Looking for some inspirational ideas this festive season? Then how about a lovely DIY Christmas Eve Box activity that’s made with love and a sustainable gifting option too.
Giving a gift that’s eco conscious is not only good for our planet but it’s a lovely reminder that giving is also about giving back, especially where Mother Earth is concerned.
Our wooden toys have always been built with the planet in mind. Every piece is crafted from sustainable forests, using ethical manufacturing processes.
Box it Up
Here’s some lovely ideas for creating a delightful treat box for the night before the Big Day.
First up, you will need a cardboard box. Save any from any deliveries you receive or ask at your local shops. If you are planning to order some of our magical toys, then how about turning our packaging into part of the present? Most of our outer boxes are recyclable or biodegradable and also great for repurposing as part of a fun crafting session, like the one we’re going to get busy with here.
Introduce a new tradition where you decorate your box then put it under the tree for a Christmas Eve surprise or as an alternative to a traditional stocking, waiting to be filled and discovered the next morning.
You can either do this in secret or as a fun craft to enjoy together. Some ideas include:
A homemade name sign - Use recycled materials from around the home or have a good rummage through the junk drawer. Wooden lolly sticks and the flaps from used cereal packets are great for this.
Magazine collage - Bogged down by all those Christmas mags that come through the post? Cut them up and stick them on your box to make a uniquely festive design.
Paint party - Get busy with paints and crayons. Who remembers the good old potato stamp? Simply half a raw potato and cut out a shape using a knife, such as a star or square (grown up’s only job), then little ones can dip it in the paint and stamp it onto the box for an effective look.
Going for gold - You could wrap your box in used wrapping paper or add sparkle by covering with child safe glue and sprinkling with glitter.
Another option is to buy a ready made box. There are some wonderful sustainable options available. Take a look at The Tiny Box Company, for eco gift boxes and packaging in all shapes and sizes.
Here’s some lovely ideas for perfectly sized sustainable toys to pop into your box once you’ve made it. These gifts are full of traditional appeal and are sure to bring a sense of nostalgia to the celebrations.
For Babies
These wooden teething beads are just the ticket to soothe pesky sore gums and will come to their aid all season and beyond. Crafted from rubberwood, using child safe paints in pretty soft pastel colours, they are perfectly sized to pop into the box for toothless grins all round.
Or how about these sweet stacking animals sets? Little hands won’t be able to resist their charm. Hand painted in bright colours to stimulate interest and encourage dexterity, they come in a range of designs and a handy cloth storage bag for easy storage and portable play adventures.
For Toddlers
Pint sized explorers will go wild for our wooden camera and binoculars. The camera features a moving lens for realistic play adventures, perfect for ‘capturing’ all those magical moments. The handy carry strap gives it extra points too. And how about these binoculars? Just the ticket for a touch of Santa spotting in the night sky. The kaleidoscopic lenses make a surprising addition that’s sure to delight.
Check out this adorable Petit Activity Cube. It’s a sensory feast for developing minds and it certainly looks the part too. From the flaps to the spinning wheel and the xylophone too. There's so much to discover all in one petit play piece. With a compact, sturdy design and happy vibrant colours in the prettiest shades, this is one gift that is sure to provide hours of play.
For Pre-schoolers and Beyond
Our range of mini vehicles are a long standing favourite and always get a good reaction. They’re a classic toy that never goes out of style. Our extensive collection has something for everyone too. From emergency vehicles, Monte Carlo sports cars, the retro metro set and our ever popular whizzy pull back racers. A charming gift to inspire interactive play, for endless hours of fun.
Animal lovers will surely jump for joy when they unwrap our Sunny Farm Animals set. The 9 chunky play pieces feature all their favourite farmyard friends, made from repurposed wood with smooth child safe edges and delightful, hand painted detailing. Perfectly sized for small hands, they make a lovely addition to any child’s pretend play universe.
If you’re feeling extra creative, then we’ve put together a little festive gingerbread recipe that you can bake with little ones to add to your box of treats, or as thoughtful gifts for an extra home made touch.
For even more ideas, you can shop our full range of gorgeous timeless wooden treasures online. If you need further inspiration, why not get in touch with us and we’ll happily help you on your quest. Don’t forget to follow along on Instagram too.
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Wishing you a magical festive season,
With love,
Le Toy Van Family.
