One of our kids’ favorite games involves a bunch of dried beans and some empty bowls.  There is something that fascinates little kids about moving volumes from one container to another.  The beans we use are large pinto and white lima beans and we have saved and reused them for over 3 years now.  We spread out a tablecloth, put out some empty containers and spoons and let the kids go to town.  The beans rarely all stay on the tablecloth, but those that do are easy to scoop up at the end of play.  Josie has been using her new favorite recycled plastic tea set by Green Toys with her beans lately.  (Thanks Aunt Heather and Uncle Tim!)

*Our kids have always been pretty good about not putting things in their mouths, but keep an eye on the little ones.