Toy shopping for the young—and young at heart—can be a minefield. For those of us who remember the joys of a simple bicycle, train set, or board game, venturing into the toy section of any retailer can be daunting these days. Thankfully, Otis College surveyed true experts on the topic: the faculty and students from the Toy Design program, one of only two undergraduate programs in the country dedicated to the ideation, design, and marketing of toys. Today’s toys are much more thoughtfully and technologically designed with children’s play patterns, neurodiversity, and imagination in mind. Read on for these experts’ take on which toys truly delight.
Got 2 Glow Fairy Finder by WowWee
“This toy combines the always popular theme of fairies with a clever electronic twist. There are lots of classic play patterns baked in, from collecting and trading, to nurturing and games. And unlike other electronic nurturing toys, which are typically sedentary, this one encourages kids to get up and get moving, searching for more fairies. One can never have too much magic in their day.” —Lisa Strom, Lecturer
“The Got 2 Glow Fairy Finder seamlessly integrates a digital phenomenon, such as Pokémon, and, more recently, Pikmin Bloom, and transforms it into a fun and relevant physical toy reminiscent of earlier toys like Tamagotchi! The functionality of this toy is great, and taking care of the fairies you collect is rewarding and encourages the child to move around and look for more to collect!” —Kenzie Waskiewicz, Sophomore
Dig It Up! Giant Gem Discovery by MindWare
“Geology rocks! I am a science nerd at heart and loved collecting, polishing, and categorizing gemstones as a kid. This activity kit takes me back to my childhood obsession, with its giant geode that has 12 gemstones embedded inside and kid-friendly tools and instructions to chisel them out (like an archaeological dig). I think hands-on exploration, role play, and collecting are all important to learning and encouraging a child’s curiosity.” —Lynn Rosenblum, Lecturer
Magic Mixies Magical Misting Cauldron by Moose
“Who wouldn’t love to mix a magic potion to create a magical creature? I would! Magic Mixies was a breakout toy of the 2021 holiday season. It’s incredibly unique, totally magical, and very interactive, as well as imaginative, nurturing, and fun. Kids can make real mist rise from the cauldron.” —Jennifer Caveza, Chair
Zig & Go Music by Djeco (can be purchased here)
“This is an action-reaction toy that’s part construction set, part musical toy. It’s fun and easy to play with, educational, and beautiful, too. Big kids can play together with little kids, and they’ll all have a great time.” —Joyce Mesch, Adjunct Professor
Imaginext DC Super Friends Batman and Transforming Batmobile RC Vehicle by Fisher Price
“This toy is a remote-controlled (RC) Batmobile that transforms into unique modes with lights and sounds for young kids. With a special RC controller, you can easily change between various forms, giving any kid all they need to stop any villain.” —Markus Maciel, Associate Professor
Erector by Meccano Super Construction Set by Spin Master
“This fantastic construction set comes with 25 different models to explore, and is an excellent STEAM toy for kids 10 and up. This toy has tons of extended value—it promotes numerous educational experiences that you can bring to life through its motorized building system.” —Markus Maciel, Associate Professor
Gabby’s Dollhouse Purrfect Dollhouse by Spin Master
“This toy is my top toy pick because of its commanding two-feet-tall size, cute accessories, and fun play patterns. With delightful features and adorable figures and accessories, this dollhouse allows kids to easily reenact their favorite scenes from the Netflix show. For added fun, this dollhouse can be purrfectly paired with some of the other mini playsets found in stores. It's everything a Gabby’s Dollhouse fan could ever want, and more!” —Megan Schroeder, Junior
Die De Muertos Barbie and Ken Doll Set by Mattel
“This Barbie 2021 Dia De Muertos Barbie and Ken Doll Set was a top toy pick for the 2021 holiday season. Not only was I amazed by the designer’s sophisticated work—adorning their faces with striking calavera designs—but it also honors the customs, symbols, and rituals often seen throughout this festive time of remembrance.” —Miffy Huang, Senior
Gridopolis by Gridopolis Games
“My top toy pick is Gridopolis, a 3D tabletop strategy game for one to four players ages eight and up. With familiar rules from classic games like checkers, chess, and tic-tac-toe, Gridopolis is fast and easy to learn, and setup takes just minutes. Beyond the many gameplay innovations and multiple industry awards, Gridopolis was play-tested with Otis College’s own Toy Design students and evolved from a simple concept to a Toy of the Year finalist in just three years.” —Dave Schultze, Senior Lecturer
Rainbow High Deluxe Fashion Closet Playset by MGA Entertainment
“The Rainbow High Deluxe Fashion Closet Playset is a perfect gift for any Rainbow High fan or little fashionista. With over 400 ways to mix and match the fashions, there is endless dress-up fun for a kid and their dolls. The clothes are high-quality with premium fabric and fine details painted on the shoes. It also works as a carrying case for dolls!” —Henry Polaha, Senior