#USA #New York #New York Toy Fair #Hape Toys #Metropolitan Museum

Hape and The Metropolitan Museum of Art Team Up for New Toy Collection

In an exciting blend of art and play, Hape Toys has partnered with The Metropolitan Museum of Art to unveil a new collection of art-inspired toys at the renowned New York Toy Fair 2026. This eagerly awaited launch will take place from February 14 to 17 at Booth #635, showcasing an innovative selection that promises to engage and inspire children of all ages.

Building on the momentum from their initial collaboration announcement last year, the collection features beautifully crafted wooden toys that transform iconic works of art from The Met into playful experiences. With an impressive inventory that stretches across 5,000 years of global history, the collection is designed to cultivate creativity and curiosity in early learners.

Among the highlighted products are wooden puzzles, stacking and building toys, and sensory play items, each meticulously crafted to reflect the styles of celebrated artists like Hokusai, Klimt, Monet, and Van Gogh. This diverse array of toys not only engages toddlers but also introduces them to the beauty and significance of art from an early age.

Peter Handstein, the Founder and CEO of Hape, emphasized the importance of merging artistic expression with early childhood education. “Last year, we shared our vision to merge art and early learning. This year, we are proud to see this creative concept and shared vision come to reality,” he stated. “This series reflects Hape's commitment to thoughtful design, sustainability, and child development, while introducing families to the wonder of art in a joyful, accessible manner.”

Every toy in the collection has been designed in close collaboration with early childhood experts, ensuring that each product enhances various aspects of child development including creativity, skill, and emotional growth. The inclusion of museum-inspired storytelling enriches the learning experience, encouraging children to not only play but also explore concepts of color, form, and movement.

Moreover, the carefully designed packaging will add an educational layer, offering insights into the artistic works that inspired each toy. This turns each unboxing into a cultural learning moment, making the art world more relatable to young minds.

Josh Romm, Head of Global Licensing and Partnerships at The Met, expressed the museum's commitment to inspiring the next generation through such initiatives. “Welcoming families and inspiring the next generation of creators is central to The Met's mission,” he remarked. “Through our collaboration with Hape, we are extending the reach of our collection beyond the Museum's walls, transforming iconic works of art into playful, educational experiences.”

The Hape x The Met collection demonstrates a promising future where art and education coexist harmoniously. Visitors to the New York Toy Fair can witness this unique collaboration firsthand and discover innovative ways to engage children through the timeless power of art.

For more information about Hape, visit Hape's website. To learn more about The Metropolitan Museum of Art, head to The Met's website.

This partnership exemplifies a growing movement within the toy industry to not only entertain young audiences but also educate them about the rich tapestry of global art and culture. With an emphasis on eco-friendly materials, Hape continues to take significant strides towards sustainable play, ensuring that learning can be both informative and fun.

In summary, the launch of the Hape x The Met toy collection at New York Toy Fair 2026 marks a significant step in the realm of educational toys, reminding us all of the joy of creativity and discovery that art can bring into children's lives.