Dragons’ Den has brought us some of the most ingenious (and practical) products over the years, and this Christmas, we’ve rounded up the best picks for kids.
From screen-free storytelling to eco-friendly innovations, these gifts are more than just toys—they’re thoughtful, fun, and perfect for making memories. Whether it’s the buzzworthy Sooper Books or the ever-popular Trunki, these standout ideas are sure to delight both kids and parents.
Let’s dive in!
1. Sooper Books
In this season’s standout moment, husband-and-wife team Simon Hood and Charlene Mitchell-Hood captivated all five Dragons with Sooper Books—their groundbreaking app offering hundreds of original children’s audio stories crafted by a team of multi-Emmy®-winning storytellers.
The pitch was flawless, leaving the Dragons unanimous in their enthusiasm. Peter Jones declared, “Sooper Books will go down in Dragons’ Den history,” while Deborah Meaden enthusiastically added, “We love it!” after the Dragons returned from their deliberation at “the wall.”
The offer was extraordinary: all five Dragons invested, each receiving just 1% equity. This unprecedented backing highlighted the app’s immense potential to transform children’s storytelling. Since its debut on the show, Sooper Books has become a trusted favourite for parents, offering captivating, screen-free entertainment that children love.
The Sooper Books app offers an extensive library containing hundreds of exclusive audio stories, including fairytales, fables, and rhymes, with fresh content added weekly. Designed with families in mind, the app allows users to download stories for offline listening and can be accessed across multiple family devices.
2. Trunki
Rob Law’s 2006 pitch for Trunki, a ride-on suitcase designed for children, remains one of the most unforgettable moments in Dragons’ Den history. The innovative product, which allowed children to pack their belongings and ride on the suitcase, was a game-changer for family travel. However, the pitch didn’t go smoothly—Law faced tough skepticism from the Dragons and a mishap when the prototype broke during his demonstration.
Despite leaving the Den without investment, Law’s determination and belief in his product paid off. Trunki captured the imagination of parents and children alike, becoming a household name and a travel essential. By 2016, Trunki had sold over 3 million units worldwide and expanded its product range with accessories and new designs. The brand’s success is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the power of bouncing back from setbacks, inspiring entrepreneurs everywhere.
3. Toddle Skincare
In March 2022, Hannah Saunders stepped into the Dragons’ Den to present Toddle, a range of natural skincare products specifically designed for children’s sensitive skin. As a former RAF officer and mother, Saunders understood the challenges parents face in finding effective yet gentle skincare solutions for their little ones. Her eco-friendly, ethically sourced products immediately caught the attention of the Dragons, combining practicality with sustainability in a growing market.
Her pitch impressed Deborah Meaden and Steven Bartlett, who both saw the potential in the brand’s strong mission and vision, securing their investments. Since then, Toddle has significantly expanded its product range to include everything from balms to sprays, while also growing its retail presence online and in stores. The brand has become a favorite among parents who prioritize natural, sustainable solutions for their families, cementing its place as a leader in the children’s skincare market.
4. Solar Buddies
In 2015, mothers Laura Waters and Kelli Aspland entered Dragons’ Den with Solar Buddies, a child-friendly sunscreen applicator designed to simplify sun protection for parents and children alike. Recognizing the challenge many parents face with messy, time-consuming sunscreen applications, the duo developed an innovative solution that allows children to apply sunscreen themselves, ensuring even coverage without the hassle.
Their pitch impressed the Dragons, leading to investments from Peter Jones and Deborah Meaden, who recognized the product’s potential to solve a widespread parenting problem. Following their appearance on the show, Solar Buddies became a hit with families, selling over 200,000 units and achieving a turnover exceeding £1.3 million. Its practical design, combined with its ability to empower children, has made it a go-to product for parents. Solar Buddies is a shining example of how identifying and solving a common problem can lead to remarkable business success.
5. The Little Loop
In 2021, Charlotte Morley brought The Little Loop to Dragons’ Den, presenting a sustainable and innovative solution to the growing issue of fast fashion in children’s clothing. Her pitch introduced a unique clothing rental service that allowed parents to access high-quality, eco-friendly garments for their children without the waste or expense of constantly buying new clothes. This model not only reduced environmental impact but also addressed the practical challenges parents face as children quickly outgrow their wardrobes.
The innovative concept resonated with the Dragons, and both Deborah Meaden and Steven Bartlett saw the potential in Morley’s vision, investing in the venture. Since its appearance on the show, The Little Loop has expanded its membership base and strengthened its partnerships with ethical clothing brands. Offering a cost-effective and environmentally conscious alternative to traditional shopping, The Little Loop has become a favorite among parents who value both sustainability and affordability, setting a new standard for family fashion.
Conclusion
With so many incredible children’s products emerging from Dragons’ Den, it’s clear that the show has a knack for identifying truly innovative ideas. From problem-solving essentials like Solar Buddies to sustainability champions like The Little Loop, these ventures have brought fresh perspectives to parenting.