Beyond books: New toy library brings joy to children

The Milkwood Toy Library’s new space was officially opened last week. It is located at the Wild Wild West Playpark in the Gants Centre in the Strand, Western Cape. Similar to books in a traditional library, children from the Helderberg area can borrow toys from the toy library for up to three months.

What are the benefits of a toy library?

Toy libraries provide play resources to communities. In addition to giving less-fortunate children access to toys that they would otherwise not have the opportunity to enjoy, there are many other benefits to a toy library, including the following:

Toys provide educational benefits by supporting child development.
Members of the library can be part of a shared economy.
It is a great way to pass on unwanted toys to children who can enjoy them. This reduces clutter in your home while bringing joy to a child.
The novelty of a specific toy often wears off after a while for most children. Borrowing toys from the toy library eliminates this issue.
It is a cost-effective option for parents as they do not have to constantly buy new toys.
By borrowing toys from the toy library people reuse toys instead of dumping them. This results in fewer toys ending up in landfills. Therefore, the impact on the environment is reduced.
It minimises the effects of consumerism on children.
Children have the opportunity to enjoy new toys every two weeks.
It encourages children to play more and spend less time in front of screens like the TV, computer, or cell phones.

The Milkwood Toy Library

The Milkwood Toy Library has a variety of toys ranging from puzzles and board games to toys for children who enjoy science and music.

They also host play sessions where children can play at the library, creating an opportunity for them to interact with other children.

“By offering toys, games and play sessions, we hope that each one that enters our toy library feels excited about play.”
Lize Marais, founder

Lize Marais. Source: facebook/milkwoodtoylibrary

The library was previously located in Gordon’s Bay where it opened its doors last year, but due to generous donations, it was necessary to move to a bigger venue.