Winner:JOINT GOLD - Best Innovative Product Design (for Children)
Who:Karri
What:Karri Messenger 2 - A Child-Friendly Alternative to Smartphones
Why:
Judges were wowed by this screen-free alternative to a smartphone for children. Pocket-sized but powerful, kids can send voice messages to their parent’s smartphones through the connecting app. Designed by a father with his 7 year old in mind, the device has everything they could need, and nothing they don’t; an intuitive interface, GPS tracking and a built-in torch so children can grow their independence while feeling secure that they can still reach you.
"Karri Messenger is a thoughtful and genuinely innovative product that tackles an increasingly important challenge: helping children develop independence and confidence without introducing them to the distractions and risks associated with smartphones."
"Easy device to use, perfect for parents to keep track of kids by allowing them to send messages, it has an in-built GPS tracker, sends instant SOS notifications and kids will not be glued to a screen."
"Great alternative to smart phones for young children and cheaper in comparison to having a smartphone too. Great that it’s compatible with ios or android."
Winner:JOINT GOLD - Best Innovative Product Design (for Children)
Who:Jules
What:Jules Stories - an AI-powered learning device
Why:
In a world of overstimulating toys and bright flashing screens, Jules was designed to blend naturally into modern family life while still feeling magical and engaging for children. This fun little device caused a stir with our judges, who thought it was a really smart and refreshing alternative to screen-based learning devices. Jules is customisable with interchangeable costumes and accessories, which the panel agreed kids would find really engaging. Jules is made to stimulate creative thinking and imagination rather than dependency, with fun riddles, games and educational stories, aligned with the curriculum.
"The interchangeable outfits and playful aesthetic make the product engaging without becoming overstimulating, while the focus on parental controls and the absence of addictive mechanics demonstrates a clear understanding of the concerns many families have around children's technology."
"Great screen alternative, aligned with school curriculum and can be adapted to the age of your child so it can reinforce what they’re being taught in school."
"Anything that peels kids away from a screen is a winner in our home. Bonus points for being educational and having some parental control features."
“Jules immediately caught my attention. It’s a clever use of generative AI, making learning feel more like play than a lesson. I love that parents remain in control, setting the parameters around everything from maths and languages to a child’s individual interests, while Jules brings learning to life. It feels like a thoughtful, engaging way to introduce to screen free learning."
Winner:SILVER - Best Innovative Product Design (for Children)
Who:Rockit
What: Rising Star - Sleep training clock with reward feature
Why:
Rockit’s innovative sleep training clock, Rising Star, made waves with our judges who thought that Children would be excited to move the star up on the strap after each successful night, moving towards a special light show at the end of a full week. The panel also loved the traffic light system, an easy, visual way for children to learn the difference between day and night, and when it’s time to get up.
"A fun surprise awaits by the end of the week and star stickers are included as a reward to the child too. Good way to motivate and encourage kids to sleep in and be awake at the right time."
"Cute design, beautifully made. Fun colours on the star. A great tool for sleep training with the different light colours. We are always so impressed by Rockit and their innovative ideas for families."
"The use of simple traffic light colours alongside a progressive reward system is an engaging concept that is easy for young children to understand and has the potential to make sleep training a more positive experience for families."
Winner:BRONZE - Best Innovative Product Design (for Children)
Who:Posture by Post
What:Life on the Wedge - An ergonomic, wedge-shaped cushion
Why:
The judges were impressed with this ergonomically-designed cushion, which is more than meets the eye. Its multifunctional design takes it from posture aid to booster seat, to tactile footrest with sensory elements and helps with circulation, concentration, core strength and so much more. The panel thought this little wedge would make a real difference, and loved that it comes in different colours to fit in with your child’s spaces.
"The product is underpinned by ergonomic expertise and scientific research, and the use of durable, recyclable polyurethane alongside UK manufacturing are positive features. The focus on encouraging healthy postural habits from an early age is particularly compelling and addresses an area that is often overlooked in products designed for children."
"I had no idea that supported posture could influence so many things from concentrating and handwriting through to hand-eye coordination and core stability, what a smart design! A real solution to children’s posture development, small and subtle enough that they could use it anywhere. A real must-have. In fact I think I need one!"
