In view of the very sorry state that our planet is in at the moment, here is my holiday suggestion: Let's make an effort this year to give GREENER TOYS!

Wood is Good: Wooden toys are toys worth keeping. They foster imagination, can be played with in many ways, don't break easily, don't go out of fashion, are biodegradable and your babies can chew and slobber all over them without fear of ingesting lead, asbestos or other scary chemicals.

Plastic, not Fantastic: PVC is even worse, releasing toxic chemicals into the environment throughout its life cycle, from manufacturing to disposal. And let's be honest, plastic doesn't look as chic in your kid's bedroom as the wooden stuff.

Banish Batteries: I know it's unrealistic, but at least power down where you can. Batteries contain toxic metals that are harmful to the environment unless properly recycled, which we are a little lax on in this part of the world. Plus, all that beeping, buzzing and blinking can't be good for them. Or you.

Go Local: Support your local artisans! There is some great stuff to be found with a little searching. We have a traditional Lebanese male stuffed doll that has become an essential guest at every one of my SO's* 'tea parties'. She's now trying to potty-train him...

Failing that, check out the Early Learning Centre. They have stores all over the Middle East and stock non-toxic, wooden, earth-friendly(ish) toys, musical instruments and craft supplies. (For those of you in Beirut, Rooly Booly in Achrafieh is full of wonderful educational toys.)

Before you know it, your kids will be demanding the latest PlayStation, i-Pod and their own cell-phone. You might as well do your bit while they are still too young to argue.

PS. Next week I promise to stop preaching and take you shopping instead – Stay tuned!

* SO = not my significant other but rather my Scrumptious One.