PlanToys Twist Shape Sorter Review

I’ve been a long time admirer of PlanToys. We have a few toys the kids have received as gifts over the years, but mostly I have eyed them online and in our local toy store. Even without knowing much about the company, when you see the toys, it’s obvious there’s an emphasis on creating fun and interesting educational toys.

About PlanToys

We create innovative educational toys for every developmental stage of childhood. PlanToys® incorporates thoughtful design and age-appropriate challenges to stimulate children’s creativity. Our toys encourage healthy social interaction, promote natural learning and instill a sense of wonder.

Twist Shape Sorter

We received one of the new developmental toys for 2010 – the Twist Shape Sorter. The Twist Shape Sorter consists of 6 pieces – a base, a frame and 4 shapes. The base is split in fourths with red and yellow and the shapes are red on one side and yellow on the other. But, wait, it’s not that simple. The frame can go on the base in various positions to create a different puzzle – each shape can be a solid color or split between the two. The shapes are actually two pieces and twist so that each side can be a solid color or half red and half yellow. (It’s hard to explain so I took a lot of photos!)

As a mom, my very favorite thing about this is that it can be developmentally appropriate for both of my kids. My 16 month old daughter can use it with the solid colors to try to match shapes. And when my son is going to play with it, we can kick it up a notch, turn the top frame piece and make it a more complicated puzzle. My son really enjoys playing with it. I don’t have to set up a challenge for him – he does it himself by twisting and turning and moving things around.

To Buy or Not to Buy

To Buy… PlanToys wooden toys are really high quality and I love that the company has a green philosophy in both the materials used in the toys and their business practices. The Twist Shape Sorter, in particular, is a unique mix of a puzzle and shape sorter that entertains my preschooler without making noise or requiring batteries.

Or Not to Buy… I do wish the Twist Shape Sorter came in a bag or container of some sort to keep all the pieces together. Our toys get lots of use and I live in constant fear of losing pieces!

Shop! Plan Toys has a huge selection of toys for every age group – from baby toys to preschool appropriate activities. Prices range depending on the size of the toy, from $6 for a Baby Rattle Teething Ring to $250 for a Victorian Dollhouse.

Disclosure: Thank you to Plan Toys for providing a sample product for the purpose of this review. Opinions are my own and uninfluenced by receipt of product. Others may have a different experience.