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As a mother and primary school teacher, I’ve chosen not to buy plastic toys for my children. My reasoning extends beyond aesthetics; I want to encourage imaginative play with open-ended, durable toys that we can cherish for years. Instead of filling our home with flashy plastic toys, we mix well-crafted pieces with homemade activities.
Bright, overstimulating toys can disrupt a calm home environment, impacting children’s moods. A calmer space helps keep children relaxed—something every parent can appreciate.
Crafting together is a favorite activity in our home, and it’s budget-friendly! My eldest and I have made everything from binoculars to cars and fishing games, using recycled materials we find around the house. These creations might not be as polished as store-bought toys, but they’re the ones played with most, shaped by her imagination.
When considering new toys, we ask: Will it last? Is it versatile? Far too many plastic toys end up in landfills, so we’re mindful of reducing waste. Open-ended toys foster imagination and critical thinking. Brightly colored plastic toys often lack flexibility, while a more versatile toy grows with your child.
We also chose a Reggio Emilia Forest School for our children, where play is resourceful and nature-based. A crate, for example, can become anything—a car, a stage, a train. This kind of play builds creativity, problem-solving, and social skills.
Nature provides a wealth of materials—stones, sticks, pinecones—that children can transform. Embracing natural, open-ended play doesn’t require fancy toys. Let children lead; their imaginations will turn the simplest elements into endless possibilities!
