Within this section we would like to talk about a number of issues which we believe will let you know more about us as a company and the toys we offer.
We believe that wooden toys have their own special place in a child’s life. Toys which are passed down through generations are of great sentimental value to us and our children, especially the toys that Granddad used to play with. In Europe, particularly Germany where we lived for several years, the tradition of wooden toys is very sacred. This tradition is embedded into the child’s playing and upbringing, which is something not seen as much here in England. Now this is where we hope to make a difference.
‘Imagination and discovery through play’ is our ethos and we strongly believe that a toy, the way in which it is played with and the response it creates can influence the learning process. Our philosophy assimilates the Steiner method of learning and schooling as both suggest that play is a child’s most powerful tool in preparing for the future. Rudolph Steiner, born in 1861, believed that at school the needs of the pupils were to be focussed not upon the Governments curriculum requirements but that the imagination should be enthused when teaching.
Our aim at Holz Toys is to bring you toys that are fun and rewarding for your children. We want to enable learning through play which is non prescriptive, where children can develop their imagination, dexterity and co ordination skills without intervention.
We believe children learn through numerous different experiences, many of these occur whilst they are playing. These can include their own body movements, seeing something for the first time or perhaps by learning from mistakes or certain cues. The progression we can see, sometimes daily, can still surprise us as parents. We want to give you the toys that can do this; from the simplest grabbing toy to the technical building of a metal motorbike, or dreaming of being a Knight who must protect the Kings Castle, all of these initiate a learning response.
Babies and young children, whose senses are maturing every day, we trust will benefit from playing with toys made from aesthetically pleasing materials which are engaging and enchanting. These experiences with different textures will enhance sensations and awaken new learning processes ultimately powered by their infinite imaginations.
We are aware of the many issues surrounding plastic toys and we wish to limit the use of plastic particularly for children’s playthings. We like to keep a focus on not only the visual qualities of wood but also the durability and health advantages because it is a living material that is a renewable and recyclable resource. As the toys are handcrafted or hand finished each one is individual. The very nature of wooden toys with their differing grains means children can play with a unique piece every time – a refreshing change in our world of mass produced items and conformity. That is why we are so proud of our toys as we believe they are safe, extremely rewarding, environmentally and child friendly and give you better value for money.
We hope you have enjoyed reading this section and learnt some more about the how and the why of Holz Toys. Feel free to e-mail us if you have any comments or advice regarding this section.