PlanToys is a Thai wooden toy brand founded in 1981. From the beginning, its approach has centred on two ideas that still define the brand today: creating toys that support child development and reducing the environmental impact of production.
Its philosophy is summed up by the concept “Better Kids, Better World through Sustainable Play”, connecting play, development and sustainability.
What makes PlanToys different?
One of the brand’s best-known features is its use of reclaimed rubberwood. Rubber trees stop producing latex after years of cultivation, and PlanToys uses this wood to make toys instead of letting it go to waste.
The brand also uses materials and processes designed to reduce unnecessary substances. These include water-based dyes, organic pigments and adhesives with no added formaldehyde. PlanToys also reuses sawdust and wood scraps from its own production to manufacture PlanWood™, a mouldable material developed by the company.
Toys designed with child development in mind
Sustainability is not the only design criterion. PlanToys states that it works with child specialists to consider age suitability and the developmental potential of each toy.
Its range includes pretend play, construction, sorting, coordination, fine motor activities, music, vehicles, dollhouses and toys for the earliest stages. The aim is not for the toy to do many things by itself, but to leave room for children to explore, experiment, imagine and repeat.
Safety and materials
According to the brand, its toys meet or exceed European EN71 and US ASTM safety requirements. It uses water-based paints and dyes for finishes and avoids chemical preservatives in the wood.
As with any toy, always follow the recommended age and the specific instructions for each product.
A more circular approach to manufacturing
PlanToys also works to make better use of materials within its factory. PlanWood™ allows part of the sawdust and wood scraps generated during production to be reused. The company also incorporates solar and biomass energy at its facilities and studies the impact of its products from raw material to the point they leave the factory.
Why do we choose PlanToys at Bimbi Montessori?
At Bimbi Montessori, we select PlanToys because it offers well-designed, durable toys with clear play possibilities. We particularly value its combination of open-ended play, material quality and attention to the manufacturing process.
Not every wooden toy is Montessori, nor does it need to be. What matters is what each material offers: whether it encourages active exploration, suits the child’s stage, makes sense in everyday play and can be used in different ways.
In our PlanToys selection you will find options for different ages and types of play, from early manipulation to pretend play and construction.
