Orchard Toys,Why UK Mums Love Them for Learning Through Play

Discover why Orchard Toys are loved by mums across the UK. Educational puzzles, games and toys that support learning, fun and family playtime.

When it comes to finding toys that are both fun and educational, few brands are as loved by UK families as Orchard Toys. Known for their bright, chunky puzzles and engaging board games, Orchard Toys are a staple in nurseries, schools, and homes across the country.

For mums, these toys offer a win-win: children are entertained while building essential skills — from counting and spelling to memory and problem-solving. And with designs rooted in child development research, Orchard Toys make learning feel like playtime.

In this article, we’ll explore:

• The history and ethos of Orchard Toys

• Why they’re perfect for toddlers and preschoolers

• The most popular Orchard Toys puzzles and games in the UK right now

• How play supports child development

• Where to buy Orchard Toys locally and online

  
  

A Little About Orchard Toys

Founded in Norfolk, UK, Orchard Toys began with simple jigsaw puzzles and quickly became known for their high-quality, durable, and educational designs. Today, they produce a wide range of puzzles and games that are exported worldwide, but their heart remains in British family homes and classrooms.

Their motto? “Learning made fun.” Every toy is carefully tested with children, parents, and teachers to ensure it’s engaging, age-appropriate, and supportive of early learning milestones.

Why Mums Love Orchard Toys

There are plenty of toy brands out there, but Orchard Toys stand out for a few key reasons:

1. Educational + FunEvery game has a learning outcome. For example, Shopping List introduces memory, matching, and word recognition, while Number Bears encourages counting and basic maths skills.

2. Made for Little HandsPieces are thick, wipe-clean, and the right size for toddlers — no fiddly bits, no frustration.

3. Durable & Long-LastingUK parents know that sticky fingers and spills are part of everyday life. Orchard Toys are designed to withstand years of play (and the occasional juice spill).

4. Inclusive & Relatable DesignsCharacters, themes, and illustrations reflect everyday life — from supermarkets to farmyards — making them instantly relatable to children.

5. Trusted by Schools & NurseriesOrchard Toys aren’t just for home; they’re used widely in early years education across the UK, giving mums extra reassurance.

Best Orchard Toys for Toddlers and Preschoolers (UK Favourites)

Here are some of the most popular Orchard Toys that UK parents recommend for little ones:

1. Farmyard Heads & Tails

A simple matching game where children pair animal heads with tails. Perfect for toddlers just learning about animals and practising observation skills.

2. Shopping List

One of Orchard Toys’ best-sellers. Children collect items for their shopping trolley while boosting memory and word recognition. Great for role play and turn-taking.

3. Number Bears

A colourful counting game that helps toddlers recognise numbers, count objects, and understand quantity — laying the foundations for early maths.

4. Post Box Game

Toddlers match coloured envelopes into the right post box, encouraging colour recognition and fine motor skills.

5. Big Dinosaur Puzzle

For dino-obsessed little ones, this giant floor puzzle sparks imagination while supporting problem-solving skills.

6. Tell the Time Lotto

For slightly older children, this game helps them learn to tell the time in both digital and analogue formats.

How Orchard Toys Support Development

Orchard Toys aren’t just about keeping children entertained. They actively support key areas of early learning:

• Cognitive Development – Matching, counting, problem-solving, and sequencing.

• Language Skills – Many games encourage word recognition, turn-taking, and conversation.

• Fine Motor Skills – Chunky puzzle pieces strengthen little hands and improve coordination.

• Social Skills – Board games teach sharing, patience, and teamwork.

• Emotional Development – Completing a puzzle or game builds confidence and resilience.

Think of an Orchard Toys puzzle as more than a toy: it’s a mini classroom on your kitchen table.

Where to Buy Orchard Toys in the UK

You’ll find Orchard Toys widely available both online and in stores across the UK:

• High Street Shops: John Lewis, Smyths Toys, The Entertainer, and larger supermarkets often stock a range.

• Independent Toy Shops: Many local toy shops carry Orchard Toys — perfect if you want to support small businesses.

• Online: Amazon UK, Argos, and the official Orchard Toys website.

• Nurseries & Schools: Often use Orchard Toys in the classroom, so your child may already be familiar.

Tips for Choosing the Right Orchard Toy

• Age-Appropriateness: Always check the age range on the box to match your child’s stage.

• Learning Focus: Pick puzzles and games that complement what your child is learning (colours, numbers, letters).

• Start Simple: Begin with matching games before moving to more complex board games.

• Rotate Toys: Keep a few in rotation so they feel “new” each time.

For mums across the UK, Orchard Toys are more than just a way to keep children entertained. They’re a trusted tool for learning through play, building confidence, and creating family moments that last.

Whether it’s a rainy afternoon puzzle, a family board game, or a quick memory challenge before bedtime, Orchard Toys make play meaningful.

Try them out, and discover why mums everywhere are making Orchard Toys a playroom staple.

🌸 Want more expert-led tips on learning through play? Join the free Carol App today — your trusted friend in motherhood.