Top 5 Aboriginal Toys for Play and Why They're Important
Play isn’t just fun – it’s powerful.
It’s how our jarjums (kids) learn, grow, and connect with the world around them. And when that play includes Aboriginal toys that reflect First Nations stories, cultures, and faces? That’s where the real magic happens.
Here are our top 5 Aboriginal toys for play, plus why they deserve a place in every playroom, classroom and community space.
1. Jarjum Dollies – by Dollies Tribe
These handmade dolls are more than just adorable – they’re a celebration of Aboriginal identity, culture and connection.
Each Jarjum Dollie comes with rich skin tones, cultural features, and even painted faces to reflect the diversity of our people. They help kids feel seen, represented, and proud of who they are. Whether it’s gentle play or creative storytelling, Jarjum Dollies invite every child to feel culturally safe and valued.
🖤 Best for: Roleplay, emotional learning, cultural pride
💛 Why it matters: Representation in early years is everything
2. Indigenous Story Stones
These smooth painted stones feature animals, symbols, and traditional art motifs that spark storytelling from a young age. Kids can use them to create their own Dreaming-inspired stories or learn about totems and land.
🖤 Best for: Language development, yarning circles, creative thinking
💛 Why it matters: Oral storytelling is a pillar of Aboriginal culture
These Aboriginal Symbol Stones are made by first nation artist, creator, qualified early childhood educator, mum and wife, Chloe. You can purchase them here.
3. Aboriginal Wooden Puzzles
From map puzzles showing the many First Nations nations, to artwork puzzles created by Indigenous artists, these toys challenge young minds while grounding them in Country and culture.
🖤 Best for: Fine motor skills, problem-solving, spatial awareness
💛 Why it matters: Connects play with learning about land and language
Kangaroo & Emu Peg Puzzle $38.95, purchase here.
4. Traditional Clapsticks & Musical Instruments
Give a child clapsticks, and they won’t just make music – they’ll connect with rhythm, songlines, and tradition. Aboriginal musical toys like clapsticks, boomerangs, or animal shakers bring sound and culture into early learning environments.
🖤 Best for: Rhythm, movement, cultural expression
💛 Why it matters: Music is a vital way we share stories and spirit
Kids Clap Sticks $29.99. Purchase here!
5. Aboriginal Picture Books with Toy Pairings
Pair a dollie, puppet, or plush toy with a First Nations storybook and you’ve got a learning experience that sticks. Whether it’s “Welcome to Country” by Aunty Joy Murphy or “Baby Business” by Jasmine Seymour, combining reading with toy-based roleplay helps kids absorb and respect cultural knowledge.
🖤 Best for: Literacy, empathy, learning through story
💛 Why it matters: Books + toys = deeper learning through play
Why Aboriginal Toys Matter
When Aboriginal kids see themselves reflected in the toys around them, it strengthens self-worth, identity, and belonging. For non-Indigenous kids, these toys open the door to respectful learning and cultural appreciation from an early age.
They’re not just toys – they’re tools for change, healing, pride and play.
💬 Want to stock Aboriginal toys in your school or centre?
We’d love to yarn!
Contact us here or call us on (02) 7209 0788 to find out how Dollies Tribe can help create a more inclusive play space.
