The toy industry evolves every year to match changing interests, technology, and learning styles. In 2024, the biggest toy trends combine fun, education, and wellness, with a clear shift toward sustainability and brain-boosting play.
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or gift-giver, this guide will help you stay ahead of the curve by exploring the top toy trends for kids in 2024.
1. STEM and STEAM Toys Are Leading the Way
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) and STEAM (which adds Art) toys are booming in 2024. These toys engage kids in hands-on learning while sparking curiosity and problem-solving.
Popular examples:
- Robotics kits
- Coding games
- DIY science lab sets
- Magnetic building tiles
- Art-meets-tech drawing tablets
Why it’s trending: Parents want toys that combine fun with future-ready skills.
2. Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Toys
Today’s parents are more eco-conscious, and so are toy brands. In 2024, expect a rise in toys made from:
- Recycled materials
- Organic cotton
- Biodegradable plastics
- Sustainably sourced wood
Popular items: Bamboo blocks, recycled plastic stacking sets, and cloth dolls with plant-based dyes.
Why it’s trending: Sustainable toys reduce environmental impact while teaching kids about the planet.
3. Interactive and Smart Tech Toys
With AI and voice-activated gadgets becoming part of everyday life, smart toys are gaining popularity.
Top trends include:
- Talking plush animals
- AI-powered storybooks
- Augmented Reality (AR) puzzles
- Smart learning tablets with real-time feedback
Why it’s trending: Tech-savvy toys are engaging and can be customized to a child’s learning level.
4. Sensory and Fidget Toys
Children need tools to help manage stress and improve focus. Sensory and fidget toys are not just for special needs—they’re loved by all kids.
Top sensory toys in 2024:
- Pop-it boards
- Sensory mats
- Kinetic sand
- Light-up spinners and calming sound toys
Why it’s trending: These toys support mindfulness, calmness, and sensory exploration.
5. Inclusive and Diverse Toys
Representation matters. Toy brands are releasing dolls, action figures, and games that reflect various ethnicities, abilities, and cultures.
Examples:
- Dolls with hearing aids or prosthetics
- Multilingual learning toys
- Books and puzzles featuring global diversity
Why it’s trending: Inclusion boosts empathy and helps every child feel seen and celebrated.
6. Collectibles with a Twist
Collectible toys are evolving. In 2024, we’re seeing collectibles that integrate surprise, education, and interactivity.
Examples:
- Surprise STEM kits
- Puzzle-based collectible figures
- AR-unlockable mystery boxes
Why it’s trending: The unboxing trend is still strong, but with more value and learning involved.
7. Retro and Nostalgic Toys Return
Millennial parents are bringing back classic toys from their childhood—but with modern upgrades.
Top returns:
- Updated Tamagotchi-style digital pets
- Retro board games with new designs
- Classic building sets with STEM features
Why it’s trending: Nostalgia sells, and these toys offer screen-free bonding moments.
8. Role-Play and Pretend Toys
Open-ended play continues to thrive in 2024. Role-play toys support creativity, social skills, and imagination.
Hot role-play picks:
- Pretend kitchens
- Doctor kits
- Toy tool benches
- Grocery store playsets
Why it’s trending: Role-play helps children understand real-world situations in a safe, fun way.
9. Emotion and Mental Health Toys
As emotional intelligence becomes a parenting focus, toys that teach kids how to recognize and express emotions are rising in popularity.
Examples include:
- Feelings flashcards
- Mood plushies
- Mindfulness journals
- Breathing buddy toys
Why it’s trending: Parents want emotionally aware kids, and these toys support that journey.
10. Subscription-Based Toy Boxes
Monthly toy subscription boxes are growing in 2024. They offer themed toys based on a child’s age, learning goals, and interests.
Benefits:
- Surprise element
- Curated learning experience
- Minimal shopping effort for parents
Why it’s trending: Convenience meets education in a fun monthly package.
Final Thoughts
The top toy trends for kids in 2024 show a strong shift toward mindful, inclusive, and development-focused play. Whether you’re shopping for a toddler or a curious pre-teen, the latest toys combine entertainment with value-driven experiences.
