Covermounts
Where possible, we are limiting the use of non-recyclable plastics in our covermounts. In 2 years, we have reduced our usage of non-recyclable plastics by 70% and expect this to be reduced by a further 20% by 2022. The vast majority of our covermounts are therefore recyclable. We are constantly researching other materials.
Covermounts – Educational Value
In line with our magazine content, which follows the Statutory Framework for the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS), the covermounts on our Fun To Learn magazines facilitate play-based learning opportunities that complement the seven areas of learning in the EYFS; Communication and Language Development, Physical Development, Personal, Social and Emotional Development, Literacy Development, Mathematics, Understanding of the World, and Expressive Arts and Design, along with their associated Early Learning Goals. They also facilitate different types of play opportunities as described by play expert, Bob Hughes, who has defined 16 ‘types of play’ in this book, A Playworker’s Taxonomy of Play Types (2002).
Our covermounts, such as medical sets, shopping sets, tea sets and bubble-blowing sets, go through the same stringent toy safety (EN71, IS08124 and UKCA) testing as regular toys and have a multi-use function. As with regular toys, children will turn to them time and time again for further enjoyment.
The importance of play in early childhood development and education has been recognised for over a century. Our thinking behind play has been influenced by the work of many theorists, educationalists, psychologists, sociologists, researchers, and practitioners, including Piaget, Vygotsky, Montessori, Steiner, Parton and Bob Hughes.
There were 4.2 million UK children living in poverty in 2019, according to Government figures. The affordability of our covermounted magazines (typically £3.99, which includes a covermount, magazine, stickers and educational workbook) offer all children an opportunity to play and learn.
New Solutions – Recycle to Read Campaign
We are investing in a new campaign known as Recycle to Read which is launching in Summer 2021. This is a large-scale, cross-sector, not for profit initiative which will build a new recycling infrastructure for toys through schools and retail. Collected toys will be recycled into other products, examples being playground equipment and garden furniture. Recycling of toy products will be rewarded by giving books to schools and the wider community.
Subscriptions
We offer subscriptions to our magazines which do not feature the covermount. Single copies without the covermount can also be purchased via our website. All mailed copies are sent in paper envelopes which are fully recyclable.
All our magazines are printed in the UK from chlorine-free paper, and for the last 10 years have been certified PEFC (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification) meaning that the paper is sourced from well-managed forests, along the lines laid down by the Forest Stewardship Council.
