Got toys lying around? Here's how to give them a meaningful second life

An overflowing cupboard, toys your children no longer want, and the perennial question: what do we do with them? Throwing them away feels wasteful. Selling them takes time. And yet, these dolls, puzzles, and board games could bring joy to other children, especially in schools that lack the resources for recreational and educational materials.

This is exactly the idea behind the initiative we're running at Club des Jouets: collecting your toys in good condition to redistribute them to schools. Because for us, the motto is simple — to give is to love.

Why donate toys to schools rather than just anyone?

Preschool and primary school classes constantly need games, puzzles, children's musical instruments, and early learning materials. These resources are expensive for the often-tight budgets of educational institutions. A Montessori puzzle or a board game in good condition can serve dozens of children for years. By donating your toys through our collection program, you can be sure they will end up where they are truly needed.

How does it work?

It's simple: we come directly to collect your toys. No need to go to a collection point or organize anything complex. You prepare your toys in good working order — figurines, stuffed animals, educational games, pretend play sets, outdoor games — and we take care of the rest. The collected toys are then checked, cleaned if necessary, and given to partner schools that request them.

The toys that bring the most joy in the classroom are often those your children neglect at home: construction sets, play kitchens, musical instruments, children's board games, or animal and character figurines. In short, exactly the kind of things that accumulate in attics.

Donate and renew, it's possible

You free up space at home, and naturally you think about renewing toys for your own children. Good news: Club des Jouets offers a wide selection of toys for all ages — from 0 to 12 years and beyond — with affordable prices, many under 20 euros, and free delivery in metropolitan France. For your new orders, also enjoy a 10% discount on your first purchase with code CDJ10.

The idea is a virtuous cycle: your old toys go to enrich a classroom, and you get new toys suitable for your children's current age, chosen from brands like Lego, Playmobil, Fisher-Price, Barbie, Montessori, and many others.

It starts here

If you have toys to donate and want them to go directly to children who need them in their schools, contact us via clubdesjouets.com. Tell us what you have and your location, and we will arrange collection.

Because a toy doesn't lose its value when a child grows up. It's just waiting for the next child to make smile.

All About Plush Toys: A Complete Guide to Choosing Your Child's Soft Companion

By ClubdesJouets · April 2026 · 6 min read

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A plush toy is much more than just a toy. For generations, it has accompanied children through their first fears, restless nights, and happy moments. But with such a vast selection — over 580 references at ClubdesJouets — how do you find your way? This guide explains everything: the different types of plush toys, their benefits, and how to choose the right model according to your child's age and needs.

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🧸 Why is a plush toy so important for a child?

A plush toy plays a fundamental role in a child's emotional and affective development. It represents what psychologists call a "transitional object": an intermediary between the reassuring world of parents and the sometimes anxiety-inducing outside world.

Concretely, a plush toy allows the child to develop their sense of touch and softness from the first months of life, to feel less alone at night or in stressful situations, to express their emotions by playing pretend, to develop their empathy by "taking care" of their companion, and to stimulate their imagination through role-playing games.

Studies in developmental psychology show that children who become attached to a plush toy or comforter often develop greater emotional autonomy. Far from being a sign of weakness, this attachment is perfectly healthy and beneficial.

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🎨 Different types of plush toys: which one to choose?

Comforters and baby plush toys Designed specifically for toddlers, these models are small, ultra-soft, free of detachable elements, and made with hypoallergenic materials. They comply with strict CE safety standards for infants. Ideal from birth, they often become the child's favorite object for many years.

Teddy bears and classic plush toys The timeless teddy bear remains a classic across all generations. But the family of classic plush toys is vast: rabbits, dogs, cats, penguins, unicorns... At ClubdesJouets, you will find models of all sizes, from small, practical formats to take everywhere, to large 100 cm plush toys that proudly sit in the bedroom.

Interactive plush toys These new generation plush toys incorporate electronic features: sounds, lights, music, or even app connection. Vtech's sound unicorn plush or InnovaGoods' hedgehog with white noise and night light are good examples. They further stimulate the awakening of young children while retaining the reassuring side of traditional plush toys.

