Learning through play is as natural and important for young children as breathing. With this book, parents and teachers can create toys that help children become more confident, develop their intellect, and encourage play and exploration--all with materials easily found at the local hardware store or home center. Written by two experienced family child care providers, this book explains the construction and use of a variety of engaging and kid-tested play props, equipment, and activities. Each of the activities is: (1) affordable--the toys and activities will not strain the budget; (2) durable--with proper care, many of the items made will last for years; and (3) flexible--make toys to fit particular curriculums. Following acknowledgments and an introduction, this book contains fifteen chapters: (1) Why Make Your Own Learning Toys?; (2) What Kids Learn While Playing; (3) Getting Started; (4) Activities--Exploring Gravity and Motion; (5) Activities--Matching, Sorting, and Estimating; (6) Activities--Problem Solving; (7) Activities--Manipulatives; (8) Activities--Kids in Motion; (9) Activities--Dramatic Play; (10) Activities--Nurturing and Caring; (11) Activities--Sensory Play; (12)Activities--Construction; (13) Activities--Exploring Tools; (14) Activities--Art; and (15) Activities--Learning Equipment to Build. Also includes an index of Activity Titles and index of Activities by Age.