#Germany #Nuremberg #Spielwarenmesse #ToyAward #Innovative Toys

Celebrating Innovation: The ToyAward 2026

The ToyAward 2026, held during the second day of Spielwarenmesse, recognized outstanding innovations in the toy industry, reflecting high-quality craftsmanship and significant market potential. This year’s awards highlighted six exceptional products, each catering to different age groups and interests.

Categories and Winners

The competition featured awards in several categories, demonstrating the breadth of creativity manifested in toys. An international jury of twelve experts from fields including retail, industry, market research, toy safety, and sustainability evaluated entries based on playfulness, safety, originality, retail success, clarity of product concept, and craftsmanship.

Baby & Infant Category

My First Tonies - Tonies
In the Baby & Infant category, the award went to My First Tonies. This product introduces children from one year old to delightful soundscapes through soft and easily graspable figures. By listening to short stories, toddlers embark on adventures, expanding their vocabulary playfully. The jury praised this concept as an engaging blend of storytelling and sensory stimulation.

PreSchool Category

Der Berg ruft - Auzou jeux/Hutter Trade
Der Berg ruft, a game that introduces climbing to children up to six years old, took top honors in the PreSchool category. The game involves two teams competing on a vertical wall, where players estimate rope lengths needed for their climbs, enhancing both dexterity and strategic thinking. The jury noted it as a cohesive package with varied and engaging gameplay that resonates with children’s adventurous spirit.

SchoolKids Category

Temple Twist - Franckh-Kosmos
In the SchoolKids division, Temple Twist was recognized for its innovative concept and high production quality. This cooperative game challenges players to work as a team to locate treasure chambers within a rotating temple that shifts each turn, turning the environment into a dynamic 3D labyrinth. This captivating twist on strategy and well-coordinated teamwork delighted the jury.

Teenager & Adults Category

CluePuzzle – The Wonderbox of Alice - iDventure
The award for the Teenager and Adults category was claimed by CluePuzzle – The Wonderbox of Alice, which uniquely combines classic 3D puzzling with escape room mechanics. With over 180 wooden pieces, this puzzle box features locks and moving parts, integrating clues and logical problems into its design. The jury commended it for blending puzzle solving with engaging storytelling effectively.

Startup Category

Beaver Edu Construction Kit - Beaver Edu SAL
For the Startup category, Beaver Edu Construction Kit emerged victoriously. This kit encourages young builders to explore their creativity using thin real wood sticks and plug-in joints, enabling them to assemble various constructions safely. Notably, the patented cutting tool allows children to cut sticks to size without risk of injury, reflecting a thoughtful approach to educational play.

Sustainability Category

Arches - Waytoplay Toys
Finally, the Sustainability award went to Arches, distinguished by its simple, curved design allowing children to build bridges and imaginative structures. Made from recycled plastic in Europe, these pieces maintain a strong connection to sustainability without compromising playfulness. The jury recognized its clever design that stimulates creativity and offers high-quality play experiences.

Conclusion

The ToyAward 2026 showcased the synergistic relationship between quality, innovation, and sustainability in the toy industry. Honoring these products not only recognizes the creativity behind them but also promotes trends aligned with safety and market viability, setting a promising outlook for the future of toys.