Toy of The Year Awards Recognize the Most Outstanding Toys and Games of the Year

Toy of The Year Awards Recognize the Most Outstanding Toys and Games of the Year

“Toy of the Year”: Doc McStuffins Pet Vet Checkup Center from Just Play is what the doctor ordered; KidKraft’s Uptown Espresso Kitchen had the ingredients for “People’s Choice” honor

NEW YORK, NY | February 12, 2016 – Hundreds of global toy executives and guests gathered in New York City this evening to pay tribute to the toy industry’s best and brightest toys, games and individuals at the 16th Annual Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards and Toy Industry Hall of Fame induction ceremony.

Hosted by the U.S. Toy Industry Association (TIA) in support of the philanthropic work of the Toy Industry Foundation (TIF), the “Oscars” of the toy industry were held at the American Museum of Natural History, serving as the official kick-off to the 113th North American International Toy Fair. David Muir, anchor of “ABC World News Tonight with David Muir,” acted as the master of ceremonies.

Doc McStuffins Pet Vet Checkup Center, Just Play’s station where kids can pretend to take care and play with their pet friends and animals got its scripts for overall “Toy of the Year” award prize and the “Preschool Toy of the Year.” Already inspiring the next generation of chefs, KidKraft LLC’s Uptown Espresso Kitchen successfully tapped in to the culinary market and was served the “People’s Choice” award for gaining the most online votes from consumers.

“From toys that can inspire kid’s careers choices, to ones that their boost creativity and confidence, the 2016 TOTY winners have provided children with countless hours of fun, challenges and learning – benefits that last a lifetime,” said Steve Pasierb, TIA President & CEO. “We congratulate Just Play, KidKraft and the winners across all 12 categories for their innovation and success in the marketplace – and for enhancing children’s experiences through play!”

Interspersed with the awards presentation was a special tribute to the Toy Industry Foundation, which contributed brand-new toys to more than 1 million children in 2015 alone. The event also marked the induction of Bob Iger, Chairman and CEO of the Walt Disney Company, into the Toy Industry Hall of Fame. Mr. Iger joins a distinguished roster of dozens of luminaries who have been inducted into the Hall since its establishment in 1985.

TOTY Award winners were selected with the input of consumers (on www.ToyAwards.org), retailers (mass and specialty), media and members of the toy industry. The five ballots were weighted and used to determine the category winners, with the exception of the “People’s Choice” award, which was selected exclusively by consumers.