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Pop Quiz with Wendy Smolen: The Innovation & STEAM Issue 2023

Test your toy knowledge with our latest Pop Quiz!

December 15, 2023 by Ali Mierzejewski

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Play patterns may, for the most part, stay consistent, but toys themselves are constantly changing. The industry is now full of buzzy acronyms: There’s STEAM, MESH, AI, AR, VR — and lots of thoughtful iteration to keep kids playing. How many of these innovative products and people can you identify?

A version of this feature was originally published in the 2023 Innovation & STEAM issue of The Toy Book. Click here to read the full issue! Want to receive The Toy Book in print? Click here for subscription options!

About the author

Wendy Smolen

Wendy Smolen has spent 25 years playing in the toy industry as an editor, writer, and storyteller. She co-founded Sandbox Summit, an idea forum focused on the intersection of play, learning, and technology. Currently, she works with publications, companies, and organizations to create playful perspectives that engage kids and families in innovative and impactful ways.