Soft Toys from Newborn to Big Kid
From a first comforter to a well-loved teddy, soft toys grow with our children. Here is my gentle guide to choosing the right one at every age, from newborn to big kid.
How to Choose a First Comforter for your Baby
A first comforter is often a baby’s very first friend. Here is my gentle guide to choosing one - what to look for, how to use it safely, and a few favourites from Kaloo and NICI.
Why Spanish Dolls Are Loved Across Europe
When a new box of dolls arrives from Spain, I always take a moment before I unpack it. There is something about the first look - a sleeping face un...
Screen Time vs. Toy Time: What the Research Actually Says
Screen time guilt is nearly a rite of passage for parents these days, but what does the research actually say? We dug into the studies on screens, free play, and child development to find a balanced answer. Turns out it's not about banning tablets. It's about protecting real time for hands-on play, and knowing what screen time is actually replacing.
What Dolls Tell Us About Childhood Across Cultures
Dolls are one of the oldest toys in the world - and their story is richer than you might expect. From ancient Egyptian tomb figures to Japanese ceremonial sets passed down through generations, every culture has given children small human figures to hold and care for. We explore what those dolls reveal about childhood, family, and the values each society wanted to pass on.
From clay to vinyl: 5,000 years of dolls
How dolls have evolved from ancient Egyptian rag dolls to today's lifelike baby dolls.
How Doll Play Builds Empathy in Young Children
At Cotton Planet, we've always believed that the best toys do more than entertain - they help little ones grow. And when it comes to building kindn...
Why Free Play Is the Most Important Thing Your Child Does
The science behind unstructured play and why giving kids time to just "be" is crucial.
Toys that grow with your child: making smarter buying decisions
How to invest in fewer, better toys that stay relevant as children develop
The Soft Doll Through History: From Corn-Husk Figures to Fabric Dolls
From corn-husk figures to organic cotton dolls - why soft dolls have always been children's first comfort objects.
How to Choose a Keepsake Doll They’ll Treasure Forever
There’s something magical about the moment a child wraps their arms around their very first doll. At Cotton Planet, we’ve seen that spark countles...
Why Spanish Dolls Are the Best Choice for Children (A Parent’s Guide from a Doll Shop in Ireland)
Artisan dolls made in Spain offer unmatched quality, thoughtful design, and sustainable craft. Learn why brands like Llorens, Antonio Juan, and Nines d’Onil are perfect for imaginative play and nurturing hearts - and how Cotton Planet brings these beloved dolls to Ireland.
