Hape — Love Play Learn

Little Stars is proud to carry Hape — one of the world's most trusted and beloved educational toy brands, and a cornerstone of our curated collection.

The Story Behind Hape

Hape's founder, Peter Handstein, was born and raised in a small town in Germany, raised with a respect for family, honesty, compassion, and a love of nature. Peter began his career as a salesman for an educational toy company supplying German kindergartens — and visiting hundreds of schools and talking with hundreds of teachers gave him a unique understanding of the power of play. 

In 1986, Peter founded Hape Kindergarten Supply with his sister in Germany, following his passion to create a better world with toys. What started as a local toy shop grew into one of the most respected toy companies on the planet. 

A Global Leader in Sustainable Play

Today, Hape is a renowned high-end toy designer, manufacturer and distributor with offices in Germany, Switzerland, Italy, France, the United Kingdom, Spain, North America, and beyond — with over 40 subsidiaries and investment affiliates positioned around the globe. 

Hape has been honored with over 300 international toy awards, underscoring its commitment to innovation and quality. Their motto — Love Play Learn — guides every product they create. 

Sustainability at the Core

Hape is an environmentally responsible brand whose global commitment is reflected in their implementation of sustainable actions throughout the value chain, from design to production and packaging — using plant-based plastics extracted from sugar cane, recyclable and reusable packaging, FSC-certified wood, and water-based inks.

The company has significantly invested in renewable energy, installing more than 20,000 square meters of solar panels in its production facilities, with a target of achieving carbon neutrality in production by 2030.

Why Little Stars Carries Hape

Hape represents everything we look for in a brand — exceptional developmental design, genuine commitment to sustainability, and the kind of quality that lasts through multiple children. From your baby's first sensory toy to your preschooler's first train set, Hape supports every stage of early childhood.

Age range: 0–8 years
Origin: Founded in Germany, 1986
Materials: FSC-certified wood, bamboo, water-based paints, non-toxic finishes
Certifications: ASTM F963, EN 71, and more