HT G I L T O SP
AMERICAN-MADE TOYS by Deanna Atkins
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or consumers, shopping conscientiously is a lot easier when there are toy companies out there dedicated to manufacturing products in the U.S. While American-made toys wasn’t the biggest trend at this year’s North American International Toy Fair, it’s important to note the newer companies in the category, such as Yoxo (founded in 2012), as well as the companies that have been commited to “made in America” for the past 53 years (we’re looking at you, American Plastic Toys)! These companies deserve a pat on the back, a high five, and two pages in this magazine, so keep reading for more information on some of our favorite all-American-quality products:
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40 • THE TOY BOOK
1. Just in time for summer, kids can grill just like mom and dad with the Little Tikes Sizzle ’n Serve Grill from MGA Entertainment. Designed so kids ages 18 months and up can get the real grillin’ experience, this set features bright colors, wheels for portable play, realistic styling, and 14 unique accessories from plastic hamburgers and hot dogs to a spatula and a pair of tongs. 2. Green Toys is a great company not only because its toys are made in the U.S.; they’re also made from 100-percent recycled plastic. Even the packaging is printed using soy inks and can be recycled again. The Green Toys Watering Can, just one of the company’s new products for this year, is a great set for little gardeners ages 18 months and up. Featuring an easy-to-pour spout and a cotton rope carrying handle, the set is complete with a mini shovel and a rake. 3. Zorbz, from Hydro Toys LLC, launched last year and the company will add combat toys to the line this year, all of which aremade in the U.S. The Zorbz Combat Launcher allows kids to launch Zorbz Water Balloons more than 100 feet. Featuring an easy-grip handle and flexible design, kids can easily load and launch in a stable motion. 4. Manufactured in Vermont, Maple Landmark Woodcraft’s Rolling Shape Sorter serves as both a push-and-pull toy and a standalone Shape Sorter once kids remove the cage from the chassis. Designed for kids ages 18 months and up, the chassis is made from hardwood maple and decorated with brightly colored graphics. This toy helps kids learn about colors, shapes, and more while simultaneously strengthening their hand-eye coordination.
MARCH/APRIL 2015