Eco-Inspired Kids Gifts: Fun Ideas to Spark Creativity and Sustainability

This Christmas, you can give the gift of creativity, learning, and sustainability with this curated Kids Gift Guide. 

These fun and educational presents are designed to inspire young minds to think outside the box while promoting eco-friendly values like reusing, reducing waste, and protecting the planet. 

Games like Mission Ocean and Polar Adventure go beyond fun, teaching kids about environmental conservation through teamwork and problem-solving. These gifts nurture creativity while fostering a sense of responsibility toward the environment, making them the perfect way to give back to the world around us this holiday season.

Polar Adventure Board Game, £29.90 from Adventerra Games

Embark on a polar adventure to save Arctic animals from climate change! In this game, players work together to help animals survive by overcoming obstacles like melting ice and pollution. It’s a fun, educational way to teach kids about the real-world impact of global warming on polar regions—and what we can do to help! Age Range: 7+

Hungry Bins Board Game, £19.90 from Adventerra Games

Turn recycling into a game with Hungry Bins! Kids race to sort the right types of waste into the correct bins—whether it’s paper, plastic, or organic material. This fast-paced game helps kids learn about recycling and encourages eco-friendly habits at home, making it both educational and fun! Age Range: 7+

Magicube Stacking 8 Pieces, £13.99 from Amazon

Ideal for toddlers aged 1-5, this colourful and simple Magicube Stacking Set features 6 magnetic cubes that easily connect on all sides. Made with safe, eco-friendly materials, this set is perfect for young learners who are just starting to explore spatial relationships and basic construction skills.

Supercolour Panels 78 pcs, £50 from Amazon

For kids who love a challenge, the Supercolor Panels set provides 78 colourful pieces that allow for the creation of larger, more complex structures. This set is made from 100% recycled plastic and promotes the development of STEM skills, making it a fantastic option for budding engineers and architects.

Ecologic Puzzle - Save Water, £19.90 from Adventerra Games

Teach kids how to save water with this colourful and informative puzzle! As they assemble the pieces, children will discover simple tips for conserving water, like turning off the tap or fixing leaks. It’s a greatway to introduce young minds to the importance of water conservation in a fun and engaging way. Age Range: 4+

Mission Ocean Board Game, £29.90 from Adventerra Games

Dive into an underwater adventure where kids work together to clean up the ocean and save sea creatures from plastic pollution! This cooperative game teaches the importance of reducing waste and protecting marine life while making ocean-saving fun. The perfect game for eco-conscious kids who love the sea! Age Range: 7+

Geomag Glitter 60 pcs, £45.00 from Amazon

Add some sparkle to playtime with the Geomag Glitter set! This 60-piece set is made from 100% recycled plastic and includes glittery rods and panels that allow kids to create dazzling constructions. Perfect for children aged 3+, this set encourages creative building while promoting fine motor skills. Plus, it’s a fun and eco-friendly way to introduce kids to STEM concepts.

Ecologic Puzzle - Animals in Danger of Extinction, £19.90 from Adventerra Games

Introduce kids to endangered species with this beautifully illustrated puzzle. As they fit the pieces together, children will learn about animals like the tiger, panda, and elephant that are at risk of extinction due to human activities. This puzzle is a great gift for little animal lovers who want to learn how to help protect wildlife. Age Range: 4+

Geomag Mechanics Gravity Recycled Loops & Turns - 130 pcs, £39 from Amazon

Get ready for high-speed action with the Loops & Turns set! This set is all about building ramps and pathways for magnetic spheres to race along, powered by the forces of gravity. With 130 pieces made from recycled materials, it’s perfect for young inventors who want to take their building skills to the next level.

Geomag Magicube Blocks and Cards 16 pcs, £29.99 from Amazon

This set of 16 Magnetic Magicube shapes is both fun and educational, helping kids recognize colours and shapes while enhancing their building skills. It includes 6 color-coded cards to match and build the shapes shown.

It is made from 100% recycled plastic. With infinite possibilities, you can create figures, animals, and objects using your imagination. The strong magnets inside the blocks allow them to connect on all sides, and 9 of the blocks are made from 100% recycled plastic. Suitable for ages 2-5 years.

Eco Farm Puzzle, £24.90 from Adventerra Games

Introduce little ones to the world of sustainable farming! With colourful pieces and simple concepts, this puzzle shows kids how eco-friendly farming practices like composting and water conservation help protect the environment. It’s a great way for younger kids to learn about where food comes from and why it’s important to care for the land. Age Range: 4+

Green City Puzzle, £19.90 from Adventerra Games

Build your very own eco-friendly city! This puzzle lets kids create a green urban space filled with solar panels, bike lanes, and electric cars. As they piece it together, they'll learn about sustainable city planning and how small choices can lead to big environmental changes. It’s the perfect gift for kids who are curious about how to make their world a little greener! Age Range: 6+

Mechanics Motion 3 Gears 160 pcs, £70 from Amazon

The Motion 3 Gears set adds mechanical elements to magnetic construction, allowing kids to build interactive models that move using gears and magnetic forces. With 160 pieces, it’s a great gift for children who love to explore how things work and want to dive deeper into mechanical engineering concepts.

