Fortunately for her, the twins have taken an interest in the colorful clutch ball that she just bought from Shumee, a sustainable toy company. “My twins love the colours,” she says, going on to add that the unique design of the ball makes it easy to grasp. “It is by far their favorite toy.” Aarthi is one of the many mothers who can heave a sigh of relief and take a break in the midst of a chaotic day. And making this possible is a sustainable and safe toy brand founded by a mother. Meeta Sharma Gupta launched Shumee in 2016 as an attempt towards helping kids develop their cognitive and motor skills while they played.

“None of this was planned,” says Meeta in conversation with The Better India, as she recounts her journey from the portals of Harvard University to Delhi where she launched the brand.

My Quest For Safe Toys

Post completing a BTech from IIT Delhi, Meeta went on to pursue her PhD at Harvard University. Though the now 45-year-old had a lucrative career awaiting her, she says she felt the need to move closer to family, and so in 2012, she returned to her hometown in Delhi.

As a young mother, Meeta was constantly on the lookout for toys she could buy for her kids but felt at a loss. This was because she was looking for toys that were designed sustainably and in ways that could help develop her younger kid’s cognitive skills just like the ones her older kid had grown up playing with, in the US. “The toys here were either made from plastic or had small parts that rendered them unsafe for little kids. On the trips that I continued to make to the US, where I was working with IBM, I started bringing back toys.”

It was during this time that Meeta realised if she couldn’t source the right toys in India, why not create them?

She says that the possibility excites her. “Even though I did not have the technical training to design toys, I wanted to come up with a brand that would produce toys of good quality and at affordable prices.”

The brand is the result of a mother’s desire to provide creative outlets for her children through its selection of toys that aid in the development of their cognitive and motor skills.

Holistic Growth Through Toys

Meeta goes on to say that there are a number of bestsellers at Shumee, each aimed at a different age group. “The rattles for babies are made out of neem wood and the colours are done with cloth fabric. They double as teethers too. Meanwhile, for toddlers, we have paediatrician-approved push walkers made out of neem, which help to develop the child’s motor skills. The child will enjoy playing with it because it has little drums on it. One of the most fascinating toys, however, is the 5-in-1 activity triangle. The triangle-shaped toy has abacus-coloured beads which help in colour recognition and counting, alphabets that help with uppercase and lowercase association, a clock on one side that helps with time recognition, gears for fine motor development, and a blackboard to scribble.”

In addition, there are a wide variety of puzzles and board games for kids to choose from that are based on familiar tales but depict them in a novel way. “For instance, you may recall the story of the thirsty crow from the Jataka tales. We’ve brought it back in the form of a game with wooden crows and handcrafted beads that symbolise the water. It’s a one-of-a-kind game wherein we have tried to match the play elements in the artistic form.”

The toys at Shumee are safe and made out of different kinds of plant wood — neem, mango, and birch being the most popular options. Birch ply is used to make stronger toys like the rocking horse, which can be passed down from one generation to the next. However, Meeta says that it has been hard to keep the message that playing with toys helps you learn new skills. “It is tough to find a middle ground between manufacturing toys that promote skill building while continuing to retail at competitive prices. But it has been a wonderful journey.”

Through the years, Meeta has not only focused on building a sustainable toy brand but also a community of mothers for whom the platform is a safe space. Through blogs, articles and sessions, mothers are helped with understanding how to engage with their kids in a myriad of activities that do not involve screens, and how playing can be made fun.

Shumee has gone from a simple concept to a multi-million dollar brand in record time. As Meeta witnesses the community scaling while more toys and games are added to the ever-growing list, she emphasises, “Play is a child’s superpower. There are wonders that can happen with the right toys.”

Meeta says, “People often think these toys are imported because of their quality.” She thinks this is great because it is exactly the standard she wanted to set. She adds that the colours are certified non-toxic paints and all the materials are certified by American, European and Indian standards. “We also have an in-house lab to check the physical parameters of the toys such as the choking hazards and tensile strength.”

The post After Her PhD At Harvard, How This Mum Started A Multi-Crore Sustainable Toy Business appeared first on School Boy Care.

The Best Brands Of Toys To Watch Out For

If you are looking for the best toy brands to buy educational or playsets for your kids, here are the top famous toy brands in India that offer high-quality products for your little ones.

Shumee

Shumee is the best toy brand for kids aged 1-6, offering a wide range of wooden toys, puzzles, and educational products. They are dedicated to creating safe, long-lasting, and eco-friendly toys that spark imagination and creativity. With extensive research and design, Shumee toys are crafted to meet unique requirements and are endorsed by ASTM and BIS for unmatched safety and excellence. The Mom Store provides a carefully chosen variety of Shumee toys, guaranteeing that your child has the finest playtime experience.

Check out this amazing online toy collection from the Shumee collection that are easy and fun puzzles and games to explore and develop various skills.

