when selecting a ride-on toy for your child. A ride-on toy that is too large or heavy can be difficult for your child to manoeuvre, potentially leading to safety hazards. It is important to check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the size and weight of the toy to ensure that it is appropriate for your child’s size and weight. 

Safety Considerations 

When selecting a ride-on toy, safety should always be a top priority. It is important to choose a toy that is sturdy and stable to prevent tipping over. Always ensure that your child wears appropriate safety gear such as a helmet, knee pads and elbow pads. It is also important to supervise your child while they are riding their toy to ensure their safety.

In conclusion, ride-on toys are a fun and engaging way for your child to develop their motor skills, coordination, and balance. When choosing a ride-on toy, it is important to consider your child’s age, size, and abilities.

Easter is a wonderful time for families to come together and celebrate the season of renewal and growth. In this post, we’ll explore some ideas for creating handmade crafts or decorations using natural materials that families with kids can enjoy together. These crafts are easy to make and require little to no assistance, making them perfect for children of all ages.

Flower crowns

Flower crowns are a fun and easy craft that kids can make using fresh or dried flowers. To make a flower crown, start by cutting a long piece of floral wire and shaping it into a circle to fit around the child’s head. Then, use small pieces of floral tape to attach flowers and greenery to the wire, layering them until the crown is full and beautiful. You can also add ribbons or small Easter-themed ornaments for a festive touch.

Nature collages

Nature collages are a fun and easy craft that allows kids to express their creativity while using natural materials. Encourage your children to collect flowers, leaves, twigs and other natural items from your garden or local park. Then, provide them with a piece of paper or cardboard and some glue, and let them create their own nature-inspired collages. They can arrange the materials however they like and add their own personal touches, such as drawings or Easter-themed stickers.

Rock painting

Rock painting is a fun and creative activity that kids of all ages can enjoy. Collect smooth rocks from your garden or local park and let your kids paint them with Easter-themed designs such as bunnies, chicks and flowers. You can also add glitter, sequins and other decorations for an extra sparkle. Once the rocks are dry, you can display them in a bowl or use them to decorate your garden.

Eggshell planters

Eggshell planters are a fun and eco-friendly way to teach kids about gardening and the importance of recycling. Start by cracking the top of a raw egg and carefully removing the egg yolk and white. Then, rinse out the shell and let it dry. Next, have your kids fill the shell with soil and add a small plant or seeds. They can decorate the eggshell with paint or markers and watch as their plant grows over time.

Spring-themed sensory bin

A sensory bin is a fun and educational activity that can keep kids entertained for hours. To make a spring-themed sensory bin, start by filling a large plastic container with natural materials such as dried leaves, grass, flowers, and small rocks. You can also add Easter-themed objects such as plastic eggs or bunny figurines. Then, let your kids explore the bin with their hands, encouraging them to use their senses to discover the different textures, colours, and smells. Here you will find some more tips on how to make your own construction-themed sensory bin!

In conclusion, incorporating natural materials into your Easter crafts and decorations is a great way to spend quality time with your family while celebrating the holiday and embracing the beauty of nature. Whether you’re making a collage or a planter, these crafts are easy, fun, and perfect for kids of all ages. So, get creative and have fun with your Easter crafts!

Mother’s Day is a special day to show your mum how much you love and appreciate her and our team here at JCB Explore has got you covered. A thoughtful and personal gift can go a long way in making her feel special. What better way to celebrate the day than by creating handmade gifts using materials that you can find in nature? In this article, we’ll explore some fun and creative Mother’s Day craft ideas that are easy to make using natural materials found outdoors.

Flower Crowns

Make your mum feel like a queen by creating a beautiful flower crown for her.

Pick some wildflowers and daisies from the garden or park and use florist wire and tape to create a crown.

Weave the stems together to create a beautiful flower wreath that your mum can wear.

Pebble Art

Get creative with pebble art and make a unique gift for your mum.

Collect some small pebbles from the beach or riverbed and use acrylic paints to create a design.

