There’s something quietly magical about watching a child bring a toy to life with their own hands. When kids make their own creations - whether it’s a leaf crown, a stick boat, or a tiny world built from found treasures they’re not just crafting, they’re thinking deeply and creatively.

They begin to ask questions, test ideas and imagine possibilities, all of which nurtures critical thinking and problem-solving in a way no ready-made toy ever could.

Planning what to make and how to make it gives them a sense of purpose while the freedom to experiment builds confidence and resilience.

Let's take this one step further - not just building toys, but creating them with natural elements and outdoors when possible.

These simple nature-inspired activities also have benefits like supporting important developmental skills. Threading, tying, cutting and shaping all strengthen fine motor control, while working alongside others - siblings, friends, or grown-ups, helps to encourage communication, co-operation and shared joy.

Children learn to express their ideas, listen to others and adapt when things don’t go to plan. In the end, it’s not just about the toy they create, but the rich layered learning that happens along the way - play that feels effortless, but is full of growth.

Your Wild Books founder and author, Brooke Davis has seen first hand the benefits of helping kids interact with and make things with nature, in nature - even if it's just in their backyard. Brooke witnessed the learning of new skills, perseverance, creativity and growth of numerous kids, including her own. These experiences were the inspiration for the Nature Craft series.

You can find projects for making your own toys and games from nature in the five book series. Here are a few examples:

• stick people and tic tac toe - Wild Imagination
• boats + rafts and pick up sticks - Wild Child
• log dog and ring toss - Wild Projects for Families
• spinning tops and forest fairies - Wild Craft Club

Did you know that we have a growing library of free downloads, templates and printables that make incorporating nature play into your day even easier?

When you subscribe to the free Wild Club, you receive a link with access to our library of over 35 kid friendly, nature inspired downloads.

We regularly add free downloads, so if you're already a Wild Club subscriber, don't forget to check your emails to be in the know when a new freebie drops!