Kids’ toys in Canada aren’t what they are in Germany! You’ll understand what I mean when you read this listicle about all the awesome German toys my son gets to play with while living in Germany.
Here’s a list of our favourite German toys 🧸
🚲 The Puky Bike
One of the most famous German toys for kids is the Puky Bike. This German-made bicycle brand is a common sight among children in Dusseldorf. Known for their excellent quality and sturdy build, the Puky bikes can be a bit expensive, but you can find great deals on secondhand ones like we did. We’ve managed to build a sizable collection for our son by purchasing them at flea markets, which saved us a lot of money while also providing him with some super cool top-notch bikes.
🚲 The Babboe Big
Another interesting item related to bikes in Germany is the Babboe Big (a cargo bike). While not exactly a toy, it’s a very popular type of bike that you can find here. In Dusseldorf, there’s a notable presence of cargo bikes around the city, and many cities around Germany even offer discounts for those purchasing these bicycles, making it a practical and popular choice for families.
🚗 The Bobby Car
If you live in Germany and have not heard of the Bobby Car before, you clearly have not been around many kids. The Bobby Car is a brand that kids associate with every little plastic car that they can run around with. My son has one from Puky, but he calls it a Bobby Car simply because the brand is so prominent. They all think Bobby Car is a little red plastic car they can hop on and push themselves around the house or outside.
🎵 The Toniebox
The Toniebox is one of the beloved German toys, especially here in Dusseldorf. It is a tiny little audio box that usually retails for about 70-90 euros, depending on where you purchase it. They come with little figurines that you can buy in addition, which have added songs or different stories. There are also figurines where you can go on the app and add your own songs, stories, or audio notes. This has been so popular among children here. We bought my son one for his first birthday, and he loves it. You can also stick little headphones in there so he can enjoy it without disturbing others.
🐻 The Steiff Animals
The beloved Steiff bears are well-known German toys because of the tradition of giving them as gifts for newborns. These animals, are said to last a long time, making them a cherished and enduring present for children. Many people in Germany, and even abroad, still have their Steiff bears from decades ago. Easily recognizable by the little button in the ear and the yellow tag that reads “handmade by Steiff,” these animals symbolize quality and tradition.
🦕 The Schleich Figurines
Schleich figurines are among the most popular German toys for kids. These tiny rubber or plastic figurines, featuring various animals, dragons, and dinosaurs, are prominently displayed in department stores nationwide. Although they may seem expensive, their high quality and appeal to children make them a favorite. Despite their cost, these figurines are a hit among kids, offering durable and engaging play experiences.
7. Natural Playgrounds
One of the unique features of playgrounds in Germany is their use of natural materials. Unlike in other countries, German playgrounds often incorporate wood and other natural resources to create a more sustainable and creative play environment. This approach allows for more creativity in design and provides a safer and more eco-friendly play space for children. From wooden trains to climbing parks, the playgrounds in Germany offer a wide range of natural creations for kids to enjoy, making it a truly unique and enriching experience.
8. The Matschhose
One of the quintessential items of children’s clothing in Germany is the Matschhose, which translates to “mud pants” in English. These full-body waterproof overalls are designed to allow children to play freely outdoors, even in wet and muddy conditions. With straps that go over the shoulders and bottom straps to secure the boots, the Matschhose is a practical and popular choice for keeping kids dry and comfortable during outdoor play.
Outdoor Comfort and Protection
The Matschhose allows children to explore and play in various weather conditions, including rainy and snowy days. Some options feature a fleece lining for added warmth. These versatile overalls offer both protection and comfort, making them ideal for year-round outdoor adventures.
🛴 Scooters
One of the popular modes of transportation for children in Germany is scooters. It’s not uncommon to see both children and their parents riding scooters, making it a fun and practical way to get around. Unlike in Canada, where bikes are more prevalent, scooters are the favored choice for many kids in Germany, often seen being used to commute to school. The playgrounds here are frequently filled with scooters, showcasing their popularity among young ones. It’s a charming sight to witness entire families scooting around on their little scooters, adding a delightful touch to everyday life.
📺 The Sandman and Maulwurf
In Germany, there are two beloved children’s series that have captured the hearts of many: “The Sandman” and “Maulwurf.” “The Sandman” is a mythical creature from Eastern and Western Europe, known for sprinkling magical sand in children’s eyes to help them dream wonderful dreams. This endearing character has inspired charming children’s stories and has become a cherished part of German culture. On the other hand, “Maulwurf” is a cute little mole featured in a beloved Czech series that has captivated the attention of children in Germany. With its delightful escapades and adventures, “Maulwurf” has become a fascinating and beloved character for young viewers in Germany.
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