It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the selection of children’s toys on the market. But months and months of recalls and news about possible bad effects of long-term, consistent exposure to plastics has made many parents seek  toy alternatives. A return to the beautiful and classic art of wooden toys-making has spawned a renaissance in the business of playtime. In the U.S., Melissa and Doug wooden puzzles can be found at major brick and mortar and online retailers, as well as “Mom and Pop” stores. Their wooden sound puzzles can open up a world of experiences to a toddler, from exploring musical instruments to experiencing the sights and sounds of life on a farm. One of the most comprehensive online retailers for wooden toys is Oompa.com. They offer the best brands in wooden toys including Haba, Brio, Holztiger, Vilac and many more. For the ultimate in colorful (and oh-so-stylish) puzzle toys, consider the adorable Seadog Puzzle from Haba. And for toddlers graduating into the world of figurines, a Brown Owl or Song Bird from Holztiger are wonderful contributions to imaginary playtime. For a variety of pretend wooden food, go to Willow Tree Toys where you can find a colorful array of fruit, from kiwis to grapes. At WonderBrains.com, wooden building blocks take on a whole new sophistication. Instead of the basic squares and rectangles, kids can build Japanese, Mayan, Middle Eastern and even Russian structures. Today’s wooden toys are not only generous on design, but they are made to be enjoyed for generations to come.