Kids Wooden Toys Buying Guide

There's something special about wooden toys that make them a great choice for kids of all ages. Not only are they durable and long-lasting, but they're also eco-friendly and safe for little ones to play with. But with so many different types of wooden toys on the market, it can be challenging to know where to start when it comes to buying them. Here's everything you need to know when it comes to buying kids wooden toys.

Types of Wooden Toys

Wooden toys come in various shapes, sizes, and designs. Knowing the different types of wooden toys available can help you determine which toys are best suited for your child's age and interests. Here are some of the most popular types of wooden toys:

1. Wooden puzzles: These toys come with different shapes and sizes, and they can help children develop their problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination.
2. Wooden blocks: From stacking toys to building blocks, wooden blocks can help children develop their imagination, creativity and logic, they also help with developing of fine motor skills.
3. Wooden cars and trains: These toys are perfect for kids who love playing with vehicles. They help children develop their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills while encouraging imaginative play.
4. Wooden musical instruments: These toys can help children develop an interest in music while providing them with hours of entertainment. They are great for developing hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, and cognitive function.
5. Wooden dollhouses: These toys are great for imaginative play and can help children develop their social and emotional skills, as well as their fine motor skills.

Age Range

When it comes to buying wooden toys for kids, it's essential to consider the child's age. Some wooden toys are meant for specific age ranges, and choosing the wrong toy can be both frustrating for the child and dangerous for them. Here's a guideline:

1. 0-6 months: Wooden toys that are safe for infants at this age may include grasping toys, teethers, and rattles.
2. 6-12 months: Toys that help with crawling and walking are ideal for children at this age; shape sorters, stackers, and walkers.
3. 1-3 years: Toddlers at this age benefit from toys that help them develop their motor skills, such as building blocks, puzzles and simple musical instruments.
4. 3-6 years: Children at this age enjoy imaginative play; wooden cars, trains, and dollhouses. They are also ready to develop their problem-solving skills and may enjoy more complex puzzles.
5. 6+ years: Children in this age group enjoy more challenging and stimulating toys, such as more complicated puzzles, building structures and intricate wooden models.

Safety Tips

When buying any toy for your child, safety should always be your top priority. Here are some safety tips to keep in mind when buying kids wooden toys:

• Make sure the toy is age-appropriate: Avoid buying toys that are too complicated or too simple for your child's age.
• Check for sharp edges: Make sure the toy doesn't have any sharp edges or corners that could harm your child.
• Avoid toys with small parts: Young children can choke on small parts, so avoid toys with small parts that can easily come off.
• Check for lead paint: Check the paint on the toy to ensure it's lead-free; lead paint can be harmful to children if ingested.

Material and Durability

When buying wooden toys, the quality of the wood used determines the durability of the toy. Here are some types of wood commonly used for wooden toys:

• Birch: Birch has a light and pale color that looks great in a natural wooden toy. It's a durable wood that can withstand everyday wear and tear.
• Maple: This wood is exceptionally sturdy and is ideal for wooden toys with moving parts, such as trains or vehicles.
• Oak: Oak has a beautiful grain pattern and is great for wooden toys that require a lot of sanding and finishing.
• Walnut: Walnut wood has a warm and luxurious feel, making it great for wooden toys that require a classy finish, like dollhouses or intricate puzzles.

Price Range

When looking for wooden toys for your child, you'll notice that there is a broad price range available. Some toys can be as cheap as $10, while some can be as expensive as $200 or more. The price of the toy generally depends on the intricacy of the design, the quality of the wood used, and the name of the brand.

If you're looking for budget-friendly options, you can opt for simpler wooden toys like blocks, puzzles, or stacking toys. If you're looking for a more complex toy or a gift for a special occasion, you may have to spend more. Remember, the price should not be the only factor; quality and safety are also important.

Brand

When it comes to buying wooden toys, the brand is not always as important as the quality and safety of the toy. However, some brands are known for their craftsmanship, durability, and safety standards. Here are some reputable brands to consider:

• Plan Toys: This brand is known for making eco-friendly toys that are made from natural rubber wood and are free of harmful chemicals.
• Hape: Hape is known for quality, durability, and innovation in wooden toys. They have an extensive range of wooden toys for all ages, and their designs are engaging.
• Melissa & Doug: Melissa & Doug is a household name when it comes to children's toys. They offer a range of wooden toys, including puzzles, blocks, and vehicles, that are both affordable, durable, and safe.
• Grimms: Grimms is known for their high-quality wooden toys that are designed to be both durable and stimulating. They use only the best materials to make their products and ensure that their toys are safe for children to play with.

Conclusion

Choosing the right wooden toy for your child can be overwhelming, but with this guide, you're equipped with everything you need to know before making a purchase. Remember to consider the child's age, the type of toy, the quality of the wood, and the brand when making a decision. Most importantly, always put your child's safety first.