Clare Wellham

Hoodies are a valuable item of children's clothing, being jumpers that are versatile in both function and fashion.

Hooded clothes have been popular for centuries, from 12th-century monks and farmworkers to the first hooded-sweatshirt-wearing athletes and labourers of '30s New York. It's believed that hoodies made the leap to street fashion when said athletes started loaning their hoodies to their girlfriends, and the hoodie has remained in popular demand ever since.

Whether you're after something comfortable for the school run, something warm for the gym, or something wind-proof for the beach, hoodies are great for accessorising with school backpacks or with boxing gloves when doing some extracurricular activities.

Hoodies are perfect for the British climate, as they combine comfortable fit with warm fabrics that are easy to layer under or over. If your child is in need of a high quality hoodie, we've found 15 products for you to choose from, covering both casual and activewear, from a variety of brands.

They are all easy to order online and your kids will be warm and stylish in no time.

Gender neutral toys are great toys for everyone; they're just not targeted specifically at either boys or girls.

You'll find you are familiar with many gender neutral toys: baby gyms, animals and garden toys often fall within the 'gender neutral' category. On the other hand, some toys actively address gender stereotypes and inequalities.

These toys are great for all kids to play with, as they work against social stereotyping and begin conversations about equality, kindness and individuality. They can also be a light in the dark for parents or kids who have questions about gender identity.  

Kids' toys have only been marketed with heavy gender bias since the '40s, when manufacturers found they could sell more toys by offering separate versions for boys and girls, with the 'girls'' version often costing more.

This is a problem consumers are still faced with today, and many adults are now turning to non-gender-specific toys for boys and girls to avoid these commercial inequalities.

As well as saving money, gender neutral toys can address shortcomings found in gender-specific toys. Researchers have claimed that cognitive and motor skills are developed most through 'boys' toys', often encouraging aggressive play, while many 'girls' toys' only concern physical appearance or serving others within a domestic or nurturing setting.

By only playing within gender stereotypes, children risk learning unhealthy biases, and missing out on important development.

With all this in mind, we've found you nine wonderful gender neutral toys that would make gorgeous gifts for any child.