Sylvanian Families toys - can someone explain?

[runmeragged]

What they are - are they from books/films/TV?

What age of child to they appeal to?

Why do people want this brand as opposed to a generic doll etc?

I get things like Thomas the Tank toys - watch DVDs, read the books, learn the characters/stories - re-enact them using the toys, collect the toys etc - can someone explain sylvanian families for me please?

DD is 2.6 and is going to nursery when she is 3. Are 3yos into this stuff? Will she be missing out not having any?

They are little furry animals. There are loads of different animal family sets. You can buy all manner of houses, schools, and various commercial and residential buildins for them and all manner of vehicles.

My DD loves them. he is 8y. I would say approx aged 5y-10y, maybe older depending ont he child. A lot of very small fiddly pieces so prob not for much younger than 4yo.

Not linked to a TV or book series AFAIK.

They have been around for many years though - I didn't have them as a child as too dear, but I know others on MN did.

3y would be too young for them IMO. No, she won't miss out by not having them, ay more than she;d miss out on having any other type of toy.

They are pretty expensive but there are some deals to be had at times. Despite being fiddly and tidy in parts it is well made and decent quality.

Different to other pkay sets as the characters are animals.

My DD1 is just 2 and loves her sylvanians - we take away any tiny bits but she will play for hours alone with them and their house. She was very lucky and got quite a bit for her birthday. It is well made with lots of bits, the caravan came with bit like oven gloves adn loo roll. I can see her playing with them for years yet. Yes there are sylvanian DVDs we bought one off Ebay - they are made using the actual toys in some and CGI animation on others.

my DTDs are nearly 7 and in the last year or two have gone crazy for sylvanians, having previously shown no interest.

My 9yo is still well into her Sylvanians.

They are shockingly expensive but do give years if fun. Look out for them 2nd hand.

Thanks everyone, really helpful!