Eco-Friendly Toys
f the past year has taught us anything, it’s that eco-friendly toys are not going anywhere. On the contrary, the number of manufacturers in the category is getting bigger, as the type of playthings that are deemed green continues to expand. Most interestingly, whereas past years saw eco-friendly toys mostly aimed at especially young children, this year’s showcase includes an item for older kids, and even one suitable for teenagers and adults. Is the category of eco-friendly toys growing up? Only time will tell. ●
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With the Crumple Bear Kit, from UNCOMMON GOODS, the most basic of materials become the “bear” essentials for an upcycled teddy bear. The DIY kit comes with a custom pattern, detailed instructions for users ages 14 and up, and all the materials needed to craft a bear, including the craft paper from the packaging, as well as the decorative accent paper from the instructions. The kit also works with any paper that is sturdy, but not too thick.
UNCLE GOOSE will add a spacethemed range, the Odd Galaxy Space Collection, to its line of handcrafted alphabet blocks. Available this January, products will include Cosmo Kid, Moon Rover, and Lunar Rocket. All of Uncle Goose’s blocks are made from sustainable basswood sourced in the Midwest, predominantly in Michigan, with non-toxic inks. Lunar Rocket
DECEMBER/JANUARY 2015
The Wishbone Bike, from WISHBONE, is now available in the eco-friendly Recycled Edition. This bike is made from 100-percent recycled plastic, taken from preloved, residential carpet, which has been collected and shaved to remove the backing. After being shredded, the carpet is turned into little resin pellets, which are molded into a bike frame. The Wishbone Bike is recommended for kids ages 1 to 6.
The Jungle Fun Activity Cart is the latest eco-friendly toddler toy from ALEX TOYS. Intended for early walkers ages 1 and up (adult assembly required), it features spinning gears, a peek-a-boo mirror, turning tiles, a curvy maze, a xylophone, a wooden mat, and more. All of the cart’s wooden pieces are grown through sustainable practices, while the final product incorporates water-based varnish and soy ink.
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SPECIALTY TOYS & GIFTS