Down to Earth Toys: Labyrinth Balance Board Junior Review

I’m always on the lookout for new online retailers that carry quality eco-friendly toys that promote creative, educational play…but I’ll admit, it always gets a little worse in November.

In fact, it might be accurate to say I get “toy fever.” Yeah, I never thought it would happen to me, the former GRINCH! But hey, holiday gifts are important, right? Especially when you’re an energetic 3-year-old and it’s your last holiday as an only child! (I just might be tempted to spoil my little man a little bit this year.)

This year, my hunt led me to a particularly fun treasure: Down to Earth Toys. They carry a really extensive selection of safe, non-toxic, truly interesting and unique wooden toys for girls and boys…and 90% of them are toys made in USA! (That’s a great plus that often seems like too much to ask, don’t you think?)

The folks at Down to Earth are dedicated to running a sustainable, ecologically sound business so as to leave as little impact on the Earth as possible. They do it for the future of my children and yours, and I think that’s quite a gift!

Speaking of gifts, we were thrilled to receive a gift for our little guy’s birthday from Down to Earth Toys. They carry such fun, unique stuff that I would have loved almost anything from their site, but the Labyrinth Balance Board Junior really floored me. This is one of the most well-made and ingenious toys we’ve been lucky enough to find!

It starts with a durable plywood board covered with a laminate, and 3 colored wooden balls.

The idea is that your child stands on the board, which has a balance ball on the bottom, and tries to maneuver the balls through the maze.

Yes, the toenails are blue. He’s a punk rocker, and he’ll tell you so.

Simple, right? Anything but! My son has been having a blast on this thing, and I don’t see him stopping any time soon. This board not only allows him to be physically active inside the house during the winter months when he’s restless and bored, but it also teaches him balance, coordination and problem-solving.

It’s not easy to get a photo when he can’t stop moving!

As his mom, I like that it’s got a non-slip surface to keep him from sliding off, as well as the cute little touches that make it unique.

Love the logo design in the middle – It adds some sweet personality.

You won’t find detail and craftsmanship like that on any Wal-Mart toy! Of all the features I love about the Labyrinth Balance Board Junior, I’d have to say my favorite thing about it is the timeless design that will allow me to pass this on to our little girl someday. Plastic junk toys are throwaways. Toys like this? Heirlooms, for sure. Dare I imagine my grandchildren playing on it someday? My heart grows two sizes just thinking about it.

The Labyrinth Balance Board Junior is available at DowntoEarthToys.com ($62.50) While you’re there, be sure to check out their entire selection of natural toys!