Jules the dog runs a garage, and it folds up into a book.

Every spread has something mechanical to work: a flap to open, a tab to pull, a piece to slot into place. The activities are built into the story rather than bolted on, which is what keeps a toddler turning pages instead of losing interest after the first one.

All of that opening and fitting is demanding work for small fingers, and it is the direct precursor to managing buttons, zips and pencils later on. Vehicles happen to be one of the most reliable ways to get a child to do that work willingly.

Entirely soft fabric with nothing to tear. Machine washable at 30 degrees on a gentle cycle.

Lilliputiens is a Belgian brand, founded in 1995 and designed by a team largely made up of parents working alongside early-childhood specialists. Tested to EN71 and ASTM standards and screened for AZO dyes, cadmium and phthalates.

A GARAGE THAT FOLDS INTO A BOOK - Jules the dog runs the workshop, and every spread has something to open, turn, pull or slot into place. Vehicles are a reliable way to hold a toddler's attention.

HANDS BUSY ON EVERY PAGE - The activities are built into the story rather than added on top, so working the mechanisms and following the plot are the same thing. That is what keeps a child turning pages.

FINE MOTOR WORK IN DISGUISE - Opening flaps, pulling tabs and fitting pieces into slots is demanding work for small fingers, and it is the direct groundwork for dressing and drawing later.

SOFT FABRIC, FULLY WASHABLE - No corners to catch on, no pages to tear. It can go in the cot, the car seat or the changing bag. Machine washable at 30 degrees on a gentle cycle.

PART OF JULES' WORLD - Pairs naturally with the Jules drill, hammer and chainsaw rattles and the Jules activity aeroplane for a coherent gift set.

12 months and above

100% polyester fabric with recycled polyester filling

JULES' GARAGE - ACTIVITY BOOK