Recycled packaging and containers can be used as stacking toys with toddlers and preschoolers. Recyclable materials provide simple activities with no added cost and easy set up. Explore options for stacking, building, and creating with recyclables.

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Empty packages make excellent stacking toys!

This might sound like a news flash, but it's really just another way parents and teachers can provide an activity with little cost, time, or effort.

We can all appreciate that bit of good news!

• I recommend recyclables for arts and crafts projects, for counting and sorting activities, and for storage solutions.

Stacking toys made with recyclables are another good fit for everyday play. The materials you choose should be sturdy enough to be handled over and over but not hard enough to harm the builder when they topple!

• Cardboard and plastic are probably your best options but you may have other recyclables available that would work well. 

Packaging should be clean and dry, and free of sharp parts such as staples.

Stacking toys promote creative hands-on play. They're a perfect go-to for child-led play. Here are a few convenient options to have in your toolkit.

Stacking toys made with recyclables

1. Yogurt and pudding cups

They make great pyramids! These versatile containers can also be used as painting tools.

2. Empty ribbon spools 

Spools from ribbon, painter's tape, and masking tape are great for stacking. They are light weight but provide a stable base.

3. Bath soap boxes

These small boxes are easy for younger children to handle. For more of a challenge, stack these boxes on their edges.

4. Tissue boxes

They are the largest of the stacking options and can be used empty or full! They come in different shapes and sizes.

The larger rectangular ones shown here can be covered in brick design paper and used as building blocks. They can be added to the block corner in your preschool classroom and stacked like bricks. 

5. Disposable cups

Plastic cups are easy to stack and un-stack for a fine motor counting activity. These little cups are also great for a memory game.

6. Clear plastic containers

A variety of goods are packaged in clear plastic containers. The ones shown here held paper baking cups. They have a unique shape and are perfect for stacking.

• Clear containers can also be used for a sorting game with lids, or storage containers for small pieces of felt.

Stack and build with recycled containers

These are just a few options for stacking toys. You and the kids might come up with other materials that make fun stacking possibilities.

Recyclables are a low-cost, hands-on, practically mess-free option for kids STEM play. Toddlers and preschoolers will benefit from the engineering challenges, sensory experiences, and the fine motor play the different materials provide.

Not exactly a news flash - just a fun way to optimize everyday items for kids play!

STEM board on Pinterest.