The history of wooden toys
Toys have been an important part of childhood since the first civilization, and although children today are very different from those of thousands of years ago, many of their favorite toys are similar to those that have been around for centuries. Already in the ancient Greek and Roman empires, it is known that children played with dolls, horses and chariots. The first toys discovered by archaeologists were made of wood.
Wooden toys continued to be a common part of childhood for thousands of years. In the 1700s, German toy makers began to manufacture a variety of wooden toys for sale to the general public. Vendors traveled across Europe to market the popular wooden toys, taking pre-orders for special occasions and often for custom-made wooden toys. Almost lifelike dolls and animals were becoming the favorite toys of children across Europe.
Over the next century, toy makers became more elaborate and detailed with their wooden creations. Wooden miniatures such as dollhouses and theaters became popular during the 19th century, as did wooden toy soldiers. Many wooden toys, such as the classic Jack in a box, were hand-painted in bright, vivid colors. Wooden trains, along with their wooden tracks, were one of the best-selling toys during this period.
By the end of World War II, several new materials had been introduced to the manufacturing industry, including the still popular plastic. The production of wooden toys steadily declined as more and more toy manufacturers turned to cheaper, more modern materials. Plastic toys were much easier to mass-produce and more affordable for families with children.
Today, wooden toys are rarely seen on the shelves of traditional toy stores, but the charm and appeal of these childhood classics has kept several wooden toy manufacturers in business. A variety of wooden toys can be purchased online, from miniature appliances to small gifts and novelty games.
Wooden toys are usually simple toys that encourage children to use their imagination. Wooden puzzles encourage children to develop cognitively and develop fine motor skills. Wooden ride-on toys and pedal cars enhance physical skills and gross motor development. Whether in a fire station or on a farm, miniature wooden toys help social and emotional development. Wooden toys have great educational value due to their simplicity.
Plastic toys are still generally less expensive than wooden toys and are considered safer by some due to the flammability of older wooden toys and possible injury from thrown or falling wooden objects, but wooden toys do not. contain toxic PVC like plastic toys. Wooden toys are the most durable toys and can usually last for generations of play.
Today’s wooden toys are just as innovative, if not more so, than modern electronic toys. Wooden cars, trucks, and strings make wonderful gifts, and wooden toys delight young children. Quiet games like chess and checkers, and even tic-tac-toe can be found made of wood, as well as physical games like ring tossing. For toys that provide educational benefits and last for decades, choose toys that have been time-tested, wooden toys.
