Nursery World - Media watch (281)

As Christmas nears, it seems British children have shunned electronic games and gadgets in favour of traditional toys. The Guardian reported that old-fashioned board and dice games have been flying off the shelves. Ker-plunk, Cluedo and Operation are all enjoying a revival, while 1960s favourite Mousetrap is recording sales 1,000 per cent higher than in 2003. But shoppers thinking of splashing out on the 2004 Christmas must-have, Robosapiens, could wait. The Guardian said the hi-tech robot, costing around 80, will be replaced by Robosapiens 2 in just two months' time. The Daily Mail revealed that Sainsbury's has experienced record pre-Christmas sales - of tea towels. The supermarket has shifted 12,000 of the cloths a week, thanks to their popularity as headdresses for nativity plays.

The Daily Mail revealed that Sainsbury's has experienced record pre-Christmas sales - of tea towels. The supermarket has shifted 12,000 of the cloths a week, thanks to their popularity as headdresses for nativity plays.

Finally, it's not just children who need to be kept amused over the festive period. Women fed up with dragging restless men around the shops can now leave them at an adult creche to watch TV and play Scalextric. Marks & Spencer has created men's creches in six stores. BBCNews guarantees it will 'keep men entertained for hours'.

Register now to continue reading

Thank you for visiting Nursery World and making use of our archive of more than 35,000 expert features, subject guides, case studies and policy updates. Why not register today and enjoy the following great benefits:

What's included