Why Buying Toys Made Close to Home Matters More Than Ever
Lately, there’s been a lot of talk about tariffs and how they affect the products we buy—including toys. In simple terms, tariffs are extra taxes placed on goods imported from other countries. That means many of the mass-produced toys made overseas will likely cost more in the months and years ahead.
But here’s the good news: this shift gives us a chance to rethink how and where we shop for the children in our lives. Instead of seeing higher prices as a burden, we can view it as an opportunity to support the kind of toys that truly matter—handcrafted, sustainable, and made closer to home.
The Value of Toys That Last
When you choose a toy created by an artisan or small workshop nearby, you’re investing in more than playtime. These toys are designed to last—crafted from quality materials, with thoughtful details that children love and parents appreciate. They aren’t destined for the landfill after a few months; they’re built to be treasured, passed down, and remembered.
Supporting Communities and Creativity
Buying close to home also means supporting real people—makers, craftspeople, and family-run businesses who pour their heart into every piece. Instead of your money disappearing into a global supply chain, it circulates right back into your community, strengthening the creative economy and preserving traditional skills.
A Win-Win for Families
Yes, tariffs may make imported toys more expensive, but the silver lining is that families now have even more reason to choose toys that are healthier for kids, kinder to the planet, and longer-lasting. It’s about making fewer, better choices—ones that bring joy today and hold meaning tomorrow.
So next time you’re shopping for a birthday or holiday gift, consider skipping the mass-produced plastic toy and reaching for something timeless, made nearby. Not only will you be giving a child a beautiful gift—you’ll also be helping a community of artisans thrive, and building a tradition of play that lasts for generations.
