4 minute read
KIDS PRODUCTS BEYOND ENTERTAINMENT
Choosing the right toys and kids accessories is now more important than ever.
A review comparing children’s screen time before and during COVID showed an increase of 52%1 but, what does this mean for a child’s development?
Studies have shown that excessive screen time…can negatively affect executive functioning, sensorimotor development, and academic outcomes. Early screen exposure has been associated with lower cognitive abilities and academic performance in later years.
Buyers are looking to find children’s toys that avoid toxic materials and have tangible positive effects on a child’s sensory, emotional and physical development. We heard from some of our exhibitors that provide just that.
Calma Koala™️ at stand MP6
Sue and Jennie wanted to create a uniquely Australian toy that helped parents calm their baby. Calma Koala™️ uses sound, sight, smell and touch to engage newborns to toddlers.
Australian Made in Melbourne Australia, Calma Koala™ is made with medical grade silicon and in their plight for advocacy of the declining Koala population, Calma Koala™ pledges to donate $1 from every sale directly to the Koala Hospital Port Macquarie.
Rubbabu toys with Rhino Rhino at stand 1J4
With three kids of their own, founders Rahul and Meera knew that simple and safe toys were all kids needed to create imaginative play where kids learn cognitive and social skills. The main component of Rubbabu toys is a natural rubber foam - an anti-microbial, hypo-allergenic and mildew-resistant material - ideal for baby, toddler and children’s toys.
This award-winning brand has over 50 accolades from various worldwide parenting foundations.
FLATOUTbear at stand 3H12
A story of two sisters, Sarah and Prue, from Sydney, Australia, following in their Mum’s footsteps and integrating motherhood and business. The FLATOUTbear is not just a cuddly toy; it’s a multifaceted developmental tool that nurtures sensory, emotional, linguistic, and cognitive aspects of a child’s growth.
The FLATOUTbear has found stardom with celebrities of the likes of Tom Cruise, Kourtney Kardashian and Jennifer Garner.
BigToes Australia at stand MP8
Brand new to our marketplace, BigToes Australia are a family who are passionate about physical and mental health.
After disappointment in finding appropriate shoes, they took matters into their own hands creating a ‘slip on/off’ design with a ‘big toe box’ which provides ample room for little toes to stretch, fan, and wiggle; a necessary part of learning to walk. All of their shoes are made from breathable cotton and Thermoplastic Elastomer making them lightweight, non-slip, and moisture wicking.
As a chiropractor dedicated to children's health for over 20 years I only recommend the best products, this includes BigToes. When looking at footwear for growing feet it is very important to look at the affect a shoe design will have on foot contact with the ground and its effect on postural development, because maintaining good posture includes good foot posture, optimal 'ground contact' and 'functional movement
Nigel Nulty, Director and Principal Chiropractor at Chiro One Helensvale
The newest - ‘chameleon’- colour changing design cannot be found anywhere else. When exposed to UV light, the soles change colour not only sparking curiosity but making children WANT to wear their shoes!
These 4 brands satisfy so many aspects of what buyers are looking for – great quality products, safe and fun for children. Find thousands more brands perfect for children’s development at Gift + Home Expo (inc. Sydney Gift Fair). Register free now!
