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Wooden Animals

Wooden animal figures, from the chicken to the stately elephant, and from farm animals to wild forest animals have become an indispensable part of the children's play and learning landscape. They are popular as toys and collector's items, and are praised as a sustainable alternative to plastic toys. But what makes wooden animals so special? And what questions are there about wooden animal figures and sets? Find out what to look for when choosing wooden animal toys, and why wooden animal toys are such a valuable addition for children.

What are wooden animal figures and who uses them?

Wooden animal figures are detailed, often hand-made wooden miniatures of animals. They range from simply stylized Waldorf figures to faithfully painted farm animals and wild animals. The toys are intended for preschoolers and children, but are also widely used in schools (including Montessori, Waldorf/Waldorf School) and in childcare because of the open-ended play options and the pedagogical value. Adults also appreciate wooden animals as a collector's item or for decoration. You also see more and more wooden animals in therapeutic settings, such as play therapy, because they help children express emotions and process experiences through role-play.

Why are wooden toy animals so popular?
The popularity of wooden animals stems from several aspects:
- Durability: Wood is sturdy, lasts for years and is environmentally friendly. Many wooden animal figures are made of FSC-certified wood and can last for generations with good maintenance.
- Safety: Most wooden animals are free of harmful substances, are safely rounded and are often CE-approved. Unlike plastic toys, wooden animal figures usually do not contain small or breakable parts.
- Pedagogical value: Wooden toys stimulate imagination, motor skills, problem-solving ability and sensory perception. Children learn the difference between various materials through touch and develop their fine motor skills when picking up, stacking and sorting the wooden animals.
- Aesthetics: Wooden animals fit nicely in any interior thanks to their soothing colors and natural materials. They add a warm and authentic look to the children's or playroom.
- Collecting and playing fun: Children can collect animals, role-play, make up stories or re-enact themes (farm, forest, jungle). They are also used for educational play, such as learning to recognize animals, sorting species and stimulating free creation.
- Open end: Wooden animals are open-ended toys: they do not invite one specific purpose, but rather stimulate the creative and narrative power of children.


The development of wooden animal toys: a little history
Wooden toy animals have their origins in ancient craft cultures around the world. In Europe, figures made of wood appeared on a large scale as toys as early as the nineteenth century. Around 1900, the first industrial production of wooden animal figures was started in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. With the rise of Waldorf education in the twenties of the 20th century, the demand for high-quality, traditional wooden toys grew, in which form, material and simplicity were central. Nowadays, wooden animals are appreciated worldwide and there are many local and international producers. The growing focus on sustainability and conscious parenting has only reinforced this trend in recent decades.


Are wooden critters durable and safe for children?
Sustainable wooden toys are often made from FSC-certified wood (from responsibly managed forests). This means that for every tree felled, a new tree is planted, preserving the forest for future generations. Most European Quality Brands work with natural oils, wax and water-based paints, making wooden animals safe and environmentally friendly. Wooden animals also last for generations, can be passed on, and have a significantly lower impact on the environment than plastic toys. According to research by the NVWA (2023), 84% of the wooden toys examined meet European safety requirements. It is important to pay attention to CE marking, EN71 standards (European) and an FSC quality mark, which indicates that the wood has been sustainably sourced. Check the toy for sharp edges, splinters, loose parts. Repair is often easier compared to plastic toys: a loose leg can be reattached with wood glue.

Sustainability & ecological impact in numbers
Figures show that wooden toys, if sourced from sustainably managed forests, have a much smaller carbon footprint than plastic toys. FSC-certified toys mean that forests are replenished for every tree felled, so that the forest is preserved. Wooden animals last an average of 10 years or more and are practically completely recyclable. The share of safe, tested wooden toys is at least 84% according to the NVWA.

According to WWF, millions of tons of plastic waste are produced worldwide every year, much of which comes from the toy industry. By choosing wooden animal toys, you contribute to reducing this mountain of waste! In addition, wooden critters are often wrapped in cardboard instead of plastic, which reduces the impact even further.

Wooden animal figures in comparison: Wood vs. plastic and other materials
Although plastic toys may seem cheaper to buy, wooden toys have a longer lifespan and ecological added value. Wood is a renewable raw material, while plastic comes from fossil fuels. Recycling plastic remains difficult; Wooden animals can be more easily reused or composted at the end of their lifespan. Studies show that wooden toy animals are less likely to break, less likely to disappear into the trash and more often pass from generation to generation as heirloom or collectible. In addition, parents and children often experience wooden animal sets as more soothing, warmer and more valuable to play with and grow up.
Wooden animal figures have left a huge mark on modern play, precisely because of their simplicity, durability, safety and open play value. They stimulate imagination, creativity and sensory development, and because of their purchase price they are less of a disposable item but rather an investment in years of fun. When buying, pay particular attention to quality marks, finish and age, then wooden toys are a safe, responsible choice to enjoy for generations. By choosing a quality wooden animal set or separate wooden animals, you contribute to a more sustainable, creative and safer play environment for children of all ages. Wooden animal toys are not only fun – they are a conscious choice for parents and children with an eye for quality, nature and development.

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