Glow 42 pcs, £35 from Amazon

Light up their imagination with the Geomag Glow set! These 42 glow-in-the-dark pieces, made from recycled plastic, allow kids to create dazzling constructions that come to life in the dark. A perfect way to add a little magic to nighttime play, this set is both educational and enchanting.

Mechanics Gravity Recycled Combo Starter Set 153 pcs, £50 from Amazon

For older kids (ages 7+), the Geomag Mechanics Gravity set is where building meets science. Using the power of magnetic forces and gravity, kids can create dynamic constructions that move without motors or electricity. This 153-piece set is made from 100% recycled plastic and is perfect for teaching advanced STEM concepts in a hands-on, engaging way.

Classic 142 pcs, £50 from Amazon

For children who enjoy a challenge, this 142-piece classic set offers the opportunity to create bigger and more intricate designs. Crafted entirely from recycled plastic, it supports the development of STEM skills, making it a perfect pick for aspiring builders and young innovators.

Magicube Try Me 64 pcs, £140 from Amazon

Perfect for toddlers aged 1-5, the Magicube Try Me set includes 64 cubes that easily snap together on all sides. This set is ideal for developing motor skills, creativity, and spatial awareness in young children. It’s also made from safe, recycled materials, making it a great choice for eco-conscious parents.

https://adventerragames.com

Parents or grandparents on a tight budget this year? Tesco has good news for you!

Great news for parents and grandparents on a tight budget this year! 

Tesco's toy experts have selected an even more affordable list of top 10 picks for Christmas this year – with seven of them costing less than £20.

Tesco shoppers will also be able to find stocking fillers for the big day, with hundreds more toys priced at £10 or less.

In recent years, expensive electronic toys have in particular pushed the average price of a main Christmas gift for youngsters well over the £50 mark. 

This year, toy experts from The Entertainer, who select toys specifically for Tesco shoppers, have chosen their top 10 based not only on current popularity and desirability but affordability too.

Traditional toys like wooden trainsets, racing car sets as well as toys aimed at boosting youngsters’ learning abilities feature strongly in the list.

There are also brands like Bluey, featuring toys based on the popular animated TV series as well as several plush toys such as the naughty fluffy monsters called Fugglers.   

Explains Tesco Head of Home and Clothing Strategy and Partnerships, Pauline Chisholm: “The list offers a real mix of classic toys, big brands and new, innovative products - offering huge choice for Tesco shoppers this Christmas across all ages and interests."  

Tesco’s top 10 toys for this Christmas are as follows: 

Disney Bitzee Interactive Pet – These loveable characters respond to swipes, tilts and taps with cute sounds and reactions at every interaction. Inside the Bitzee pod, collect 30 iconic characters and experience classic, Pixar and new Disney friends, all in one place. For ages 5+. £34.99

LOL Surprise! Loves Crayola Tots Doll – The modern classic LOL Surprise and iconic Crayola brands have partnered to produce a series of dolls to help children aged three years and over learn about colour through a series of eye-catching fashions and accessories. For ages 3+. £10.

Hot Wheels Action Vertical-8 Jump Track Set – The classic racing car game allows daredevil players to choose between a vertical U-turn with two stunt jumps or a figure of 8 path before ending in a thrilling race to the finish. For ages 5+. £24.99

Early Learning Centre Trainset - With over 30 wooden pieces included in this fun set, youngsters can set up their own town with shops, signposts, trees and people alongside the track. For ages 3+. £14.99

Little Live Pets NeeDees Interactive Pet - These interactive, wearable friends are here to bring endless hours of fun. With NeeDees, your favorite pet doesn't just stay at home; you can wear and carry them wherever you go - ready to interact and share the moment! Suitable for ages 5+. £10

Totally Tracks Jurassic Adventure Race Track – Youngsters can build their own dino adventure kingdom with this 120-piece set that easily clicks together. 5+. £10

Bluey’s Escape Convertible Playset - Escape on an imaginative fast-paced adventure with Bluey in this Bluey's Escape Convertible Playset, this is the car that Bluey and Bingo draw in the episode "Escape" and the bright red convertible has room for 4 figures to ride. For ages 3+. £19.99

Fugglers – Gold Fugglers – These plush toy creatures, also known as “Funny Ugly Monsters”, have captured the hearts of children and adults alike. These Fugglers are up to no good and have resorted to hunting down treasure. Can you stop them achieving their aim? 10 different gold Fugglers to choose from.  For ages 4+. Several designs are available at £8 each.

Nick Jr. Ready Steady Dough Rainbow Delight Playset - Kids can make countless creations with this colourful set. Whether they use their imaginations to get started or create an amazing 3D design, there are plenty of opportunities for squidgy, sensory fun. Suitable for ages 2+. £13.50.

