Submissions will be welcomed until 8th May.

The Play for Change awards, launched by the Toy Industries of Europe, has opened for entries today (23rd March). Submissions will be welcomed until 8th May, providing toy companies with an opportunity to share positive stories.

The awards will focus on environmental, societal and educational challenges with three categories: Sustainability, Empowerment and Future Skills. Play for Change want to hear from you if you are a toy company selling in Europe and if you launched a project or a product in 2019 which raises the bar in any of these areas.  They are looking for toys or projects that not only provide fantastic play opportunities for kids, but that also have a positive impact on our planet, the society kids grow up in and kids’ future career opportunities.

No project is too small. The organisers realise that sometimes a small change can go a long way and they encourage everyone to take part.

A number of experts will judge the entries on the difference they bring in making the planet greener, making kids feel more included (in terms of gender, race, ability, etc) or nurturing 21st century skills.

The organisers are keen to stress that not all entries need to be toys, as long as a positive change can be demonstrated.  For example, in the ‘sustainability’ category, a toy that is made from recycled materials or one which teaches children about protecting the future of the planet could be a potential winner, but so could a change in the production process that cuts the reliance on fossil fuels.

You can register your toys or projects by visiting the Play for Change website https://playforchangeawards.eu/