If you follow @toy_ideas on Instagram, there is a good chance you’ve seen some of my stories from New York’s Toy Fair 2020 a few weeks ago. Toy Fair is one of my favorite times of the year, as I get to discover new toys and brands to share with all of you. Here are some toys from this year’s event that caught my attention. There were of course many more. The show lasts 4 days and has endless toy brands with innovative ideas in all categories. These are just the lucky ones that made the list. Hope you enjoy!:)
1) Bolt Buddies Pick-it-Up Truck
Bolt Buddies Pick Up Truck is the new toy from the popular Design & Drill line by Educational Insights. The idea is to assemble the truck using a kiddy drill and bolts. The box of the truck is designed to engage kids in imaginative play as it turns into a building and road (super cool). This toy is great for teaching basic concepts of engineering, promoting coordination and motor skills and encouraging pretend play. It can be used and played with again and again. For ages 3-7.
2) Blockaroo Blocks
Okay, these might be the most unique blocks I’ve ever seen (and I’ve seen a lot of blocks)! Blockaroo are made out of foam but are also magnetic. Once the sides attach the pieces can be rotated 360 degrees all while making a clicking sound. Very fun and multi sensory! Blockaroo make an exciting open-ended bath toy and can be used to teach a number of concepts (counting, sorting, and matching shapes and colors) as well as build motor skills and help develop coordination. They are perfect for both independent and social play.
3) Little Friend’s Camper
Little Friend’s Camper is a cute new addition to the Little Friend’s line by Haba. It includes a car, camper, and little friend. The camper comes with a removeable roof, opening door, and folding seats. It is a beautifully made, imagination building play set!
4) 1-2-3 Froggies - Counting & Color Matching Game
1-2-3 Froggies is a simple matching and racing game for preschoolers. It works on following directions, counting, matching, and reaction time. The idea is to match the number of frogs on the dice to the number on your cards first. Super fun!
5) Toddler Kitchen Set
This wooden Toddler Kitchen stove top comes with a realistic looking pot, pan and knobs that rotate and make a clicking sound when turned. It’s cute, simple, and perfect for pretend play.
6) Inny Bin
Inny Bin looks like a shape sorter, and it does have shapes but its not a shape sorter. Its a cube with elastic bands that toddlers have to pull shapes through by maneuvering around the bands. It’s meant to promote curiosity, exploration, and problem solving. It’s also a great way to build hand strength and coordination. Fat Brain Toys gets an A for innovation.
7) Victorian Dollhouse
This Victorian Dollhouse is GORGEOUS! Only thing it needs is your imagination (and maybe some dolls and furniture). :)
8) Wooden Pinball
Okay, so this wooden Pin Ball Machine isn’t new (I saw it at Toy Fair last year), but I couldn’t not share it. How cool is it?
9) Clipaclip
I love love love this Clipaclip toy! The idea is to replicate the patterns on the cards using snaps. So creative! It’s great for promoting visual perception and spatial abilities as well as strengthening fingers. It can also be helpful in teaching kids to open and close snaps found in clothing.
10) Veggi Stackers
Instead of stacking rings why not “plant” a little garden?! Love how cute, creative, and beautifully designed these Stacking Veggies are.
11) Asteroid Escape
Asteroid Escape is a one player logic game by Smart Games, known for their genius one player puzzle games for all ages. The idea is to follow different challenges to create a path for the spaceship to escape. This game is similar to the classic Rush Hour game. Love this innovative concept and design.
12) SmartMax- My First Sounds & Senses
This toy is new for 2020 and is not available yet. But, look out for it. Its a simple magnetic set for toddlers that is designed to promote sensory exploration, hand strength, and coordination.
13) Hexbug Construction
I came across Hexbug, incredible construction toys that are remote control operated after they are assembled. If you have older kids who are up for a challenge, give Hexbug Robotics a try. There are quite a few to choose from. HEXBUG VEX Robotics Catapult seems to be a popular favorite.
14) Spinny Pins
Last, but most certainly not least is Spinny Pins, my new favorite baby toy! To play, pull the pins out of the wobbly bowl, turn them upside down onto their weighted base, and watch them wobble around. This toy is great for catching and keeping a child’s attention, encouraging active open-ended play, and inspiring curiosity.