KidSource’s Beau James is Dead, Honored with ASTRA Lifetime Achievement Award
Beau James, a 40-year veteran of the toy industry, has died. He received the 2019 ASTRA Lifetime Achievement Award shortly before his passing.
Polly Pocket Brand Ambassador Sky Brown Proves Tiny is Mighty
Top pint-sized skateboarder Sky Brown is a new global brand ambassador for Mattel’s Polly Pocket. Embodying the brand’s message that Tiny is Mighty, the 10-year-old skateboarder is one of the youngest girls to compete and medal at a professional skateboarding competition. Sky Brown challenges the status quo and encourages other young girls to do the same—just like Polly Pocket. Last year, Mattel re-introduced Polly Pocket in its original…
Crawford the Cat Gets Activity Book
In the Sports Zone created the first Crawford the Cat Activity & Coloring Book. Through a deal inked with the children’s educational brand, In the Sports Zone developed an activity book targeted for kids ages 4-7. The activity book includes 48 full-color pages of content including educational games, puzzles, drawing, coloring, and more. The paperback activity book retails for $12.99 and is sold on Amazon. “In the…
MasterPieces Acquires FANPANS, Fandom Bakeware Specialists
MasterPieces expands its sports-related product line into housewares with the acquisition of FANPANS, the line of silicone, sports team-themed culinary pans and molds.
Moose Toys Hires James Knight as GM, Design
Moose Toys announced the appointment of James Knight to the role of general manager, design (boys, youth electronics, licensed and preschool). A 20-year toy veteran, Knight has held senior positions throughout the toy industry, including LEGO, Spin Master, Mattel, and Hasbro. His development experience extends to top brands including Hot Wheels, Matchbox, Tech Deck, and Bakugan. Most recently, he led development at Hasbro on DreamWorks Trolls 2 product, in addition…
Ethical Toy Program, Save the Children Partner to Advance Child Rights
The Ethical Toy Program and Save the Children partner to broaden well-being programs that support migrant parent workers.
Voting Now Open for ASTRA’s 2019 Best Toys for Kids
ASTRA’s 2019 Best Toys for Kids Award finalists were narrowed down from hundreds of nominations to 92 specialty toys in 17 categories. From this group of finalists, ASTRA member retailers will vote online to select the winning toys that will become “the year’s top picks from America’s play experts” for the 2019 holiday season. “Best Toys for Kids is the only annual toy list that is compiled by…
Tech Will Save Us Signs with KidStuff PR
KidStuff Public Relations was named the public relations agency for Tech Will Save Us. The London-based DIY tech toy company will benefit from both the PR firms’ divisions: KidStuff PR for parenting-focused and lifestyle media, and TechStuff PR for technology-focused media and influencers. The deal goes into effect May 1. “We are so excited to work with Tech Will Save Us,” said KidStuff PR president and founder…
LEGO Star Wars Celebrates 20 Years of Product
Twenty years ago, in a galaxy far, far away, the LEGO Star Wars collaboration entered the lives of millions of children and fans around the world. Today, the LEGO Group is celebrating the 20th anniversary of the much-loved range that continues to unite fans of all ages and has inspired some of the greatest battles ever built.