FF Play - Summer 2023

Play

“We don’t need to drain our bank accounts to make special memories with our children and we often forget that little ones are fascinated with the simplest activities and just want to spend quality time with us.”

Dr Amanda Gummer, founder of the Good Play Guide

Let kids be kids

a little bundle of energy or needs a little encouragement, it is the perfect screen-free way to promote active play – they will love tiring themselves on this Sportspower toddler trampoline.

Building on the success of our Toddler Trampoline, 2023 sees the introduction of our new 4.5’ trampoline, which introduces independent play and builds confidence, while working on motor skills and coordination. The sturdy frame has a user weight of 45kg and has been designed to incorporate a safety enclosure to keep your little bouncer safe. Again, this is both an indoor and outdoor trampoline, featuring all the quality expected from Sportspower and bold design in keeping with Fisher Price’s mantra of “Let Kids Be Kids!”.

Sportswear has been manufacturing trampolines for more than 30 years and we are one of the industries largest suppliers globally. We are also a leading manufacturer of outdoor swings, football goals, constant air bouncers and wood items, so active outdoor play is our speciality.

We supply more than 40 countries and have a dedicated in-house team committed to quality and safety, as well as development and innovation. We also support all of our products with a UK helpline offering spares and assistance.

When Mattel approached us three years ago wanting to develop their outdoor category, the partnership was a natural fit. Fisher-Price is the numberone pre-school brand globally, with 99% brand awareness, so we were super-

excited and jumped at the opportunity. Our first item to launch was the Fisher-Price Toddler trampoline; this is an entry-level trampoline with an age guide of 18 months. It features a support handle, as children at this age don’t always have the leg strength for independent bouncing. The item has a 25kg user weight guide, spacious jumping mat, protective frame padding and comes with nonslip feet, so perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. If your toddler is

The above two items take your child on a developmental journey from pre-school all the way through to 6yrs plus. An exciting introduction to trampolining, but more importantly healthy active play – something lockdown has taught every parent is of paramount importance.

2024 is set to be another bumper year for Sportspower’s Fisher-Price range, with new developments already being worked. There will be a brand new wooden playhouse, sand pit and two new trampolines to support the range; we will also introduce new license lines from Barbie and Hot Wheels... so watch this space.

Sportspower is dedicated to “Keeping Kids Active” and is proud to partner with the world’s no1 pre-school brand in bringing outdoor toys to a younger demographic.

If your toddler is a little bundle of energy or needs a little encouragement, it is the perfect screen-free way to promote active play

Outdoor play equipment supplier Sportspower highlights its exciting partnership with FisherPrice and gives us a sneak peak into its plans for 2023 and 2024.

Summer fun with LOKI Games

animals. Play the animal cards at the right time to move your meeples up the track and cross the finish line first!

Ever played the original Happy Families card game? If so, Hâpy Families is for you! It’s an Egyptian themed twist on the much-loved original that sees kids helping the main character, Hâpy, to find the gods hidden in the pyramid and reunite them. Collect the most sets to win.

snacks and more. Just be sure to watch out for other animals who will try to steal your supplies.

As summer approaches, travel and road trips are on the horizon and there is no better way to entertain the whole family than by making sure you have packed some of your favourite games. LOKI has a fantastic range of games dedicated to children and their parents. All LOKI games are family friendly and great for keeping little hands occupied over summer.

LOKI games focus on learning in creative ways with excellent game themes. They feature high-quality components designed to keep children excited and engaged. From dinosaurs and volcanoes to real revolving carousels to the wonders of outer space, LOKI takes children on adventures around the globe.

Card games

LOKI’s card game range is the perfect travel companion. The games are small and compact, but packed with loads of gaming fun. These games can be picked up and grasped in under 15 minutes and feature interesting learning points and themes.

Dive into the depths with Tentacolor to find the mysterious creature living beneath the waves. Play as an intrepid explorer to take photos of the creatures’ beautiful tentacles, just make sure you are smarter than other explorers by matching tentacle colours wisely! Back in the barnyard on dry land, engage in a ‘Farm and Furious’ race between the

New to the Board Game range

LOKI is always developing brand new games to add to its range to keep families engaged! It’s a race that is simply out of this world in Cosmic Race! New to the LOKI range, this board game sees intergalactic pilots lining up to take part in the super space race across the galaxy. But pay attention to other spaceships, asteroids and obstacles, they may cause a mid-air collision! Cross the finish line first, with the most stars to win.

Visit the fairgrounds on a hot sunny day and help Carla Caramel to serve ice cream! Get as many dairy delights as possible in the hands of the kids before the sun melts the delicious goodness. Roll the dice to add flavours, move the sun or hand out ice cream.

Sneak peek! Coming soon in 2023 is Fluffy Valley! In this cooperative game, play together as prairie dogs to fill the burrow with winter necessities! Gather juicy fruits, hay for a soft bed, honey for

Fan favourites

A prehistoric adventure awaits you in SOS Dino! The volcanoes have just erupted, and Marie, Freddy, Nessie and Louis need to reach safety. Work together with these cute dinosaur characters to avoid the lava and meteorites, collect the eggs and seek shelter in the mountains.

Team up with Detective Charlie to solve mysteries. A game of observation that has kids examining clues, meeting inhabitants and using their powers of deduction to solve the cases. Next, team up as a group of pirates to protect your faithful ship trying to survive the Kraken Attack! Coordinate actions with sabres, pistols and cannons to defend the ship from all sides so you don’t end up in Davy Jones’ locker!

Coiledspring Games (coiledspring. co.uk) are the UK’s exclusive distributor of the best board games, puzzles and jigsaws. Our mission is to spread the joy and fun of tabletop gaming one piece at a time. There is always time to play!

Keeping children entertained is the name of the game over the summer. Hannah Mason, assistant brand manager at Coiledspring Games talks us through the brand’s fantastic family favourites and new releases.

Giddyup for pony playtime!

Perfect

for introducing young children to the equine world, LeMieux’s mini toy ponies provide little horse enthusiasts with everything they need to enjoy a summer of outdoor fun.

Bring your child’s imagination to life with the mini toy pony range from LeMieux. Whether they’re already in love with these gentle creatures or you’re a horse rider who wants to encourage your children how to care for them, LeMieux’s mini toy ponies are bound to provide hours of entertainment in the garden, at the beach or on holiday. They’re flexible and stand securely on all four legs – ideal for outdoor play.

Each unique toy is individually hand-made

LeMieux’s riders and in-house team, making them a truly special toy for children of all ages to enjoy.

There are also two magical unicorns called Magic and Shimmer that you can buy matching shimmer wings for, giving children the option to tack them up to ride or let them spread their wings and fly.

Each unique toy is individually handmade, meaning they vary slightly in size and shape. They also come with their own passport, instructive care booklet and a specially decorated box that can be used as a luxury horsebox during imaginative outdoor play or turned inside out to be a cosy stable.

Great for interactive learning

Other available accessories include rugs, saddle pads, boots, bandages, fly hoods and head collars. This specially designed range features miniature versions of iconic LeMieux products, giving little ones the chance to create a fun matchy-matchy look with their mini pony! They also help teach pony enthusiasts how to tack up with the saddle and bridle, getting them ready to one-day ride a real-life horse.

Bright and beautiful summer colours

There are eight gorgeous ponies to choose from, including new additions Razzle and Dazzle, as well as firm favourites Thomas, Flash, Popcorn, Sam, Freya and Skye. Each pony is modelled on real-life horses owned by

LeMieux’s mini toy ponies have incredibly soft coats and braided manes and tails, perfect for teaching horse-mad children about the responsibilities of pet ownership –including how to groom and care for their horse. The matching Toy Pony Grooming Kit features a curry comb, sponge, mane comb, hoof pick and brushes that can be used to brush and clean their mini pony. Plus, everything comes in a neat, zipped grooming bag that can be taken outdoors and brought along on fun days out.

To get you into the summer spirit, LeMieux has a range of new, vibrant colours on offer – including kiwi, wisteria and mist. These sunny shades are perfect for brightening up your toy pony’s riding setup, getting them ready for a summerlong of outdoor fun.

