Lovely childcare

Make it with wood! A collection of easy DIY toy ideas!

20 years of experience as a nursery teacher / kindergarten teacherhiyoko sensei
I’m Hiyoko-sensei, a former nursery school teacher from Hyogo Prefecture. Ever since I was five, my dream was to become a childcare worker, and before I knew it, 20 years had passed since I achieved that dream. Through singing and playing with the children, I kept working with the spirit of someone in their twenties, even as I increasingly felt my physical limits year by year (haha). From here on, I’d like to share helpful information carefully and thoughtfully, drawing on my on-site experience.

This time, we’re introducing toys made of wood.

These days, there are many toys on the market made from materials that don’t easily break when dropped and with designs that catch children’s eyes.

Amidst that, we’ve focused on traditional wooden toys and gathered lots of ideas for handmade creations.

It’s said that wood’s natural warmth and pleasant feel stimulate children’s senses and give them a sense of security.

You can now easily buy supplies at home improvement stores, so give it a try and make some yourself!

Made of Wood! A Collection of Easy DIY Toy Ideas! (11–20)

display shelf

Decorative shelf made with tree branches • Zero material cost • Easy handmade • Small decor ❤︎ DIY/tutorial/branch/small shelf/craft ❤︎ #698

display shelf

Let’s make a display shelf using branches from a cherry tree, which is also Japan’s national flower.

First, slice a thicker branch into cross-sections to create the base and shelf pieces.

Next, choose the branches that will serve as the shelf supports and cut the ends horizontally.

Fix the support branches to the base, then attach the previously sliced branch pieces to the horizontally cut ends.

Allow it to dry until everything is firmly secured, and you’ll have a display shelf showcasing beautiful growth rings! Adjust the number of support branches and the size of the shelf pieces to create a design that suits your taste.

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Let’s make a rocking horse!

[Parent-Child Craft] When summer vacation comes, let’s make a wooden rocking horse!

Let's make a rocking horse!

Here’s an idea for a sawbuck: cross two 1-meter pieces of wood and fasten them with screws, then attach a 50 cm piece horizontally as the step to complete it.

Depending on the region, it’s also called a “yattoko.” The building process is simple, so even beginners in woodworking can make it.

Key points: when crossing the two pieces, make sure the outer edges of the wood don’t extend past the rider’s shoulders.

Also, if you place the step too high, it becomes difficult to mount, so for a beginner-friendly version, attach it at a lower position.

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In conclusion

Have you found the toy you want to make? There are many types and kinds of wood, so choose one that suits what you’re making.

If you’re using tools like cutters or saws, please keep safety in mind and enjoy making a wonderful wooden toy!