In the city of Eshnunna, which is located in present-day Iraq, a groundbreaking discovery was made during excavations in the 1930s. Archaeologists exploring the ruins of a temple stumbled upon a collection of intriguing objects in one of the rooms. These objects were crafted from terracotta and took the form of various animal figures, including lambs, gazelles, elephants, dogs, and lions.

Initially, there was speculation that these figures might be votive offerings. However, upon closer examination, it became apparent that they did not fit the typical profile of such offerings in Sumerian culture, which usually comprised figures representing gods or humans. As a result, they were cataloged as “cult objects,” a classification in archaeology that often signifies a lack of clear understanding.

Years later, a perceptive individual noted something unusual about these so-called cult objects – some of them featured wheels or rings. It was eventually realized that these objects were, in fact, toys. This revelation was unexpected, particularly considering the context in which they were found – a temple. The explanation for their presence in this religious setting was surprisingly simple: the room was actually a nursery, making it the oldest identified nursery in history.

In ancient Sumeria, where child mortality rates were high due to prevalent fevers exacerbated by surrounding swamps, important individuals entrusted the care of their children to nurseries in temples and palaces while they attended to their duties. Creative forms of entertainment were devised for both children and adults alike, with a focus on fun and education.

Children in these nurseries played with miniature toys that mimicked objects used by adults. These toys included dolls, tiny animals, toy cars, boats, and even safe imitations of weapons such as bows, arrows, slings, and boomerangs. Additionally, there were action-based games like spinning tops, rattles, jump ropes, and a hockey-like game played with mallets and a puck.

The discovery of these ancient toys offers a rare glimpse into the everyday lives of children in a bygone era. Despite the passage of over 4,000 years, the essence of childhood play remains constant – a reminder that children will always find joy and inspiration in the simplest of objects.