LeMieux is renowned for equine equipment. Find out more at: lemieuxproducts.com

Take time and make memories

Five reasons to get creative with Redan Publishing.

Redan Publishing’s mantra of ‘Take Time Make Memories’ is dotted throughout the pages of its children’s magazines to signpost the activities that support this ethos. The logo is placed on activities that require more than a pencil or crayon, such as recipes, crafts and cut-outs. It prompts grownups to join in and then share what they create using #RedanMemories.

The benefits of taking time to be creative with children are widely recognised and listed below are five key reasons why Redan actively promotes creativity and continues to develop original and fresh ideas for its readers.

1.

Self-expression

With creativity, there is no wrong answer, which offers children a chance to express themselves and increases their willingness to explore and experiment. It also fosters mental growth in children by providing opportunities for trying out new ideas and problem-solving.

2.

Self-esteem

Working on a craft or recipe not only provides children with time out from everyday stresses, but when they see what they have created, it gives them with a great sense of achievement, boosting their confidence, mental health and well-being.

3.

framework clearly recognises the importance of this development: “Fine motor control and precision helps with hand-eye co-ordination, which is linked to early literacy. Repeated and varied opportunities to explore and play with small world activities, puzzles and arts and crafts, and the practice of using small tools, with feedback and support from adults, allow children to develop proficiency, control and confidence.”

verbal instructions also means they are growing their listening skills.

5. Quality time

Children do love to spend quality time with their family and the activities within Redan’s magazines facilitate opportunities for bonding and creating lifelong memories to cherish. You can talk about what you think, feel and care about whilst you are crafting, baking or cooking together. And as an added bonus, children are away from their screens.

With creativity, there is no wrong answer

4.

Fine motor skills

Grasping paintbrushes, chalks, whisks, rolling pins or any tool required for creative activities helps children to develop their fine motor muscles. The Early Years Foundation Stage

Literacy

Creative tasks positively impact speaking and reading, as well as listening and understanding. When children make arts and crafts or bake a cake or biscuit, they enjoy talking about what they’re doing, which develops their communication skills. They also learn new vocabulary from their grown-ups: “Now it’s your turn to stir up the mixture.” “Do you enjoy the feel and texture of the clay?” Following

Redan recognises the importance of inspiring creativity and has launched a brand-new magazine called Skoodle that focuses solely on arts and crafts activities. The name is a mash up of Sketch and Doodle! Each issue is bursting with imaginative ideas for budding young artists and children who love to be creative! Aimed at the primary school age group, readers can draw and create with the most popular licensed characters, including Barbie, Monster High, Piñata Smashlings, Rainbocorns and many more.

Redan Publishing (redan.co.uk ) is the leading independent publisher for the pre-school magazine sector.

Reference: Department for Education: https://help-for-early-yearsproviders.education.gov.uk/physicaldevelopment/fine-motor-skills

Perfect for children over 3, the Xootz Bubble Go Scooter is a new way for kids to have fun. With a twist on the classic bubble scooter. With a twist on the classic bubble scooter, the front-mounted bubble machine lets your child enjoy the bubbles whizzing past them as they’re scooting around. The tri-scooter's bar can be folded down for easy carrying and the bubble machine can be removed. The scooter comes with 100ml of bubble solution which can easily be topped up when necessary.

Looking for the most a ordable beginner skate around? The Xootz LED Quad Skates o er performance, value, and fun!

Featuring an adjustable touch and close fastener, they are perfect for growing feet. Providing plenty of ankle support thanks to the super comfortable padded boot, the Xootz Quad Skates are great for new riders who will take some tumbles! The PVC wheels feature LED lights to give an amazing light display as you skate.

The Xootz Venom o ers a pedal kart experience like never before. Ideal for outdoor fun and a great form of low impact exercise, the Venom is suitable for ages 5+ and perfect for active children and small adults who want to get out and get behind the wheel. With a sleek black steel frame for durability and built-in gear stick and handbrake, children will feel like real racers as they put pedal to the metal and ride.

10 fun and free things to do

with

your kids in the summer holidays

If you’re worried about the cost of the summer holidays, Dr Amanda Gummer founder of the Good Play Guide is here with ten ideas of free activities to do this summer for all ages.

Summer is finally here! We all want to make the most of our time off with our kids, but the cost of holidays and day trips start to add up pretty quickly. We don’t need to drain our bank accounts to make special memories with our children and we often forget that little ones are fascinated with the simplest activities and just want to spend quality time with us. Here, the Good Play Guide has come up with 10 fun and free activities to do with your kids in the summer holidays.

1. Scavenger hunt

Scavenger hunts are a brilliant, free and easy way to keep kids occupied and entertained. They can be done outdoors or indoors and are a good way of getting children to really observe their surroundings (whether you’re near a park or exploring the city). It can be tailored to any area. For example, a woodland hunt could challenge children to find a rabbit hole, a feather, a fallen tree, some moss, etc... A city hunt could ask children to find a red car, a bus stop, etc. It can be played alone or with (or against!) friends or siblings.

The Woodland Trust (treetoolsforschools.org.uk/ activitymenu /?cat=scavenger) has a wide variety of free scavenger hunt sheets to download and print for free.

2.

Gather things you don’t need and have a garage sale or car boot sale

One child’s trash is another’s treasure. Gather old things you don’t need or want and have an outdoor garage or car boot sale. This is a great way to declutter, while also teaching your child to be mindful of the value of money and their things.

3. Create an outdoor obstacle course

Get creative by building and completing an outdoor or indoor obstacle course. There are many low-prep ways to create a quick, yet challenging, obstacle course that will keep your kids entertained for hours. You don’t need to buy specific toys for this, just use things you already have laying around your garden. Tape can be used to make a floor ladder and frisbees can be used as stepping stones.

We don’t need to drain our bank accounts to make special memories with our children

4. Try geocaching

Geocaching combines nature and treasurehunting and is a fun and engaging way to get your kids out and about this summer. It uses GPS to help you locate hidden objects, so you and your kids will have to use your navigation skills to find them in real life and log them digitally. There are many free apps for geocaching, so get your walking shoes on and start your adventure.

5. Visit your local library and take part in Summer Reading Challenge

The Summer Reading Challenge is held every year and its aim is to encourage children to enjoy the pleasures of reading. To find the closest library to you that is running this challenge, visit: summerreadingchallenge.org.uk/ library-zone. Remember, joining the library, borrowing books and taking part in the challenge are completely free.

6. Board

games

Family board games are great fun and some can even be played over many days. Have a go at creating your own board game this summer, whether it’s as simple as Snakes and Ladders or as elaborate as Monopoly. This project will help encourage your child’s imagination and problemsolving skills, while playing their game with them at the end means spending more quality time together.

Geocaching combines nature and treasurehunting and is a fun and engaging way to get your kids out and about this summer

7.

Visit your local museum or gallery

Most small towns have a local museum and as residents of the town, we often don’t think of visiting them. A trip to your local museum or gallery can be very exciting for little learners and can spark curiosity about new concepts. Bring along a picnic and learn more about the history and culture of your hometown.

8.

DIY crafts

We know how much our kids love crafts and getting messy with them can keep them entertained for hours. We also know that they get through paint and glue pretty quickly and it’s not always ideal to keep buying replacements every time a holiday comes around.

There are many craft projects that can be done with items you already have laying around the house. For example, making homemade playdough, tie-dying with food colouring or even creating origami using old newspaper.

9. Build a time capsule

Do you remember building and burying a time capsule in the back of your garden when you were younger? It’s so much fun to collect items with a special meaning and reminisce about the memories they hold. You can even write a special letter together for your future selves.

10.

Check what’s on locally

Visit your local council website or social media site and see what free events and activities are on near you. Joining local parenting Facebook groups is also a useful way to keep up-to-date with what’s on.

A trip to your local museum or gallery can be very exciting for little learners

The Good Play Guide was established by Dr Amanda Gummer to ‘make the world a more playful place’. To learn more, visit: goodplayguide.com

Best outdoor toys for kids of all ages

Dr Amanda Gummer, founder of the Good Play Guide, talks us through her favourite outdoor toys.

