This year has been a great one for ethically-minded parents, and it feels like not a day went by in 2008 when someone didn't alert me to a new toy, clothing label or washing product designed specially for children. There was the launch of Method's new kids range, a delicious-smelling selection that makes bathtime lots of fun, a menagerie of wonderful handmade soft toys including the lovable Bobby Dazzler range, and a real treat for young fashionistas with a clothing range from Bindi Irwin, daughter of the late crocodile hunter.
As the smaller, more sustainable toy companies flourished we saw the big giants flounder, as Mattel's 'biodegradable Barbie' failed to convince savvy parents that the stunt was anything more than greenwash. But what have we liked in the world of eco-friendly toys? Follow the jump for our favourites, all of which are small and affordable enough to go in stockings.
Follow the jump for stockist details
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1. Kids Spork made from 100% organically-grown bamboo, $4 from Branch
2. Elsa the Elephant by Snuggle Herd, $24 on Etsy. (See Bobby Dazzler for more adorable, randomly-shaped soft toys from a UK-based maker)
3. Bright Guy self-lighting LED penguin. £4.95 at Ethical Superstore.
4. Eco-Plunk. Sustainable bamboo version of the popular game Ker-plunk. £19 at EcoCentric.
5. Solar Helicopter construction kit. £17.29 at Nigel's Eco Store.
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