Cool Kids Christmas Toys and Books

The desire for children to play and explore is universal, which is why kids’ toys and games are still as popular as ever for keeping children entertained and helping them to develop. The Toy Association says that “Toys ignite a child’s imagination offering limitless possibilities. They also reflect cultural and societal trends unfolding within a generation.”

Play isn’t just about having fun, though. For children, play is as important as work is for adults - it helps them to learn, grow and understand the world around them.

Though the decline in children reading books for enjoyment is clearly an area for concern, that is not to say that digital forms of storytelling and entertainment are bad or should not be used.
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There are many benefits to utilising digital formats. The internet and social media are powerful tools for sharing information quickly with a large, global audience.

When used in the right way, they can serve to increase interest in books by promoting new book launches, telling people about upcoming literary festivals and author events, and to connect and communicate with the people who are the gatekeepers of children reading – the parents, carers, teachers and childcare providers who can all help to nurture a lifelong love of reading in children.

Children's Play House | Green Bean Collection

£3.99

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Many children’s TV shows have been created from much-loved books, bringing the stories and characters to life and helping to engage children’s imaginations. There are games and interactive online platforms using characters from books, to help children learn whilst having fun.

Arguably the best way to engage young readers and get children reading books for pleasure is threefold:
1.     Improving accessibility of books for all children within schools and public libraries through proper funding.
2.      Ensuring all school children experience at least one author visit per academic year.
3.      Using a blended approach to storytelling, through digital and printed forms of entertainment and education.
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All children, regardless of their background or family circumstances, deserve to have access to books on a daily basis. Only then can we hope to rekindle a love of reading in the next generation.​

Soft Toy | Mr Bear™

£6.99

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Children's Magazine | Summer Sun Adventures

£3.99

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Children's Magazine | Fun Garden Adventures

£3.99

Only a few left!

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Children's Magazine | Kite Flying Adventures

£3.99

Only a few left!

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Do you have any other ways to engage children and inspire enjoyment of books? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Follow me on Twitter @MelBrannlund or email me [email protected].

Look out for Melissa's latest articles on Anita Frost's author website, where she'll talk about topics including business and publishing, author news and events, and giving back to communities.

You can find her in-depth monthly feature on the News & Media page of the Green Bean Collection website, discussing children's books and reading, early years education, living a greener lifestyle and all things Green Bean!