Business · Companies · 1 hr ago
Retailers report rising demand for screen-free toys this Christmas
Retailers The Entertainer and Smyths say demand for screen-free toys is rising ahead of Christmas.
The Entertainer says all of its predicted top 10 toys for the season are screen-free, while Smyths reports strong interest in games, creative toys and building sets.
Retailers say parents and children are seeking ways to play that involve imagination and time together, rather than devices.
The trend comes amid greater scrutiny of technology’s effects on children.
This summer, former prime minister Sir Keir Starmer announced a social media ban for under-16s.
The retailers expect hands-on toys and family games to be popular this Christmas, with Smyths naming several sets and games it expects to sell well.
Retailers say demand for screen-free toys is rising ahead of Christmas.
The Entertainer said all of its predicted top 10 toys for Christmas are screen-free.
Smyths reported strong interest in Lego, games and creative toys for 2026.
Retailers linked the interest to families seeking hands-on play and time away from devices.
The report comes amid increased scrutiny of technology’s effects on children.
- Who
- The Entertainer and Smyths, along with parents buying toys.
- What
- Retailers report rising demand for screen-free toys ahead of Christmas.
- When
- The report was published on 11 October 2026.
- Where
- Not stated.
- Why
- Retailers say families are seeking hands-on, creative play and ways to spend time away from screens.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Every single one of our top 10 toys this Christmas – as selected by our expert buying team – is screen-free.
Families are rediscovering toys and games that give them a chance to switch off and connect with each other.
We’re seeing a real appetite for toys that get children hands-on, using their imaginations and finding their own ways to play.
There’s something brilliantly nostalgic about everyone gathering around a game or enjoying an activity together, creating those shared moments and memories that Christmas is all about.
Former prime minister Sir Keir Starmer announced a social media ban for under-16s as Toy Story 5 was released.
Meccano relaunched, and The Entertainer’s Geoff Sheffield said it had made a comeback.
The Independent reported retailers’ claims of rising demand for screen-free toys ahead of Christmas.
- The Entertainer
- All of its predicted top 10 Christmas toys are screen-free
- Smyths
- Reported strong interest in Lego, games and creative toys for 2026
- Google searches
- Searches for “how to reduce screen time” and “screen-free toys” each increased by more than 5,000% in the last year, according to The Entertainer
- Meccano
- Relaunched this summer
- Publication date
- 11 October 2026
Sources
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