Interactive animal plush toys Halfway between a plush toy and an electronic toy, these animals reproduce realistic behaviors: they move, make sounds, react to petting. Perfect for children who want a "real" animal without the constraints of a pet.

Character plush toys Mario, Luigi, Yoshi, Baby Yoda, characters from Super Mario Bros, manga or animated films... These plush toys combine emotional attachment with a passion for a favorite universe. They make particularly appreciated gifts for children who already have a favorite license or character.

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📏 What size plush toy should you choose?

Size matters depending on the intended use.

Small sizes (15 to 25 cm) are ideal for babies and young children, easy to carry in a bag, perfect as an everyday comforter. Medium sizes (25 to 40 cm) are suitable for all ages, large enough to be cuddled but not cumbersome. Large sizes (50 cm and up) are more for bedroom or decorative plush toys, perfect as a significant gift. The giant 100 cm plush toy offered at ClubdesJouets, for example, is a real favorite for both children and teenagers.

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✅ How to choose a plush toy safely?

Safety is the number one criterion, especially for babies and young children. Here's what to check before buying:

The CE standard is mandatory for all toys sold in Europe: it guarantees that the plush toy has been tested and meets European safety requirements. Materials must be non-toxic, washable, and resistant. For children under 3, carefully check that there are no small detachable elements (screwed eyes, buttons, accessories) that could be swallowed. The stuffing must be firm and not escape if seams are slightly stressed. Finally, always opt for soft and hypoallergenic materials, especially if your child has sensitive skin.

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🧺 How to care for a plush toy?

A well-maintained plush toy lasts for years. Here are the best practices to adopt.

Most classic plush toys are machine washable at 30°C on a delicate cycle, preferably placed in a laundry bag. For plush toys with electronic elements, remove the batteries and never put them in the machine: clean them with a damp, slightly soapy cloth. After washing, let them dry flat or air dry, never in a high-temperature dryer, to preserve the shape and softness of the stuffing. For baby plush toys, regular washing (approximately every two weeks) is recommended for hygiene.

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🎁 Which plush toy to offer by age?

From 0 to 12 months: a small, ultra-soft comforter, without elements, certified for infants. From 1 to 3 years: a medium-sized, resistant plush toy with bright colors to stimulate sight. From 3 to 6 years: an interactive or sound plush toy, or a character from a beloved cartoon. From 6 to 10 years: a character plush toy (video games, movie, manga) or a large plush toy for the bedroom. From 10 years: large decorative plush toys or collector's models make wonderful gifts.

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💡 The ClubdesJouets good deal

At ClubdesJouets, our plush toy collection includes over 580 models — from baby comforters to large interactive plush toys, as well as cult characters like Baby Yoda, Mario, or Yoshi. Delivery is free throughout mainland France, and you have 30 days to change your mind.

For your first order, enjoy 10% off with code CDJ10.

👉 Discover our entire selection of plush toys on ClubdesJouets.com

And if you have a tight budget, consider checking out our toys under €20 section — you'll find beautiful plush toys at low prices there!

ClubdesJouets — To give is to love!

The Best Toys Under €20 to Bring Joy Without Breaking the Bank

By ClubdesJouets · April 2026 · 5 min read

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Finding a gift that makes a child's eyes light up without breaking the bank is an art. Good news: at ClubdesJouets, we've selected over 1,600 toys under €20 — and these aren't cheap knock-offs. These are real favorites, designed to stimulate, entertain, and amaze. We're sharing our must-haves in this guide!

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🌟 Why choose a toy under €20?

Price is not a guarantee of quality — or fun! A well-chosen toy, even a modest one, can offer hours of play, develop essential skills, and create real moments of joy. Whether it's for a last-minute birthday, an extra Christmas gift, or simply to make a child smile, affordable toys often have a big impact.

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🧩 Key categories to explore

Stuffed animals & comforters Stuffed animals are a safe bet at any age. Soft, comforting, and often very affordable, they always make an impression. A Care Bears keychain or a small comforter can become a child's favorite companion for years.

Puzzles & brain teasers A puzzle is more than just a game: it's a training ground for concentration, patience, and logic. At ClubdesJouets, you'll find classic, wooden, and 3D puzzles for all levels, all under €20.

