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Ted Kangaroo's Sideways Rocker Wins USA TODAY Award

In an exciting achievement for innovative children's products, the Ted Kangaroo Sideways Rocker has been awarded USA TODAY’s Best Toys & Games Award for 2026, specifically in the Best Toddler Toys category. This unique rocker's design focuses on sensory support, providing a calming and engaging experience for children.

What Makes the Sideways Rocker Special?

The Sideways Rocker stands out not just as a toy, but as a tool created to assist children who need sensory input for various reasons, including autism, ADHD, and sensory processing disorders. It's not merely about play; the rocker is designed to create a safe and soothing environment for children to reset, focus, or take a momentary break from overwhelming stimuli.

By incorporating lateral movement in a secure seating arrangement, the rocker engages children with gentle side-to-side motion. This movement provides essential vestibular input that many sensory-seeking children crave, helping them to calm their minds and bodies. The design is sleek and aesthetically pleasing, making it a perfect addition to homes, classrooms, and therapy spaces alike.

Designed for Comfort and Stability

Developed with the input of clinicians, the Sideways Rocker marries functionality with a playful design. Its gentle curves and plush design are inviting, encouraging children to use it as a haven where they can effectively manage their emotions and sensory needs. Jacob Fisch, CEO of Ted Kangaroo, expressed his delight at this recognition: “We’re thrilled to see the Sideways Rocker awarded Best Toy of 2026.” He emphasizes the brand's commitment to helping children thrive through attentive design and thoughtful support.

More Than Just a Toy

The award not only speaks to the quality and innovation of the Sideways Rocker but also shines a light on the larger mission of Ted Kangaroo: to turn complex sensory science into enjoyable, everyday experiences. Beyond traditional toys, the Sideways Rocker stands as an emblem of how play can be an integral part of a child's development and well-being.

With its lightweight design, the rocker is easy to move around, making it a versatile solution for various environments—from home to school to therapy sessions. This adaptability ensures kids have their supportive space where they need it most, providing peace of mind for parents, educators, and caregivers.

Available Products

Parents and educators interested in exploring Ted Kangaroo's offerings can visit their website, where they can shop for a broad range of sensory support products designed to nurture and promote children's development. From calming vests to activity tools, Ted Kangaroo continues to innovate in creating functional yet joyful products that cater to children’s sensory needs.

In a world where children face various challenges in their everyday environments, products like the Sideways Rocker are not just toys—they are essential tools that promote comfort, security, and well-being. As noted in USA TODAY's review, these thoughtful designs underscore a shift in how we understand play and the vital role it occupies in nurturing children's growth.