CTA’s Hot Toys for Summer Event Showcases “Benefits of Play in Action”

June 22, 2017 | What happens when second grade students are surprised with a morning of play? The Canadian Toy Association (CTA) discovered just that at its “Hot Toys for Summer” event, held earlier this month at a Toronto-area elementary school.

Eighty-four second graders played with dozens of new-to-the-market toys – and provided feedback on the playthings – at the special event, where the children “had a blast and confirmed that play is an important part of childhood development,” says Danielle Russell, senior association manager at CTA. “It was a terrific opportunity to showcase the benefits of play in action.”

The event garnered national media coverage and was highlighted in an inspirational video created by CTA. Members of the toy industry are encouraged to share the video on their social media channels to promote the benefits of play and drive consumers to TheGeniusOfPlay.org, a U.S. Toy Association-led initiative that encourages families to spend more time playing together.

The children also rated the toys, giving their top picks for active play, outdoor play, games, STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) toys, collectibles, and more. The top overall picks of the day were the X-Shot Bubble Ball from ZURU and Power Wheels® Wild Thing™ from Mattel.

High marks were also given to Bunch O Balloons (ZURU), Nerf N-Strike Accustrike Alphahawk (Hasbro), Dig It Up! Minerals and Fossils (Mindware), Toilet Trouble (Hasbro), Safe Breaker (YULU), Crankity (Outset Media), LEGO Heartlake Summer Pool (LEGO), and Ghostbusters Ecto-1 (Playmobil), among others.

A full listing of all the toys that were tested at the showcase can be found on the Canadian Toy Association website. Questions about this event may be directed to CTA’s Danielle Russell.