The summer months are upon us down 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 Tropical Tumble Tower game, discover amazing wildlife with the Animal Playing Cards, or piece together a montage of wild tigers on a 1,000 piece jigsaw puzzle.
When you use the code WWFTOYS at the checkout, 10% of your purchase will be donated to help save wildlife.
2. Ethical kitchen and tea play sets
Little Earth Nest has a range of eco toys and gifts for kids. Their toy kitchens and sets are incredible. Take a step into Paris with Le Toy Van Market Stand and Cafe, or start them on their culinary adventures with a Uptown Espresso Kitchen.
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 recycling journey with the Beginners Series to Rubbish and Recycling.
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.
This wooden Wishbone 3-in-1 bike is also a great gift idea for kids learning to ride their first bike! 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 an Orangutan
WWF’s Orangutan adoptions make the perfect gift for children. The gift pack includes a gorgeous cuddly toy Orangutan, 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 animals and their forest homes.
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Handy tip: When you’re out shopping for toys and gifts this summer, skip the single-use plastic bags! Don’t forget to bring your reusable shopping bags with you.
Make the pledge to #ReduceYourUse this summer
Make the pledge today