The Challenge:
My annual “Hot Toys” list was released every October in Nick Jr. Family Magazine. The challenge was to whittle down all the toys that I had played with to a dozen that I thought would top every kid’s list. Unlike the “Best Toys” in November, these winners didn’t have to teach anything, enhance skills, or follow any curriculum. They just had to be fun!
The Solution:
Playing hard and fast with the toys. Knowing that half of what kids want is what they see on TV; the second half is what other (especially older) kids have. Tuning into the latest tech. Trusting my gut. And talking to my own kids. Year after year, my picks were (mostly) right on target. 2005 (pictured) was the year of Game Boy Micro.