Gearing Up for the School Year with Educational Toys & Games

August 16, 2018 | Back-to-school season is here for millions of kids across the country … and what better way to get prepared for the academic year than with skill-building toys and games?

“The toy industry continues to innovate in the educational toy category, churning out an array of great new playthings that build cognitive and developmental skills starting at a very young age,” said Adrienne Appell, trend expert at The Toy Association. “Toys can help transform little ones into lifelong learners by helping them explore their interests and talents very early on.”

From science and technology toys, to engineering, artistic and math-based playthings, there are tons of learning toys out there for every child, no matter their age or interests.

“We’re seeing codable robots for preschoolers, augmented reality toys that weave in storytelling, complex engineering toys for older kids, and everything in between,” said Appell. “They key is for parents to select toys and games that match a child’s age, abilities, and interests. At the end of the day, children thrive in a play environment that is motivational, engaging, and fun.”

And while STEAM-based toys remain popular, there is also a growing trend in toys that teach kids about various global causes and people of different cultures.

“These toys are crucial to teaching a generation of children how to be empathetic and open-minded about others,” added Appell.

The following are just a few examples of the many educational playthings on the market that will get kids excited about learning as they enter the new school year:

Turing Tumble (Turing Tumble LLC) is a revolutionary new toy where players build real, working mechanical computers powered by marbles to solve logic puzzles. It’s a fun and addictive way to teach kids how computers work. 

Lupita Tradition (Tepeyac, LLC) is a Hispanic take on the Elf on a Shelf that inspires kids to do good deeds leading up to the holidays. New for 2018 are an app and e-book, as well as the integration of augmented reality, to bring Lupita to life. The e-book and app enhance the popular story with different themes, a game, learning tools, and customization based on a child’s age.

A perfect introduction to basic programming and coding, the Code and Learn Ladybug (The Learning Journey International) has two modes to play. In the first mode, children use the coding card deck and color grid map to find the right path to a destination by entering directional instructions into the remote control. The second mode allows children to drive the remote-control playmate around for free-wheeling fun. This coding toy teaches sequencing, directions, problem-solving, and logic.

iPoster My World Interactive Map (Smart Play LLC) is an interactive, educational talking world map that teaches children earth science, memory, problem-solving, geography, and environment.  Kids as young as five can learn capital cities, countries and their flags, population, languages spoken in each country, important landmarks, and much more, allowing them to appreciate various world cultures at a young age.

4D Science Augmented Reality Science Lab (SpiceBox Product Development LTD) immerses kids into Professor Maxwell’s 4D lab, where they dive into the magical world of science and learn fundamental lessons like chromatography, static electricity, stalactites cohesion, carbon dioxide, and more. Professor Maxwell walks little learners through each of the projects with step-by-step instructions as the pages come to life in augmented reality.

The PLAY 700 OLLOBOT (ROBOTIS) is a reconfigurable and programmable robotics kit that introduces children to STEAM Concepts. The kit emphasizes creative design using ROBOTIS' patented rivet system and adds two new elements: programming and smart device connectivity. The controller included with the PLAY 700 is a motorized gearbox that brings children’s’ creations to life. It also includes built-in sensors so that children can learn programming.

Want to be featured in a future Toy Association trends article or broadcast segment? Be sure to book your appointment with a member of the Association’s trends team at Fall Toy Preview to show us your key drivers for 2019. Product information (kept under embargo) will help the team determine the hottest trends for next year, and trending toys will be highlighted by the experts in media opportunities throughout 2019. To book an appointment at the show, contact Angela Stanton-Weekes (aweekes@toyassociation.org) with “Fall Toy Preview - Product Preview Appointment” in the subject line.