Following on last month's newsletter about natural fibers, we had the pleasure of talking with Bridgitte from Natural Pod to learn more about natural toys and natural play.

Natural Pod is a great online store based out of Vancouver BC, featuring natural play items that nurture creative and imaginative play.  Read on to hear more about it:

What made you start Natural Pod?
The biggest motivation for starting our company was that we were unable to find these types of products at stores for our children.  As parents we realized how difficult it is to find safe, natural, non-toxic baby and children's products.  As we talked to other parents on our search, we realized other families were running into the same problem, so we started to source these items around the world. 

How do you choose your products?
We really enjoy sourcing our products and much of what we have chosen has grown organically from our own children at their different stages.

One main factor is that the products are made from natural materials such as wood, wool and organic fabrics. The other main factor is that the toys inspire creative and imaginative play.  Unlike a lot of current toys where the child is basically entertained at the push of a button, we choose toys where kids have to use their imaginations to create their play.

How do you check the safety of the products?
We investigate the dyes and varnishes used on the toys to make sure they are 100% safe, and non-toxic dyes and finishes.  We look at products that use for example a bees wax or natural oil finish rather than a toxic varnish.  And our fabrics are often dyed with natural plant dyes instead of something synthetic.  We have had to do a lot of learning about dyes, finishes, paints and varnishes to make sure we are making the best possible decisions about the products we choose.

Are wooden toys more prone to bacteria?
This is an interesting misconception a lot of people seem to have.  Wood is, in fact, naturally anti-bacterial.  As with any toy, just washing them and allowing them to dry keeps them safely clean.  As well, the great thing with wood toys is they can be lightly sanded and re-waxed or oiled to be just like new.

What are your most popular items?
For the different age groups we have different favorites:
Babies: the organic blanket dolls (these wool dolls can hold the scent of mom to be extra comforting!), teething rings, and teething necklaces and sheep skin booties

Toddlers: natural stacking balls, chalk, large building blocks and felt fruit and veggies

Children: bees wax crayons, all dolls, wooden bikes (2 and up) and our wooden cash register

What is the vision for your company?
As part of our vision we are very interested in helping to educate the community on the great benefits of natural toys and on the importance of imaginative, creative play.

We are also starting an initiative to source products from stay at home families who have unique products.  We love the idea of supporting other family-run businesses. 

To learn more about Natural Pod, visit www.naturalpod.com

A heads-up if you live in the Vancouver BC area, Natural Pod is hosting a "live store" event:
Time: 12.00pm - 3.00pm
Where: Vancouver Waldorf School, Early Childhood Center
2725 St Christophers Road North Vancouver, BC

Natural Pod also offers pre-ordering on their website.  By doing this customers can collect their order at this event. Just select 'pick up at next event' at check-out.