Investing In Their Future: Why Wooden Toys Have Made A Major Comeback

Better for the environment, educational and, let’s face it, considerably lovelier to look at, wooden toys are enjoying a comeback. 

Savvy consumers are rejecting plastic, flimsy and flashy gadgets in favour of natural, hand-crafted and sturdy pieces that will stand the test of time (and toddlers!) without breaking the bank.

Aside from their obvious charm, the simplicity of wooden toys sets off the most active imaginations and intelligent minds - and in this increasingly interiors-conscious age, a toy is as much a part of your home as a means of keeping little hands busy. 

Gratefully received as hand-me-downs (no beeps, buzzing or batteries here), these classics can be safely stored away as heirlooms for generations to come.

Here, we’re getting nostalgic and rounding up some of our loveliest wooden toys to suit every little personality...

For mini maestros

Beethovens-to-be will love their first musical instrument and this eye-catching and colourful Orange Tree Pink Mouse Xylophone is a sensory treat for all. Wooden keys make for soothing sounds and two drumsticks allow double the fun.

For aspiring architects 

A firm foundation for the greatest projects, the humble building block will fire up your tot’s imagination. This vibrant set of Jumini 50pcs Farm Building Blocks is perfect practice for hand-eye coordination, counting and sorting.

For train-spotting tots

Transport lovers will adore this beautifully crafted Orange Tree Peter Rabbit Puzzle Train, with Beatrix Potter’s most loved characters aboard. The train can be re-arranged and a pull-along string makes toddling all the more rewarding.

For five-a-day fun

Wellness meets imaginative play with this Melissa and Doug Smoothie Maker Blender Set, including fruit and vegetables to be chopped and mixed into nutritious shakes. Little chefs can even add kale and protein powder to creations for their thirsty friends and siblings. 

For budding builders 

Children are fascinated by fixing things (when they aren’t taking them apart!) and can set to work with this vibrant Jumini Tool Box - Construction Set, containing every nut and bolt they’ll need. A perfect way to keep busy hands occupied, encouraging roleplay and fine motor skills.

For mini adventurers 

Immersion in nature is known to have mental health benefits for all of us, and young explorers can get even closer to bugs and blooms with this beautifully crafted and responsibly sourced Bigjigs Magnifying Glass, encouraging an active interest in science from a new perspective.

For childish chores

Mimicking everyday activities is a key development milestone and this colourful Melissa and Doug Lets Play House! Dust, Sweep, Mop set will equip kids to proudly ‘help’ around the house. The broom, mop, duster, dust pan, and hand brush hang neatly on a compact storage stand so little housekeepers can enjoy tidying their toys away after a busy day playing house.

For miniature mathematicians 

As educational as it is attractive, this Bigjigs Giant Abacus is a huge take on the traditional abacus - a timeless choice in classrooms and playrooms alike. Ten rows of rainbow beads allow for hours of numeracy and colour recognition, laying the groundwork for bright minds to shine. 

For finding their feet

New walkers will love our range of push along toys like this Orange Tree Giraffe Push Along Boxed. This twist on a classic will encourage your explorer to get moving in no time, cheered on by colourful clacking beads.

For petite puzzlers

This gorgeous hand-painted Orange Tree Dinosaur Alphabet Puzzle is an adorable and logical way of bringing the alphabet to life. Boosting motor skills and helping children recognise and memorise letters, it provides a joyful introduction to their A-B-Cs.

For punctual pre-schoolers 

This bold and beautiful Melissa and Doug Shape Sorting Clock has had a makeover, encouraging problem-solving, counting and the all important skill of telling the time. 

Moving hands and interactive play empowers your child to play a part in their own bedtime routine - something we can all get excited about!

Find a host of beautiful wooden toys for kids at Maple 

Shop our wooden toy collection for kids today, and discover something for everyone.