Earthy Tweens

Earthy Tweens is the best toy brand for kids aged 3 months to 8 years, offering a wide range of eco-friendly wooden toys, puzzles, teether toys, and learning boards. Founded on the principles of sustainability and social responsibility in mind, Earthy Tweens prioritises the well-being of both children and the planet. Their amazing toys provide a learning and playful experience overall, and are crafted to encourage education and creativity, all while being kind to nature. The Mom Store presents a carefully chosen array of natural tween toys, guaranteeing that your kid gets the finest playtime while supporting a brand that genuinely values the future.

Lattooland

Lattooland is the best brand of toys for kids between the ages of 1 and 3 because it has a variety of toys that are both fun and useful. Their products are designed to foster learning through play, providing a safe and stimulating environment for young children. Lattooland’s play dough, puzzles, sensory play sets, clay dough, and gardening kits are all made with non-toxic materials and are lab-tested for safety. The Mom Store offers a curated selection of Lattooland toys, ensuring that your child receives the best play experience while supporting a brand that prioritises both fun and learning.

Alt Retail

Alt Retail is a popular toy brand that offers a range of engaging and educational products for kids aged 2-8 years. Their toys are designed to foster creativity, problem-solving skills, and fine motor development. The Mom Store offers a curated selection of Alt Retail toys, including number coins, puzzles, wooden toys like stamping kits, floor puzzles, and art supplies like drawing, painting, and colouring. These products are perfect for parents who want to provide their children with a well-rounded play experience that promotes learning and imagination.

PepPlay

PepPlay is a popular kids’ toy brand that offers a range of engaging and educational products for kids aged 1-3 years. Their toys are designed to foster creativity, problem-solving skills, and fine motor development. The Mom Store offers a curated selection of PepPlay toys, including touch and feel books, drawing and painting sets, sticker puzzles, and placemats. These products are perfect for parents who want to provide their children with a well-rounded play experience that promotes learning and imagination.

Playzu

Playzu is the premier toy brand for kids aged 6 and older, offering an exciting range of remote control cars, 3D DIY track sets, and building block sets featuring cars, trains, merry-go-rounds, and pirate ships. Their toys are designed to spark imagination, develop problem-solving skills, and provide hours of thrilling entertainment. The Mom Store is proud to offer a curated selection of Playzu products, ensuring that your child receives the best play experience possible. With a focus on quality, safety, and innovation, Playzu is the brand you can trust for your child’s playtime adventures.

Happy Threads

In India, Happy Threads is a well-known manufacturer of soft, cuddly, and colorful toys for children aged 3 and up. Their products, which are designed to provide a play experience that is both safe and hygienic, are made from high-quality cotton yarn. Happy Threads toys, which include hand-crocheted soft toys, dolls, cot mobiles, and balls, are proudly available at The Mom Store.

The Last Line

Choosing the right toy brand for your child is crucial for their development and enjoyment. The Indian toy market offers a wide range of options, but the popular toy brands in India mentioned in this blog post stand out for their commitment to quality, safety, and innovation. These top toy brands have been carefully selected by The Mom Store so that parents can easily access high-quality products.

FAQs

What Are The Best Toys For Kids In India?

The best toys for kids in India include wooden toys from Shumee, educational toys from Earthy Tweens, and imaginative playsets from Lattooland.

Which Toys Are Suitable For Children With Special Needs?

Toys from Happy Threads and Playzu offer inclusive play options for children with special needs, promoting creativity and imagination.

How Do I Select Toys That Are Appropriate For My Child’s Age?

Choose toys from brands like Alt Retail and PepPlay that cater to your child’s age group, ensuring educational and engaging play experiences.

What Are The Benefits Of Eco-Friendly Toys?

Earthy Tweens and Happy Threads make eco-friendly toys that encourage sustainability and reduce waste, making them an excellent option for parents who are concerned about the environment.

The post Best Toys Brands For Indian Kids: Top Brands To Look Out For In 2024-25 appeared first on School Boy Care.

Carseat And Stroller

Because you and your baby need only a carseat to leave the hospital, this item is not optional. To keep things simple, I wanted a carseat that fit into a stroller, but also a stroller our baby could grow into. Until I saw this system at a Buy Buy Baby closing sale, I had my heart set on a jogging stroller for our long walks. I’ve never experienced a lighter, more sleek stroller. I can walk miles with it because it feels like I’m barely pushing anything. Also, it folds up really small in the car trunk. This stroller is great for anyone who has to go up stairs with a baby. Also excellent if you simply do not require anything bulky.

Bassinet Snoo

This was a last minute purchase. I received several recommendations for this bassinet. However, I was hesitant to buy because the price is ridiculous. I ordered this item late, so we received it several days after we brought our son home from the hospital. Buying the Snoo on Black Friday for $1100, as we did, is a good idea. The resale value for the Snoo is great, so you can always get your money back later.

