Why Wooden Toys?

By Carolyn Case, Owner- Wee Whittle Ones

It's not really any secret that wooden toys have been trending and are "all the rage" in the 2020s. But why? What has brought wooden and natural material toys to the forefront? Social media influencers and the rise of certain educational philosophies among Millenial and Gen Z parents could have something to do with it.

While wooden and natural toys may have recently found their popularity, theirs is a tale as old as time! Wooden and natural material toys are an integral part of both Waldorf and Montessori educational environments, homes and classrooms. Working with natural materials creates a stronger connection to nature and a beautiful environment for children to learn and grow in.

Our shop incorporates a variety of natural materials to connect children to a variety of textures and to nature. We believe that a connection to nature and the natural world around us is critical in a child's understanding of how the world works. Here are 6 reasons why we prefer wooden and natural materials for toys and we think you could too:

1. Provide an Elevated Sensory Experience

2. Tactile Learning

Playing with wooden and natural material toys is wonderful for tactile learners who prefer to learn new skills, lessons, and acquire new information through touch. These materials lend themselves perfectly to those that need a more tactile learning experience (that's me!).

3. Quality Materials

Wood, glass, and metal- all gifts from nature that are great quality and lasting! You are likely to pay more for wooden toys than plastic, but you are paying for quality that will last. Grimms toy company is a primary example of exemplary quality wooden toys, some of which we adore in our household and I know they will last for many years to come.

4. Durable Materials

Wood is an incredibly durable material that make for heirloom-quality play and learning materials. These toys are likely to last MUCH longer than their plastic counterparts, though we absolutely know that plastic toys and materials (this is a major fave!) have a place for all of us too!

5. Imaginative Play

Wooden toys are perfect for imaginative play! Keeping toys simple allows for children to create magical worlds all their own and make the toys and materials work within the confines of their own imaginations!

6. Fostering a Connection to Nature

Wooden toys and other natural materials connect children to nature and the natural world around them. By playing with toys made of natural materials, your children are furthering relationships with things they can find in the world around them. This excites kiddos to go out into nature to play, explore, grow and learn!