How to Use KidzLabz Dig a Dinosaur for a Fun Fossil Dig

By Little Toy Tribe | Published: 2026-11-04

Category: How-to Guides

Turn the KidzLabz Dig a Dinosaur kit into a real fossil excavation activity. Follow these steps to dig, assemble, and display the skeleton without a mess.

Quick answer

Set up a covered work area, let kids excavate the plaster block with the included tools, then assemble and display the skeleton. The key is to dig slowly and keep the pieces organized.

Why this kit works as a science activity

The KidzLabz Dig a Dinosaur kit turns a plaster block into a hands-on fossil excavation activity. Kids chip away at the plaster to uncover hidden dinosaur bones, then assemble the skeleton and put it on the included stand. It’s a straightforward way to introduce basic archaeology concepts and patience.

Because the kit includes everything needed, you can run it as a standalone dinosaur science activity or as a dinosaur party activity. The assembled Stegosaurus is about 17cm long and the T-Rex about 19cm tall, so the finished models are display-sized without taking up much shelf space.

What to expect (and what to prepare)

The plaster block will create dust and small chips, so work on a washable surface or use a tray. The kit is recommended for ages 8 and up, which means younger children may need help with the digging tools. There’s no information about the exact tools included, so check the box contents before you start and have a small brush or toothbrush on hand if you want to clear dust from the bones.

The excavation can take a while, so set aside enough time—rushing often leads to broken pieces. If you’re planning a party activity, consider having one kit per child or small group to avoid waiting.

Step-by-step fossil dig

Set up your digging zone: Cover a table with newspaper or a plastic sheet, or work outside on a tray. Keep a small bowl of water and a cloth nearby for wiping tools. A contained area makes cleanup easier and prevents plaster dust from spreading.
Start digging slowly: Use the included tools to chip away at the plaster. Work from the edges inward and avoid applying too much force. Slow, gentle taps reduce the risk of breaking the buried bones.
Brush away dust as you go: Use a soft brush or toothbrush to clear plaster dust from the exposed bones. Keep a small container nearby for the pieces you uncover. Brushing often helps you see the bones clearly and prevents small parts from getting lost.
Keep all bone pieces together: As each bone is freed, place it on a paper towel or in a shallow dish. Don’t throw away small fragments—they may be needed for assembly. Organizing pieces as you dig makes assembly much faster.
Assemble the skeleton: Once all bones are excavated, follow the included instructions to connect them. The Stegosaurus is about 17cm long and the T-Rex about 19cm tall when assembled. Check that all pieces are accounted for before you start assembly.
Display your dinosaur: Place the finished skeleton on the included stand and put it on a shelf or desk. Keep it away from damp areas. The stand makes the model stable for display, but it’s still a delicate piece.

Product facts

KidzLabz - Dig a Dinosaur: Includes a plaster block with hidden dinosaur bones, tools, and a display stand. Everything needed for the dig is in the box, so you can start right away.
KidzLabz - Dig a Dinosaur