A summer birthday opens up a whole new world of play possibilities, From versatile toy ideas that are perfect for taking outdoors, to treasures that evoke memories of happy sunny days. Read on to discover our top gift picks for sunny celebrations, ready to inspire young imaginations for when the temperatures soar.
Into the Wild
As we head into that glorious season, where the kinder weather tempts us to spend more time outside, what are the benefits to be gained from outdoor play for young learners?
A good old dose of vitamin D (taking care to apply sunscreen and appropriate protection to delicate skin), improving physical health through increased activity, reducing exposure to screen time and encouraging creativity are just some of the many plus points.
Fresh air is also vital for maintaining our body's Circadian Rhythm, which regulates our waking and sleeping patterns. Just the ticket for getting little ones into a good sleep routine.
Roll up, roll up
For kiddies who are lucky enough to have the weather to host a birthday party in the open air (be sure to plan around the forecast, it is Blighty afterall) then how about using their birthday gifts as props for a themed celebration to remember? This eye popping Ice Cream Trolley has British Seaside Resort written all over it. A stunning showstopper gift, its nostalgic design conjures up happy holiday memories and days down at the beach. Serve up tasty sandwiches cut into triangles, a selection of delicious cakes and traditional ice cream cones. Add a picnic blanket, strings of bunting and tableware in pretty pastel shades, and get ready to let the good times roll.
Don’t forget to add this tasty Ice Creams Toy or cute Ice Cream Machine for an extra scoop of playtime fun.
Lights, Camera, Action
Put on a performance with the incredible Showtime Puppet Theatre, crafted from durable, sustainable wood and handpainted in an eye-catching red and gold theme. The ultimate birthday gift, this beauty can be used indoors and taken outside on dry days. Invite mini guests to their very own Movie Premiere Party with printed invitations in a Hollywood theme and ask them to dress up for the occasion. Add a red carpet, blankets, squashy cushions and serve up hotdogs and popcorn. Complete the scene with the Hollywood Film Camera and Popcorn Machine, used as fun play props for everyone to discover.
Ticket to Ride
For young riders, this adorable Ride on Deer makes an excellent choice. This sustainable stunner is crafted from eco friendly, solid rubberwood and hand painted in pretty pastel hues, for a ride that’s built to last. The sturdy rubber wheels make it ideal to tackle outdoor terrain too. A wonderful birthday gift for guaranteed wheelie good fun.
Budding transport enthusiasts will love our extensive range of mini vehicles. These timeless classics are ready and raring to go for some good old fashioned fun. Check out these Construction Cars and Metro Retro Car Sets. And, for extended creative play, the interactive Race Car Transporter scores maximum points from us.
Create an instant outdoor play paradise with our lightweight, ready to roll out activity mats, the perfect complement to our vehicles collections. Complete with town and cityscapes to explore, they are just the ticket to spread out in the back garde, ready for mini play dates and tiny adventures.
Take a peek at our best selling Wooden Train Sets too. Take your pick from The Royal Express Set or this striking London themed stunner. These imaginative toys are easily transportable, thanks to their clever design. Complete with connecting tracks and an array of accessories, they can be dismantled, stored away neatly and re-built for endless play possibilities.
Dolls World
This Sweet Dreams Doll Pram makes a wonderful gift for summer babes. A beautiful toy that will encourage toddlers to step outside for a stroll, this gorgeous traditional style wooden pram oozes style and charm. Its vintage inspired design and pretty pastel colourway give it some serious curb appeal. Don’t forget the co-ordinating Doll Nursing Set, complete with change bag, and a host of accessories including a bottle, bib, nappy and baby food. A wonderful toy to teach young ones how to care for and look after their dolls and soft toy friends.
For inquisitive toddlers, simply pop this amazing Activity Toy Table out on the lawn and get ready for a dose of fun. A ready-made entertainment station, this educational gem offers a real feast for the senses with its multitude of interactive features. It will be sure to keep busy little bees entertained for hours on end, giving you time to enjoy some time outdoors with them too.
Down on the Farm
Little animal lovers are bound to fall for our Sunny Farm Animals Set, a delightful toy to introduce little learners to the wonderful world of animals. Featuring nine hand painted wooden pieces including goose, cow, pig, lamb, chick and more. Pair with our amazing Wooden Toy Farmyard or the Red Barn Farm Toy for inspired playtime adventures.
That’s all for now. We hope you enjoyed this little read and wish your mini explorers many happy returns for their special day.
You can shop our beautiful collection of sustainable wooden toys and treasures at our online store. From early learning, traditional dolls houses, classic toys, roleplay and play foods, children’s furniture and more. Our beloved curation is waiting to be discovered, with unique pieces that inspire the magic of childhood, through a lifetime of play.
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A little bit about us
We’re Le Toy Van. A big hearted, honest talking family business with a lifelong passion for creating traditional wooden toys.
Georges Le Van, our founder, created the first ever Le Toy Van toy, our beloved wooden Dolls House, over 25 years ago.
Our team of talented toy makers design right here in the UK. And, we only partner with ethical manufacturers where every piece is mindfully made, crafted from solid, repurposed wood. Read the full story.