Five Tips for a Sustainable Family Christmas

We all love giving (and let’s not beat around the bush, receiving!) presents over the Christmas period. There are few things more joyous than seeing a loved one’s face as they excitedly unwrap the perfect gift. But in today’s society it’s easy to go over the top on the present-front, especially where young children are concerned. And with the planet feeling the strain of our consumerism and plastic addiction, now is a great time to review our shopping and gift-giving habits.

Reduce and reuse

Living more sustainably starts with reducing the amount we consume. But reducing doesn’t necessarily mean giving your kids a lone present (or lump of coal if they’re on the naughty list!).

Babies of course are not aware of the concept of Christmas, so rather than receive an undoubtedly generous plethora of baby toys why not open a bank account in their name and ask family members to deposit any money that they would have spent on presents into it? The earlier you start, the more interest can be accrued and you can be sure they’ll thank you for it when they’re older. Memberships to farm parks, aquariums or other places of interest also make a gift the whole family can enjoy and that your baby will love as the seasons go by. You could also ask for donations to a charity of your choice instead; there will be plenty of years ahead for spoiling them!

For older children, try purchasing gifts that can be enjoyed through the years and shared between siblings, for example wooden dens, tepees or role play items like toy kitchens or playhouses. These items tend to have a smaller cost per play as they are enjoyed for longer. There is nothing worse than an expensive, flavour-of-the-month toy that will not be looked at past February.

You could also shop for pre-loved items on second-hand sites; who doesn’t love a bargain, especially at Christmas? Try searching for specific “buy, trade and sell” Facebook groups that may focus on a particular type of toy that you’re after, and good old eBay is always worth checking. Charity shops also stock some amazing finds, too, and everything is usually good quality.

Sustainable, small and fair

The impact that plastic is having on our planet has been well documented lately. While it may be harder to resist the pleas of an older child for something specific, consider buying younger children items that are manufactured from sustainable materials, such as wood. Ensure they are labelled as sustainably made. Glockenspiels, blocks, railways, rainbows, tool benches – with an ever-growing market due to the increasingly environmentally-aware shopper, the options are endless when it comes to wooden toys.

Books also make wonderful presents for small children, either being something young to enjoy now, or more grown-up for later on. Just make sure they are FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified.

If buying clothes for tots, shop sustainable brands that are GOTS (organic) certified. A quick Google reveals a range of environmentally-conscious companies to choose from, selling outfits in muted tones to the brightest of Scandi prints. Buy clothing that is roomy and can adapt as your little one grows, such as rolled-up dungarees, smock dresses and oversized shirts. Kids clothing is so much cuter when you know it will last longer!

As well as many ethical toy shops available online, there are hundreds of small, independent businesses selling great gifts for kids on sites like Etsy; think seed boxes, baking kits, personalised puzzles and craft sets! If you’re wanting to avoid plastic and find something a little different to what’s found on the high street then shop small, local and ethical.

Local My Town Rocks websites have lots of independent, small businesses and sellers listed to help you keep it local this year.

Find your nearest My Town Rocks here

Ask for something specific

One way to ensure you don’t end up with a house full of unwanted items is to (politely, of course) ask for gifts that you know will be really valued. It is only natural for family members to want to spoil the littles of the clan, so offer ideas or ask them to contribute towards an item that you have in mind. This will help to reduce waste and consumption, and ensure the children receive something that they will actually use.

Toy subscription boxes

Toy subscription services are becoming more popular; they’re a great way to cut down on clutter, whilst also giving children the joy of playing with something new on a regular basis. Some have an option where you can choose the toys you receive and many are geared towards products with an educational focus.  There are an increasing number of choices to suit all budgets and some also come with voucher options, making them the gift that keeps on giving.

Crafty eco wrapping

Festive foil or glitter-decorated wrapping paper is non-recyclable thanks to its plastic content. So why not make the most of a rainy winter’s day by getting creative with your little elves and designing your own with a roll of brown paper? Use stamps, hand or potato prints for beautiful wrapping that’s as fun to create as the treat it’s hiding inside. Friends and family will love the thoughtfulness and the kids will relish seeing their paper creations wrapped around gifts under the tree on Christmas morning.

So, there you have it; five ways to make your festivities that bit kinder to the planet.

Written with love, by Roxy x