With the exception of some killer plastic race tracks, mass-merchandise toys have little to offer. Plastic is full of scary stuff, and the plastic toy will have no life beyond this one to reach to the next generation.
One of my sons has this thing, not just for soap, but for elephants. We made some together in a clay class we took — they were adorable — but, of course, they were so loved that they’re all broken now. He keeps asking me for an elephant, so I found him one on Etsy.
Look how smooth and silky this wooden elephant looks, and he, gratefully, won’t break when he’s dropped. This one comes with a small chalkboard, chalk, and a little kid journal for him to write (or dictate) his wild elephant stories. This elephant is one that will be around long enough to make memories between us, and to also survive a generation or two so that his ancestors will be able to read about the great elephant adventures he had while playing on the kitchen floor. I’m in love. No plastic, no lead paint, just a nice, soft organic seed oil finish.
I’m also intrigued with this soft-as-velvet-looking wooden egg. With beans inside, it rattles when you shake the egg. You know how much he loves brown eggs. I’m wondering how this girl from Ohio actually makes these orbs out of wood and makes the whole rattle-thing work — pure genius.
Once, when walking through the plastic-lined toy aisle at Target, I thought my Christmas-ideas were limited. Now, I’ve found a whole new world of toys. Check out this train. I have to tell you Amy, these are awesome.
dying here! thank you so much for these beautiful words about me toys! I love ya gal! kiss kiss
Very cool toys!
I’m with you on this one – I once asked a woman who owns a local toy shop to pleeaaassee stock more stuff that doesn’t have Dora or Blues Clues on it. She did, and I’m a happy customer. Thanks for these additional ideas.