The Playstore Natural Toys

The Playstore. Quality wooden and natural toys for creative and imaginative play

People are often surprised that The Playstore is not part of a national group chain or a subsidiary of a large corporation. In fact, a small group of moms work to create The Playstore. And like many of you, we also have young children, ranging in age from two to twelve. Ten years ago, we opened our store in northern California. We were happy to find many parents in our local community who also wanted well-made, open-ended toys for their children. Now, thanks to you, The Playstore has become a leading resource in our greater community of families who share this common bond. At The Playstore, we evaluate a toy based on its play value, quality, integrity, and impact on the environment. The mark of a great toy -- one worth owning -- is a toy that satisfies all four of these criteria. We have not compromised in any of our choices of toys for this catalog. Nothing is included simply because there is no other option. What is here is truly the best.

play value A well-made, open-ended toy will grow with your child, serving one purpose at first, then another as your child grows and changes. Playthings that have few adult-prescribed uses and rely on your child's imagination instead, are known as open-ended toys. A few thoughtfully chosen toys will likely have more play value than a room full of uninteresting toys.

quality Only toys that are finely crafted and durable can last through years of play and fulfill the idea of play value. We make sure that what we present has that endurance. Simplicity and beauty are also important. When a toy appeals to all of the senses, it is that much more valuable, and that much less likely to be tossed aside. The materials used to make our toys are safe, natural, and nontoxic.

integrity You will find no toys here from questionable labor sources or companies with poor environmental records. The people who make our toys are paid true living wages and are able to support themselves and their families with their skills. The cost reflects this, and the true value lies in the lasting quality, durability, and fun of the product.

impact Choosing wood over plastic is not only an aesthetic decision. The more we learn about the effects of long-term exposure to plastic byproducts, the more it reinforces that we need to make other choices. To keep it simple, we avoid the use of plastics any time a reasonable alternative exists. We support reforestation projects, and many of our toy makers are actively involved in replanting what they harvest.