Progress from toy retailers – time for manufacturers to catch up
Our research this year shows that retailers have made big strides forward in letting toys be toys, with boy/girl signage on the way out, and more imaginative adverts and promotional imagery. It’s another picture from toy manufacturers, whose packaging, ads and catalogue images still rely on stereotypes.
11 fantastic toys and books to foster STEM skills – Let Toys Be Toys gift guide
As well as being fun, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) toys, are a great way to build skills such as problem solving, spatial awareness and critical thinking.
Of course we all know science is for everyone, but gender bias means STEM toys are often targeted squarely at boys, (or else given a dusting of pink glitter and lipstick as if that’s the only way to get girls interested). We’ve chosen eleven toys and books to help curious children everywhere develop an interest in science and discovery. Read more…
Magazines that kids 8+ will love
A magazine subscription is a great gift that will keep giving all year round, but many, if not most of the children’s magazines on the shelves fall back on tired old pink/sparkly and blue/camo stereotypes. We’ve picked out a few publications which appeal to boys and girls with different interests.
Let’s Play Outside! – Let Toys Be Toys Gift Guide
Children learn through playing and often love nothing more than exploring the freedom of the great outdoors, developing healthy bodies and a spirit of adventure along the way. The following toys can all be played with outside and offer something a bit different to children who might seem like they already have a full toy-box.
All shops featured on this page have received the Let Toys Be Toys ‘Toymark award’ – our good practice award for the stores that are getting it right.
Books for Young Children – Let Toys Be Toys Gift Guide
Who doesn’t love the gleam and smell of a freshly unwrapped book? We believe all children should be able to choose freely the books they like best and we celebrate all the marvellous writers, illustrators, publishers and booksellers that avoid putting boy or girl labels on books. Here we list some of our favourite reads for the very small people in our lives.
Toys for under £10 – Let Toys Be Toys gift guide
Avoiding gender stereotypes doesn’t need to be expensive. Check out our guide to great gifts and stocking fillers, from £1.50 – £10.
All shops featured on this page have received the Let Toys Be Toys ‘Toymark award’ – our good practice award for the stores that are getting it right. Read more…
Early Learning – Let Toys Be Toys gift guide
Early learning toys are a fantastic way to introduce fundamental understandings and encourage creativity in very young minds. Sadly, even at this early stage, several toy makers and retailers are sorting their products according to the all too familiar pink and blue division.
In this gift guide, we’ve picked out toys that help babies and toddlers grow their minds without restricting them according to gender.
Arts & crafts – Let Toys Be Toys gift guide
If you’re looking for an arts and crafts gift, and want to shop outside the pink and blue boxes of gender stereotypes, check out our inclusive gift guide for fun arts and crafts present ideas for children.
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