As the Strategist’s resident toy expert, I have spent years talking to dozens of experts, walking for miles at toy fairs, and testing everything from the latest board games to the squishiest stuffed animals. This intense toy immersion has not only been fun, it’s helped me stay on top of the best toys for all ages and every budget — which is how I came to be the steward of the Strategist Toy Store, a one-stop shop of the very best toys we’ve written about.
In the meticulously curated “aisles” below, you’ll find a mix of familiar classics like trains and trucks, a Magic 8 Ball, and wooden blocks, as well as trendy newcomers like Squishmallows and a Boba Tea Barbie. All of it has been thoughtfully selected from our archive of expertly vetted toy recommendations, which we’ve compiled with the help of hundreds of cool parents, child-development experts, trend forecasters, and real-life kids. Much of it has also been rigorously tested by the children of our writers and editors — mine included — to make sure nothing on this list will gather dust in your playroom. And like any classic toy store, we’ve organized everything by category (though we’ve also got you covered if you’re shopping for a specific age group, from 1-year-olds all the up way to preteens). There are open-ended toys for toddlers, bikes and scooters for elementary-school kids, building toys for all ages, and a slime-making kit that every tween almost certainly has on their wish list.
Pretend-play toys
Dolls and stuffed animals
Cars and trucks
Outdoor toys
Building and STEM toys
Experiential and sensory toys
Tech toys
Arts and crafts
Games
Collectibles
The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best acne treatments, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, natural anxiety remedies, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
