More Than a Toy: How Storytime Scarves Embraces a Froebelian Approach to Play

Watching your child completely absorbed in a world of their own making is a magical thing. Friedrich Froebel, the visionary inventor of the kindergarten, believed that this kind of imaginative play is the very heart of learning and connection. 

Honouring Every Child's Story
Froebel taught that education should begin by building upon a child's home life and experiences, starting from what they know and understand. This principle is the thread that runs through everything we do. Our storytelling toys are designed to spark conversations about a family's own journey while gently introducing them to the broader world. By celebrating the "unity in diversity that shapes the inner lives of children," our scarves help every child feel seen and valued as part of a rich, global community.

Play With Purpose, Not Instructions
Central to the Froebelian approach is the belief that play is essential and that children should have ownership of it.  A Storytime Scarf provides prompts, symbols and landscapes, but never a script. It is an open-ended resource that trusts in a child's creativity to unfold a tale that is entirely their own, much like the hands-on resources Froebel himself designed.

Safe, Lasting Tools for Imagination
A nurturing play environment is, above all, a safe one where children can build trusting relationships. Froebel knew that the quality of a child's relationships and environment is of central importance.  This is why each Storytime Scarf is an ethically produced, UK-made educational toy that is fully UKCA certified for safety. We believe that thoughtfully crafted resources support family connection and become cherished keepsakes for years to come.

Rooted in Community
For Froebel, the relationships connecting a child with their family and community were foundational.  Our scarves are an invitation for children and grown-ups to explore together, share a moment of wonder, and weave new memories into treasured stories.

Special thanks to the Froebel Trust for championing children's play. Storytime Scarves is not affiliated with the Trust, but deeply appreciates their leadership and resources (froebel.org.uk).

Share your family's adventures with us using #StorytimeScarvesStories. We can't wait to see what magic unfolds.