Best Small Wooden Toys for Easter Baskets
Easter baskets don’t have to be filled entirely with chocolate. Many families now mix small treats with toys, books and creative activities so children have something to enjoy long after...
Thoughtful Easter Gifts for Children (That Aren’t full of sugar)
For many families, Easter means chocolate eggs and sweet treats. But some parents prefer to balance the sugar rush with gifts that last longer than a single morning. Non-chocolate Easter...
What Is Open-Ended Play? Why It Matters for Child Development
If you’ve spent any time reading about child development or browsing Montessori-inspired toy shops, you’ve probably come across the term “open-ended play.” It sounds lovely, but what does it actually...
Creative Easter Activities with Rocking Baby Birds + Merrywood Tales Bunny Carrot Patch
Easter is a wonderful time to slow down, spend time together, and enjoy creative play with your children. If you’re looking for Easter crafts for kids, combining simple making activities...
What Parents Wish They Had Known Before Their Child Started Nursery
Starting nursery, preschool, or reception is a big step—sometimes more for parents than children! Even confident toddlers can find drop-offs, new routines, unfamiliar adults, and a room full of other...
Home From Home: The Importance of Home Corners In Early Years Settings
Lisa McKie is an Early Years specialist who has been running Sunflowers Preschool Playgroup, a setting in Gloucestershire for children aged 1.5 to 5 years, for 20 years. Here, Lisa...
Why Wooden Toys Encourage Deeper, Calmer Play
Once the excitement and chaos of Christmas has passed, many parents feel the same quiet longing: for peace, routine and a little more order at home. Even the idea of...
Best Open-Ended Wooden Toys for Toddlers and Preschoolers
Choosing toys for young children can quickly feel overwhelming. With so many options available, it’s easy to end up with shelves full of toys that aren’t quite right. So often,...
How to Create a Calm Play Space at Home
It’s normal for homes where young children live to feel busy and noisy – but sometimes, it just gets too much, and many parents find themselves craving a calmer rhythm...
Eight Ways to Play with the Little Garden Designer Wooden Playset
Some toys invite children to follow instructions. Others invite them to imagine whole worlds. The Little Garden Designer is firmly in the second camp. Inspired by all sorts of gardens,...
Getting Kids Outside in All Weather (Even On Rainy Days)
Taking children outdoors can be so impactful it almost feels like magic. Whether they (or you!) are feeling grumpy, frustrated, over-excited or exhausted, a breath of fresh air can quickly...
Chocolate Coin Christmas Wreath
Christmas is a season filled with joy, color, and creativity. As we prepare our homes for the festive season, involving children in the process not only sparks their imagination but...