Despicable Me 4: The Ultimate Fart Blaster - With this hilarious gadget from the Despicable Me 4 film, kids can let it rip and have loads of laughs pranking their friends and family. For ages 4+. £29.99

Tesco’s Up To Half Price Toy Sale which started in mid-September runs until Nov 3.

www.tesco.com

Future Foodmakers: Morrisons launches its first ever wooden toy range to inspire a new generation of foodmakers

Morrisons is launching its first ever wooden toy range with all the ingredients kids need to create their own Market Street, from bakery to butchery counters. 

The new Ollie & Grace range starts at just £4 and is available exclusively in Morrisons stores all over the country. 

Ever wondered what’s going to stir and bake the childhood imagination of chefs and bakers of the future? Morrisons believes one of the magical ingredients could be their inspiring new range of shop, farm and food related wooden toys.

Morrisons new ‘Ollie & Grace’ wooden toy range is set to inspire a new generation of foodmakers. And just in time for Christmas present shopping, the fun and collectible set will enable kids to spend endless hours role-playing at home while learning about the journey of food from farm to fork.

The new range, which is a first from Morrisons, is designed to develop creativity and spark the imagination of young children whilst they are ‘playing shop’, with prices starting from a very modest  £4. 

The exclusive set includes miniatures of Morrisons iconic Market Street setting (a recreation of the origins of Morrisons from a humble market stall, alongside a mini wooden Morrisons Shopping Trolley (£15), Delivery Van (£4), Tractor (£4) and a Tabletop Checkout Till (£25).

Capturing Morrisons Market Street, the Mini Market Street Bakery Set (£25) offers little ones the opportunity to re-create their very own Market Street moments, with a must-have Morrisons apron and hat. 

The Bakery Set offers interchangeable parts so mini Morrisons enthusiasts can enjoy playing with all the Market Street counters including a Butcher (£10), Fishmonger (£10), Deli (£10) and Oven Fresh (£10) set.

Amy Crowther, who has the very enviable job of Buying Manager at Morrisons, said: “We’ve absolutely loved bringing this range to life for our mini food-makers of the future. Our new Ollie & Grace wooden toy range is a gift that promises hours of fun, while also encouraging creativity and curiosity.”

The new Ollie & Grace range is available in-store at Morrisons now, customers need to be quick, as when it’s gone, it’s gone! 

That's Christmas believes these will make excellent Christmas gifts for children who are inventive and who might need a bit of a break from iPads, 'phones and the like!

www.morrisons.com

Ginger Fox Games: The Perfect Christmas Gift from Cheltenham

As the festive season approaches, many of us are on the lookout for thoughtful, fun, and engaging gifts to delight family and friends. 

One brand that consistently offers such joy is Ginger Fox Games, based in the beautiful town of Cheltenham.

Known for their innovative and entertaining range of games, Ginger Fox is making waves in the UK and beyond, and their products are ideal for Christmas gifting. Here’s why.

A Touch of British Charm

Ginger Fox Games pride themselves on delivering products that are full of British wit and charm, often with a playful twist. 

Their games aren’t just ordinary board or card games; they are experiences designed to bring people together. Whether it’s a family gathering or a festive evening with friends, their unique and engaging games provide hours of fun, sparking laughter, competition, and conversation. What better way to celebrate Christmas than with a gift that creates such memorable moments?

Something for Everyone

One of the great things about Ginger Fox is the wide variety of games they offer. Whether you’re shopping for a trivia lover, a puzzle enthusiast, or someone who enjoys quick-fire card games, there’s something for everyone. Their catalogue features everything from party games to family-friendly puzzles, and even brain teasers. For example, their Taskmaster Board Game (based on the popular TV show) is perfect for fans of the series or those who enjoy a good challenge. Alternatively, the Popmaster Quiz Game is great for music lovers who enjoy a good test of their knowledge.

What’s more, Ginger Fox regularly collaborates with popular TV shows, comedians, and brands, ensuring their products are always fresh, relevant, and in touch with current pop culture. These collaborations add a layer of familiarity and excitement, making their games perfect for Christmas gifts that feel both personal and entertaining.

Affordable and Accessible

Another reason Ginger Fox Games make ideal Christmas presents is their accessibility. Not only are the games available online and through various retailers, but they are also reasonably priced. This makes them perfect for everything from stocking fillers to more substantial gifts. Their quality is consistently high, ensuring that even the smallest purchase feels like a well-thought-out present.

Perfect for Holiday Gatherings

Christmas is a time for family and friends, and what better way to spend those festive evenings than with a great game? Ginger Fox Games provide the perfect icebreaker for gatherings, whether it’s for the whole family or an adults-only party. Their games are designed to be inclusive, easy to pick up, and entertaining for all age groups, making them an essential addition to any Christmas gift list. Whether you’re looking for something to entertain after Christmas dinner or a competitive game to play on New Year’s Eve, Ginger Fox has you covered.