Changing Peanut

I actually bought two changing tables. A cloth cover was used to cushion one for our baby’s nursery. I bought this Keekaroo for our first floor. I haven’t used the cushioned one at all. Having a changing table you can wipe down makes too much sense. I love this changing pad so much I don’t ever see us using the other one.

Bouncy Seat

I bought a swing too, as well as some other things to help us go hands-free with baby. This is the only way we can go hands-free and keep our son happy. We put him in it all the time. Additionally, I adore how simple it is to move this item from room to room. We take it all over the house.

Carrier

We had both the Baby Bjorn Mini and I borrowed the Solly (a traditional wrap carrier) from my sister-in-law. The wrap was great in the beginning and the mini was great when since it fits babies of all sizes (including newborns) and is super supportive with padded straps and a hip belt. Our infant also enjoys it.

Blankets

To keep our baby warm and prevent the spread of germs, blankets are ideal for covering the car seat. We even use them for diaper changes or cleaning up spitup. We got lots of these as gifts but I think moms only need a few – maybe 1 heavier one and 1-2 lighter ones.

0-3 Month Onesies

When I went shopping for clothes, I thought dresses were best. They’re most convenient for changing diapers right? I was unaware that gowns are incompatible with carriers, swings, and carseats. We ended up using zipper onesies instead of the gowns I bought, which we barely used. We tried Gerber, Kyte and Old Navy.

Portable Sound Machine

You might not think that this is necessary, but it is for us! We bring this sound machine everywhere. I even hook it on myself when I have our baby in the carrier and want him to sleep. It instantly sooths him.

Huggies Diapers (+ Unscented Wipes)

We tried all the major diaper brands – Pampers, Honest, Target brand – the list goes on. In my opinion, Huggies are superior. They fit our baby best and were great at catching messy diapers. Kirkland brand was our second favorite. I would assume you’re going to go through at least 8-10 diapers per day in the beginning. We usually change his diaper with every feeding.

Drops Of Saline For Infants

I was told by the doctor not to suction baby boogers unless absolutely necessary. I guess suctioning makes babies produce more congestion. Moreover, the hospital is probably going to give you a snot sucker. Instead, they advised using saline drops, and the congestion would disappear on its own. Our baby goes through periods were his nose is really stuffy, and these drops work great.

Baby Aquaphor

We use this for everything – cradle cap, scratches, his lips, you name it. Fun fact, you can also use this on diaper rash which eliminates the need for diaper rash cream.

Diaper Pail

The two options for dirty diapers are to either to throw them in a garage/outdoor garbage can or to get an air tight diaper pail. The second option is more convenient. We tried another brand that didn’t hold odors very well, then ended up upgrading to this one. It works great!

Temperature Monitors For The Room

We live in an older house where the temperature is inconsistent in every room. As a couple who used to sleep with the windows cracked in winter and the air blazing in the summer, we had no concept of what temps were good for baby. It appears that 68-72 degrees Fahrenheit is the ideal temperature for infants. We keep one of these in the family room and one in our room to check the temperature frequenting.

Cotton Burp Rags

Really, you can just use a wash cloth or tissue to clean up messes. You don’t need rags specific for baby use. We have these and always throw one in the carseat and diaper bag just in case.

Diaper Bag

What no one told me is that you don’t really need a diaper bag. And large backpack or purse will do as long as you buy something to change baby on. What’s nice is that ours clips onto the stroller and has a waterproof pocket for bottles. However, I would never label this as a necessity.

Wipe Warmer

In the beginning, our baby would freak out when we changed his diaper. After that, we started using a wipe warmer, and in a flash, our panic attacks stopped. I used to think these were too many, but it was so important to us that I thought it was important to mention.

Hand Sanitizer

Our pediatrician uses this “clean for babies” brand and we love it. We have the bigger bottles all over the house, and I keep the little bottles in our car and diaper bag.

Seasonal Gear

We realized quickly that we could use a snowsuit for our Christmas baby. We were able to get by for a while without one, wrapping him up in blankets and hats. Nevertheless, it was a useful item. We have one from Baby Gap. Also warm weather hats were essential. I like these. Other seasonal items for summer babies could be sunblock and a sunhat.

Unnecessary Items

Swaddles

I bought two Ollie Swaddles, but I didn’t know that if you have the Snoo sleep sacks, you don’t need these. Maybe we will use them later. However, I have yet to get them out of their box. I have some other sleep sacks we never got out as well.

Baby Towel

Although these are adorable, you can easily use any towel.

Diaper Cream

I found Baby Aquaphor works better.

Baby Hair Brush

Our baby does not have much hair, so this item was totally unnecessary for us. Plus. I could just use our combs on him.

Topponcino

I read about this item in a Montessori book and I was sold. You’re supposed to keep your baby in it when you hold them and it mimics the womb. However, in those first few months you are in survival mode. I kept forgetting to grab this item and put him in it. It was good in theory, but unnecessary in reality.

The post The Only 16 Items I Needed For My Newborn appeared first on School Boy Care.