I have always be interested in the sterotypes of girls and boys and whether their preferences were in fact hard wired from birth or whether it is born out of their environment and influences. My nieces have always loved their dolls and the boys in the family have loved tractors and farming. However was this because of gender expectations and what they were led to, either conciously or unconciously. Or was this because that's what they were always destined to like? It may have been due to what toys were bought for them and what they had available, but with nurseries having all types of toys this was probably not the main reason.

Owl and the Pussy Cat Music Box - review and offer

Our range of Music Boxes are one of our best sellers both online and at events. They all play beautiful tunes and the spinning figures capture children's attention immediately. Made by Orange Tree Toys they measure 10 cm by 10 cm, by 7 cm high, with the small characters on top of the box, and look just lovely on a child's bedroom or nursery book shelf. The tune range from Old McDonald has a Farm, When you wish Upon a Star, Lullaby, Row Row the Boat and many more.

Newport‐based business The Wooden Play Den gets a boost from Theo Paphitis  

Last week, Hannah Edgington, owner of The Wooden Play Den, tweeted Theo about her wooden toy business during ‘Small Business Sunday’, an initiative set up by Theo that runs weekly.

It's that time already and half term is fast approaching. The kids are probably ready for a break from school and you may have already been planning how you will spend the week. I have put together a few suggestions for half term entertainment. 

Rainy Days in doors

Crafting is a big favourite of mine and the majority of kids can find a craft they enjoy. It might be messy but if you can find an area and a big plastic table cloth it will be worth it. It's also great to do crafting outdoors if the weather is nice as that way there is no mess in the house and the kids can be as messy as they like, which they will love. Painting, Drawing, food collage, story writing, chalk drawing, play dough

We have been expanding our range of crafting toys, most of which can be painted/created and then played with afterwards so not just a one day activity. Here are a few suggestions but the full list at Games and Crafts

Day Trips

Kids love day trips, where ever it is they love getting out and about. There is so much to do and lots of events on during half term so check out your local attractions. The National Trust have a dedicated page for all UK events during half term. Why not take a look here National Trust

If you are taking a long journey you will need to think about activities for the journey. A note pad and pen create so many games, as do car games which are lovely to play with the whole family, eye spy. As a child I used to play the game of naming all the animals and what the mummy, daddy, baby and a group of them were called. I now realise that this was educational too, but we used to love it!

I would love to hear about your plans for half term and if you end up playing games and crafts why not share your pictures with me via Facebook or Twitter

Whatever you are up to, have a great week.

It's the Easter Holidays in a few weeks time and I know you will already be thinking about what to do with the children. Many of us juggle work and childcare so it's always good to plan in some activities in advance.

Whether you are going away, staying local or just looking for a few ideas, I hope to have something to inspire you and help during the busy holidays.

I have talked about Bajo Wooden Toys before, their quality and design really do stand out. A toy that looks truely beautiful as decoration, sturdy enough to be played with, bright enough to attract children's attention and has many moving parts and objects to capture their imagination.