Supporting a British Business

By choosing Ginger Fox Games, you’re not just giving a great gift, but you’re also supporting a local British business. Based in Cheltenham, Ginger Fox is a growing company that continues to innovate in the games industry, all while maintaining a focus on quality, creativity, and fun. For those who like to shop local and support UK-based brands, gifting Ginger Fox products this Christmas is a wonderful way to do so.

As Christmas fast approaches, finding the right gifts can sometimes feel overwhelming. However, Ginger Fox Games from Cheltenham offer a fantastic range of options that are not only affordable but also guaranteed to bring joy and laughter to any household. Their combination of British humour, pop culture connections, and well-designed gameplay makes them a go-to for thoughtful, fun, and interactive presents this holiday season.

So, if you’re looking to give a gift that will be used, appreciated, and remembered, look no further than Ginger Fox Games – the perfect addition to your Christmas shopping list!

https://www.gingerfox.co.uk

The Ultimate Expert-Led Christmas Toy Guide for Parents

With Christmas fast approaching, parents face a dizzying array of toy options. That’s where the Good Play Guide comes in. 

Curated and led by renowned neuro-psychologist and play expert Dr Amanda Gummer, the team has curated a trusted list of top toys for Christmas, each one independently reviewed and play-tested by children. 

The focus? Fun, ease of use, and skills development, ensuring that every toy not only entertains but also supports a child’s growth.

Dr Gummer’s curated list covers every age and stage, offering parents reliable, stress-free guidance in a busy season filled with endless commercial choices.

Top Picks for Every Age Group

For Babies:

NogginStik Developmental Light-Up Rattle: Engaging babies with lights, sounds, and textures, this rattle promotes sensory development and motor control.

For Toddlers (3+):

Yoto Player and Cards: A screen-free, audio-based tool that encourages creativity, listening skills, and independent play.

Mini Micro Scooter: A lightweight, smooth scooter designed to boost balance and motor skills in toddlers.

For Preschoolers:

My First Scalextric Batwheels Batman vs Robin Race Set: Enhances hand-eye coordination and motor skills through superhero-themed racing fun.

Xetnd Bike: A 3-in-1 bike that evolves from a balance bike to a pedal bike, supporting physical development and confidence.

Mood Bears: Plush toys that help children explore emotions in a comforting, playful way.

MAGNA-TILES® Space Set: A STEAM-based building set that fosters creativity and problem-solving through magnetic construction.

For Early Learners (4+):

Fun to Learn Magazines: These character-filled magazines support literacy, creativity, and independent learning, perfect for stocking fillers.

OllyBall: An indoor-safe, lightweight ball that kids can personalise, helping them develop fine motor skills and stay active.

For Children 5+:

Air Toobz: A STEM toy that introduces children to airflow and physics through hands-on experimentation.

Quickbuild Transport for London Routemaster Bus: A snap-together model that develops fine motor skills while introducing children to British heritage.

Each toy on this list has been vetted by Dr Gummer and her expert team, offering a reliable source of fun, engaging, and developmentally supportive gifts. With the guesswork removed, parents can confidently pick toys that both entertain and help children thrive.

Making Christmas Shopping Easier

This year, skip the overwhelm and trust a selection that’s backed by science and thoroughly tested by real families. From developmental benefits to just plain fun, every toy on this list has something special to offer. With Dr Gummer’s expertise, parents and gifters can be sure to choose gifts that will bring both joy and growth.

To learn more visit Dr. Gummer’s Top Christmas Picks https://www.goodplayguide.com/blog/dr-gummers-top-christmas-picks

FACTFILE:-

Dr. Amanda Gummer is a neuropsychologist with over 20 years of experience in child development and play. She is the founder and CEO of The Good Play Guide, an independent platform for reviewing children’s toys, apps, and educational products. 

Dr Gummer holds a PhD in Neuropsychology and is widely recognised as an expert in play and child development. She is the author of Play: Fun Ways to Help Your Child Develop in the First Five Years and serves as an ambassador for the USA’s Toy Industry Association’s Genius of Play initiative.

Choose Environmentally friendly, innovative PLAYMOBIL JUNIOR Advent Calendars

PLAYMOBIL is staying true to its sustainability strategies with its latest eco-friendly innovation. The latest PLAYMOBIL JUNIOR Advent Calendar eschews plastics, instead it's going for renewable materials from PAPACKS®, Europe’s top manufacturer of moulded fibre packaging. 

This innovative solution wipes away single-use plastic from PLAYMOBIL’s toddler Advent calendars, marking a significant step towards genuine, comprehensive sustainability.

Tahsin Dag, Founder & CEO of PAPACKS®, says: “Our collaboration with PLAYMOBIL is a bold statement for a sustainable future. Our fibre-based trays, made using only renewable resources, offers a cutting-edge, eco-friendly alternative to single-use plastic. This doesn't only ensures a sustainable Christmas season but also, we hope, inspires other firms and companies to embrace the move toward a plastic-free economy.”

Since the start of 2024, in excess of 90% of materials used in all PLAYMOBIL JUNIOR sets have been made using special new biobased plastics. 