Summer is an exciting time for many people. The days are longer, the weather is warmer and we have more opportunities to be outside in the fresh air. The start of the summer also means that the six-week school holiday will soon be upon us, with the smallest members of our family needing to be entertained.

Here at the Good Play Guide, we have got you covered: a range of toys and activities that will be sure to make your children smile and provide hours of entertainment that will help get you through those long summer holidays, relatively unscathed.

SMOBY HOUSE ON STILTS

The House on Stilts is ideal for having fun with friends. Placed on a 70cm high platform, your children can reach their house using the ladder. Thanks

to the gate and the three windows located on the different façades, your little adventurers will have an eye on everything. While one is having fun sliding, the other can imagine a thousand and one stories on the porch of the cabin.

The House of Stilts playhouse is equipped with one half door, two windows with louvered shutters, one porthole window and two sliding shutters. Little ones can use the ladder to climb up to the house for a fun adventure and can use the 1.5m slide as a thrilling, confidence-building way down to the ground. The playhouse gives children a private space to play imaginatively.

The playhouse is a sturdy, stable structure, which has been anti-UV treated for resistance and better durability over time. The playhouse is great for climbing,

encouraging children to strengthen their arms and legs (gross motor skills) as well as hands and feet (fine motor skills).

The playhouse is easy for children to use, with a ladder suitable for children as young as 18 months (with supervision), but will last for many

years after that. It’s great for siblings to enjoy together.

NAYLOR ACTIVITY TUNNELS

Designed for those aged three and over, this exciting and robust activity tunnel is sure to be a big hit with all children. Coming in a choice of four different colours, the Naylor Activity Tunnel is versatile and has limitless possibilities for a child’s imagination to grow and develop. One minute they are crawling through the tunnel to a different imaginary world and the next they are using it to make an amazing entrance into their newly built fort. What’s not to love?

For those younger children, the Naylor Activity Tunnel is a great way to develop their language and social skills, by encouraging children to communicate as to how best they want to use the tunnel as part of their play session. Through communicating they learn to share, think and reason – all great skills for a developing mind.

Made from a lightweight and flexible material, the Naylor Activity Tunnel can be folded down, making storing it in small spaces a breeze – whether that be under a bed or in the garden shed. Importantly, it is both weatherproof and waterproof, which is great when taking into consideration the fact that a traditional British summer is one that has you soothing your sunburn one day and layering up your waterproofs the next. It can equally be used indoors to help keep your child active, when getting outside isn’t an option.

WATERWALL

For a splashtastic time, look no further than the Waterwall for hours of fun! Although the Waterwall has been designed for children aged between three to eight years, this has something for everybody.

Perfect for long summer days in the garden, your child will love designing a pathway for the water to successfully run through the tubes. They may not succeed straight away, but they will have great fun trying. As well as being entertaining, there are many learning benefits from the Waterwall. It is a great opportunity for improving hand-eye coordination skills and visual thinking

skills, while actively encouraging creative problem-solving, teamwork and collaborative play. It allows for the child to develop their communication skills, verbalising their ideas to their friends and listening to their friend’s ideas too. Alternatively, if your child wishes to play solo, then this is a toy that can be just as fun for individual play.

As well as all these learning benefits, through the turning of the water wheels, they will begin to understand the basics of cause and effect. It allows for trial and error, with children needing to try out different options and techniques to get the water to flow successfully to the bottom.

on your own, but for maximum impact, playing with friends would be better. It also encourages the development of hand-eye coordination and needing the child to control the wand to create bubbles and release them before they burst. This also improves a child’s judgement, which is a great skill to have.

LITTLE TIKES JUNIOR PICNIC TABLE

Dining alfresco has never been more fun with this high-quality Little Tikes Junior Picnic Table. Although this can also be used as an inside table, having it in the garden is a great option for snack times among the flowers.

GAZILLION BUBBLES GIANT POWER WAND

Sometimes it’s the simplest things in life that are the most fun. Kids and grownups will love the giant bubbles that can be made from the Gazillion Bubbles Giant Power Wand. Watch your competitive side come out as you see who can create the biggest bubble and who can catch them the quickest! Great for an active summer afternoon in the garden or for entertaining children at a birthday party, this is sure to be a big hit.

Suitable for those over the age of 18 months, this table is great for developing social skills, as the children sit around the table, eating and talking. The Little Tikes Junior Picnic Table is a great opportunity to show your children a bit of independence at mealtimes. Letting the children sit at their own table with the adults sitting separately, gives them the space to feel grown up as they communicate with their peers. With its wipe-clean top, when not using the table for mealtimes, why not use it as a space to do some painting or other forms of arts and crafts? That way, your house stays mess-free and the children have a space to be creative with friends.

These selections show some great options for a fun and active summer with your family, which will satisfy a variety of budgets and needs. Embrace the summer holidays and be prepared for hours of fun with your little ones.

Like all the toys endorsed by the Good Play Guide, there are always educational benefits for a child’s development and this is no exception. It encourages your child to be active and improves their social skills. Sure, you could play this

The Good Play Guide was established by Dr Amanda Gummer to ‘make the world a more playful place’. To learn more, visit the website goodplayguide.com

Save money this summer

Find out about the latest offerings from Kids Stuff For Less.

Kids Stuff For Less is the goto website for customers looking for huge ranges of kids’ craft, party bag toys, novelties and original activity products at incredible value.

Established five years ago, it is one of the UK’s fastest-growing online retailers, with a reputation for quality, everyday low prices and customer service.

There’s something for everyone among its ranges

With more than 3,000 lines on its website and new exclusive products arriving daily, there’s something for everyone among its ranges. It offers multiple buying options on its bestselling items, so if you want to buy bigger quantities, it has a price that will suit you and get you that all-important saving.

From themed stationery sets and bouncy jet balls, through to novelty bracelets and fabulous craft kits, Kids Stuff For Less is confident it has got everything you’ll need to keep the

kids happy and occupied. Come and take a look at the famous brands at discount prices, as well as loads of stuff in its own design ranges from just 14p – you’ll be impressed!

Kids Stuff for Less (kidsstuffforless.uk) is passionate about quality, value and service.

Supporting emotions, one bear at a time

to Australia and the USA. Mood Bears are made from recycled materials and are 100% recyclable. The Bears are tested to European and British safety standards and are suitable from birth.

The original mood bears include:

Happy Bear Sad Bear

Angry Bear Calm Bear

Nervous Bear Hope Bear

Love Bear Silly Bear

Mood Bears – which received investment from all five Dragons on the BBC One programme Dragons’ Den – is thrilled to introduce its three new bears, which sing their own poems about how they feel. Mood Bears, which was created by Leicestershire mum-of-three Jo Proud, now has a collection of 11 colourful teddy bears all designed to help people support their mental health by talking more about their feelings.

The eight original Mood Bears have a distinctive colour to match the mood associated with their name, based on colour psychology, and each has paw shapes indicating the mood they depict. Each is designed to illustrate and reflect

one of eight important human emotions. And the new Mood Bears’ talking bears ¬– Hope Bear, Happy Bear and Calm Bear – go a step further by reciting their supportive poem to their owner.

The business was created by Jo Proud, who in 2019 was going through an emotionally challenging time that really took its toll on her mental health. Jo sat one evening and drew a picture of a teddy bear, yellow and fluffy and with happy faces on its paws.

She decided to get this one bear made professionally, for herself, and when it finally arrived it made her smile for the first time in a long time. The bear was Happy Bear, the original Mood Bear and from that moment on Jo’s life changed direction and Mood Bears was born. Since then, the Mood Bears have brought hope and happiness to thousands of people around the UK, and hundreds of Bears have been donated to children’s hospitals, care homes and community groups.

Now, with the Dragons’ investment, Jo – who lives with her husband and three children – plans to expand the business and help bring a mental health boost to even more people around the world.

Mood Bears also offers people the chance to sponsor a bear for their local hospital, with each donation helping a child or adult having treatment to take a Mood Bear with them on their journey to comfort and support them.

