Even though 2021 seems to be just as uncertain as 2020 was, there’s one thing we can count on: Play is a crucial part of our everyday lives.
While the industry continues to adapt to doing business during a pandemic, the absence of major trade shows didn’t stop toymakers from giving the Toy Insider experts a first look at new products launching throughout the year. Scroll down to view the year’s top toy trends and products that are predicted to fly off store shelves!
The Toy Insider’s Trends to Watch in 2021
To Infinity … and Beyond!: STEM-focused toys have been big over the past few years, and with more space-related activity happening IRL, we’re seeing huge interest in toys that are getting kids excited about space exploration, NASA, and alien life!
It’s Easy Being Green: Many companies are making efforts to move in an environmentally sustainable direction, both with their products and the lessons they teach. Manufacturers are teaching kids about recycling, creating toys made from sustainable materials, and even using sustainable packaging that is incorporated into the play pattern to minimize waste.
Home Is Where the Fun Is:Â Take at-home fun to the next level with new toys that bring incredible experiences to your backyard, living room floor, or kitchen table. From themed items that bring events like the carnival right to your home, to activity sets that take creativity and imagination to new heights, kids can have a blast all year long while still staying safe in the comfort of their own homes.
Family Game Night: Party games have been on the rise in the past few years, but gamemakers are now catering more to families’ needs by offering family-friendly games geared toward smaller groups. These titles are fun for both kids and adults, combining luck, strategy, humor, and even some toyetic elements into the gameplay.
In My Feelings: It has been a tough year for everyone, and toys can be great tools to help kids process everything that’s going on. We’re seeing a lot of toys that are designed to promote Social Emotional Learning (SEL), help kids stay calm and relaxed, and teach them how to manage their feelings.
Going Viral: Both kids and parents are more digitally connected than ever before. This new way of life is reflected in toys based on viral trends, videos and internet stars, along with new toys encouraging kids to become creators themselves or even enhance the videos and content they’re already making.
First Look at Top Toys of 2021
Click here to view the sneak peek at some of the most sought-after toys of 2021.
