SpielWerk is a concept culminated over decades of work in the child development field and the experience gleaned from a tiny eek of a toy shop we ran in the 90s called Queen Mab. Back then we collaborated with local makers to produce toys and baby clothing using only reclaimed wood and biodynamic cotton. Since ‘88 our founder has worked with children in child development centers, preschools, camps and in clinical settings, closely studying children at play.

From the youngest age Stacee was drawn to kids and could sense how children were taking in the world. At the same time, she was developing a love for traditional toys––exposed early in life by family with German handcraft collections and rare mint 1950s toys hoarded in an attic space. These toys were of course ‘not to touch,’ so the joke has always been that she just had to go build a toy store of her own!;D

Stacee has a background in early childhood development and sensory integration, so we apply this knowledge to every toy we stock. We understand neurodiversity and how toys play a role in sensory work and healing. It is important to us to pair toys with interests and needs, but most of all, to prioritize toys that last the duration of childhood.

Toys are an investment, especially well-made toys. We’re here to help you navigate your choices so you buy only what you need. Buy Less, Play More––a motto we’ve stood by for years.