by MARISSA SILVA, co-editor-in-chief, The Toy Insider WE’RE OFFICIALLY IN THE THICK OF the holiday shopping season, and this year’s toy selection is nothing short of awesome. While classic categories such as arts and crafts, puzzles, games, and educational toys never go out of style, new toy trends pop up each year that align with the needs and interests of kids and families. After two (long) pandemic-fueled years, 2022 has finally felt a bit more “normal.” Families are gathering and traveling, and spending habits are returning to pre-pandemic levels. The new word on everyone’s tongue is now “inflation,” and families are looking to tighten the pursestrings as they try to keep up with price hikes on rent, food, and other necessities. Budget-friendly toys are super important this holiday season, and so are toys and games that provide meaningful value.
LeapFrog LeapPods Max Source: LeapFrog
At The Toy Insider, we have evaluated more than a thousand toys while putting together our 17th annual Holiday Gift Guide, and we’ve identified seven toy trends to watch for this holiday season. TECH TAKEOVER Tech toys have taken a backseat to classic playthings over the last few years, due in part to supply chain issues leading to chip shortages. But toy manufacturers have used the last few years to drum up new innovations in toys that incorporate technology in smart ways to enhance kids’ play experiences. Fun is getting an upgrade this year with interactive, motion-controlled tech pets, interactive headphones, and more. Kids will love LeapPods Max from LeapFrog, Osmo Reading Adventure by Osmo from BYJU’S, and Vital Hero from Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles America. FOOD FRENZY So many facets of society revolve around food, from traditional dishes at holiday gatherings to entertainment staples like cooking shows and competitions. Food-themed toys have become increasingly popular in recent years, and this year, it feels like toys that inspire a love of culinary cuisine through roleplay, collecting, and creativity are everywhere we look. Key items include the Top & Bake Pizza Counter from Melissa and Doug and 5 Surprise Foodie Mini Brands Mini Food Court from ZURU.
SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE FUN People are (finally) beginning to care more about each other, the planet, and our future; and they are showing it with their wallets. Parents and kids are more aware of their social responsibility, focusing on inclusion, celebrating diversity, and caring for the planet. Toy companies are appealing to this new consciousness by putting their best foot forward with toys and games that are socially responsible, including eco-friendly playthings, dolls that represent multiple ethnicities and genders, and products for kids of different abilities. “Parents are looking for more ways to play responsibly and in return we are identifying new ways to create more sustainable practices as a company,” says Michael Sheridan, product manager and sustainability lead at Educational Insights. “As an added bonus, when we create more eco-friendly toys and games, we create an opportunity for parents to teach their children about something bigger than any of us.” Playfoam Naturals from Educational Insights, Baby Doll Asian Girl with Down Syndrome from Miniland Dolls, and the Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Fresh Fierce Collection from The World of EPI and Dr. Lisa Williams are all great examples of socially responsible toys. GENERATIONS OF PLAY Toys and games bring families together, especially kid-firendly versions of things grown-ups love, games that multiple generations of family members
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