The new talking bears are made from recycled materials and are also 100% recyclable. They’re suitable for anyone aged three and over.

Mood Bears have been distributed to more than 100 different stores in the UK and Ireland, and some have even made it

To find out more about Mood Bears visit: moodbears.co.uk

Mood Bears have brought hope and happiness to thousands of people around the UK

Joanna Proud, the founder and creator of Mood Bears, explains how the brand is on a mission to provide valuable mental health support through its cuddly teddy bears, which encourage people to talk about their feelings.

Because sometimes we all need someone to talk to.

Meet the bears!

The Mood Bears were originally created to support children and adults who may struggle to understand or communicate their emotions. The bears have grown to be so much more than this and even if you do have the capacity to express how you feel, sometimes it is just too difficult to talk, sometimes you just need a hug and some silent support.

There are now 8 Bears in total, representing a different feeling, emotion, or mood.

Each Moodbear is made from 16 Recycled Plastic Bottles, and is 100% Recyclable!

Lights, camera, action!

photographer who has made a career from Mitchel Wu is an LA-based toy

Growing up, my favourite TV cartoon was Popeye the Sailor Man. Popeye’s nemesis was a bully named Bluto. When Bluto pushed Popeye to his limit, Popeye would pop open and gulp down a can of spinach, suddenly gaining superhuman strength. This had such an impact on me that spinach quickly became my favourite vegetable.

Two years ago, I learned that a toy company called Boss Fight Studio was creating a line of Popeye toys based on the early comics of E.C. Segar, comics that the TV cartoon would eventually be based on. I made it my mission to create images for Boss Fight Studio, a collaboration now in its second year. The toys they make reflect their passion for the properties they create from like Popeye, Strawberry Shortcake (and yes, she is strawberry scented!), The Little Prince, The Umbrella Academy and many more.

What all of this means to me is I have a wonderful range of toys to create with. One day I will be creating a fun image with Hagar the Horrible and the next day I’ll be creating an action-packed battle scene of good vs evil. Never a dull day.

I create my stories and images by looking for key characteristics or iconic moments of the characters

“A big part of the fun for me is creating different worlds for my stories in the least expected of places”

I create my stories and images by looking for key characteristics or iconic moments of the characters. For example, many Popeye episodes revolved around Popeye having to rescue Olive Oyl from a menacing situation Bluto put her in. So I knew I had to capture that in my image. And a big part of the fun for me is creating different worlds for my stories in the least expected of places. For example, both the Little Prince image and the Phantom image were created on the narrow railing of my porch! And the image of Hagar the Horrible, standing triumphantly amid angry, churning seas, was created in my back garden, on my stone patio. With toy photography you are truly limited only by your imagination. I’ve learned that if I can imagine it, I can create it.

Have you tried toy photography yet? What toys did you use, what stories have you told and what worlds have you created? Haven’t tried it yet? Go grab your favourite toys and snap some pics around the house or in the garden. You just need a camera (any camera will do) and your imagination.

Based in Los Angeles, California, Mitchel Wu is the founder of Mitchel Wu Toy Photography (mitchelwutoyphotography. com). He uses toys to create stories with motion and emotion. Clients include The Walt Disney Company, Marvel Entertainment, Boss Fight Studio, Hasbro, Mattel and others. His work has been featured extensively in print, online and on TV.

One day I will be creating a fun image with Hagar the Horrible and the next day I’ll be creating an action-packed battle scene of good vs evil

Animal magic

We’re excited to announce that we have 13 new animals joining the Mojo family, including a majestic green anaconda, an adorable aardvark and a beastly woolly rhino! We have also updated some of your favourites such as the sheep family, the beautiful whale shark and even our octopus model has had an upgrade with much more realistic textures and colours. We are always looking for ways to bring you more realistic and stunning models every year.

holographic label. These special editions, of which there will only be 500, add to the excitement that comes with getting your hands on a Mojo animal. These limitededition models will not be made again, so if you can find one, you’ll be one of only 500 in the world!

This year will also see the launch of the new boxed sets, available in three styles – farm, wildlife and dinosaur/prehistoric. With retail prices starting at £19.99, whether you’re looking to kick start your collection with multiple animals or looking for the perfect gift for birthdays and special occasions, our price points are aimed at making our animals affordable for all.

The new blind-bag range offers three styles. The farmland and wildlife onepiece packs, set to retail at £3.99, offer the chance for children and collectors alike to get their hands on a very special limited edition model. Each are individually hand painted and identified by the gold

In addition, the two-piece horse and foal blind-bags will retail at £9.99. Two horses for under £10 with the chance to acquire a specially painted model. The model horse collectors, of which there are many, are sure to be keen to add this to

August will see the launch of six new playsets, including a horse stable, a Western Ranch cattle pen and an equestrian ring. Giving children further scope to create their own farms and stables at home, we believe, will enhance their play experience and encourage the child to learn more about the natural world. Alongside these play sets, we’re also introducing Mini Worlds. Aimed at those that want more animal for your buck, they will contain 12 mini animals in one go. Housed in stylish tubes, the mini animals can be stored away easily and brought out when the fun begins. There will be farmland, wildlife, prehistoric, sealife, woodland and insects Mini Worlds, all chock full of amazing animals. We hope you’ll enjoy the new additions just as much as we do.

Mojo (mojofun.co.uk ) aims to make the very best quality model animals on the market so play is as realistic as possible for little ones.

Mojo animals are loved and adored by all ages around the world. Find out about the brand’s new products and how they can help your child to learn about the natural world.

Discover a world of fun and affordability

Are you ready to be the superhero parent without spending a fortune? Look no further than Toys For a Pound – the one-stop wonderland for all your children’s playtime needs. Let us introduce you to the online store that’s revolutionising the way you shop for toys, one pound at a time. Prepare to embark on a magical journey of discovery, where your wallet remains safe and your children’s hearts are full.

At Toys for a Pound, we firmly believe that fun should never break the bank. We’ve created a unique, online shopping experience that aims to put a smile on every child’s face, without burning a hole in your pocket. Our mission is simple: to provide high-quality, entertaining and affordable toys for all ages, with exceptional customer service at the heart of everything we do.

Why should you choose Toys for a Pound? We understand that today’s savvy parent is on the lookout for unbeatable value, without compromising on quality. With a huge range of items to choose from, our user-friendly website offers a diverse range of toys, from popular action figures to engaging board games and educational puzzles. Rest assured, there’s something for every child’s interests, age and developmental stage!

Here’s what sets us apart and makes us the ultimate destination for your toy shopping adventures:

Incredible value: with prices starting from just £1, our toys are as affordable as they are fun. It’s a guilt-free shopping spree that keeps your budget in check and your children entertained for hours on end.

Unbeatable selection: our constantly updated inventory ensures you’ll always find something fresh and exciting for your little ones. We pride ourselves on sourcing the latest trends, as well as timeless classics, to cater to every child’s unique taste and preferences.

Hassle-free shopping: shopping from the comfort of your home has never been easier. Our user-friendly website ensures a seamless experience, with quick and secure payment options, as well as fast shipping to get those muchanticipated toys to your doorstep.

Excellent customer service: at Toys for a Pound, our loyal customers return time and time again. Our dedicated and friendly customer support team is always on hand to help with any questions or concerns, making sure your shopping experience is nothing short of perfect.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into the incredible world of Toys for a Pound and discover a treasure trove of budgetfriendly playthings, perfect for delighting your little ones. Join our ever-growing community of satisfied parents and embark on a fun-filled journey that your wallet (and your kids) will thank you for.

Toys for a Pound (toysforapound.com) is committed to providing the best value toys and gifts online.

Whether it’s your purse or their pocket money, Toys for a Pound has something for everyone. Read on to learn about a new way of toy shopping.

Smart by name, smart by nature

Are you up for the challenge? Smart Toys

Smart Toys and and Games cater for children as young as one up to all ages and stages. All of our toys and games feature engaging and educational mechanics. The whole brand ethos is to encourage children to “learn through play” and every toy is colourful, durable and designed with a unique theme to delight children and create lots of happy memories.

