Add is a Holztiger wooden squirrel figure one of many wooden ones that we own - the others being the Ostheimer brand. I am often asked why I prefer this type of play thing especially with the cost implications (they are not cheap) Its easy really ..they have much more depth and tactile qualities than the plastic equivalent. But it does go beyond that - their weight and size are just right for little hands and they are very robust and very very long lasting. More importantly if they do receive some damage they can be repaired rather than binned.
This is for me a very important point, I intend to teach my pixies that toys, just like a lot of things in life, are not actually disposable and deserve respect and care. A damaged figure can be sanded, repaired and still be a valued playmate, and in fact the children can be involved in this process. My African animal set (Ostheimer) has been with us a very long time.How many broken plastic toys can be retrieved or treasured in this way....?
These figures can also be washed, and then waxed with simple beeswax which then provides a treat for the sense of smell too. Win win on all the senses.
My source for these great toys is usually Myriad, and I have a habit of buying just one or two every month or two, works out cheaper than a daily hit of chocolate or two weekly visits to the coffee shop, and actually feels more rewarding somehow.
More details here
