If you long for a simpler, more old-fashioned play experience for your kids (or are tired of replacing batteries in obnoxiously loud toys) then INQUISITIVEkid.ca is your kind of shop. Started in 2007 by local parents of two, Peter Emmenegger and Peggy Hlobil-Emmenegger, this online boutique features collections of natural wooden toys, handmade dolls, and beautifully designed modern furniture.
Frustrated by a lack of “developmentally appropriate” toys after their first daughter was born, Peter and Peggy literally made it their business to find alternative toys to meet their needs. Peter, who runs the online toyshop, has strict criteria for which products they’ll sell. For example, “cute” just doesn’t cut it at INQUISITIVEkid. While the dolls and tiny, hand-sculpted wooden animals certainly qualify as cute, they’re also made with quality in mind.
“Everything we sell has to be well-made, come from a reputable company, and be non-branded,” Peter explains, adding, “and nothing that requires a battery.” True to this, you won’t find a single recognizable brand emblazoned on any of the toys they carry, or the need for AA batteries. There are wooden blocks for a wide range of ages, the play tower (a boy’s version of a dollhouse) is simple yet engaging, and kids can draw to their heart’s content with the colourful beeswax crayons.
At a time when ‘eco’ is becoming a tired buzzword, INQUISITIVEkid offers another take on what it means to be green. “The key thing is to look at the lifespan of something,” Peter says. “If an item can go on to the next generation, well that’s definitely a ‘green’ toy.” The wooden cube sets are made with sustainable and non-toxic wood, and each doll takes up to 36 hours to make. Their products carry the heirloom feel, and are made to last. No broken plastic pieces to contend with, and craftsmanship that makes it likely they’ll get packed away for the next generation of kids.
Most products come from Europe, although the stylish beds (single and bunk bed versions) are designed by Peggy, an architect, and constructed in Canada. And it’s not just a toy and furniture shop, kids will love the cozy felt slippers, and parents will appreciate the cowhide mitts, which are Canadian-made and extra tough for winter play.
INQUISITIVE kid: www.inquisitivekid.ca