Family Trends: Toys and Games that ‘Matter’

May 2, 2016 | May is a month for family celebrations, as it is Family Wellness Month and the start of National Family Month (May 12-June 16).  One of the best ways to observe these special events – whether they’re holidays or reunions – is by playing together. 

At Toy Fair, the Toy Industry Association (TIA) named “Family Matters” as one of the toy trends to watch in 2016. Family Matters products inspire all sorts of group interaction and oftentimes improve upon the playthings millennial parents had as children.

“Toys and games geared toward families provide the best of all worlds when it comes to all forms of play – from tech to traditional,” said Adrienne Appell, TIA trend specialist. “When families participate in fun activities, it bridges generational gaps and creates lasting memories through play.”

Read on for some top toy picks for family members of all ages:

STEAM
for inquisitive family members who want to learn and experiment as they play.

Astro Precision 600 Telescope (Edu Science)
Stargazers of all ages will love this improved take on a classic set, which includes a full-length tripod, two precision eyepieces, a constellation chart and supplemental software.
Live Butterfly Garden (Insect Lore)
Start a new family by creating a habitat for caterpillars in a backyard. Redeem the critters online and once they arrive, place them in their airy Garden home, which comes with food. Witness the beginning of their metamorphosis into butterflies within two weeks.  

Sports and Outdoors Activities
for the families who want to burn off those cookout calories.
Colossus 2 (Alex Brands)
No family gathering is complete without a water fight. The Colossus 2’s dual tank system holds 74 ounces of water, keeping the focus on distance and power, and can reach up to 40 feet.

Swurfer (Swurfer) – Combining the capabilities of a swing and a surfboard when secured from above, Swurfer tournaments can provide hours of gravity-defying fun for anyone who loves the outdoors.

Tech
enhancing classic experiences, from role play to chores.

Polite PigPals (Manners Made Easy)
These little electronic animals can be strategically placed throughout the house for extra pairs of eyes and to encourage good behavior. Using motion sensors, the line’s Bathroom Buddies, Cleanup Crew, and Hangup Helpers thank kids when they pitch in and help keep a tidy home.

Batmobile Remote Control Vehicle (Spin Master)
Fans of RCs or comic books will love navigating the iconic Batmobile, which is based on the slimmer Batman Vs. Superman design. Its maneuverability and speed make it perfect for hosting indoor and outdoor stunt shows and races.

Games

providing new fun activities after dessert.
Fourple (Fourple)

With pieces and elements similar to classic strategy games like Connect Four and Jenga, the goal is to line up four cylindrical or cube pieces in a row. Players can build as high as possible and also enjoy the artistic and architectural nuances of the results.

Mad Pong (Rebelz Games)

Once the minors are asleep, adults can let loose with this cleaner, crazier version of beer pong. An activity card in each cup keeps the ball from reaching the drink, so there’s no mess.

A detailed look at all the trends TIA experts announced can be found at TIA’s Toy Trends page and check out the Toy Trends Briefing video.