These plastics follow a circular economy approach, using byproducts from food or paper production. The new materials in the product line for children aged 1 to 4 maintain PLAYMOBIL’s trusted quality, safe for children, durable, and easy to clean. The packaging also features recycled cardboard, and the new moulded fibre inlays, crafted from renewable raw materials, are food-safe and child-friendly, too.

With this sustainable packaging solution for the Advent calendar trays, PLAYMOBIL JUNIOR and PAPACKS® are ensuring the Christmas season can be enjoyed in an eco-conscious way—while toddlers explore a world of fun.

The new PLAYMOBIL JUNIOR Advent Calendar Snowy Christmas (Item No.: 70297) is available wherever good toys are sold.

Product Highlights Include:

Reindeer plane with three attachable and combinable elements

Six stackable footstep stones with control images on the underside

Nine woodland animals

Christmas tree with hidden compartments

Spinning star

Two angels and Santa Claus

Dimensions of reindeer plane (without figures): approx. 23.5 x 12 x 5.5 cm

Christmas tree: approx. 10 x 5.5 x 13.5 cm

FACTFILE:

The Horst Brandstätter Group is a global player known for its renowned brands PLAYMOBIL and LECHUZA, delivering quality, innovation, and genuine value to consumers. PLAYMOBIL's imaginative role-playing toy, featuring its 7.5 cm figures, animals, and extensive accessories, has fascinated children for 50 years. With over 3.8 billion figures produced since 1974, PLAYMOBIL’s award-winning play worlds are available in around 100 countries worldwide.

PAPACKS® leads the charge in developing and manufacturing sustainable, plastic-free packaging solutions. Specializing in moulded fibre packaging made primarily from tree and hemp fibres, PAPACKS® creates food-safe packaging through advanced technology and environmental commitment. Dedicated to a circular economy, PAPACKS® is reducing plastic pollution and invites businesses worldwide to join the movement toward a sustainable future.

You can learn more at https://www.playmobil.com/en-gb

A Cracking Tradition: The Fascinating History of Christmas Crackers

Every year, as Christmas approaches, households around the world gather around the dinner table, adorned with festive decorations and a lavish spread of food. Among the traditional elements of the Christmas season, the Christmas cracker holds a special place. 

But have you ever wondered about the origins and history of these festive popping novelties? In this blog post, we'll take a deep dive into the history of Christmas crackers and discover how they became an integral part of the holiday season.

The Birth of a Tradition

Christmas crackers, often simply called "crackers," were first invented in the early 19th century by a London confectioner named Tom Smith. The story goes that Smith was inspired by the French bonbon, a sweet wrapped in a twist of paper. However, the early crackers were not the delightful, explosive novelties we know today. Instead, they contained sweets and small trinkets, but they lacked the characteristic "crack" that makes modern crackers so exciting.

The Crackling Innovation

Tom Smith's breakthrough came during a trip to Paris in 1840, where he witnessed the French custom of wrapping sweets in twisted paper. The idea of incorporating a bang and a small gift into the cracker was sparked by the sound of a log crackling in the fireplace. Upon returning to London, Smith began experimenting with different designs until he finally achieved the desired effect. In 1847, he patented the concept of a cracker that produced a "pop" or "crack" when pulled apart, thanks to a small explosive charge known as a "snap."

The tradition quickly caught on, and Tom Smith's Christmas crackers became a sensation. His sons, Walter and Henry, took over the family business and expanded its production, incorporating new designs and styles to cater to different tastes and budgets. By the late 19th century, Christmas crackers were a staple in many British households.

Cracker Contents

The contents of Christmas crackers have evolved over the years. Originally, they contained sweets and small toys, but as their popularity grew, more elaborate and valuable items were included. These ranged from miniature puzzles and games to jewellery and even tiny tools. Today, it's common to find a paper crown or hat, a joke or riddle, and a small gift or trinket in a typical Christmas cracker.

Christmas Crackers Around the World

While Christmas crackers have a strong association with British Christmas traditions, they have spread to many other parts of the world. In the United States, Canada, and other countries, they are often used as part of festive holiday gatherings, parties, and dinners. Each region may have its unique spin on what goes inside the cracker or the types of jokes and toys included.

Conclusion

Christmas crackers have come a long way from their humble beginnings as a simple sweet wrapped in paper. Thanks to the inventive spirit of Tom Smith and his family, these festive novelties have become an integral part of Christmas celebrations for millions of people around the world. As you gather around the table this holiday season and pull open your Christmas crackers, take a moment to appreciate the history and tradition that has made them a cherished part of the holiday season for well over a century.

Incidentally the Tom Smith company is still producing high quality Christmas crackers today and they hold the Royal Warrant to supply Christmas crackers and Christmas wrapping paper to the Royal family.

https://www.tomsmith-crackers.com

(Image courtesy of 2taol from Pixabay)

Barbie and Hot Wheels included in Fantastic Tesco half-price pre-Christmas toy sale

Parents, grandparents and older siblings should take note! Tesco is launching a half-price sale exclusively for Clubcard holders, featuring some of the most current and popular toy brands.