With the travel season upon us, Smart Toys and Games’ collection of travel games promises to beat the boredom, challenge the mind and entertain for hours.

Selling in their tens of thousands, the IQ range is an immensely popular category for Smart Toys and Games. It’s no surprise as each game boasts a unique and innovative game mechanic offering varying levels of difficulty, meaning that these educational games are perfect for both adults and children as young as six.

Brand new for 2023 is IQ Twins; the travel-friendly puzzle game challenges players to fit 10 puzzle pieces – five pairs of the same-colour – onto the game board. But watch out, the twins are not identical! One piece will only fit on the board at a 90° angle, while its twin requires 45°. IQ Twins comes in a handy travel case and includes 120 challenges from easy to expert, making it great for both children and adults.

For some outdoor fun, Smart’s collection of XXL puzzle games provides the perfect garden game for the whole family to enjoy. In Squirrels Go Nuts XXL, players aged 6+ discover the extra-large version of the brand’s global best-selling compact game Squirrels Go Nuts! In this game, players are challenged to hide all the nuts (except the ‘black nut’) as they complete all 100 challenges, ranging from easy to expert. Stimulating a range of

cognitive skills including concentration, logic, planning, problem solving and spatial insight, the extra-large board and playing pieces make this the perfect brain buster to enjoy al fresco! Don’t miss the brands other XXL games including Jump In’ and IQ Puzzler Pro.

Smart Toys and Games have just launched a brand-new compact game for 2023. Introducing Cats & Boxes – these cats are dying to get into a box! Great from 7 years + and ideal for all cat lovers, Cats & Boxes is an exciting and super cute compact brainteaser puzzle game. Players need to move the puzzle pieces one by one until all 5 of the furry friends are inside a box. Following the 60 challenges from easy to hard, the sequential puzzle game helps develop many cognitive skills, such as concentration, logical thinking, planning, problem-solving and spatial insight ¬– purrrrfect to take with you!

Finally for all those football fanatics, the Plug and Play Ball is a must! Ready to take a shot at the Plug & Play Ball? The aim of the game is to try and fit all seven puzzle pieces on the ball. But watch out, moving the small starting piece during the

game will get you a red card! This mini 3D puzzle game, aimed at ages 6+, doubles as a fidget game that needs no setup - just plug and play!

The team at Smart Toys and Games (smarttoysandgames. co.uk) are committed to creating new and engaging toys and games that will appeal to all ages and interests. They are passionate about creating products that help develop skills and create mental stimulation through fun play for

and Games have children in mind with their popular games which combine play and education but many can be played by adults too. Read about how to keep your and children’s brains active this summer.

Let’s play outside

Designed and manufactured in Finland and tailor-made from 100% natural wood, Mölkky is a skittle throwing game that has been delighting players all over the world for decades. It’s a fun combination of chance and skill and it’s quick to learn and exciting to play.

Every skittle scores a little

You take it in turns to throw the Mölkky skittle to try to knock over various numbered pins. The aim of the game is to score exactly 50 points. Think strategically and aim well. If you knock one skittle down, you’ll score

the number on the pin (between 1 and 12). If more than one skittle falls, then the score is the number of fallen pins. Watch out though because if you get more than 50 then your score falls back down to 25 and if you miss three times in a row then you’re out of the game. Anyone can play Mölkky, regardless of age or fitness level. You can play one-on-one or gather a team together –the more the merrier! The game is ideal for outdoor summer fun in the garden, on the beach or at a picnic in the park and it will encourage children to put down their devices and head outside to play. With a sturdy wooden carry crate, you can also take it wherever you go, so pack Mölkky Original in the car for trips away. You can even play it at weddings.

Calling the next UK champion

You may be surprised to read there is an annual UK Mölkky Championships where you can take on the country’s best players and show off your throwing and tactical skills. When you get really good at playing Mölkky, you can even challenge for the World Champion title and compete on the international stage. Japan will host the tournament in 2024, the first time it will have been held outside Europe,

showing just how much Mölkky has grown in popularity around the world.

Game on

Tactic Games also has some other classic outdoor games in its portfolio that you can enjoy playing together this summer. Kubb is another traditional wooden garden game where you knock over the skittles and the King. But be careful, if the King falls before the other skittles you will hand the game to your opponent. Tactic’s Bean Bag Game is a firm family favourite and sells out every summer and then, for families with sporty children, see how many goals they can score with Banana Kick down at your local park, but remember, the banana doesn’t always go where you want it to!

For more information on Tactic Games’ fun collection of outdoor games, visit tactic.net/en/

If you’re on the hunt for a fun and sociable outdoor game to play with friends and family this summer, then Tactic Games may just have what you’ve been looking for – and it’s called Mölkky, one of the best-selling outdoor games in the world!

IT’S GAME TIME

MÖLKKY FUN WITH ALL THE FAMILY THIS SUMMER

Connetix-ing thethrough ages

Connetix Tiles take us through a child’s development, explaining how their magnetic tiles benefit children’s play and fuel their imagination at all ages.

The best toys are those that your child can play with for years. With most toys, your child may play with them for a while but as their cognitive and motor skills further develop, their interest moves toward more advanced toys.

The wonderful thing about Connetix magnetic tiles is they are designed to be adaptable to your child’s age. As your child grows and develops, Connetix can be used to build more advanced projects. In a way, the tiles themselves grow and develop along with your child.

Connetix are high-quality, uniquely bevelled magnetic tiles that can adapt to different interests and abilities, allowing children to construct in both 2D and 3D. Founded in 2019 through the combined expertise of Brea and Dave, parents and family friends with backgrounds as an accomplished Masters certified teacher and a skilled mechanical designer, Connetix bring together STEAM learning and play through an open-ended toy that can be enjoyed by children throughout their schooling and beyond.

Connetix come in different shapes and sizes and connect in a way that allows for both two-dimensional and threedimensional structures to be built. This is a key component to what makes Connetix so useful, as early-stage children are likely not quite ready to build a structure in 3D. They can, however, begin by using the tiles in two-dimensions before graduating to three-dimensional builds that will become more complex over time.

Let’s look at some examples of how your child’s cognitive and motor skills can progress to make their Connetix play more advanced.

First Stage

When your child first begins to experiment with their Connetix magnetic tiles, they are likely to be in early childhood. They may not be able to build any type of true structure yet but will be fascinated with the tiles themselves. Children in this group like to observe the world around them using all of their senses, including their sense of touch.

They’ll look through the tiles, taking note of the different colours and shapes. They may be intrigued by the tactile sensation of joining the tiles then separating them as they move the tiles around in their hands. At this early stage, they are soaking up all of the sensory information like little sponges and familiarising themselves with their new toys.

be working in a more two-dimensional way still, but the Connetix will help them get a feel for how many small things can come together to make one big thing.

At this stage, they are likely to start discovering some favourite colours and may even show a tendency to prefer symmetrical shapes over asymmetrical. They may not realise this yet, but just observe them playing and you may notice they begin to develop a penchant for replicating basic symmetric shapes as they get closer to stage three.

Third Stage

Don’t be discouraged if your child isn’t ready to build anything yet! Children, of course, develop different skills at different rates, and this early observational stage is critical to learning the world around them. They are just teaching themselves what the tiles are and the building will begin in stage two.

Second Stage

Now your child will start to learn that shapes and colours of tiles can be put together to make a larger shape. This may not look like anything recognisable at first, but eventually they will start building boxes, pyramids, and other patterns that are satisfying to them. They will primarily

In stage three, your child’s cognitive abilities and motor skills are becoming highly developed. It’s at this point where they start becoming more interested in how the tiles interact in 3D space. Rather than a simple box or pattern, they’ll begin to build actual structures. Children at this point tend to become interested in building things that have a good amount of height. You’ll see them piecing together towers, houses, castles, and any other basic structure that can exist in a threedimensional build space.

Fourth Stage

It is at this stage when your child begins to develop some creativity. Their brains are becoming more curious about building useful things that may even solve problems that they devise. For example, perhaps they have decided that they need a way for their action figures or dolls to get across the moat to their castle. So, they decide that they need to use their Connetix to build a bridge, showing themselves to have a bit of

an engineer’s mindset.

