Good Things has been awarded the Let Toys Be Toys Toymark Award 2022 for good practice! The toymark is awarded to retailers that encourage boys and girls to play with whichever toys they enjoy most, and that don't limit toys by gender categories.
At Good Things, it's important that our toys (and everything you find in our shop) are never categorised by gender. Play is crucial for children's development and children are bombarded by outdated gender stereotypes from an early age. At Good Things you can search for toys and gifts based on someone's interests, age or the qualities of a product, but we don't think gender categories are helpful or necessary.
Let Toys Be Toys is on a mission to stop some manufacturers and retailers limiting children’s interests by promoting toys and books as only suitable for girls, and others only for boys. It is a grassroots campaign organised by parents who were frustrated by the increase in marketing and promotion to children that pushed narrow stereotypes.
The Let Toys Be Toys Toymark recognises retailers that are doing a great job of offering toys to girls and boys alike.
Good Things founder Lucy had the idea of a children's gift shop following her own experience of looking for gifts for children:
"I was shocked to find toys were still separated into pink and blue areas for girls and boys. Not only was it divided, I was so disappointed to see toys like princess make-up kits targeted at girls and construction kits labelled as 'for boys' only."
"In order to create a more gender-equal world, we have to start from an early age. Play is a crucial part of how children explore who they are and discover the world around them. I believe children's toys should encourage kids to play with whatever interests them - and certainly not reinforce outdated stereotypes."
We're so pleased to have received the award and to be part of this movement encouraging children to be free to learn, play and have fun with whichever toys they enjoy most!
Interested to explore the fun and sustainable toys we stock? Have a look our collections.
At Good Things you’ll find inspiring ethical and sustainable gifts that support charities, empower people and protect our planet. Discover gifts for all ages and inspiring ideas like cards that plant trees, handmade cushions empowering people in Tanzania and eco toys made from recycled milk bottles. Have a look at our collections.
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