PARTNER PROFILE: PLAN TOYS

Plan Toys is an award-winning toy manufacturer located in Thailand and a leader in eco-friendly manufacturing. Founded 40 years ago by seven university graduates, the company has received numerous accolades for their innovative products and excellence in environmental management and green manufacturing processes.

THE STORY BEHIND THE TOYS

Plan Toys was the first company in the world to manufacture toys using reclaimed rubberwood, a sustainable by-product from rubber trees that no longer produce latex. This saves the trees from being burned and means the company never has to cut down trees for production.

Even sawdust is repurposed: a product called PlanWood is created from leftover sawdust and used in some of their puzzles and other toys.

They have also developed water-based and non-toxic dyes and finishes, and they continue to look for ways to be environmentally responsible and sustainable, not only in their manufacturing process but also through unique environmental and educational campaigns.

Plan Toys’ range of toys and games is primarily geared to ages from newborns to 3 years. All of their designs are inspired by the Montessori method: self-directed play that encourages children to use their creativity and imagination. Children have the freedom to learn and develop while making mistakes and solving problems.

The company works with specialists to determine the age-appropriateness of each toy and what developmental skills it can nurture throughout the design process.

WHY PLAN TOYS ARE SPECIAL

Plan Toys’ designs are classic and durable. Each piece feels solid and sturdy, smooth and natural in your hand. The colours are beautiful and appealing. These toys are as delightful to look at as they are to handle. They are completely safe for young children and for the environment. And, they are easy to clean – just wipe down with a cloth dampened with water and dry off.

Besides the engaging and imaginative selection of toys and games, what sets Plan Toys apart is their active role in the community. Close to 75% of their manufacturing materials are sourced within 30 kilometres of their factory, which helps the local economy and reduces energy consumption and their carbon footprint from transportation. They have also been involved with several projects designed to benefit society, including:

• Plan Toys Children's Museum, which displays toys from the past and present from around the world
• Forest of Play, a nature-inspired developmental play space in nearly 64,000 square metres in Trang, Thailand
• Sarnsaeng-Arun Foundation, established in 1997 to highlight the significance of public libraries, parks and sustainable living
• Plan Loves Forest reforestation initiative with the goal of preserving and restoring watershed forests while cultivating environmental awareness and accountability

Thinkamajigs offers a curated selection of Plan Toys products to engage your child’s curiosity and spark the imagination, while expanding their knowledge and skills – click to explore our range. If you have questions about any of the products we carry, please contact us at 1-800-363-3013 or by clicking here.