A Peoria Park District Facility

Real Tools

Real Tools is filled with recycled materials kids can use to create anything; from telescopes to trombones! Real Tools also provides a safe and monitored environment for kids to try out new tools and new skills whether they're ready to try out big kid scissors or a hand saw Real Tools has it all!

In Real Tools, your child will:

  • Count to understand and recognize “how many” in small sets up to five.
  • Connect numbers to quantities they represent using physical models and informal representations.
  • Show understanding of how to count out and construct sets of objects of a given number up to five.
  • Identify the new number created when small sets (up to five) are combined or separated.
  • Fairly share a set of up to ten items between two children.
  • Sort, order, compare, and describe objects according to characteristics or attribute(s).
  • Recognize, duplicate, extend, and create simple patterns in various formats.
  • Express wonder and curiosity about their world by asking questions, solving problems, and designing things.
  • Plan and carry out simple investigations.
  • Collect, describe, compare, and record information from observations and investigations.
  • Use mathematical and computational thinking.
  • Generate explanations and communicate ideas and/or conclusions about their investigations.
  • Observe, investigate, describe, and categorize living things.
  • Show an awareness of changes that occur in oneself and the environment.
  • Identify, describe, and compare the physical properties of objects.
  • Begin to understand basic safety practices one must follow when exploring and engaging in science and engineering investigations.
  • Use nonstandard and standard scientific tools for investigation.
  • Become familiar with technological tools that can aid in scientific inquiry.
  • Engage in active play using gross- and fine-motor skills.
  • Use eye-hand coordination to perform tasks.
  • Demonstrate body awareness when moving in different spaces.
  • Follow simple safety rules while participating in activities.
  • Identify and follow basic safety rules.
  • Use materials with purpose, safety, and respect.
  • Begin to understand the consequences of his or her behavior.
  • Exhibit eagerness and curiosity as a learner.
  • Demonstrate persistence and creativity in seeking solutions to problems.
  • Show some initiative, self-direction, and independence in actions.
  • Demonstrate engagement and sustained attention in activities.
  • Develop positive relationships with peers.
  • Interact verbally and non-verbally with other children.
  • Engage in cooperative group play.
  • Use socially appropriate behavior with peers and adults, such as helping, sharing, and taking turns.
  • Begin to share materials and experiences and take turns.
  • Solve simple conflicts with peers with independence, using gestures or words.
  • Seek adult help when needed to resolve conflict.
  • Follow rules and make good choices about behavior.