One of my friend’s sons rushes to the window and jumps up and down when the garbage and recycle trucks arrive to collect from the house. He’s 3, and like many boys, he is infatuated with almost all trucks and construction devices. In order to help him understand how these machines work, his parents got him a Bruder garbage truck and they say he won’t stop playing with it several months later.
Bruder is a German company known for its very realistic and popular construction and rescue toys. The high level of detail and realistic functions really help to encourage imaginative play. Bruder prides themselves on their realism; many toys are built to the exact specification of their real-life counter parts. Most offer cabs that tilt forward to reveal replica engines. Maybe the best part for parents: most Bruder toys don’t make any noise.
Bruder makes several different garbage trucks, both rear and side loading varieties. I like this Mercedes-Benz replica because it comes with two different color trash cans and the truck features a recycling logo, so you can easily teach children about the importance of recycling. Plus the trash cans hook into the tailgate of the truck and can be lifted and emptied into the back, then the “trash” can be compacted.
[$52.99 at Arsa Toys]
This is another cool replica, this tow truck comes with a 4 x 4 vehicle to use as cargo, so it’s really two toys in one. Additionally, there are several ways for the truck to be towed; there is a telescopic crane, a lowering bed and even chains to help get the job done.
[$49.99 at Arsa Toys]
In addition to many big trucks, Bruder makes a variety of authentic construction vehicles, like this bulldozer.These toys can be used inside and outside; kids will love to push around dirt and sand, or maybe even marbles. Just like other Bruder toys, this one has many working parts for a robust playing experience.
[$27.99 at Arsa Toys]
Bruder toys are made with ABS plastic (what LEGO bricks are made of) with no glue or screws holding them together, so they’re extra safe. However, children that are especially rough on toys may find that they break, so a die-cast toy may be more appropriate for hard players.