There will be nearly 100 toys included in the sale and featured brands will be children’s favourites such as Barbie, Pokemon, Fisher Price, Peppa Pig, Bluey, 5 Surprise, Marvel and Hot Wheels.

Alongside the half-price sale, Clubcard holders will also see reductions on Lego toys, with up to 40 per cent off licensed specials such as Marvel Hulkbuster, Star Wars Tie Bomber, and Minecraft Abandoned Village and Lego Speed Champions McLaren Solus GT & McLaren F1 LM  and Lego Technic Nascar Next Gen Chevrolet Camaro ZL1.

Tesco Toy Category Manager Anne Borrett said: “There will be exciting toys for children of all ages with plenty of choice in the most popular categories including pre-school items, dolls, collectables, vehicles, plush and games.

“We hope the sale will help parents not only find some toy bargains for their kids but also spread the cost of Christmas.

“There are great offers on many toys in our stores, including all the top brands such as Barbie, Lego, Disney, Hot Wheels, 5 Surprise and Fisher Price, with something for kids of all ages.”

The Half-Price Sale runs until November 1. The sale for selected Lego toys at 40 per cent off runs from Sept 14 until October 25.

Tesco join forces with Hasbro and Wastebuster to trial in store toy recycling that also gets books into schools

Tesco has become the latest member of Wastebuster’s Recycle to Read toy recycling initiative, which is designed to educate and promote toy reuse and create a new infrastructure for the recycling of plastic toys.

Recycle to Read collection bins will be trialled in selected Tesco stores from this week.

Customers can deposit broken plastic toys in-store for recycling and at the same time collect points for books.

The initiative is backed by global toy and games company Hasbro, alongside the founding partners of Recycle to Read, children’s magazine publishers.

Tesco and Hasbro have combined forces with top not-for-profit environmental education company, Wastebuster, to test out a new in-store campaign, which aims at turning broken plastic toys into books and reading resources for schools in the UK.

In an important development for the Recycle to Read campaign, the trial, which will run from now until December 4th,  will encourage children and families to recycle their broken, hard plastic toys via toy recycling bins placed in a number of specially chosen Tesco stores. If the scheme proves itself  to be a hit with parents and children, it will then be rolled out to further stores.

Backed by global toy and games company, Hasbro, the initiative aims to drive a circular solution for unwanted or broken hard plastic toys. Families are first encouraged to rehome toys through charitable giving to friends, family, school toy sales or local charities. Broken toys can be recycled in store, where they are collected, cleaned and turned into plastic pellets, before being used to create new items including coat hangers, chairs and coffee machines. 

Rehomed and recycled plastic toys can be registered via the Wastebuster website to earn Planet Care Points for any schools attended by children from 2-11 years old in the Sussex area. Eligible schools can register for free to earn points for books at www.jointhepod.org/toys,

The Recycle to Read scheme will then reward the fifty highest point-scoring schools in the area with book vouchers from a prize fund of £5,000, to spend on a wide range of discounted books by children’s publishing house, Harper Collins. Participating schools could also win fantastic book bundles, provided by publishing houses Farshore and Ladybird, in a special weekly prize draw. 

The Recycle to Read campaign was launched by Wastebuster in association with Products of Change and is powered by members of the toy industry and all major children’s publishers and distributors,  including Immediate Media Company; Story House Egmont; Redan; Kennedy; Signature; DC Thompson; Frontline and Seymour. The campaign aim is to drive new infrastructure for notoriously hard-to-recycle plastic toys, plus providing reading materials to support literacy in UK nurseries and primary schools across the UK.

Katy Newnham, who is the founder of Wastebuster said: “Recycle to Read supports families in learning about the environmental benefits of toy rehoming and recycling, while rewarding them with books for taking part. 

"What better way can we inspire and empower children to make pro-environmental choices, than by storytelling with their favourite characters and giving them an opportunity to send their unwanted toys on a new adventure that is good for the planet?”

Helena Mansell-Stopher, who is the founder of Products of Change said: “The Recycle to Read platform is the result of the tireless work of an industry coming together with cross-sector stakeholders around the need to find more sustainable solution for unwanted or broken toys.

"After so many years in the making, it’s amazing to see the campaign come to life via this Hasbro and Tesco partnership. This is a really hugely exciting moment that I believe represents a turning point for circularity in toys, and a wonderful example of what can be achieved when industry demonstrates sector leadership and comes together, in the pursuit of sustainability”.

Ally Rose, who is the Tesco Category Director for Toys said: “We are always looking for new ways to remove, reduce, reuse and recycle plastic in our business, so we’re really delighted to be able to support the Recycle to Read campaign as a way to help our customers do more of this at home. As well as trialling a new way we can work together on hard-to-recycle plastics, it also helps to give children greater access to reading”.

