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Exploration and Discovery

Encourage exploration and discovery with Kaplan's selection of outdoor products. Kaplan offers sand and water tables, easels, chalk and chalk tools, jumbo magnifiers, bug watch kits, explorer costumes, bug sets, compasses, telescopes, and more.

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Image of Weaving Ribbons - Set of 25
Weaving Ribbons - Set of 25
Item: 300532
Status: In Stock
$14.95
Add more materials to your arts and crafts corner with these assorted fabric-weaving ribbons. These bright-colored ribbons come in a variety of fabrics. This set promotes sensory experiences, fine motor development, and more. Set of 25. Each measures 1 yard with assorted widths. Ribbon styles may vary. Use with the Outdoor Weaving Frame, 70678.
Image of Fubbles Fun-Finiti Bubble Machine
Fubbles Fun-Finiti Bubble Machine
Item: 300338
Status: In Stock
$24.95
3 years & up. Turn playtime into active fun with the Fubbles Fun-Finiti Bubble Machine! This easy-to-use machine produces a steady stream of bubbles for over an hour, creating lively play that delights little ones. The included bubble concentrate makes enough solution to start bubbling right away, while the no-spill design helps minimize mess and maximize play time. When children run, chase, and burst bubbles, they are not just having fun; they are developing important early skills. As bubbles… More »
Image of Mirrored Fence Easel
Mirrored Fence Easel
Item: 300562
Status: In Stock
$499.95
18 months & up. Create an interesting outdoor invitation to play using the Mirrored Fence Easel. Simply attach the durable easel to a fence using the included hardware and encourage children to explore, build self-awareness, and take part in interesting discovery using mirrors in an outdoor play space. The organic, floral shape and the nature-inspired color creates a beautiful juxtaposition in outdoor environments. Combine with other Floral Fence Easels (sold separately) to create an invitation… More »
Image of Outdoor Clipboards - Set of 3
Outdoor Clipboards - Set of 3
Item: 62160
Status: In Stock
$29.95
Flexible, weather-resistant clipboards with a handy paper storage pocket on the back -- perfect for outdoor journaling, map drawing, or creative expression. Set of 3.
Image of Dig & Discover Dinosaur Tactile Skeletons - Set of 6
Dig & Discover Dinosaur Tactile Skeletons - Set of 6
Item: 301838
Status: In Stock
$106.95
2 years & up. Spark a love of science and discovery with the Dig & Discover Dinosaur Tactile Skeletons - Set of 6, a hands-on exploration resource that brings prehistoric learning to life. Embark on a prehistoric adventure with this set of 6 puzzles, each features 4-5 pieces. Made from a durable stone mix, these chunky dinosaur pieces are perfect for repeated excavations. Children will enhance their spatial awareness while engaging in sensory-rich activities. These versatile puzzles can… More »
Image of Critter Barn
Critter Barn
Item: 300225
Status: In Stock
$24.95
The Critter Barn habitat is perfect for outdoor discovery activities. Children will love using this safe case for catching butterflies, caterpillars, beetles, or small animals to bring inside for observation during a science lesson. Built in light for day and night use plus a built in magnifier makes watching critters fun.  The lid is ventilated and can hold water. 3 button cell batteries included.
Image of Outdoor Buckets For Mud Kitchen and Exploration - Set of 2
Outdoor Buckets For Mud Kitchen and Exploration - Set of 2
Item: 301297
Status: In Stock
$41.95
3 years and up. Buckets are the perfect addition to a child's outdoor play space. Buckets can be used to enrich a mud kitchen experience, gather natural items found outside, experiment with water, and much more. Little learners will experience more than fun in the sun as they improve gross motor skills while immersed in sensory play. Sharpen those math skills filling and emptying buckets introduces basic concepts of volume and measurement. These versatile containers can inspire hours of imaginative play and exploration!
