It's summertime in Australia! That means a lot of sun, surf and sand … not to mention, days spent outside playing from country to coast.
If you have little ones, it can often be challenging to find the right toys that are safe, durable and most importantly, plastic-free and planet-friendly.
We’ve compiled a handy list of eco-friendly toy ideas to help get you started:
1. WWF board games, puzzles and toys
A fun and challenging puzzle is always great during the rainy summer days (or days when you’re sheltering from the heat). WWF has a collection of FSC certified puzzles and toys. Challenge the kids to a fun Miombo Tumble Tower game, discover a world of amazing animals with the Wildlife Memory Game, or piece together a montage of wild tigers on a 1,000 piece jigsaw puzzle (if you shop online with Axis Toys a percentage of the sale price goes to WWF conservation programs).
2. Ethical kitchen and tea play sets
Growing Kind has a range of 'pretend play' toy sets for children aged 3 yrs and up, including this beautifully handcrafted wooden tea set. While Little Earth Nest will give kids a magical tea party experience with their incredible a range of themed eco-toy kitchen and tea sets.
3. Children's eco-friendly books
Biome is known for their environmentally friendly products and that includes their collection of educational and eco-friendly books! Introduce and teach the kids the importance of protecting the environment this summer.
Get them to fall in love with Australia’s native wildlife with an adorable Guess Who Australian Wildlife book, inspire them to become a Sea Turtle Scientist, or start them on their composting journey with Compost Stew- An A-Z Recipe for the Earth.
4. Environmentally friendly crafts
For kids that like to get a little crafty and creative, you can’t go wrong with a nature colouring book along with Honeysticks Crayons. They’re handmade from beeswax and completely palm oil free! Another option are these handmade biodegradable eco crayons that are plant based and toxin free. Or, you can save the trouble of packing up lots of pencils and get a rainbow-coloured pencil that’s forest-friendly.
5. Organic and eco-friendly soft toys
Little kids love their soft toys – many becoming their best friends and personal confidantes. Teddy Bear Treasures sells a range of cute and organic soft toys, like this plush toy rabbit or a cuddly cotton brown bear.
6. Kids 'no nasties' makeup
We all know kids love to dress up once in a while! Flora and Fauna sell handmade vegan makeup sets that are natural and safe for kids.
7. Reusable water bottles – in the form of animals!
Get your kids on their #ReduceYourUse journey with these fun reusable water bottles! Our personal fave is the koala kids water bottle.
8. Wooden outdoor and beach games
Gather the kids around for a fun outdoor game! Some great options include the Finska wooden tossing game, Wooden Croquet or Beachshack Cricket set. It’ll definitely be a hit with the kids, and an activity the whole family can enjoy whether you’re at the beach, park or in the backyard.
The Growing Kind's outdoor play range is another surefire way of getting the youngsters outside whilst being kind to our planet! Hit the beach with their 3 piece Sandpit Kit , or let imaginations run free with the Brush Cones in Eco Cylinder set.
Know a kid learning how to ride their first bike? This wooden Wishbone 3-in-1 bike is also a great gift idea! It grows with your child, converting from three wheels to two as your child grows and levels up in their bike riding skills. The wheels are made from post-consumer recycled plastic.
9. Adopt a Koala
WWF’s Koala adoptions make the perfect gift for children. The gift pack includes a gorgeous cuddly toy Koala, adoption certificate and fact book. Plus we will send exclusive updates across the year about how your monthly donation is making a difference and helping protect these precious, iconic animals and their bush homes.
Adopt a Koala