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January 2015
Features:
Divine Décor: We love these companies that are creating the perfect atmostphere for a child's own space.
Coast to Coast: Exhibitors at Toy Fair and ToyFest West make a splash this market season.
Home Grown Philosophy: The market for children's products made in the U.S. continues to grow.
Plus Much More!
The Toy Industry Association
unveiled this year's hottest playthings during a packed seminar for
media and buyers at their 111th American International Toy Fair. The
toys, games and youth entertainment products revealed at the "Toy Trends
Tea" seminar will be appearing in stores now through the Holiday 2014
shopping season.
A summary of the six top trends follows:
- LARGER THAN LIFE
Large-sized toys are becoming increasingly common in just about every
category, from plush and play sets to RCs and building toys. As a
counter-balance to the micro-sized trend seen in years past, these toys
engage kids in imaginative role-play activities and make impressive
gifts for special occasions. They don't all come with hefty price tags,
either – the value-conscious shopper will find many "BIG" toys at
affordable prices.
- RC RAMPAGE
Playtime will shift into high gear thanks to an influx of innovative
remote-controlled vehicles for various ages and at varying price points.
Older kids with a 'need for speed' will have plenty of options to
choose from, including helicopter RCs and vehicles that launch
projectiles. Animal-themed and licensed RCs based on popular
entertainment properties will engage younger children and promote active
and imaginative play.
- FULL "STEAM" AHEAD!
Educational toys, games and crafts that teach kids STEAM subjects
(Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) are heating up in the
toy aisle and getting kids of all ages, interests and abilities excited
about learning. Toymakers are increasingly incorporating storytelling
and other artistic components into science, engineering and building
toys to get more kids than ever on board with STEAM.
- FRIGHTFULLY FUN: ZOMBIES, MONSTERS AND MORE!
Vampires were hot … but now zombies and monsters are all the rage,
thanks to a rise in popularity of zombie-themed movies, TV shows and
video games. Ghoulish action figures and dolls with relatable characters
and back-stories are less frightening for younger kids, while older
boys and girls will get a kick out of 'gross out' toys. These toys not
only have the ability to transport children to mysterious worlds – they
also teach them that it's OK to be different and stand out from the
crowd.
- RETRO / BACK-TO-BASICS
First identified by TIA in 2013, the retro and back-to-basics trend is
alive and well this year thanks to a huge abundance of classic toys and
games slated to hit store shelves. Today's parents and grandparents
fondly remember these playthings from their own childhoods and are
excited to share them with the little ones in their lives.
- CUSTOM BUILT
2014 will take building to a whole new level. In addition to building
and construction toys, this trend extends across several toy categories –
from arts and crafts to action figures – and encompasses playthings
that allow kids to create, customize and personalize to reflect their
unique tastes, styles and imaginations.
