Environment / Toyshop
Reconsidering the Christmas toy story
Christmas is often a time when toys become superseded by new models. Rather than sending toys to landfill the obvious solution is to send to charity shops or charities like the Baby Bank Network which provides pre-loved baby essentials for those in need. They currently have a Christmas appeal requesting books, toys, new pyjamas and toiletries. The South Bristol Toy Library will accept some items too.
But both charities have to proceed with caution when accepting toys and have criteria and vetting process due to the quantity of poor quality toys that flood the market and quickly become unwanted. Eva Fernades, trustee and co-founder of Baby Bank Network explains “There are so many unethical brands, that are selling inferior quality items and things that people just don’t need. Also, so much stuff is made from non-recyclable plastic – it’s just awful! She has some minimalist mothering tips online.
The South Bristol Toy Library of toys to hire
But for families keen to avoid a toy box of unused toys, save space and save money the South Bristol Toy Library provides a solution. Based in the URC Hall in South Street, Bedminster the Toy Library is open Tuesdays and Saturdays and is open to people across the whole of Bristol with children from birth to 8-9 years old. An annual membership lasts long after the hype of Christmas is over and children can get new toys weekly or monthly from as little as 20p to £2, as well as hiring bikes.
is needed now More than ever
Whilst reuse is part of the ethos of the Toy Library, “the focus is on encouraging interaction between parents and children so there are no computer games” explains Stacy Yelland, Chair of South Bristol Toy Library. The organisation is run by volunteers and they are always keen for more people to get involved.
The South Bristol Toy Library volunteer team
So this Christmas, take a moment to consider the life story of toys, especially a potentially sad, lonely and unloved end of life after they fall out of favour.
Read more about avoiding waste when you buy new furniture: b247.staging.proword.press/lifestyle/environment/boxing-day-furniture-sales-salvation/
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