For children who like toy cars, there is little that is more entertaining than sending their cars off a big ramp. This is the stage in their development where they can now use their Connetix magnetic tiles to build the perfect ramp for their toy cars. Other examples of creative builds your child may experiment with at this stage are houses, basic ball runs, and maybe even a barn with some animals to go with it.

Fifth Stage

In the fifth and final stage your child is really ready to experiment with the most complex and challenging builds. Many children become fascinated with mazes, and Connetix are the perfect tool for them to build their own, large and complex. They are likely used to seeing pen and paper style mazes and seeing this translated into a true three-dimensional object is a lot of fun.

If they are mini architects, they are likely to begin playing with houses and buildings that are much more creative and complex. Connetix offer your child the ability to not only create different room layouts in their buildings, but they can also experiment with different colours and how they complement one another. At stage five, what your child can build with their Connetix tiles is limited only by their imagination. The more creative they become, the more they unlock the potential of what they can build.

Limitless possibilities

Connetix are adaptable to your child’s developmental progress. This means that if they start playing with Connetix at an early age, they can be a perfect learning tool as the child becomes more advanced in their cognition. The familiarity with the tiles as they grow only helps to promote the expansion of your child’s creativity and understanding of building structures. Whether it’s the colours, the shapes, or the flexibility of what they can build, children of all ages can enjoy the benefits of building with Connetix.

For more information on Connetix Tiles (connetixtiles.com) or to enquire about a childcare discount, please email: wholesale@connetixtiles.com or phone Dave on (08) 93305151.

Connetix will help them get a feel for how many small things can come together to make one big thing.

There’s magic in the air

Toy producer Schleich has partnered with Warner Bros. to create a magical Wizarding World™ line. Family First beat the Daily Prophet to bring you an exclusive!

Capturing the enchantment and wonders of the Wizarding World™, the collection will launch in September this year and will feature six of the series’ main characters accompanied by their animal companion: Harry Potter and Hedwig, Ron Weasley and Scabbers, Hermione Granger and Crookshanks, Hagrid and Fang, Luna Lovegood and a Baby Thestral and Professor Albus Dumbledore and Fawkes. Capturing the drama and imagination of these much-loved books, Schleich will debut six fantastical creatures from the Harry

Potter™ series too: Dobby, Firenze the centaur, Aragog, Buckbeak, Fluffy the three-headed dog and a Hungarian Horntail dragon. Where would we be without Buckbeak?

As always, Schleich attaches great importance to the authenticity and details of the magical animals and creatures to help bring the stories to life. Whenever children play with Schleich characters and sets, they create enchanted worlds of imagination: magical universes like that of the wizarding world, where everything is possible and creativity knows no bounds. The new Schleich product range Wizarding World™ perfectly combines these aspects.

Dirk Engehausen, CEO of Schleich says: “Whenever children play with our characters, they immediately

enter their very own universe where there are no rules, no boundaries. What embodies that idea better than Wizarding World™, where so much is possible?”

The range is primarily designed for children aged between nine and twelve, but will also appeal to teenagers, adult collectors and Harry Potter fans. Wizarding World™ range starts from £11.99 and will be available nationwide.

Additional characters and sets will launch in 2024 and 2025, allowing Harry Potter™ fans old and young to re-enact the films in even greater detail and come up with their own magical stories.

Schleich (schleich-s.com) is a longestablished toy brand originating in Germany. It believes that children should be allowed to let their imaginations and curiosity run wild.

intoBinkyyour best holiday!

Up, up and away! Flying with young children can be stressful, but here Binky tells us how to make it that little bit easier.

At Binky, we believe holidays start with the journey, so why not make the journey as fun as possible for you, your kids and your fellow travellers? Here are some Binky tips to start your holiday on the best foot. Pack well to keep kids entertained, comforted and calm on your journey.

1. Pack light for the flight

It eases your route through the airport and ensures less stress all round. For your flight take a small toy bag, keeping all your travel toys in one place– a Binky bag is perfect for this.

2.

Pack a new cuddly toy, a little one like their favourite Travelling for little ones is stressful so someone to comfort them will really help. Plus, this avoids the risk of losing their favourite friend. Fred bear is an ideal travel

partner, both super small and cute.

3. Pack a story book

It’s so comforting to be read to and will break up the time. It’s a great idea to choose a favourite character or holiday theme.

4.

Not all kids will sit and watch a film so keeping little hands busy and minds entertained is a must

A collection of new toys such as penny toys are perfect. Gift them through the journey; giving kids target points helps avoid boredom.

5. Focus on creative play, like sticker sheets

Our Poppik first sticker cards are ideal or colouring sets like these colouring pockets are fantastic. Take crayons or pencils;

a marker wheedling toddler in a confined space is no one’s friend! Likewise steer clear of slime or putty.

6. If old enough, try to take a small travel game

Even Tic Tac Toe can fill an hour or so. For older kids a magnetic game compendium is a perfect travel partner.

7. Try to avoid models and puzzles; losing ‘that’ piece on a plane can spell disaster: We learned the hard way…

8. To squeak or not to squeak?

Not to squeak is the answer. Be kind to your nerves and choose quiet toys, go battery free. Enjoy a quiet moment if you can and take a minute or two for you.

Taking time for everyone on holiday is important so ensure to pack activities for when you arrive. Creative paper and art sets are great, such as this fabulous mini doll house or dinosaur set – both something to create and then to play with. Card play sets are perfect because they pack flat, save space and are light, plus they don’t have to travel home while not adding to more plastic waste. For our curious creatives, these painting sets are terrific, with no need for separate paints. For those sporty kids who can’t be too far from a ball, we’ve got your back too. This Foooty is ideal as it folds flat and can also be made into a rocket.

Beach time is the best, but be kind to the environment by taking a set with you. Our silicone sets pack away so well plus they’re plastic free. Then, if you have space, take a game everyone can play such as this skittle set – it’s fun, lightweight and perfect for the beach.

So, at a time when all parents of young kids are asking the question, ‘Too many toys or just a few?’, we at Binky say pack the right ones and you’ll have a fabulous break. Head over to Binky for some inspiration in our holiday collection.

Binky has a selection of beautiful gifts for children. Its wish is for kids to ‘binky’ when opening a gift from the online shop. For more information visit: Binkshop.co.uk

Beautifully curated gifts and toys for inquisitive and creative kids with a focus on play.

A Binky is a hop skip and a jump of sheer joy

Encouraging mini explorers

Our range of colourful activity tunnels were designed with the imagination of children in mind. Encouraging children to take daily exercise is more challenging than ever. Due to their construction, our tunnels can withstand lots of playtime fun and can be the start of many adventures – from crawling and hiding inside to vigorously rolling around. Their size and flexibility allow the tunnels to be adapted with other toys already in their collection. Your kids are being active and have stepped away from the electronic world without even realising it!

Our tunnels are made from a medium PVC material, up to four times thicker than alternatives on the market. With a spring steel wire coil, which is fully enclosed in a heavy-duty, hard-wearing cover strip, it means our tunnels are flexible and self-supportive. Using PVC material makes all our tunnels suitable for indoor activities, but also durable enough to withstand outdoor play whatever the weather. They are waterproof, easy to clean and concertina down for storage.

The durability of our tunnels means they will be a part of your child’s playtime throughout their developing years.

We offer our tunnels in a choice of six bright, eye-catching colours. In our single colour range, we offer two lengths and diameters, which means we cater for children of all ages. We also offer a multicolour tunnel, in the small tunnel option.

Child safety is paramount. All our tunnels are independently tested and fully meet the requirements of the European Child Safety Standard EN71.

For more information on Naylor Activity Tunnels, visit: nayloractivitytunnels.co.uk

Naylor Activity Tunnels explains why these durable toys are great for encouraging active, imaginative play.

Our tunnels can withstand lots of playtime fun and can be the start of many adventures – from crawling and hiding inside to vigorously rolling around

NEW FOR 2023

100% SCHOOLS CURRICULUM CONTENT

NEW EDUCATION RANGE Make learning Fun

In Partnership With

TRUSTED BYOVER 6,500 UK SCHOOLS

A leading digital education platform with over 6,500 schools subscribing.

