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The Toy Association has embarked on a multi-year undertaking to bring more clarity to the growing movement of STEM/STEAM (science, technology, engineering, and math, with the inclusion of “A” for the arts). Our STEAM Toy Assessment Framework guides manufacturers in developing products that foster STEM/STEAM discovery and learning and our STEAM Accreditation Program, in partnership with Dr. Gummer’s Good Play Guide, provides toy companies with an independent, third-party product review and “stamp of approval".

STEAM Toy Assessment Framework Apply for Accreditation STEAM Accredited Toys

Overview

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The accreditation program is open to all toy companies and brands involved in the manufacture, design, and marketing of STEAM products for children. It is based on the criteria outlined in The Toy Association’s STEAM Toy Assessment Framework, which defines and details specific characteristics of a good STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) toy for various age groups.

The Good Play Guide™ is the official accreditation body for the STEAM Accreditation Program. Every toy submitted for evaluation is tested by children. While the children play, they are observed by professionals who have been trained to carry out research with children in a robust and ethically responsible way. The toys are then evaluated by the Good Play Guide’s team of experts to ensure they meet the strict criteria set in The Toy Association’s “STEAM Toy Assessment Framework”.

To learn more about The Toy Association’s STEM/STEAM initiative, contact steam@toyassociation.org.

Apply for Accreditation

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Please review the accreditation fees below prior to starting your application.

There is now an opportunity for bulk testing of similar products in a cost-effective way so you can look to accredit a whole range of products at once. Prices will depend on the number of products and the level of similarity between them. Please contact the Play Champions at the Good Play Guide to discuss your individual requirements.

Each accredited toy will receive the following:

  • The Toy Association’s official STEAM Stamp of Approval to use on packaging, websites, printed material and throughout all digital and traditional marketing platforms.
  • A detailed report created by the Good Play Guide which can be used for marketing, research, or further development of the product.
  • Placement on The Toy Association's consumer website, www.thegeniusofplay.org, and social media channels.
  • Placement on the Good Play Guide’s social media channels and website, www.goodplayguide.com.

Accreditation Fees

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1 Product

$1,100 per product for Toy Association members
$1,600 per product for non-members

2-4 Products Submitted Together

$950 per product for Toy Association members
$1,400 per product for non-members

5+ Products Submitted Together

$850 per product for Toy Association members
$1,300 per product for non-members