Children's
& Young People's Services
Extended Services In and Around Schools
Toy Libraries
What is a toy library?
A toy library could allow your child the opportunity to play with exciting
new toys, whilst you can chat with other parents/carers or the toy librarian,
who could advise you about the best toys for your child.
A range of groups may have toy libraries such as – playgroups/pre-schools
or nurseries; alternatively they may be based in community centres, libraries,
family centres or clinics.
What do they provide?
Toy libraries work on the same basis as book libraries, and at the end of
the session allow you and your child the opportunity to loan toys, games, puzzles
and sometimes videos and cassettes. Larger toys may also be available for use
during a toy library's session, items which you may not have room for at home
such as trampolines, mobile cars etc.
They may also provide:
- Children with the freedom to wander around and experiment with new toys.
- The opportunity for children to socialise with others and you the chance
to meet with other parents/carers.
- Children with the opportunity to try out new toys without parents/carers having
to make a large outlay for a toy, which may soon be discarded.
- An opportunity for parents to receive advice on toys, which may assist a
child's development.
Ages catered for
Toy libraries are accessible to anyone caring for young children,
either as a parent or carer, childminder/nanny etc. They generally cater for
children of pre-school age, however you may find that some libraries offer specialist
services e.g. catering for children of a specific age group, or have toys that
are to support children with special needs.
Registration
There are no registration requirements for a toy library, as
children are not left unattended. Parent/carers must remain at the toy library
and are responsible for their children at all times.
Staffing/Qualifications
Toy libraries are usually organised by people who work in the
group settings as previously mentioned and are staffed by the staff team, parents
or volunteers.
Cost/Allocation of places
Toy libraries may charge an annual subscription fee and then
a small minimal charge for each week you keep the toy. Other groups may charge
just as and when you borrow the toys. Some groups also offer discounts for families
on a low income.
You should contact your local group and ask about their individual charging
policy.
So how do I select a toy library?
Issues to consider
- What sort of toys and play materials are offered?
- Is it close to your home or near good public transport?
- Is there a safe play area?
- Is it accessible for children or parents/carers with special needs?
- Do they provide advice about suitable toys and games for my child?
If you would like further information on toy libraries or
to discuss this provision in more detail, please contact Bexley Children's
Information Service on:
Other useful contacts
- National Association of Toy & Leisure Libraries
- Gwyneth Dear & Carolin Harvey
- Monday - Friday 9.00am - 5.00pm
- Telephone: 020 7255 4616
- Fax: 020 7255 4602
- helpline@playmatters.co.uk
- 68 Churchway,
London NW1 1LT
Bexley FIS cannot recommend or endorse any childcare providers and do not accept
responsibility for the accuracy of this information.
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