ABOUT PURPLE MASH ABOUT THE NEW RANGE

This range has been created to help children aged 3-11 practice key skills learned in school. The two core subjects of Maths and English are the focus as well as numbers and phonics for the younger age group. Friendly Nickelodeon characters guide children step-by-step through exercises with clear, easy to read examples, fun learning activities and practice questions. Colourfully presented pages help make learning at home fun. Following the key areas taught in schools today, each title reinforces school study by helping develop key skills and build confidence.

Purple Mash is an award-winning cloud-based platform for nursery and primary-aged children. Packed with creative tools, educational games and themed resources it enables children to explore and enhance their knowledge in a fun and creative way. In addition to these programs, the platform provides resources and themed lesson activities, which can be set for pupils to do at home. This new Purple Mash range offers an exciting collection of Maths and English activities which are 100% schools curriculum content and designed to help children master key spelling, grammar and maths concepts.

FROM

FROM

NEW BIG BRANDS RANGE

OFHOURS FUN FOR KIDS TO ENJOY

PERFECT FOR SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

&

ABOUT THE NEW RANGE

This range of new titles includes some of the hottest brands on the market that kids love. They are perfect for keeping kids entertained for hours during weekends, evenings or the long summer school holidays (whether traveling or at home!). Kids will love them! They are packed full of all their favourite characters, activities, latest news and much more from their favourite brands. Get yours now while stocks last!!

Family gi

All of these fantastic prizes are up for grabs!

WIN A CONNETIX TRANSPORT PACK

Inspire hours of creativity, fun and learning through open-ended play with the Connetix Transport Pack (connetixtiles.com). Designed with vehicle enthusiasts in mind, this pack features our exclusive large, reversible grey transport base and two motion bases with real rubber wheels plus a range of magnetic tile shapes to help build and create endless vehicle designs and encourage STEAM learning.

WIN A DINOSAURTHEMED BINKY BUNDLE

Win the perfect gift for a future palaeontologist – there will be Binky’s all round when you open this fabulous selection from Binkyshop.co.uk . With magnifying glass in hand, set out to discover the world of the dinosaurs with this Dino dig game and our fabulous Magneti book. Then get creative with the OMY dinosaur paint set.

WIN AN ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION TO BRAND-NEW SKOODLE MAGAZINE

WIN A BOARD GAME BUNDLE FROM LOKI GAMES

Brighten up the kids’ table with these brilliant board games. LOKI games are specially designed for kids and their parents and will immerse you in adventures from the deep sea to the pyramids. This bundle includes four fantastic LOKI games; Carla Caramel, Tentacolor, Farm & Furious and Hâpy Families. Available from Rules of Play (rulesofplay.co.uk )

Skoodle is bursting with imaginative ideas for budding young artists and children who love to be creative. Aimed at the Primary age group, readers can draw and create with the most popular licensed characters, including Barbie, Monster High, Pinata Smashlings, Rainbocorns and many more. Skoodle magazine (redan.co.uk/ skoodle/) is the latest in Redan Publishing’s children’s magazine portfolio.

veaways

WIN A SET OF BIG BRANDS ANNUALS

Little Brother Books (littlebrotherbooks.co.uk ) has got FIVE full sets of the new Big Brands Range to give away to readers. They are perfect for school holidays and feature some of today’s hottest kids brands. That’s seven books each for five lucky readers. Good luck!

WIN A 65TH ANNIVERSARY TRAIN SET

To celebrate 65 years of BRIO (brio.co.uk ), we are giving away two of the celebratory 65th Anniversary Train Sets –choo choo. Good luck!

WIN A KIDS PLAY TUNNEL

Children will have hours of fun playing in their play tunnels from Naylor Activity Tunnels (nayloractivitytunnels.co.uk). A great toy for encouraging active, imaginative play and exercise. Flexible and durable and suitable for indoor or outdoor play all year long.

The material used in the tunnels is weather proof and waterproof.

WIN A GAME OF MÖLKKY

This easy-to-learn, eco-friendly wooden skittlethrowing game from Tactic Games (molkky.com) offers players a great opportunity to enjoy a little competition with friends and family this summer. Just find a patch of grass or a section of beach, set up the numbered pins and get knocking them down. The aim of the game is to score exactly 50 points, but watch out, if you get more than 50 your score will go back to 25!

WIN A SQUIRRELS GO NUTS XXL GAME

Can you help the squirrels move around and hide their acorns underground? Squirrels Go Nuts XXL Game from SmartGames (smarttoysandgames.co.uk ) is an extralarge version of the global best-selling compact game that includes 100 nutty challenges. A sliding puzzle game that will keep players of all ages entertained for hours. Suitable for age 6 plus.

WIN A FISHER-PRICE MY FIRST TRAMPOLINE

Introducing a groundbreaking partnership between Sportspower and Fisher-Price. Experience the ultimate blend of safety, fun and developmental play with the Fisher-Price My First Trampoline. Designed with little ones in mind, this trampoline fosters active play, coordination and balance. Discover endless hours of bouncing joy, made possible thanks to the spacious jumping mat, safe padded surround and stable handlebars. Easy to construct, it also comes with non-slip feet for added stability. Find out more at: ileisure.co.uk/ shop/fisher-price-toddlertrampoline

WIN A SET OF MAKE LEARNING FUN BOOKS

Little Brother Books (littlebrotherbooks.co.uk ) has got FIVE full sets of the ‘Make Learning Fun’ range to give away. That’s seven books in each range. SpongeBob SquarePants wishes you lots of luck!

WIN A TOY PONY DAZZLE

Dazzle the toy pony from Le Mieux (lemieuxproducts.com) is a gorgeous brown and white skewbald pony with fluffy feathers and a plaitable mane and tail. His coat is super soft – perfect for brushing and looking after. He stands securely on all four legs and is flexible, making him safe for young children (3 years plus) to play with. Dazzle comes in his own posh horse box that turns inside out to become a luxury stable!

WIN A HORSE CLUB HORSE TRANSPORTER

Go on a trip across the country with the new Horse Transporter from Schleich (schleich-s. com). A mobile home with slide-out elements and rooftop pool for the riders. With room for up to four horses inside and a covered paddock outside. The new large horse transporter offers everything a horse and rider’s heart desires.

WIN A MEGA MIX TOY ASSORTMENT

Some of our bestsellers on KidsStuffforLess. co.uk are fidget toys and sensory products. We’ve put a mega mix together of some of them for you. Kids will have hours of fun with this incredible assortment!

3

Quality, creativity and entertainment

accessories expanded year on year to complement the play landscape and draw creative young minds into an immersive BRIO world. And so, Brio World was conceived. There are no limitations, just endless possibilities for play, reflecting the real world that children can experience and learn from.

Suitable for all

It may not be widely known, but BRIO origins began with producing wooden baskets in 1884, in a small village called Osby in southern Sweden and a young entrepreneur called Ivar Bengtsson. From making baskets, to the first toy, the Osby horse in 1907, the company he founded became a Purveyor to the Royal Court of Sweden in the 1940s.

In 1908, Ivar transferred the company to his three sons and the company was thereafter known as BRIO, an acronym for the Ivarsson brothers of Osby. Four decades later in 1958 the first BRIO ‘classic wooden railway’ launched and was sold to retailers across Europe; 65 years on, BRIO remains an aspirational brand to children around the world with continued evolution in product development. Distributed in more than 20 countries across the world the famous red and white BRIO logo stands for quality, creativity and entertainment. It remains as popular with today’s young children as it does their great-grandparents who were the early adopters of the much-loved wooden track and its trains.

To celebrate 65 years of BRIO, one of the most popular train sets has been relaunched and is testament to the enduring popularity of the much-loved brand. Alongside this heritage purchase sits 2023’s latest innovation, the Turbo Train; a battery-operated train with a boost button lasting for five seconds.

