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Spotlight On... Preschool/Children’s Gifts
Child’s P lay Sustainability is the clear message that stands out in the preschool and children’s gifting sector, alongside creative, innovative and educational products, ranging from plush to puzzles. But that’s not all that’s trending as PG&H discovered, with wooden toys, interactive play and licensed giftware all ticking the boxes. “Like a lot of other sectors, the preschool/children’s space is seeing a movement towards more sustainable, environmentally friendly products, alongside reduced or more recyclable packing which is something we are very passionate about,” says Sue Lockey, owner and director of The Puppet Company. “There is also a shift towards more gender-neutral products, especially at the younger end of the spectrum, which has always been important to us. Dinosaurs, unicorns, superheroes and everything in between should be for children of all ages, and more neutral or unusual colour ways are a great way to encourage this.” Continues Sue: “As a result of lockdown and the pandemic, we have seen a huge increase in toys and products that help children learn through play and encourage their imagination which is part of our core ethos. We have noticed a movement back to more traditional toys in addition to more tactile fabrics to encourage sensory play and engagement which is an area we hope to see grow further in the future. On the sustainability
Above: A cuddly bunny from Wilberry Cuddlies Eco Collection. Left: Tum Tum children’s lunch bag from Hippychick. Below: PMC’s personalised Animal Alphabet breakfast set. Bottom left: Inside Out Toys’ Woodland dominoes.
Inside Out Toys’ marketing director Nikki Garner highlights a groundswell of awareness for making sustainable choices in all walks of life. “Parents, grandparents and friends are becoming ever more aware of choosing sustainable gifts for children - it’s less acceptable today to give cheap plastic toys, and people are looking for alternatives. 2022 is our 10th anniversary and we are delighted to be celebrating with the launch of our new Jumini Woodland collection. The range, side we are very excited to be launching our new Wilberry Cuddlies Eco Collection for Spring 2022 - beautifully made, very cuddly soft toys made out of 100% recycled plastic bottles. This collection follows the launch of our sister company The Puppet Company’s Eco Walking Puppets at the end of last year. Also made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, these incredibly functional puppets have hand access into both the arms and the legs so the user can make them walk, dance and more to further increase learning through play.”
Favourite Childhood Toys l Mouse Trap! I loved this game when I was a child, great fun for everyone. We
played this with our children when they were little, and I am already looking forward to playing it with my grandchildren in a few years’ time.” Sue Lockey, owner and director, The Puppet Company l “When I wasn’t digging foxholes for my GI Joe, I loved to while away the time with a Slinky that my parents bought for me at FAO Schwartz in New York, when I was seven years old. Such a cool product!” Anthony Temple, managing director, Rainbow Designs l Growing up my favourite toys were Sylvanian Families. I loved being able to decorate the houses and other buildings before playing with the animals! Felicity Colbert, PMC
Progressive Gifts & Home Worldwide
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