The toys which surround children in their early years can have a profound effect on their developing skills, creativity and imagination. Freya Jaffke, an experienced kindergarten teacher, explores the nature of children's play and shows how different toys are suitable for different ages. The book has instructions for making a wide variety of toys, from simple knotted animals and playcloths, to a dollshouse, a play store, puppets, boats and trains, and many varieties of dolls. Presented in a clear step-by-step way, all the instructions are fully described and illustrated. Parents and teachers will find inspiration and helpful guidance in this practical handbook.

Author Biography

Freya Jaffke was born in 1937. She worked at Reutlingen kindergarten in Germany for many years and now lectures throughout the world in teacher training colleges. She is the author of fourteen books on children's play and development and has sold over a quarter of a million copies worldwide.