George J. Pfister

George J. Pfister modifies Toymaker Press plans to create unique toys to improve motor skills for kids in special schools.

George says: My toys are sent to a special school, The Chicago Educational Project (CEP), located in a suburb of Chicago.  The head of the school, Amanda Parker, asked me to make puzzles that would appeal to small children with limited small motor skills.  How did I connect?  My grandaughter is a student with the CEP school in California and as my grandaughter is a girl on the autism spectrum I was amazed and pleased at the progress she had made at this school.  I don’t think there is enough I can do for the CEP staff and schools. FYI: the school has an auction in July for which I make special editions of my toys that are auctioned for funds.

I modify the designs for improving motor skills in kids by enlarging the Toymaker Press plans to 125% so the parts are bigger for their little fingers. Next I am creating  ‘Rock N’ Roller’ puzzles from the Toymaker Press book of the same name that will have pegs attached to them for the same reason.  Another of my special projects this year is the SUPER CRANE also designed by Toymaker Press. I made the super-crane truck with cherry and maple. With use the modified Toymaker Press patterns to make the take-apart dinos and autos. I use 1/4″ dowels to make them pull-apart. I love Toymaker Press plans. They are well thought out, very high quality presentations.  Their whole approach exudes quality.  I will enjoy working with the Toymaker Press ”kids” and of course meaning your toy plans. You honor me to include my work in your blog.  Good luck and God Love You.  George

For more information about the auction and George’s work contact him at: pfis53@gmail.com

To answer your questions, The dinosaurs below are from a book, “How to make Animated Toys” by David Wakefield, Sterling Publications, 1986.  I talked with his wife when he was away, but she said he is pleased to talk toys.   I have made all of the toys in this book because they are challenging and the rewards are great much like the Toymaker Press Super Crane.  As for the second question, I do not sell my toys.  I have made some 2000 items and have contributed all of them, first to Public health nurses who distribute them at Christmas time, and lately to the Chicago Education Project (CEP) who display them at their annual July auction.