Toy Awards 2024 / 5 November 2024

Best Creative Play (Educational) | Junior Design Awards 2024

Creative play for children can also be educational - done in this fun way, they learn while playing. These are some of the judges favourites toys from the annual JDA

Winner:GOLD Best Creative Play (Educational)

Who:HUE

What:HUE Animation Studio

Why:

With its long, bendy neck and extraterrestrial good looks, the major component of this STEM.org Authenticatedâ„¢ movie-making starter kit really intrigued our judges! On closer inspection, the panel was excited to discover that this was actually a flexible HD camera that is part of a kit containing everything a budding animator needs to create stop-motion movies. Including animation software, a full-colour guide, downloadable storyboards, activity sheets and sound effects, everyone agreed that this would be a great gift for any child excited by film making.

Very creative!

Mimi La Besa, luxury lifestyle creator, @mimilabesa

This is the exciting side of kids’ tech we should be celebrating. I love the way this encourages creativity and experimentation with a final result to be proud of.

Bonita Turner, Editor of Junior @juniormagazineonline

Such a great gift for any budding film directors. I’ll be waiting for my Oscar mention.

Eleonore Crompton, Deputy Editor, Junior, @juniormagazineonline

Winner:SILVER Best Creative Play (Educational)

Who:Happy Little Doers

What:Junior Baker Activity Cards

Why:

What better way for kids to understand the value of money than by running their own bakery? Our judges agreed that these beautifully illustrated and easy to read Junior
Baker Activity flashcards were a great way to show children how to shop for, make, and then sell their bakes through fun role play. The 6 recipe cards included in the pack that kids can really cook from, were also a big hit.

These cleverly designed cards will prompt endless creative play and kids will learn along the way without even realising it. Excellent idea.

Bonita Turner, Editor of Junior, @juniormagazineonline

I love the way this set really encourages children to think through the process and timeline of preparing, making, selling and shopping, while having lots of fun.

Eleonore Crompton, Deputy Editor, Junior, @juniormagazinonline

Learning, roleplay and kitchen fun all in one pack. Love the design!

Gemma Cartwright, nursery brand consultant and founder of A Mum Recommends, @a_mumrecommends

Winner:BRONZE Best Creative Play (Educational)

Who:Very Puzzled

What:Activity Books

Why:

These activity books designed to educate and inspire children by exploring the rich cultures and histories of Ghana, Nigeria, Jamaica, and Africa really impressed our judges who felt their pages were packed with cleverly designed activities, colourful illustrations, and fascinating facts. The panel agreed that these interactive books provided a valuable resource for parents and educators looking for ways to celebrate the unique heritage and contributions of these fascinating regions.

Bright, engaging and full of fascinating facts that will really resonate with children.

Bonita Turner, Editor of Junior, @juniomagazineonline

A great way to present information in a child friendly, educational and fun way.

Eleonore Crompton, Deputy Editor, Junior

Winner:HIGHLY COMMENDED Best Creative Play (Educational)

Who:Ready Set Learn

What:Phonics Activity Cards (Phase 2)

Why:

These cleverly designed phonics activity cards featuring sounds and corresponding activities, impressed our judges with their clear understanding of how children love to learn. Wipe clean and sustainable, our judges felt these cards were a great resource for parents looking for ways to support their children in the early stages of reading and writing.

Designed to help children truly master the learning of phonics, a must for those starting reception. I so needed these when my daughter started school, phonics was something I really struggled to help her with.

Bonita Turner, Editor of Junior, @juniormagazineonline

These cards are really well-designed. Super easy to use and re-use and really satisfying for kids to check off the activities.

Eleonore Crompton, Deputy Editor, @juniormagazineonline