When it comes to choosing Valentine's gifts for your children, why not pick something that symbolizes love and care? Consider items like heart-themed plush toys, engaging games, adorable dolls, creative building sets, and charming mini toys. You can select gifts based on the emotions you wish to evoke, such as calmness, caring, or love, or choose traditional Valentine's symbols like roses and hearts.

Check out this guide to see the latest themes and trends at London Toy Fair 2024. From nostalgia toys to kidult themes every toy person needs to read this ultimate guide.

Have an idea for a toy and wondering where to start? If you want to know how to produce a toy, or the process of how toys are made and sold, this article has got you covered Well you’ve landed on the perfect guide future toy creator. This article will guide you through the fascinating world of toy manufacturing.

From initial concept to the moment a child's eyes light up with joy, each step in the toy manufacturing process is a blend of creativity, engineering, and strategic planning. It might feel overwhelming, but don’t worry this article will point you in the right direction.

The Toy Coach’s Holiday Gift Guide is where you’ll find toys and games to gift everyone on your list ages 0-99! Expect to discover products from brands you’ve never heard of, and classic brands you already love. Anything purchased from the links below, support thetoycoach.com through our affiliate partnership with Amazon. We thank you for your support!

THE TOY FAIR SURPRISES KEEP ON COMING

It hasn’t gone unnoticed that The Toy Association has been carefully re-branding “New York Toy Fair” to “Toy Fair: New York” in hashtags, blog posts, and press releases. A subtle shift that perked my own feelers up in wonderment that maybe...just maybe they weren’t planning to stick around New York for much longer.

Well, the day has arrived.

After a 3 year hiatus, New York Toy Fair—excuse me— Toy Fair returned to the Javits Center in New York City with a few good and bad surprises in tow. Long time attendees were happily surprised to find a more organized show floor, some were offended by the increased cost and invasive scrutiny for pass approval, and others enjoyed the surprise of an unexpected star studded trade show. At the time of writing this article, I’ve spent just two days on the show floor and the efforts put into this year’s show have not gone unnoticed by the industry. Most people love it. Or, they’re loving to hate it.

In a world where storytelling and social media intersect, Honeylambs by Ernesto Stewart has emerged as an online alternative toy store that captivates the alternative toy market with edgy storytelling. With a unique approach to plush toys and a strong emphasis on community-building, this brand has garnered a viral following.

In a captivating podcast interview with The Toy Coach, CJ Charles, the founder and creator of "My Mother Is A Superhero," shares the essence and mission behind her brand. With a heartfelt passion for recognizing and appreciating everyday superheroes in children's lives, CJ dives into the inspiration and journey that led her to create this empowering book and doll line. Through her bilingual brand, she aims to shift children's focus from celebrities and influencers to the remarkable individuals who care for them—their teachers, parents, grandparents, and neighbors. Join us as we delve into the origins of CJ's idea and her commitment to spreading gratitude and appreciation.

My Gnome on the Roam Founder Anne Armstrong Fosters Family Togetherness With Her Activity Kit

In recent years, more importance has been placed on family time and togetherness. Before the world caught on to the importance of creating these special moments, Anne Armstrong, the founder of My Gnome on the Roam, decided to create a toy line that would aid in just that.

As an alumna of tToy Creators Academy and a mother, Anne recognized the need for creative family experiences that can be executed easily in gaps of busy family schedules. Anne has successfully merged education and family fun, allowing families to bond and create cherished memories, all in as little as 30 minutes a week. Keep reading to discover how My Gnome on the Roam is revolutionizing family adventures.

Modern Mompreneur Karen Villard Transforms Early Education with Cubo Toys

In today's fast-paced world, finding innovative ways to engage children in learning has become a top priority for parents and educators alike. Enter Karen Villard, the visionary founder of Cubo Toys, a trailblazing toy company that aims to revolutionize play-based learning. With a background in media management and a passion for early childhood education, Villard has created a brand that seamlessly combines fun and educational value.

Move over Throw Throw Burrito there’s a new game in town.

The Lunch Room is a game that bring ups a sense of nostalgia. One look at the cover and you are sent back in time to your lunch room. The game is appealing to both kids and adults ages 8 and up and only takes 20 minutes to play!

Families can’t get enough of The Lunch Room Game, saying, "We got this game on the recommendation of a friend and it didn't disappoint. I have a 10 yr old who loves it! She's pulled it out and asked us to play a round every night since it arrived."

Madame Alexander® Doll Company, a premier American doll brand, is celebrating the 100th anniversary of Madame Alexander dolls as part of American childhood. Teaming up with FAO Schwarz, New York City's oldest and most iconic toy store in the U.S., Madame Alexander will celebrate its 100th anniversary at the flagship store at Rockefeller Center during the month of March. The Centennial Celebration exclusive in-store experience will take place inside FAO Schwarz and include a curated historic exhibit; beautifully designed windows; special offers, including free gift with purchase; an exclusive doll signing; free giveaways; and more! 

On February 19th, 2023 the ASTRA Toy Boat embarked on its first ever journey to the Bahamas, with an inspiring line-up of speakers including the founder of The Black Inventors Hall of Fame, James Howard, Mary Couzin of People of Play, and Dr. Amanda Gummer of the Good Play Guide. Specialty toy and game retailers and manufacturers were excited about the unique opportunity to exhibit on the open sea. 

Based on the incredible lineup of speakers, the schedule of events, and the industry buzz about the toy boat, the ASTRA staff knew it was critical that this one-of-a-kind floating trade show was a success.

The result?  Phenomenal.

Curious if it’s possible to use AI generated art to assist in toy or game design? Well so am I. Is it possible to generate hundreds of toy concepts in minutes instead of days? Could the future of toy design be starting with AI? To figure that out, I performed 7 experiments with two of the most popular AI art generators online. By the end of this post you’ll have new ideas on how AI art generation can inspire your next toy or game creation.

Serial entrepreneur and world renowned NFT expert, Gary Vaynerchukto, one of the most influential names in the NFT space, is confirmed to keynote Day 1 of Licensing Expo, the world’s largest licensing trade show slated for May 24-26 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center. Joining Gary for the panel discussion is Pam Kaufman, President of Paramount – the two will explore the many opportunities that lie in the crossover between licensing and digital collectibles.