1. Is this toy meaningful for my child at their stage of life?

Not every toy is meant for every child, and that’s a good thing.

A teething baby doesn’t need flashing lights, just something simple and safe to gnaw on. A curious toddler craves hands-on exploration. And a preschooler? They’re ready for toys that invite storytelling, role play, and problem-solving.

The most meaningful gifts meet a childwhere they are and gently support who they’re becoming.Think:

• A personalized wooden name puzzle that celebrates a new baby’s name — and strengthens letter recognition as they grow.
  

• A classic wooden rattle that soothes sore gumsand becomes a cherished keepsake.
  

• A simple toy that opens the door to imaginative adventures again and again.
  

The best part? These gifts aren’t just developmentally thoughtful. They often become part of a child’s earliest memories. That’s a kind of magic that can’t be wrapped in plastic.

2. Will this toy last, physically and emotionally?

We’ve all seen it: a toy that dazzles for five minutes… then ends up at the bottom of the toy bin (or worse, the trash bin).

When you’re choosing a gift for a little one, ask yourself:

• Will this hold up to years of love and play?
  

• Could it still matter years from now?
  

Durability isn’t just about materials, though that’s certainly part of it. (Our toys are handmade from sustainably harvested American hardwoods and finished with organic oil — no paints, stains, or plastic.) It’s also aboutemotional longevity.

Will this toy:

• Be part of their daily routine?
  

• Show up in their photos and milestones?
  

• Earn a place of pride on display after they’ve outgrown it?
  

At Smiling Tree Toys, we craft each toy we make as“a keepsake they’ll love long after childhood.” That’s the kind of gift worth giving.

3. Does this gift reflect the values I want to pass on?

Every gift we give tells a story about who we are, what we care about, and what we hope for the little ones in our lives.

That story might be about:

• Choosing quality over quantity.
  

• Valuing imagination over mindless consumption.
  

• Supporting small makers and handmade goods.
  

• Giving sustainably for the planet and future generations.
  

Think about sourcing gifts from makers that share your values. For example, our wooden toys are plastic-free, purposefully minimal, and handmade in our family’s woodshop on the Minnesota prairie. We also plant a tree for every toy sold through ourBuy. Plant. Grow. program, helping restore deforested lands and teaching the next generation about giving back.

When you give a Smiling Tree toy, you’re not just inspiring play. You’re inspiring values in the most joyful, child-friendly way possible.

Thoughtful Gifts Create Lasting Stories

Gift-giving for kids can be joyful, yes, but also deeply meaningful when done with care. By asking these three questions, you’re already on the path to choosing something more than just a toy.

You’re choosing:

• A memory in the making.
  

• A keepsake to treasure.
  

• A small, tangible reflection of the love you hold for that child.
  

And that? That’s the best kind of gift.

Looking for a toy that tells a story, sparks joy, and honors your values?

Start here! Explore our collection of handmade wooden toys and gifts, made with intention and ready to be part of your child’s best playtimes.

Plus, if you're wondering how to encourage friends and family to give sustainably to your child, we've come up with a few helpful rhymes  to send out as friendly reminders.

Give wisely, give well, and enjoy the memories!