Calico Critters – Great Toys for Girls and Boys but Mostly Girls

I was lucky enough to receive some Calico Critters toys from International Playthings for my daughter to test, and I’m very excited to review them here on PlayLibrary.

First, I should mention that International Playthings is part of Grand Toys International, Inc. (NASDAQ: GRIN) and is one of the largest suppliers in the North American specialty toy industry.  The company focuses on delivering toys that are innovative and entertaining that bring excellent play value and developmental opportunities to children.  Calico Critters is one of the product lines International Playthings carries.

Now, onto the review.

My daughter received the Calico Critters Lambrook Sheep Family and an Outdoor Furniture Set for the sheep family to play in.  Calico Critters are made for children age 3 and up.  Prior to receiving the Calico Critters toys from International Playthings, I had read that the pieces in these sets are very small and can be difficult for small children to use.  I was concerned before I received the toys, but I’m happy to say that my daughter loves them and has had no problems with the small pieces (in fact, the pieces are larger than I expected they would be, which is a good thing).

The Calico Critters Lambrook Sheep Family is simply adorable.  Not only are the figures sturdy and appear to be well-made, but the clothes the characters are wearing are cute and a better quality than I expected as well.  My daughter is 3 1/2 and is too young to be able to change the characters’ clothes, but I could see an older child enjoying changing them into different outfits.

The Calico Critters Outdoor Furniture Set includes a super cool sandbox that my daughter adores.  A picnic table with umbrella, chairs, plates and cups are also included in the set as well as a tricycle.  Again, each piece is well-constructed and sturdy.  Unlike so many of the plastic toys we buy, this furniture set is made of wood (even the toy pail and shovel), and it shows in the quality.  Pieces won’t break off of these toys easily, which is a load off my mind.

Another nice thing about Calico Critters is they are a bit more boy-friendly than some similar toys.  My sons still prefer trucks and cars, but they enjoyed playing with the Outdoor Furniture Set, especially the tricycle and sandbox!

I should also mention that there is a complete backstory for all of the characters that are part of the Calico Critters line.  For example, according to the International Playthings website, the description of the Lambrook Sheep Family says:

“Everyone in the Lambrook Family loves nothing better than fresh fruit! This is not surprising, as Father Danny is in charge of the orchards in Cloverleaf Corners where he grows delicious apples and pears. Mother Barbara helps him take care of the trees, while Sister Iona and Brother Winton help with smaller jobs after school.”

Overall, I give the Calico Critters toys that my daughter tested from International Playthings two thumbs up.  In fact, I know what I’m buying her for her birthday in July…more Calico Critters!

Image source: Intplay.com