You can paint a heart or your mum’s initials, or create a picture that your mum will love.

Glue the pebbles onto a canvas or a piece of card and present it to your mum on Mother’s Day.

Herb Garden

Create a mini herb garden for your mum using recycled cans or jars.

Collect some small rocks or gravel and place them in the bottom of each can or jar for drainage. 

Then fill them with soil and plant herb seeds or seedlings.

You can paint and decorate the cans or jars for a personalised touch.

Flower Press

Create a flower press to preserve the beauty of flowers found outdoors.

Collect some cardboard, tissue paper, and string.

Cut the cardboard and tissue paper into squares, then layer them together.

Place some flowers on top of the tissue paper and add another layer of tissue paper and cardboard.

Stack several layers of the cardboard, tissue paper, and flowers, then tie them together with string. Leave the flower press outside in the sun for a few days to dry the flowers.

Leaf Rubbing Art

Collect some different shaped and sized leaves and place them under a piece of paper.

Use a crayon or pencil to rub over the paper, creating a unique leaf print.

Cut out the leaf prints and use them to create a collage or card for your mum.

Making handmade gifts is a wonderful way to show your mum how much you love and appreciate her on Mother’s Day. Using natural materials found outdoors can make these gifts unique and special. So go ahead and have fun creating these crafts and make it a memorable Mother’s Day.

The construction industry plays a critical role in building our world, from the homes we live in to the bridges and roads we drive on. In this article, we’ll explore the experiences and successes of famous British and international builders who have made remarkable contributions to the industry. 

By learning about these inspirational individuals, we hope to encourage and inspire the next generation of builders and construction workers to pursue their dreams and make a difference in the world. Whether you’re interested in design, engineering, project management, or any other aspect of construction, there’s a place for you in this exciting and rewarding industry. 

Isambard Kingdom Brunel 

Isambard Kingdom Brunel is a famous British engineer who played a pivotal role in the Industrial Revolution. Brunel was responsible for designing and building some of the most significant infrastructure projects of the time, including the Great Western Railway, the Clifton Suspension Bridge, and the SS Great Britain. His contributions to the construction industry helped to shape the modern world and made him one of the most celebrated engineers in history. 

Thomas Telford 

Thomas Telford was a Scottish civil engineer and architect who played a critical role in shaping the infrastructure of the United Kingdom. Telford was responsible for the design and construction of some of the most notable structures of his time, including the Menai Suspension Bridge, the Caledonian Canal and the Ellesmere Canal. His innovative designs and engineering solutions were pivotal in making the Industrial Revolution possible. 

Barbara Res 

Barbara Res was a pioneer in the construction industry in the United States and the first woman to be a project manager for a major construction company. Res worked on the construction of the Trump Tower in New York City and has since become an advocate for women in construction, encouraging more women to pursue careers in the field. 

Frank Gehry 

Frank Gehry is a Canadian-American architect known for his unique and innovative designs. Gehry has designed some of the most recognisable structures in the world, including the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles. His work has had a significant impact on the construction industry and has inspired future generations of architects and designers. 

Richard Rogers

Richard Rogers is a British architect known for his groundbreaking designs that emphasise sustainability and environmental responsibility. He has designed many notable structures, including the Lloyd’s Building in London and the Pompidou Centre in Paris. His work has had a significant impact on the construction industry and has inspired future generations of architects and designers. 

The construction industry has produced some of the most innovative and successful individuals in history. By learning about their experiences and successes, children can be inspired to pursue careers in construction and parents can gain a greater understanding of the importance of this critical industry. These individuals have not only built some of the most iconic structures in the world but have also broken down barriers and encouraged diversity and inclusivity in the industry.

Play is an essential part of childhood and promoting constructive play for all children can be a powerful way to break down gender stereotypes and promote gender equality. When children are encouraged to engage in activities such as building, creating and problem-solving, they learn important skills and attitudes that are essential for challenging traditional gender roles and creating a more inclusive and diverse society. 