Sara Westby, Director of Marketing at Hasbro, added: “At Hasbro, we know kids and families everywhere share our passion for protecting our planet, which is why we’re so proud to partner with Wastebuster on the Recycle to Read campaign. We encourage everyone to keep their memories, but recycle their broken toys – doing good to the planet and to people”. 

For more information on Recycle to Read, visit:https://www.recycletoread.org or contact Katy@wastebuster.co.uk.

That's Christmas believe this scheme is a fantastic idea for the pre-Christmas period.

Toys place at the top of Christmas lists threatened by tech: What kids want for Christmas

What children really want for Christmas

Toy’s place at the top of children’s Christmas lists is being threatened by iPads and video games.

Those are the findings of research featured in the latest issue of toy industry publication Toy News. The research was carried out for the magazine by youth research specialists, Dubit to provide insight into what children across the UK will be asking Santa for this year.

Presents

Dubit asked the children to pick five types of presents to make up their imaginary Christmas list. The kids chose electronic devices the most (chosen by 59 per cent), followed by video games (53 per cent), money (44 per cent), and toys (39 per cent).

As the children get older, the most popular gifts change considerably. Those aged seven to eight favour toys (63 per cent), while nine to ten year-olds prefer electronic items (60 per cent). Gadgets are also top of 11-12 year-old’s lists but at that age girls favour clothes over any other present.

The least popular Christmas presents with children are novelty items, jewellery, and grooming. Unsurprisingly, 11-12 year-old girls buck this trend as they begin to take an interest in beauty products.

Toys

The children were also asked which types of toys they wanted to find beneath the tree – a toy was regarded as popular if it ranked in the top three.

For this, the toys were divided into nine categories, such as board games, action figures, and blocks.

Board games are the most popular toy - placing in the top three 124 times, followed by vehicles (105), pet animals (96), blocks (88) and puzzles (83).

Despite the prominence of video games in older children’s’ playtime, board games are popular with kids aged 9-10 and 11-12, as are puzzles such as jigsaws and Rubix Cubes.

Action figures and dolls only made the top three of 78 children’s lists, with just 14 boys putting them near the top compared to 64 girls.

Brands

Finally, the children were asked to pick three items for their Christmas list – three from the toys list and three for the sectors list (gadgets, money, toys, etc.)

The most popular words used were associated with technology brands, like Nintendo DS, Xbox, and iPhone.

Lego was the most popular toy brand to be mentioned by the children. This was helped by Lego’s move into video games and partnering with brands like Harry Potter and Star Wars. Other toy brands chosen by the children included Hello Kitty, Barbie and Harry Potter.

Samantha Loveday, editor of ToyNews magazine commented: “Although consumer electronics seem to be grabbing the attention of older kids, the more traditional toys are still firm favourites with younger children.

“It’s interesting to see that the toy suppliers that have made a move into video games – and video game suppliers which have launched into the toy space – seem to be higher on the agenda when talking to kids about brands. It appears that a mix of digital and traditional is a key combination for keeping kid’s interested as they grow up. However, it is nice to see that the good old board game is still top of the Christmas list where toys are concerned.”

Create your own Winter Wonderland!

The pre-Christmas build-up can be a magical time for adults alike. And now you can make it even more special for you and your children with the assistance of the experts at Maps Toys.

Their stunning Christmas Village will allow children and parents to create a genuinely enchanting festive scene which is certain to become a much-loved centrepiece of your family's Christmas decorations for many years to come.

The Christmas Village craft set comprises everything that you will require to build, decorate and illuminate a snowy-covered Victorian Yuletide winter wonderland extravaganza.  Children from age five and upwards will delight in creating the village using the six card building templates. They can create  quaint thatched cottages, an ancient church, an inn and the all-important village Post Office. They'll love making stained glass and leaded windows out of opaque paper, colouring pens and coloured tissue paper.
Of course, taking centre stage in the village Christmas festivities is the traditional Christmas tree, which features a special fibre-optic LED glowing light on top of the tree that will magically twinkle throughout all of Christmas.

LED lights are cleverly integrated into the scene so that each building will radiate a festive glow, so evocative of a real Christmassy atmosphere. 

You can scatter the special reusable snowflakes over the village base to create a snow covered street scene that is just waiting for the villagers to walk through as they go to the village Post Office to post their last minute Christmas card to a relative in the next village or visit the church for a special carol service.

You can also add a touch of glitter and a dusting of snow to the village rooftops and you can sit back and admire your handiwork.

The Christmas village will be a lovely and compelling way to mark the start of the festive celebrations and you and your children will delight in showing off your creation to friends, family and visitors this Christmas season and for many more to come. It will be the start of a new and very special family Christmas tradition.

The Christmas Village costs £24.99 and is available at www.the-owl-barn.com. Visit www.mapstoys.com for details of other stockists.

Sand play this Christmas!

If you are looking for a toy that will keep the kids entertained as happy well beyond Christmas, then you should buy them the genuinely unique My Little Sandbox range from Map Toys.

The unique playsets will provide young children with hours of fun, when they can use the power of their own imaginations to create their own fun. And they'll keep them busy when the weather means outside play is not possible.

