Hands-on Play

Create With Nature

Create, explore, and strengthen little hands through simple, hands-on play using natural materials.

  • Perfect for ages 3yrs+
  • Supervision recommended
  • Great for group or individual play

Materials Needed:

  • Playdough (1–2 colours work beautifully)
  • Nature treasures (leaves, sticks, seed pods, flowers, bark, stones)
  • Tray or mat
  • Imagination
@little_sweet_peas_and_me
@little_sweet_peas_and_me

How to Play:

Collect: Gather leaves, sticks, seed pods, and other natural treasures.

Press + Explore: Press items into playdough to create patterns, prints, and textures.

Create + Compare: Make your own designs, compare shapes, or build a nature-inspired scene.

Play Tips:

There’s no right or wrong way to explore
Talk about textures, shapes, and what you can see
For younger children: focus on pressing + sensory play
For older children: create patterns, collections, or detailed designs

Play idea and content by educator behind @little_sweet_peas_and_me

What they’re learning (while playing)



Strengthens little hands (pressing, squishing + imprinting)
Builds coordination + control
Supports focus + concentration
Encourages curiosity + exploration of the natural world
Develops early maths skills (patterns, shapes + sorting)
Builds language (describing textures, colours + discoveries)
Boosts confidence through hands-on play

Loved by educators, backed by EYLF:
Outcome 1: Strong sense of identity
Outcome 2: Connected with and contribute to their world
Outcome 3: Physical wellbeing
Outcome 4: Confident + involved learners
Outcome 5: Effective communicators

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