Providing a Wide Range of Play Options 

One key way in which constructive play promotes gender equality is by breaking down stereotypes around what boys and girls “should” be interested in. 

When children are encouraged to engage in a wide range of play options, regardless of their gender, they learn that there is no such thing as “girl toys” or “boy toys”. 

Instead, they come to understand that all children can benefit from activities that involve building, creating and problem-solving. 

Promoting a More Inclusive and Diverse Play Environment 

Promoting a more inclusive and diverse play environment is also important for breaking down gender stereotypes. 

When children are exposed to a wide range of play options, they are more likely to see people of different genders and backgrounds engaging in these activities. This helps to challenge traditional notions of what is “appropriate” for boys or girls and can help to promote more inclusive attitudes. 

Developing Confidence and Self-Esteem 

In addition, constructive play can help children develop the confidence and self-esteem they need to challenge gender stereotypes and pursue their goals. 

When children are encouraged to take risks, express their creativity, and problem-solve, they learn to trust in their own abilities and to pursue their interests, regardless of whether these interests are traditionally associated with their gender. 

Creating a Level Playing Field 

Finally, promoting constructive play for all children can help to create a more equitable society by providing a level playing field for boys and girls. 

By providing a wide range of play options and encouraging all children to engage in these activities, we can help to ensure that all children have the opportunity to develop important skills and attitudes, regardless of their gender or any other characteristic.

In conclusion, promoting constructive play for all children is an essential tool for breaking down gender stereotypes and promoting gender equality. Here at JCB Explore, we are at the forefront of this effort, as we offer gender-neutral toys and playsets that promote building, creating, and problem-solving. JCB Explore’s emphasis on gender-neutral play options encourages children of all genders to engage in constructive play, which helps to break down traditional gender roles and promotes inclusivity and diversity. 

By providing a diverse and inclusive play environment and encouraging children to develop their skills and confidence, we can help to create a world in which all children have the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential, regardless of their gender or any other characteristic.

December can be a tough month for kids. The days are shorter, the weather is colder and wetter, and there is often a sense of dullness caused by spending increased time indoors.

It is more important than ever during this month to encourage kids to stay active and engaged, but ideally without resorting to screens all the time. Instead of allowing them to just sit in front of the TV or handing them a tablet, try to come up with some fun non-screen activities that they can enjoy.

Here at JCB Explore we are promoters of outdoor activity. We are aware that it can be tempting to spend more time indoors with screens for entertainment during autumn and winter months. However, there are many benefits to outdoor play. Spending time in nature can help to reduce stress and promote creativity. With that in mind, here are some ideas for non-screen activities that the whole family can enjoy this autumn.

Explore your local area

One great way to spend some quality time with your kids is to get outside and go for a walk in the park or in the woods. If you live in an urban area, seek out parks or green spaces where you can take in some fresh air and get some exercise.

Kids will love exploring new surroundings, and you may even spot some birds or other wildlife along the way.

Another active option is to go for a bike ride or a hike. Depending on your location, you may be able to find some pretty leaves or berries to collect along the way. 

If it’s too chilly for outdoor activities, take a trip to the local playground or swimming pool instead.

Organise indoor scavenger hunt

One way to break up the monotony of a rainy day is to hold an indoor scavenger hunt. 

Scavenger hunts are a great way to get kids moving and exploring their environment. They also promote cooperation and problem-solving skills as kids work together to find the hidden items.

So next time the rain is pouring down, consider organising an indoor scavenger hunt to help pass the time.

Encourage sensory activities

A rainy day can be a great opportunity to stay indoors and engage in some simple sensory activities. Here at JCB Explore, we have plenty of options for you to choose from. Colouring sheets, puzzles, word searches, and card games can all help to break up the monotony of a rainy day and keep kids entertained. With a wide variety of activities, we hope that you will find something that interests you and helps you to pass the time. Maybe try making a DIY sensory bin? So next time there is a rainy day, be sure to check out our website for some great ideas.

