Childhood: Planning to get to kids unplugged and outdoors, this summer? 

 As parents, it can be tricky to strike the right balance when it comes to tech. We were intrigued to read the responses to the question in our recent survey, “What are your family values on tech?”

Almost half the respondents in our first wave of analysis were pretty comfortable with tech just as long as there were clear boundaries in place. Some families limit tech-use to schoolwork, for example, or to pass the time when traveling. But we loved this super-measured and thoughtful response, “We talked to our children about how much we all thought was reasonable and it's set up so that the device will turn off after that amount of time.”

“My child rarely uses tech - imagination first!”

 A significant chunk of respondents actively avoid tech, though, choosing instead to focus on activities that spark kids’ imaginations:

“Childhood isn't for tech. Tech stops you learning invaluable life skills, such as creativity, and how to cope with boredom.”

“We love iPads and computers for art and animation, as well as research, but are very hands on.”

“We are not screen free but try to limit use (we don't do video games for example) and balance it with outdoor time, free play, reading and life skill activities.”

Toys that Spark Imaginations

 At Lottie Dolls, we understand that tech has its place in contemporary childhood but we’re also keen advocates for letting kids be kids.

We believe that:

• the great outdoors is there for the exploring

• curiosity-led discoveries can be a daily occurrence

• the imagination should be allowed to run wild

• the only limit is bedtime When we’re designing our toy dolls for boys and girls, we try hard not to be overly prescriptive about the rules of play.

Adventure is the name of the game. On rainy days – when it’s hard to get much quality time, outside - our toys will help to keep that adventurous spirit alive and kicking.

Our Doll House and Toy Stable, for example, are made with lots of super-tactile real wood. The Stable features our signature scalloped roof in eye-catching colours, fences that can be used for toy horse show-jumping and a barn door that is beyond cute.

The Tree-House-themed Wooden Doll House is chock-full of play value featuring elements like a rope-ladder leading to a trap-door, a fun swing and colourful slide. And our Campfire Fun Play-Set – developed with Brownie organisation WAGGGS – includes cute dolls’ accessories to bring all the fun of camping home.

“Getting comfortable with the great outdoors allows kids to develop a range of skills that will benefit them their entire lives: from being adventurous in the fresh air, to developing leadership skills and being proactive in their communities” says Isla McGuckin, Creative Director at Lottie Dolls. “We always have lots of fun designing toys for adventurous kids to enjoy. From the pop-up tent and realistic campfire in our Campfire Fun set to the two-person boat and lifejackets in our Canoe Adventure set.”

Get the kids unplugged and outdoors, this summer, and help them enjoy their childhood adventure!