Educational toys Learning while having fun is a winning combination! Toys like the Chicco Bus or children's math games combine fun and education. Perfect for stimulating early development or reinforcing school learning.

Outdoor toys Water guns, beach rackets, sand play sets... For sunny days, these toys are perfect for outdoor fun with family or friends. And the best part: they're available from €13.99!

Figures & imaginary worlds Dinosaurs, superheroes, farm animals, knights... Figures stimulate the imagination and allow children to build their own stories. A timeless classic, accessible for all budgets.

Board games Laughter guaranteed for the whole family! Dice games, card games, or knowledge games are ideal for convivial evenings. Many are available for less than €20, for shared moments without breaking the bank.

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🎯 Which toy for which age?

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💡 Our tips for choosing wisely

Before buying, remember to check the recommended age indicated on the product — it's essential for safety and play enjoyment. Prefer a toy that matches the child's interests rather than the latest trend. And don't forget: a simple toy that stimulates creativity is often better than a technological gadget quickly forgotten.

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🎁 Enjoy our exclusive selection

At ClubdesJouets, delivery is free in mainland France on all your orders. And for your first order, get 10% off with code CDJ10.

👉 Discover all our toys under €20 on ClubdesJouets.com

ClubdesJouets — To give is to love!

And how to easily avoid them.

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Mistake #1: Buying for yourself, not for your child

This is the most common mistake, and the hardest to admit. That beautiful wooden building set you lovingly chose? It may align more with your values than with your child's desires. Similarly, the console you categorically refuse might not be the enemy you imagine.

A good toy is, first and foremost, a toy your child will use. Observe what naturally captivates them — that's your best guide.

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Mistake #2: Relying solely on price

Expensive doesn't mean good. Cheap doesn't mean bad. Some 8-euro toys keep a child occupied for hours. Others, costing 60 euros, end up under the bed in less than a week. What matters is play value — that is, the time and intensity with which the child will engage with it.

That said, durability often comes at a cost. A cheap toy that breaks quickly is not a saving — it's a double expense.

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Mistake #3: Ignoring age recommendations

They are there for two reasons: safety and enjoyment. A toy that's too advanced frustrates the child and ends up in the bin. A toy that's too simple bores them in five minutes. And a toy with small parts in the hands of an 18-month-old is a real choking hazard.

The age recommendation is not a marketing suggestion. Take it seriously.

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Mistake #4: Succumbing to trends

Every year, there's "the" toy everyone talks about. Every year, thousands of parents rush to buy it — sometimes queuing, sometimes paying double its price on resale sites. And every year, this miracle toy is forgotten long before spring.

Toys that stand the test of time are rarely those that generate buzz. They are the classics, the timeless ones, those that allow room for imagination.

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Mistake #5: Neglecting durability

You don't necessarily think about it at the time of purchase, but a fragile toy has a double consequence: it disappoints the child and impacts your budget. Turn the toy over, test the joints, open and close the compartments. A good toy can withstand the enthusiasm of a 4-year-old — and that's a level of enthusiasm not to be underestimated.

Here, we also select our toys by physically testing them. If it doesn't hold up in our hands, it won't end up on our shelves.

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Mistake #6: Forgetting that the packaging is not the toy

The colorful boxes, the spectacular packaging, the photos of hilarious children on the cover — all of this is designed to seduce you, the parents, at the time of purchase. The child, however, couldn't care less.

What matters is what's inside. Learn to look beyond the packaging and evaluate the toy itself: its simplicity, its robustness, the possibilities it offers.

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Mistake #7: Buying too much

A room full of toys is, paradoxically, the enemy of play. When there are too many choices, the child doesn't choose — they flit around, get bored quickly, and always demand something new.

Fewer toys, better chosen, often means more play, more creativity, and more satisfaction. It's not us saying it, it's what child development specialists have observed for years.

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Mistake #8: Underestimating family playtime

We often look for a toy that will "occupy" the child — meaning: allow them to play alone while we get a break. That's legitimate. But toys that allow for playing together — board games, puzzles, cooperative games — have a value that others do not.