Do some arts & crafts

Arts and crafts can be a great way to keep kids engaged during the autumn and winter months. Not only do arts and crafts provide a creative outlet, but they can also help kids to develop fine motor skills and learn about colours, shapes, and patterns. Additionally, arts and crafts can be used to create personalised gifts for friends and family members.

With so many benefits, it’s no wonder that they are a popular choice for parents looking for ways to occupy their kids during the cooler months. Want some ideas? Check our arts and crafts activities ideas here.

As you can see, there are countless ways to enjoy the season while making lasting memories with your family. So go ahead and turn off the television, put down the tablet, and get stuck into the creative, screen-free activities for some fun this winter!

Now that Christmas is just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about how to decorate the house. If you’re looking for a more sustainable way to celebrate the holiday season, then consider making your own eco-friendly decorations. 

Sustainable materials like wood, wool, and cork can be used to create beautiful holiday wreaths, garlands, and centrepieces. And best of all, making your own sustainable decorations is a great way to spend quality time with the kids and get everyone into the festive spirit. So why not give it a try this year? You might be surprised at how much fun you have – and how much money you save – by going green this holiday season.

A festive garland

Dried orange slices are a popular craft material, and they can be used in a variety of ways. 

One popular use for dried oranges is to make a garland. To make a garland, you will need around 6-10 oranges, some string or twine, and a needle. First, slice the oranges into thin rounds and arrange them on a wire rack to dry. This can take anywhere from two to three days, depending on the thickness of the slices and the humidity of the air.

Once the oranges are dry, thread them onto the string or twine, spacing them out evenly. You can then hang the garland up as decoration. Orange slices can also be used to make potpourri or candles.

Salt dough ornaments

Christmas is a time for family, friends and, of course, crafts! Making salt dough ornaments is a fun activity that the whole family can enjoy.

Salt dough is simple to make and can be easily moulded into any shape you like. Once you’ve made your salt dough, simply use a cookie cutter to cut out your desired shapes.

One great thing about salt dough ornaments is that they can be personalised to reflect your family’s interests. For example, you could make salt dough ornaments in the shape of your favourite animal or hobby. You could even make a toy digger shaped one for your little builder!

Pine cone wreath

Making your own pine cone wreath is a fun and easy project that can be done in an afternoon.

All you need are some pine cones, a hot glue gun, and some ribbon or twine. First, gather your pine cones and arrange them on a flat surface. Once you have your desired arrangement, begin glueing the pine cones to each other using a hot glue gun. You can also add some decoration to your wreath at this point, such as berries or flowers.

Once all of the pine cones are glued together, tie a ribbon or piece of twine around the top of the wreath to finish it off. Hang your new wreath on your front door or in a window to enjoy the beauty of nature all Christmas long!

This year, take some time to make your own sustainable decorations using materials like dried fruit, pine cones, spruce tree or fabric scraps. Not only will you be saving money, but you’ll also be helping to reduce waste and protect the environment. And who knows? You might even start a new family tradition in the process.

The Great British Bake-Off is a much-loved show that often inspires viewers to get baking themselves.

If you’re looking for a fun baking project to do with your kids, why not try making a digger cake? Digger cakes are both fun to make and decorate, and they’re sure to be a hit with any construction-loving child. Get inspired with our recipe and spend some quality time with your little ones bringing their favourite digger toy to life with JCB Explore!

Ingredients

You will need:

• Two portions of sponge cake mix
• Black and yellow food colouring
• Ready made chocolate buttercream
• Pack of chocolate fingers
• Melted chocolate
• Chocolate biscuits

Method

A digger cake is a fun and impressive-looking dessert that is perfect for construction-themed parties or any other special occasion.

When it comes to creating the perfect digger cake, there are a few key elements you’ll need to get right.

First, you’ll need to bake two batches of sponge cake – one mixed with yellow food colouring and one with black or chocolate.

Once the cake is cooled, cut each horizontally to create thin layers.

