If you have been around Creative Play Shop for a while, you know I do not just make products to make products. Everything I create has a little piece of my heart in it. That is especially true for our National Parks Collection.
I have always loved the outdoors. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, nature was not just something you visited, it was part of everyday life. Weekend hikes, picnics by the river, camping under the stars, those memories shaped so much of who I am. And now, as a mom, I find myself wanting to pass that same love of God’s creation to my kids and the families who shop with us.
The National Parks Collection was born out of that love. Each element in this collection is designed to capture the beauty, textures, and colors of three incredible parks, Olympic, Everglades, and Grand Canyon. From the misty forests and rivers of Olympic to the golden cliffs of the Grand Canyon to the winding waterways of the Everglades, these sensory mixes are not just beautiful to look at, they are invitations to explore, imagine, and create.
We did not stop at the mixes. This collection also includes hand painted peg people, a cozy little tent, a campfire with removable flames, and a set of 3D printed interchangeable park signs to make your play scenes come to life. It is small world play that lets kids step into the role of an explorer, camper, or park ranger, all without leaving the playroom.
Why is this near and dear to my heart? Because I believe play is powerful. Play builds curiosity. Play makes space for conversations about nature, animals, and how to take care of the world God made. Play invites families to slow down and enjoy the moment together. For me, this collection is a way to connect generations and give today’s kids a taste of the same wonder I felt on those childhood adventures.
Whether you are adding the full set to your sensory play shelf or just grabbing a favorite mix, my hope is that these pieces spark joy, creativity, and a little sense of adventure in your home. There is a whole world to explore and sometimes all you need is a jar of sensory mix, a few peg people, and a little imagination to get started.