Our Favourite Toys of 2023

This 62-piece kids' BBQ set, features everything from raw to 'grilled' play food, a dial-controlled flame, and even a pizza oven slot. With a steak that flips from raw to cooked and a smoker with a wood chip chimney, these tots are on their way to becoming grill masters. Train 'em young, and maybe they'll don the apron one day!

It's great to see our favourite preschooler, JJ from CoComelon, back in the spotlight. Not only is JJ adorable and fun, but educational too, with sing-along songs, speech features, and an interactive first aid kit that lights up for pretend play. JJ's return is definitely a delight!

Perhaps this author's favourite toy of the last few years has been Tan Tan the Orangutan from Jiggly Pets. The concept was simple; put stretchy, sensory hair on a monkey and watch him shake his bum. This year's idea has taken the concept to astronomical new heights with the introduction of GiGi the Giraffe. If it ain't broke, don't fix it!

The toy that has been cropping up on almost all end of year lists for 2023 is the Bio Beasts - Shark Beast Creator. The toy nicely combines the fun of science lab sets with the excitement of 90's throwback, Street Sharks. While it might not be for everyone, the Shark Beast Creator is bound to entertain kids who like the slimier side of Nickelodeon.

It's been hard to ignore the Mario-fever that has been going around this year and Super Mario Bros. Wonder hasn't been making it any easier. Blending classic side-scrolling action with the excitement of this year's hit Super Mario Bros. Movie, it's perfect for players of all ages. Unique for its lack of time limits, it allows for leisurely coin collection and exploration of Mario's awe-inspiring worlds . 

After almost 40 years, the technology in Transformers has finally evolved beyond clunky, usually ill fitting configurations from automobile to robot. The glorious new Transformers Transforming R/C Robot Optimus Prime fulfils every 80's kids' dreams allowing the conversion from truck to Autobot at the push of a button. This classic looking Optimus Prime is going to impress both kids and adults alike.

Squishmallows, launched in 2021, quickly became a sensation (see our blog on them from last year). These plush toys, made from stretchy fabric and recycled plastic bottles, resemble a cross between a stuffed animal and a beanbag chair. They come in a variety of designs, including aliens, smiling cats in strawberry outfits, and even icons like Yoda and Pikachu.

Get rid of all the clutter and transform your collection of old magazines and unread newspapers into a fun, educational activity for your kids. Use this clever paper bead-making device to teach recycling creatively. It's a fantastic way to repurpose paper and engage their imagination!

This mini Dyson toy vacuum cleaner is the spitting image of the real deal, offering kids an authentic cleaning experience. Its simulated cyclone action and actual suction power captivate young minds as colourful balls whirl around the see-through cylinder. With lifelike sounds, this toy transforms cleanup into an exciting and mesmerising adventure!