Going Green with Toys This Christmas

Shopping with a conscience this festive season need not just be about charity gifts, up-cycledjewelry, and exchanging sustainable clothing. It makes sense to include a green side to yourpresent buying for the children as well, teaching them a respect for the environment while alsogiving them safer toys and playthings.Traditional gift ideas like building blocks, figure toys and puzzles are often more effective whensimply made from wood. The carved wooden animal set from Jupiter's Child is hand-crafted fromnatural materials and the Under the Moon fishing set from Born at Home Toys has a colourful,chunky appeal.Soft toys don't need to be made from synthetics when there are so many suitable natural fibresaround; felt hand-puppets, knitted dolls and crocheted animals all make perfect presents. Theragdolls by Earthsling are made with retro and recycled fabrics for gifts that both entertain andinspire.Organic clothes are a good way to go to if your children are prone to reactions or rashes from whatthey wear. If you're after some trendy sleepsuits for your child this Christmas, SoRad do ninja stylesets, hoodies and onesies for girls and boys, made of materials like bamboo and natural cotton.There are as many green gift ideas as traditional ones in the market at the moment so it really isworth looking out for them this festive season. Although environmentally-friendly products can havea higher price tag, they are often healthier for children and, as they last longer, can be re-used andloved for years to come.