Each playset is themed around different play scenarios which include Pirates, Mermaids, Holidays and Construction.

The sets are well made and each one comes in its own sturdy hardwood box that is filled with ultra fine play sand which is easy to vacuum. Miniature toys and accessories come with each playset so the children will be sure to have lots of fun in the sand. The construction  set features mini diggers, boulders bricks and building workers ans is perfect for those children who fancy themselves as builders.

The Mermaid Sandbox features a beautiful mermaid figure along with some coral and underwater plants and seashells. And the sunshine theme continues with the Beach Sandbox. Children will adore the holidaymaker, the parasol, the deckchair, the towel and the bucket and spade. Little boys will have endless fun with the Pirate playset which includes a cool pirate ship, a crocodile some palm trees and the vitally important treasure chest! (EDITOR: Some little girls will be keen to get their hands on the Pirate playset, too...)

Each My Little Sandbox playset comes complete with its very own grooming rake and digging shovel so the children (and adults!) can create different scenes. Each playset also comes with a special playmat which is designed to catch any sand. And I am reliably informed that adults can use the playset -when the kids are in bed!- as a fantastic Japanese sand garden stress toy, with the sand rake!

Each My Little Sandbox playset should cost something in the region of £24.99, it is available from Amazon. For details of stockists visit www.mapstoys.com

Do something great this Christmas. Amaze your kids!

Who says knowledge is boring? Or that frivolity and fun should be eschewed for learning? Only those unfortunate people who have never found the joys of Maps Toys!

This year Maps Toys are inviting you to make Christmas one big, fun and exciting experiment for your children and their friends! (If they want to share the fun, that is!)

For this year Map Toys have some fun and funky toys and games that are sure to puzzle and excite both children and adults this Christmas!

There's something for the mucky pup in us all, called Yuck (should cost about £17.99) a gigantic tub that contains a whole host of top secret formulas to create some tremendously icky stuff. Create snot that looks disgustingly real, and something that looks like... vomit? As well as making disgusting treats, your children can learn how to grow their own bacteria farms using a real petri dish! Yuck! This is suitable for children from age 8 and upwards and for adults who do not have ticklish stomachs!

But, to coin a phrase, there's more!

Why not create some awesomely fun towering geysers, with the  Great Geysers present. (You can expect to pay something in the order of £14.99 for this.

The kit gives you all you require to make a gigantic fountain with fizzy pop and some Mentos sweeties! (So if you get your video camera out, you and your kids can put their efforts up on You Tube, just like the professionals!) But there's a serious point behind all this frivolity and fun, children will be able to perform 12 serious and informative scientific experiments with the kit.

There's also some rather more sedate yet equally fun experiments to be undertaken with the Lab in a Bag, which contains enough experiments to last through the entire year. There are four in the range which include Newton's Antics, Come to Your Senses, Test Tube Wonders and Test Tube Adventures. They should cost £14.99 each. They come complete with a handy plastic carry case.

Children can learn some fun tricks like how to balance six nails on the head of one nail with Newton's Antics to discovering why they might hate vegetables with Come to Your Senses!

Many parts of the UK were fortunate enough to have a real White Christmas last year, the first in many years. But it's unlikely we will be lucky enough to have a White Christmas two years on the trot, so if you want to give your children a taste of a White Christmas, why not buy them some Amazing Snow Grow? It's so simply to use! All you do is get your special Insta-Snow powder, sprinkle it on a dish, add just a splash of water and before you can say White Christmas, you will have an eruption of snow! Insta-Snow looks so realistic it can fool people into thinking it is real. Especially as it even feels cold to the touch!

To find out more just visit www.mapstoys.co.uk

Jellyfingers Great Free Toy Giveaway

Flash Sale Website ‘Jellyfingers’ Great Free Infant & Pre-School Toy Giveaway

Jellyfingers, a flash sale site dedicated to the infant and pre-school market is the first of its kind in the UK, and as a special pre-Christmas promotion they are giving away over 500 FREE toys, one each to the first 500 who visit the website www.jellyfingers.co.uk when the offer goes live on Tuesday 18th October 2011. All visitors have to do is choose their favourite toy from all those included in the free giveaway and add it to their basket and the chosen toy will be delivered free of charge.

Jellyfingers have 25 different toys from the gorgeous infant and pre-school (0 – 4) www.kidstoyworld.co.uk range to give away, which will be listed by age suitability, and include puzzles, rattles, squeakaboos, games and pull alongs; with rrp’s up to £7.99. Once all 500 free toys have been claimed, the range will be available to buy from Jellyfingers at half the rrp.

Flash Sales, already very successful in the USA, offer parents the opportunity to buy sought-after branded goods at large discounts within a limited time span. Working with nursery and toy suppliers, the experienced Jellyfingers team help design that week’s offers, which are open to shoppers for a maximum of two weeks, and when the deal closes Jellyfingers confirm to their suppliers the numbers to be shipped to the Jellyfingers warehouse for delivery.