ASTRA's Best Toys For Kids Nominees - Early Play

Take a closer look at ASTRA's Best Toys For Kids Nominees in the Early Play category.

Don't forget to check out the nominees in the other categories:

Scientific Play

Constructive Play

Creative Arts Play

Active Play

Game Play - 3-7 yrs

Game Play - 8 yrs+

Game Play - Brainteasers

Pretend - Doll Play

Pretend - Fantasy Play

Pretend - Role Play

Classic Play - 0-7 yrs

Classic Play - 8 yrs+

Tobbles Neo by FAT BRAIN TOY CO.

Tobbles Neo by FAT BRAIN TOY CO. The unique grippable texture of Tobbles Neo awakens touch. See those gentle, playful curves? They truly enliven tactile experiences. Young minds revel in stacking, toppling, and the discovery of endless ingenuity with Tobbles Neo. Six uniquely weighted pieces balance, neatly nest, and incessantly spin beyond your expectations. Includes 6 vibrant, weighted spheres & stacking base. Launch date: July 2012. 5/25/2012 (MSRP: $26.95; Age: 0 and Up)

Sprouts Cure It! My Very Own Doctor Set by LEARNING RESOURCES INC.

Chunky tools made from durable, soft plastic are perfect for encouraging imaginative play. Includes stethoscope, syringe, bandage, ear scope and thermometer. All pieces store in a vinyl doctor’s bag measuring 6.75"W x 5"H.
Awards: 2012 Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Best Toy Gold Seal Award. 5/25/2012 (MSRP: $24.95; Age: 2 to 4)

123 Airport Shuttle Bus by PLAYMOBIL INC.

123 Airport Shuttle Bus by PLAYMOBIL INC. Get to the airport on time with the 1.2.3 Airport Shuttle Bus. Equipped with a luggage compartment, this shuttle can accommodate three passengers and one driver, all included. This set, with its colorful and rounded pieces, is perfect for toddlers who love toys on wheels. Recommended for ages 18 months and up.
— David Stelzer, owner of Shananigans in Baltimore, Md., told TDmonthly in an October 2014 survey that Playmobil 123 was one of his store's best-selling line of preschool toys. 5/25/2012 (MSRP: $15.99; Age: 2 and Up)

Roll & Play by THINKFUN

Roll & Play by THINKFUN To play, simply toss the big plush cube and identify which colored side faces up. Choose a matching color card and perform the simple activity shown. “Make a happy face,” “Moo like a cow,” etc. The activities supported by Roll & Play are designed to help kids shine, supporting healthy development and celebrating success. Roll & Play gently introduces play patterns and rules through a loving, joyful play experience. Launch date: 2012. 2/12/2012 (MSRP: $19.99; Age: 1 and Up)

See more products in our 2012 ASTRA Preview: 28 Toy Makers Share Products for Specialty Prepare for ASTRA with our 11 Retailing Tips on Making the Most of Your Time at Trade Shows