Animal Toys

Most wooden animal figures suit children from around 12 months upwards, once mouthing risk reduces. Simpler, chunkier pieces work well for toddlers from one to three, while detailed sets with smaller parts are better from age three. Always check the specific age guide on each product before buying.

Wood is heavier and more satisfying to handle than plastic, which matters more than it sounds during play. Wooden toys do not crack or splinter the way cheap plastic does, they age gracefully, and they carry none of the environmental baggage of single-use plastic. A well-made wooden animal toy can genuinely be passed to the next generation.

Jaques uses non-toxic paints and finishes on all its wooden toys. Pieces intended for younger children are sized and tested to avoid small-part choking hazards. That said, always check the minimum age on each individual product, since sets with finer details are designed for older children and are not appropriate for babies.

Wipe wooden animal toys with a lightly damp cloth and dry them straight away. Never submerge wood in water or put it through a dishwasher, as prolonged moisture causes warping and can lift painted finishes. For stubborn marks, a tiny amount of mild soap on a damp cloth works well. Store in a dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve the colour.

Think about what the child is already drawn to: farm animals suit younger children who enjoy role play and recognise the animals, while wildlife sets appeal to curious older children building knowledge of the natural world. A single beautifully made figure can be just as welcome as a full set. When in doubt, a classic farm or woodland collection suits most ages from two upwards.

Heirloom quality means the toy survives years of hard play and still looks good enough to hand on. Look for solid wood rather than MDF or compressed board, painted details that are sealed rather than just surface-coated, and smooth edges with no rough joins. Jaques has been making toys since 1795, and that longevity comes from using materials and construction methods that simply hold up over time.

Yes, and often more effectively than electronic alternatives. Handling wooden animals builds fine motor skills and grip strength in younger children. Sorting by size, habitat or type introduces early categorisation and language. Open-ended play with animal figures, building scenes and stories, develops creativity and social skills in ways that screen-based toys rarely match. There is no battery required and no narrative imposed on the child.