From the early days of magnetically connected trains, the wooden track and

BRIO embraces everyone, appealing to all children and grown-ups too. It can’t get much better than families sprawled across the floor, immersed in imaginative play together. A passing train can make farm animals come to life with young playful hands; a bridge can collapse letting the child become the hero and decide what’s going to happen next. We call this open-ended play.

Playing in a BRIO World can last as long as players want it to, with never-ending entertainment, which is made all the more enjoyable because all BRIO products are interchangeable. Subsequently, BRIO World was launched with a variety of destinations, trains, bridges, tunnels, lift and load sites, locations, mountains and accessories all with a focus to create a deep and enriched experience, as well as many hours of captivating play. Every year new lines are launched and expand the BRIO universe.

More than just giggles!

Times have changed, but the way kids learn and develop remains the same. That’s why BRIO products have clean, simple designs that spark children’s creativity and imagination. But BRIO’s innovation and growth story doesn’t end there. In 2020, Smart Tech Sound launched, adding layers of functionality and play value with integrated technology and design bringing together sound, light and action, all of which can be controlled by the creatively minded child.

BRIO is no longer just a wooden railway

brand, but a universe of play with decades of innovation, embracing technology alongside tradition, in harmony. The Smart Tech Sound Record and Play Engine enables players to record their own sounds and when used alongside the Action Tunnel Station the train comes under the control of the station’s demands – slow down, flash its lights or play a sound; the linked BRIO Smart Tech Sound App can even change the station sound to New York, London or even Malmo, where BRIO is still headquartered today, located in the eaves of one of Sweden’s busy working train stations.

From the Mighty Red Action Locomotive, which famously took BRIO to new dimensions with battery power and bright front lights, to the introduction of BRIO characters on products such as the Travel Train, right up to recent innovation with the 2021 launch of the Battery Operated Steaming Train (as seen on ITV’s This Morning), which uses water to create real steam as it choo choo’s around BRIO World.

The 2023 launch of the Turbo Train is the brand’s latest nod in ensuring that BRIO remains as relevant today as it did back when its first wooden train set made its mark in toy shops around the world more than six decades ago. Sixty-five years on, the BRIO wooden track railway system is a brand with a bright future that continues to entertain tomorrow’s generation of inquisitive minds.

BRIO products are available for purchase in all good high street retailers, as well as online at Ravensburger.co.uk and amazon.co.uk

We find out about the origins of BRIO and how the brand has expanded from its classic wooden railways to Smart Tech Sound.

Picks for parents

BINKY

RULES OF PLAY

In Outfoxed, the family deduction game, Mrs Plumpert’s pie has gone missing and now it’s a chicken chase to crack the case! You’ll have to work together quickly because the guilty fox is high-tailing it towards the exit! Halt the hungry hooligan before it flies the coop… don’t get Outfoxed!

https://bit.ly/3CjU7X4

KIDS STUFF FOR LESS

Looking for a different kind of party bag? Look no further! These fabulous mini drawstring bags will not only stand out from the crowd, but the kids can use them every day as well. At just £1 each, they are a best seller on our site.

https://bit.ly/3qAb0u4

Calling all dinosaur fans, let’s roar! This all-new range is just so beautifully made! Our hero toy is this pretty dinosaurthemed shape-sorting box! You’re bound to love the colours and details found on this easily transportable play cube. This multiactivity volcano boasts multiple games that will appeal to children aged 12 months and up.

https://bit.ly/45VZmKi

Inspire hours of creativity, fun and STEAM learning through open-ended magnetic tile play with the Connetix Pastel Ball Run. Featuring pastel magnetic connector tiles, 8 pastel wooden balls and a variety of our exclusively designed clear tube pieces, the ball run design possibilities are endless! Compatible with all Connetix Packs for even bigger play potential. https://bit.ly/43Lj3lY

LITTLE BROTHER BOOKS

Little Brother Books is the UK’s number one publisher of children’s annuals and this year’s summer range is particularly sizzling. It features some of the hottest brands on the market right now. The Annuals are perfect for school holidays and providing hours of entertainment to fans of Cocomelon, Barbie, The World of Dinosaurs and Shoot. Two gaming guides in the summer range include The Ultimate Guide to Minecraft and The Ultimate Guide to Roblox. Every Annual is packed with news, activities and favourite characters. Don’t forget to look out for the winter range later this year. Available from amazon.co.uk and littlebrotherbooks.co.uk

NAYLOR ACTIVITY TUNNELS

Children will have hours of fun playing in their Naylor Activity Tunnel. It is a great toy for encouraging active, imaginative play and exercise. Flexible and durable, Naylor Activity Tunnels are suitable for indoor or outdoor play all year long. The material used in the tunnels is weatherproof and waterproof. Made in Britain. nayloractivitytunnels.co.uk

RAVENSBURGER

In 1958, the first BRIO ‘classic wooden railway’ launched and was sold to retailers across Europe. Now, 65 years on, BRIO remains an aspirational brand to children around the world with continued evolution in product development. To celebrate 65years of BRIO, one of the most popular train sets has been relaunched and is testament to the enduring popularity of the much-loved brand. Alongside this heritage launch is 2023’s innovation, the Turbo Train: it’s the fastest train in the BRIO World and has a boost button lasting for five seconds!

ravensburger.co.uk/en-GB

REDAN PUBLISHING

Founded in 1990, Redan is an award-winning magazine publisher renowned for producing high-quality, fun, imaginative and educational products that are praised by parents and caregivers. Content also promotes special family time by providing ideas and inspiration for children and their grown-ups to have fun together completing crafts, recipes, activities and workbooks. redan.co.uk

FISHER-PRICE

LITTLE BROTHER BOOKS

The ‘Make Learning Fun’ range from Little Brother Books has been created to help children aged 3-11 practice at home the key skills learned in school. The range focuses on the two core subjects of Maths and English, as well as numbers and phonics for younger ages. The range follows the national curriculum and friendly Nickelodeon characters make learning become fun with activities, exercises and colourfully presented pages. Available from amazon.co.uk and littlebrotherbooks. co.uk

Your little bundle of energy will be jumping for joy on this Sportspower Fisher-Price 4.5FT Trampoline! Designed to keep young kids active, this super fun and durable trampoline encourages kids aged 3+ to enjoy fresh air while they play. Trampolining helps children build confidence while working on their motor skills and coordination. It is an excellent way to get great cardio exercise and help kids use up all that excess energy. The frame is sturdy and includes a net for safety.

https://bit.ly/3oRufP4

TOYS FOR A POUND

Unleash your child’s creativity with these awesome OkiDoki Dough Tool Tins! Choose from exciting themes, including Marvel SpiderMan, Disney Princess and Paw Patrol. Each tin comes packed with vivid dough, character moulds and fun accessories promising endless creative adventures! Grab these budget-friendly gems whilst stocks last! https://bit.ly/3qz7PTp

SCHLEICH

The three new breeds to join the New Horse Club horses from Schleich will be a treat for any horse lover. The Peruvian Pasos are sensitive riding horses from Peru, perfect for both experienced and leisure riders. The Selle Français is a French sport breed that is fast, strong and hardy. The Haflinger pony or small horse breed is goodnatured, versatile and willing to perform. Each horse figure is sold separately. schleich-s.com

KIDS STUFF FOR LESS

One of the biggest sellers on our site, these trendy zipper bracelets will be a fantastic addition to any party bag. Just a fraction of the high street price, come and see this and 1000’s more super party bag fillers. kidsstuffforless.uk

SMART GAMES

The purrfect travel companion for the summer! SmartGames

‘Cats & Boxes’ invites young minds to think INSIDE the box as they find the favourite hiding spot for five cute cats! Bursting with 60 multilevel challenges, this game will keep young minds (and old!) entertained for hours. smartgames.eu

TACTIC GAMES

Can you spot the dinosaurs hiding in the prehistoric world?! In Seek & Find Dinosaur, build the game board using the giant double-sided puzzle pieces, then look for the hidden dinosaurs in the picture and learn interesting facts about them along the way. The first player to collect 5 dinosaur figures or two egg tokens wins. Age 5+.

https://bit.ly/3qEH1Bd