Image of Nature to Play™ Mud Kitchen
Nature to Play™ Mud Kitchen
Item: 32986
Status: In Stock
$924.95
3 years & up. Bake a mud pie, mix up some leaf soup, and inspire growing imaginations with this sturdy Mud Kitchen. Use the Mud Kitchen's large work surface and sink with removable plug to incorporate messy materials such as mud, sand, and water into collaborative outdoor play. Store mud tools, buckets, and Nature to Play™ Crates on the convenient accessory shelf and spacious bottom shelf. Complete with a weather-resistant finish and made from weather-resistant, thermally modified wood… More »
Image of Nature to Play™ Workbench
Nature to Play™ Workbench
Item: 32987
Status: In Stock
$999.95
3 years & up. Get messy, hammer a board, and create lasting friendships at this durable Workbench. Use the Workbench's large, sturdy surface for collaborative mud, sand, and outdoor play. Store mud tools, buckets, Loose Parts, and a Nature to Play™ Crate on the convenient accessory shelf and bottom shelf. Made from thermally modified wood by Thermory®, and featuring a weather-resistant finish, this Workbench is the optimal spot for a group of rough-and-tumble kids and perfect for rugged,… More »
Image of Nature to Play™ Water Table
Nature to Play™ Water Table
Item: 32998
Status: In Stock
$990.95
3 years & up. Fill the two large basins of this sturdy Water Table and unlock endless outdoor sensory explorations. From water and sand, to shaving cream and slime, this table's large work surface encourages messy, collaborative play and social interactions. For more fun, store mud tools, buckets, and Nature to Play™ Crates on the convenient bottom shelf. Made from thermally modified wood by Thermory®, and coated with a weather-resistant finish, the Water Table is meant to withstand… More »
Image of Nature to Play™ Water Tower
Nature to Play™ Water Tower
Item: 33296
Status: In Stock
$559.95
3 years & up. This durable, kid-activated Water Tower gives children the means to control and understand water flow. Let children fill their own buckets during water-based activities or send water trickling down the Water Trough System. The Water Tower easily attaches to a standard garden hose, making it a simple, easy-to-use water source. Solid construction of thermally modified wood by Thermory® and a weather-resistant finish make the Water Tower optimal for rugged, outdoor use. Measures… More »
Image of Discovery Weaving Frames
Discovery Weaving Frames
Item: 35523
Status: In Stock
$44.95
3 years & up. Children can experiment with layering, patterning, and abstract expression using Discovery Frames. Large, translucent frames in square, triangle and circular shapes feature notches and holes for weaving and lacing using the twine strings included in the set. Layer found loose parts and natural materials (not included), furthering a child's organic connections. Enhance creative play with 6 double-sided concept cards providing creative inspiration. Square frame: 8.6"W x 8.6"H,… More »
Image of Sensory Play Stones: Threading Kebabs - 12 Pieces
Sensory Play Stones: Threading Kebabs - 12 Pieces
Item: 35478
Status: In Stock
$39.95
2 years & up. Children will enjoy cooking up some tasty kebabs with this unique selection of fruit and vegetables. Just find a stick and thread chosen stones onto it, exploring food and patterns while strengthening fine motor skills. The pieces are made from a stone resin and are easily cleaned making them perfect for a mud kitchen. Set includes 12 pieces, 2 each of the following: watermelon, sweetcorn, pineapple, mushroom, zucchini, and banana. Pieces measure approximately 2".
Image of Plastic Binoculars
Plastic Binoculars
Item: 46931
Status: In Stock
$14.95
3 years & up. Take your observations outside with these durable Outdoor Discovery and Exploration Adventure Plastic Binoculars. These portable 6X binoculars feature an adjustable focus dial and clip on strap. Children will love bird watching and discovering cool little critters outside. These binoculars encourage exploration, imagination, and outdoor activity. Color may vary. 1.38"D lenses.
Image of Outdoor Activity Table Starter Set
Outdoor Activity Table Starter Set
Item: 302670
Status: In Stock
$839.95
36 months & up. Turn any space into a hub of hands-on fun with this versatile Starter Set! Perfect for messy muddling, creative crafting, painting, or whatever your little ones dream up, this set invites children to get curious and connect with the world around them. Fully adaptable and easy to expand, it opens up endless opportunities for imaginative play and outdoor learning - all while helping kids build new skills and a love for nature. This set includes 3 triangle-shaped tables with built-in… More »
Image of OutdoorED™ Exploration Table
OutdoorED™ Exploration Table
Item: 302816
Status: Ships From Manufacturer
$2,299.95
3 years & up. This versatile exploration table ships ready to assemble and features a reversible top with two compartment depths (4-3/8" or 1-1/2"). Designed with a wide base for stability, it includes a center drain opening with a removable rubber stopper for quick clean-up and a large open storage shelf below that's easily accessible from both sides. Not intended to hold water. Built from 3/4" textured woodgrain maple and polar white HDPE panels, it offers crisp lines, modern… More »
Image of OutdoorED™ Potion Station
OutdoorED™ Potion Station
Item: 302815
Status: Ships From Manufacturer
$1,599.95
3 years & up. This versatile work stand ships ready to assemble. Encourages children to mix, measure, and explore colors and textures in creative, hands-on ways. Six small and three large stainless steel trays (included) are interchangeable in the top and bottom rails. Designed with extra-wide feet for stability, the stand allows children to work closer to the surface. Built from 3/4" textured woodgrain maple and polar white HDPE panels, it features crisp lines, refined accents, and coordinates… More »
Image of Bubble Solution with Wand 64 oz.
