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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Josie Clarke

The toys expected to top parents' Christmas shopping lists this year

  • Retailers report that screen-free toys are set to top Christmas best-seller lists this year as parents seek to limit device use for children.
  • The surge in demand follows growing national scrutiny over technology's impact on young people, alongside former prime minister Sir Keir Starmer's announcement of a social media ban for under-16s.
  • Major toy retailers including The Entertainer and Smyths highlighted strong interest in traditional, creative, and nostalgic products like Lego, board games, and Meccano.
  • Online interest has skyrocketed, with Google searches for screen-free toys and advice on reducing screen time both increasing by more than 5,000 per cent over the last year.
  • Supermarkets such as Aldi are introducing purchase limits on popular wooden toy ranges to manage anticipated high demand ahead of the festive season.

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