Toy Story

We found the toys your kids will want at the 110th American International Toy Fair.

A world of toys is the stuff of kids’ fantasies. Whether it is Pixar’s Toy Story films or the Disney classic Babes in Toyland, a space entirely made of children’s play things have fascinated generations of kids. With the American International Toy Fair such a place exists. Unfortunately for children, the event is for buyers and press looking to find the new It Toy of the season—so it’s basically for grown-ups only. The sea of dolls, cars, and plush animals is housed at the Jacob K. Javits Center and is a sight that could put a smile on any Scrooge.

For a first-timer, the whole thing can seem daunting. But after a few minutes of playing with the coolest gadgets and cuddling with stuffed animals, you’re completely transported to a world where everything is wonderful. Toy manufacturers like Hasbro, Lego, and Crayola, along with lesser-known labels like Cloud B and Klutz are there to show astute retailers and media outlets the best products that will have children clamoring at store shelves. And with over 1,000 exhibitors from 22 countries, there was a wide array of coloring sets, board games and action figures to choose from.

The top trends on the horizon are toys that have a retro feel, inspired by pop culture and are compact and portable. And it was evident that many of the toy brands wanted to foster in children a sense of creativity. Klutz with The Book of Impossible Objects along with its other titles have took this to heart: “At Klutz, we give kids the confidence to really create —teach kids that they can achieve the goals that they want.” Similarly, Faber-Castell’s selection also had the same intentions: “From gardening to tattoo, from girls crafts to boys crafts, we want children to have an outlet to learn and at the same time be creative.” Other noteworthy products from Gund, with its Pomeranian plush dog, and the USAopoly’s The Wizard of Oz Monopoly game are examples of the incredible products from the Toy Fair. Click through our exclusive slideshow to see the toys for your kids will want next season. —Barry Samaha