Pastel brand toys are made in the village of Kishorit, in the Galilee region of Israel, using recycled wood and non-toxic milk-based paint. Kishorit's workers manage to convert a block of wood into a toy using their own two hands, after which it continues as part of the developmental process amongst children 1-6 years of a
ge around the world. The Pastel toys are unique for their "Once upon a time" design, and are noted for this within the toy market. Their design is naive and unsophisticated, and the use of pastel colors affords Children a harmonious, calm and relaxed mood.
Kishorit is a life-long, non-denominational, assisted living community. Residents and workers are people with mental and physical disabilities who live independently, work and study. The sales of Pastel toys help the residents to be self-sustaining and to develop self-esteem and marketable skills.
Thirty people work in the factory. All the meals and coffee breaks are shared, birthdays are celebrated together, and a friendly, supportive and cooperative atmosphere reigns.
The craftspeople of Kishorit are highly skilled artists who take great pride in their final product and the art form by which it is completed.
Toys can be viewed at Kishorit's website www.kishorit.org, and may be purchased at toy stores or the Bariff Shop for Judaica at:
www.bariff.org.
