My sister-in-law is having a baby in July. So, of course, as a doting aunt I’m always on the look-out for something wonderful and handmade for my soon-to-debut nephew. And, being a mom myself, I know that a newborn’s innate instinct, and the one that stays with a child well into toddler-hood, is to “get it and put it in your mouth”. Tiny fists, toes, mommy’s chin, and car keys work, but really, nothing compares to a good wooden teether. I found some at Little Alouette { previously interviewed here } that are smooth, satisfying, and thoroughly gnaw-able.
The shop owners, Joe and Amy Sharp, are a writer and master carpenter who have joined forces in life and in business to create a line of delightful teethers, rattles and toys for babies and toddlers. Incidentally, they also happen to have one of the most endearing shop profiles I’ve read in a while. I love it when parents create a business for their own children, because the love shows through in each product. Little Alouette crafts wee gifts using quality materials and master techniques, and with a parent’s eye and heart for what a little one needs and wants most.
I also like that these toys will serve a child’s needs from infancy on. First as teethers, then for make-believe fun. Bunnies, fishies, even a group of dinosaurs are available to inspire imaginative play. I am personally enchanted by the Egg Shakers. Talk about super-sensory stimulation. From the smooth surface, to the swirly wood grain, to the discovery of “music” with every shake, I have a feeling that even adults might have a hard time keeping their hands off this one.
Visit their shop and check out all of their beautiful offerings. And be sure to look into their Wood of the Month Subscriptions. They’ll ship out a parcel every month for three months. I am so going to be the World’s Coolest Aunt after this.