Carefully stack the yellow and black cake on top of each other, alternating colours to create a stripe effect. This will resemble the construction signage pattern and will be the star of the show once the cake is cut.

Decoration

Spread a layer of chocolate buttercream over the top and sides of the cake. Then stick chocolate fingers around the edge of your cake to create a fence effect.

In order to achieve the most genuine effect, it is important to cut down the chocolate fingers and sponge cake at the front of the cake so that it resembles an excavated site.

Once this is done, use a piping bag to pipe melted chocolate over the excavated area. Doing this will create a dripping effect that makes the cake look even more realistic.

You can also sprinkle some crushed chocolate biscuits around to create a rubble effect. 

Finally, allow the chocolate to set before serving the cake. This will ensure it looks its best when presented to family and friends.

Finishing touches

Now that your digger cake has been assembled and decorated, it’s time to add the finishing touch.

Place a small plastic digger toy (JCB Mini Moverz are perfect for this) on top of the cake and sprinkle some more biscuit crumbles over it.

Just remember to keep an eye on the little ones so they don’t try to take a bite out of the digger!

If you have a little builder in your life, then you know how important it is to encourage their creativity. Baking a digger cake together is a great way to do just that. Not only is this a fun activity, but it’s also a great way to bond with your child. And when they see the cake come to life, they’ll be over the moon. So what are you waiting for? Give our recipe a try today.

Children are the future of the planet, so it is important to increase their environmental
awareness from a young age. One way to do this is through outdoor play. Being in nature can
help children feel connected to the natural world and appreciate its beauty. They can also learn
about the importance of taking care of the environment.

Furthermore, outdoor play can teach children about different wildlife and how to respect their
habitat. By increasing children’s environmental awareness, we can ensure that future
generations will be able to protect and preserve our planet. This is why here at JCB Explore, we
encourage both parents and teachers to make an effort to nurture the love and appreciation of
nature and environment.

Teach the importance of recycling

One of the best ways for teachers to teach young children about recycling is through outdoor
play activities. Recycling is an important lesson for children to learn, and by incorporating it into their playtime, they can develop a better understanding of the concept.

There are a variety of ways to do this, but some examples include setting up a recycling station
where children can sort materials, or playing games that involve collecting and sorting
recyclable items. By making recycling fun and interactive, children will be more likely to retain
the information and develop positive habits that will last a lifetime.

Explain the concept of sustainability

Many people today are concerned about the state of the environment and the sustainability of
the earth’s resources. However, it can be difficult to teach young children about these complex
issues. Fortunately, outdoor play can prove helpful in explaining and demonstrating some of the
ideas and concepts linked to sustainable living.

Teachers can use the environment as a classroom, and help children to understand how their
actions can impact the earth. For example, students can learn about the water cycle by
observing the clouds and rain. They can also explore the local ecosystem and discover how
different plants and animals rely on each other for survival or learn more about the process of
biodegradation.

By connecting with nature, children can develop a deeper understanding of sustainability and
learn how to care for the environment.

Encourage little actions that make a big difference

As the world becomes increasingly aware of the need to protect the environment, it is
important that we instil a sense of responsibility in our children. One way to do this is to
encourage them to take small actions that have a big impact on the environment.
For example, they can be taught to reuse and recycle materials, conserve energy by turning off
lights and appliances when they are not in use, and to properly dispose of waste. By taking
these simple steps, our children can learn to respect and care for the environment, and
ultimately make a positive difference in the world.

In today’s world, children are often more likely to spend their free time indoors, in front of a
screen. This is why it’s more important than ever to encourage outdoor activities. By getting
children involved in hands-on outdoor activities, we can teach them about the importance of
taking care of our planet. Outdoor activities also provide an opportunity for children to explore
and discover the natural world around them. Through these experiences, they can develop a
sense of responsibility for the environment and build their appreciation for nature.

If you want to learn more about screen-free activities and discover more ways to reduce your kids’ screen time, read our blog here.