the reading nook

14% Off Easter Gifts With Code Easter14

NEW Keepsake Blocks!

Smiling Tree Toy's Keepsake blocks continue to be among our best sellers, and for good reason. Handcrafted in our family's wood shop on the Minnesota Prairie, and using only the highest quality sustainable products, these blocks will be treasured by your loved ones for decades to come.

September 05, 2018
2 min read

Preparing for Back to School

It's hard to believe that summer is nearing an end and it's time to go back to school. This year, I'm making it my mission to ensure our new school-year routine goes smoothly and I send the kids off to school with smiles on their faces! Consider it my "New School Year Resolution" :)

August 15, 2018
5 min read

wooden animal alphabet blocks made in the usa

Turn Story Time into a Party

In our house, we love to read, so we often take story time to the next level by incorporating something that relates to the book we're reading. This can mean baking a special treat, creating a piece of art, or, in today's case, introducing a special toy while we're paging through a book!

August 06, 2018
1 min read

Birthday Gifts for 1 Year Olds

A child's first birthday is such an important milestone. I wanted to mark the occasion with meaningful gifts that my son would treasure for many years to come. Here's my list of the best gifts for one year olds.

July 29, 2018
4 min read

NEW | HeartFELT™ Push Toys

New HeartFELT™ Push Toys featuring 100% real wool felt inlays on our wood toys, handmade and personalized by Smiling Tree Toys!

July 17, 2018
1 min read

Meet Justin (a Father's Day tribute)

Happy Father's Day! On this very special day, I (Kathleen) want to give a special shout out to Justin: father of four, husband, my partner in life and business, and the talented woodworker behind Smiling Tree Toys.