Online and in the shops
There are four themes to choose from —– birthday, going on holiday, pre-school or a special day. Each calendar can be personalised and there’s 10 numbered windows to open, each revealing a surprise toy which builds into a themed play set. British company WOW Toys has been making sturdy pvc-free toys for one to five-year-olds since 1997 and has a no-batteries policy. The calendars cost €21.99 each and are available from selected toy stores and online; www.wowtoys.com
These lunch bags, bottles, and snack boxes from Tyrrell Katz are new at Little Ones in Ennis. Available in a range of colourful themed designs, including farmyard and dinosaurs, princesses and ballet, the drinking bottles and snack boxes (which come in a set of three) are BPA-free.
Designed for little hands, the range also includes matching backpacks and kitbags, useful for summer camps or starting school, prices from €10.95; www.littleones.ie
A lot of parents think about toilet training at this time of year which means that this little eco-friendly potty from Beco could come in handy. With a high back for support and a large splash guard to help keep potty training hygienic, it’s available in blue, pink and cream.
Although designed to last for years, it’s made from waste plant materials like bamboo and rice husks rather than plastic, it will start biodegrading once you put it in the garden, €12.99; www.earthmother.ie
Thinking ahead to Father’s Day? The countdown to Cork Summer Show, June 20 and 21, which includes agri-exhibitions, vintage displays, crafts, music and artisan produce, has already begun. Entry is free for children under 12 to the 100-acre Curraheen Showgrounds and more than 55,000 visitors are expected to the family event, which has been running for more than 200 years.
Attractions include livestock shows, sheep shearing, show-jumping and dog shows, as well as 70 artisan food producers. There will also be displays of threshing, horseshoe-making and a large petting farm area. Tickets are €15; www.corksummershow.com
