A PARCEL OF FUN

I alway look for toys with a bit of longevity in them, something that is beautifully crafted and tactile to touch. It's not that I'm opposed to the plastic fantastic nation we live in – we have our fair share of garish colours and moulded beauties that lie strewn along the floor – but there's something so delectable about the slightly more natural materials. For me there's nothing more captivating than watching a child push little wooden blocks along the floor and when asked what they are doing, return with a matter of fact 'it's a train/car/doctor/horse' as they are completely emerged in their imagination. The ability to make something so simple into a thing of joy is amazing rather than an all singing, all dancing, brightly coloured decomposable mass of noise and lights – we have those too.

Ever wanting to stretch F's imagination and abilities we were overjoyed when Toyella sent us the Balancing Cactus game by Plan Toys. Not only does this toy provide a game to be played together but it helps develop spatial awareness, balance and children's motor skills, and if you have been following my blog you will see that it is a plant that I most definitely can not kill. We excitedly un-wrapped our parcel and F wowed over the brightly coloured solid wood that makes up the game. Eager to play, we placed all the pieces on to the table and decided to take it in turns. The concentration on F's face as he tried to place the pegs neatly into the holes building his cactus was adorable, and he quickly repositioned himself onto the table without realising in his excitement. I must admit I had to stifle a few laughs when it toppled over and he would throw himself down on the table in defeat, but to my relief he got back up and tried again. Eventually on balancing the cactus and completing the game, he strode around the lounge triumphantly. Once playtime is over, this beautiful toy lends itself perfectly as a show piece in any child's room.

 

Toyella is an award winning online toy retailer stocking beautifully designed and styled toys, with a wide range of wonderful European products. F also loves his Green Toys Fire Truck made entirely from 100% recycled plastic milk bottles which we bought from Toyella last year.

We were sent the Balancing Cactus game for review purposed only. All thoughts and opinions are genuine to how we feel about the product. 

COOL FOR KIDS

Image source Corby Tinderstick

I'm always on the look out for cool kids products that combine function and design, so these plush toys by Corby Tindersticks are right up my street. They are a great change from the usual teddies and dolls that kids tend to have en masse and each toy has its own quirky character. Printed with eco friendly inks and manufactured in the UK these cool toys are great for kids and adults alike.  We're definitely a member of the Corby Tindersticks Fan Club.

SUPER GLIDERS ARE SUPER FUN

On the way to lunch we strolled past a new charity shop that has opened in Clifton Village and decided to take a quick peek inside for any 50p toy treasures for F. I was so excited to find a box of Super Gliders tucked away on a shelf. Stirring nostalgic feelings of childhood, I promptly snapped up a few to take with us on our picnic adventure tomorrow (I'm assured that the sun will be making an appearance).

I can't wait to see F's eyes light up with these. Super gliders are super fun.