These shared moments matter much more than the toy itself. And often, they become childhood memories.

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Mistake #9: Not thinking about resale or donation

A well-chosen toy, from a reputable brand, can be resold or donated in good condition. This is a criterion worth incorporating into your purchasing decision. Some quality toys retain good resale value and can therefore, in the long run, cost you much less than a low-end toy that's unusable after six months.

We regularly organize swap and second-life events in-store. Feel free to ask us about them.

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Mistake #10: Not asking for advice

This is probably the easiest to correct. Don't know what to offer? Hesitating between two toys? Buying for a child you don't know very well?

Ask. That's exactly why we're here. Our team knows its products, knows children, and has no interest in selling you something unsuitable. A satisfied returning customer is infinitely more valuable than a failed sale.

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Happy shopping, and most importantly, happy playing! The ClubdesJouets Team

We know you, parents

You're busy, you have a budget, and you want to please without making a mistake. You're a bit tired of toys that break after a week, packaging that's impossible to open, and instructions in 12 languages except for English.

You've come to the right place. For us, choosing a toy is never a trivial act — it's our job, our passion, and we're here to guide you.

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The right toy for every age

The age indication on a toy isn't just a legal formality. It corresponds to a reality of a child's development. A toy that's too simple bores them, a toy that's too complex frustrates them. Here are some simple guidelines:

0 to 12 months — Babies explore with their senses. Rattles, playmats, and natural rubber teething toys are their best allies. We prioritize soft materials, contrasting colors, and the absence of small detachable parts.

1 to 3 years — Children imitate the adult world and love to manipulate objects. Stacking games, blocks, ride-ons, and first play kitchens are very popular. This is the ideal age to introduce symbolic play.

3 to 6 years — Creativity explodes. Construction sets, modeling clay, dress-up costumes, and simple first board games (Memory, Pic Nic) are perfect for this period.

6 to 10 years — Children are capable of following rules, cooperating, and taking on challenges. Puzzles, strategy games, science kits, and Technic Lego come into play.

10 years and up — Interests become more defined. Music, sports, reading, role-playing games, models… At this age, we target passion rather than category.

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The criteria that really make a difference

When you choose a toy in our shop, here's what we advise you to prioritize.

Durability. A good toy is one that lasts for years. We prefer to guide you towards a solid item for 35 euros rather than a fragile toy for 15 euros that won't survive the winter. In the long run, you win – financially and nervously.

Versatility. The best toys are those that reinvent themselves. A sandpit, a construction set, a children's kitchen: they grow with the child and nourish the imagination without ever becoming boring.

Shared pleasure. We rarely think about it at the time of purchase, but a toy that allows playing together — parent and child, siblings — has incomparable value. Board games, cooperative games, or large puzzles are perfect for this.

Safety. All the toys we offer comply with the European CE standard. We go further by selecting brands that communicate clearly about their materials and manufacturing.

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Second-hand toys: a good idea?

Yes, with conditions. Buying back or giving a second-hand toy is a perfectly sensible ecological and economical gesture. However, a few precautions are necessary: check that the toy has not been recalled (consult rappel.conso.gouv.fr), that all parts are present, and that it does not have any broken or sharp parts.

We also regularly offer take-back and swap operations in-store — a way to give a second life to the toys in your home while making room for new ones.

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Our tips for stress-free holidays

Christmas, birthdays, end-of-year holidays… These magical moments can quickly become sources of anxiety when you don't know what to offer. Here's our three-step method.

Observe before buying. What does your child spontaneously play with? What captivates them for 20 minutes without needing to be prompted? This natural behavior is your best indicator.

Resist trends. The "toy of the year" is often forgotten by January. A toy well-chosen according to your child's personality will last much longer — in their room and in their memory.

Consider a wish list. Our shop offers an online wish list service. Practical for coordinating family gifts and avoiding duplicates.

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We are here for you

Have a doubt? A question about a particular toy? You don't know what to give a child whose tastes you don't know very well? Our team is here to advise you, in store and online. No sales script, no pressure — just people who love toys and know their business.

Because good advice costs nothing and changes everything.

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Happy reading, and happy playing! The [Your Shop] team