Five more years of sustainable play for Sydney’s Northern Beaches

The popular toy library service which operates from Mona Vale and Manly Libraries, both on Sydney’s Northern Beaches, will continue for another five years after being supported by the Northern Beaches Council.

EarlyEd, a not-for-profit organisation who operate the Cubby House Toy Library, recently completed a 12-month trial which has been supported to continue for Northern Beaches residents. 

The trial, Northern Beaches Mayor Sue Heins said, has been well received, with a good take up from the community over the past 12 months. 

“Over 103 members have signed up for the service with 997 items being borrowed,” she explained.

“Times are tough for everyone, and this great initiative helps families access high quality age-appropriate toys to support children’s development and interest; without forking out lots of money and being stuck with toys they only play with for a short time.”

As a bonus, the borrowing initiative means fewer toys end up in landfill, supporting sustainability. 

EarlyEd CEO Kerry Dominish thanked Northern Beaches Council for supporting the initiative and helping more families to access the service. 

“Children lose interest in toys they have at home very quickly so why not borrow and return and help them learn in varied ways,” Ms Dominish said. 

A number of volunteers have helped to make the new venture a success. A click and collect service is now in place, which allows families to visit either Manly or Mona Vale library once a week during school terms to collect their toy/s of choice. 

Cubby House Toy Library members choose items from an online catalogue and reserve items for collection at their preferred location, with volunteers transporting the toys and getting them ready for collection. 

EarlyEd (Early Education Inc) is a NDIS provider and non-for-profit organisation providing early childhood intervention services for children and their families. 

Cubby House Toy Library is an arm of EarlyEd, offering a large range of quality educational toys, games and therapy/gross motor equipment operating out of Forestville. 

The Council also supports Cubby House Toy Library with ongoing accommodation at the Forestville Senior Citizens Centre.

For more about this initiative or to become a member visit the Council’s website.