Each year, the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association selects finalists for the ASTRA Star Toy Awards, and winners are voted on by neighborhood toy stores, including Carmel’s Kits & Kaboodle. Here, owner Teneen Dobbs’ recommends award-winning toys for babies all the way up to “kidults.”
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Air Toobz from Fat Brain Toys—This STEM toy uses a kid-safe turbine to send foam balls flying through a network of modular tubes, encouraging creativity and problem-solving for kids ages 3 and up.
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800 Pound Gorilla from Dolphin Hat Games—“This is my new go-to game when family arrives,” Dobbs says. From the makers of the much-loved Taco Cat Goat Cheese Pizza, 800 Pound Gorilla is easy to learn and takes only 15 minutes to play, making it great for family game nights or sleepovers.
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Baby's First Book of 44 Sounds from SmartNoggin—An Indiana native developed this research-based board book which includes all the sounds of American English to start babies on their language and literacy journey. The book also includes SmartNoggin’s Oral Motor Teether made of food grade silicone to help oral motor strengthening.
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IQ Gears from SmartGames—Our 10-year-old reviewers say, “This is a great brain challenge!” For ages 7 and up, IQ Gears puts kids’ brains in high gear with 120 brain teasers, ranging from beginner to expert. "I also love that this item is great for travel," Dobbs says.
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The Original Big Wheel 16” Big Spin Deluxe—The classic three-wheeled riding toy for children ages 3 through 8, up to 70 pounds, offers riders the same experience you remember as a kid—the security of low, steady wheels and the excitement of fast-action pedal power.
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LEGO—The name stands alone! LEGO is always a winner. "New holiday LEGO sets are perfect for all family members to add decoration to any home,” Dobbs says. She also recommends the Mona Lisa set for “kidults” of any age.