Bubble Solution with Wand 64 oz.
Item: 302604
Status: In Stock
$15.95
3 years & up. Jumbo 64 oz. size. Create huge, long-lasting bubbles with the included wand, or use to refill your other bubble toys. Fubbles Bubbles contain no dyes, are non-toxic, and meet all federal and state safety standards, so you can feel confident they're safe and fun for kids to enjoy. Bottle colors may vary.
Image of Mini Tuff Spot Tray with Stand & Insert
Mini Tuff Spot Tray with Stand & Insert
Item: 302157P
Status: In Stock
$38.95 - $110.95
A compact tray designed for small spaces and quick setup activities. This versatile, open-ended tray offers endless play possibilities, from messy play and exploration to math, literacy, and sensory activities. Its convenient size makes it easy to clean, move, and adapt for use on the floor, a stand, or even in a vertical position. Stand not included. Measure 27.5" diameter. Tray stand and Mirror Insert sold separately
Image of Tuff Spot Tray Black with Accessories
Tuff Spot Tray Black with Accessories
Item: 302145P
Status: In Stock
$59.95 - $628.95
10 months & up. This tray serves as an excellent backdrop for small loose parts play, natural resources, or environmental art, encouraging creativity and exploration. A must-have for young children, it is designed with raised sides to help contain mess, making it ideal for heuristic play setups, messy play activities, and literacy or math invitations. Easy to clean and wipe down, it offers convenience for both indoor and outdoor use. Approx. 37.4" diameter. Shelves ship RTA. Stand color may vary.
Image of Musical Flowers
Musical Flowers
Item: PL576P
Status: Ships From Manufacturer
$1,733.00 - $7,366.00
Size: Between 19" - 26"W, 11" - 15"D, 37" - 48"H. Weight: Between 28 lbs. - 37 lbs. Available individually in four colors (indigo, orange, turquoise, and yellow) or in an ensemble of all 4 colors. Choose between In-Ground Mount or Portable. Assembly Required.
Image of Musical Butterflies - Each
Musical Butterflies - Each
Item: PL1073GP
Status: Ships From Manufacturer
$1,533.00 - $1,790.00
The Butterfly Collection features four different butterflies, each having a distinct musical chord, size, height, and color. When they are struck they emit a rich, long-sustaining gong. The Butterflies add both a sculptural and aesthetic design that invites users both young and old to create music in an outdoor environment. Each butterfly is sold separately. Features: all abilities, all ages, sculptural, interactive play, durable, and perfectly tuned. Butterflies measure 16"-21"W x 16"D… More »
Image of Tenor Tree
Tenor Tree
Item: PL1052P
Status: Ships From Manufacturer
$6,120.00 - $7,099.00
Size: 15"W x 62"L. Height: Finished height 23" to 37". Weight In-Ground Mount: 85 lbs. Weight Portable : 125 lbs. Weight In-Ground Mount (Toddler) : 75 lbs. Weight Portable (Toddler) : 115 lbs. Drums create a tom-tom like sound. Each drum varies in sound and size. Durable and perfectly tuned. Research has shown that drumming can provide therapeutic benefits. Also available in primary colors. Assembly Required.
Image of Preschool Beyond Walls: Blending Early Childhood Education and Nature-Based Learning - Paperback
Preschool Beyond Walls: Blending Early Childhood Education and Nature-Based Learning - Paperback
Item: 99353
Status: In Stock
$34.95
Children are spending less time being outside in nature, playing, imagining, and learning about their surroundings. Instead, they're spending more time with tablets, televisions, and overly structured routines. This book shows practical and strategic ways educators can create rich, explorative, and interdisciplinary learning through extensive outdoor experiences. Learn how to develop and implement a nature-based curriculum to support children's optimal learning, from start to finish. Age focus:… More »