IT’s a tale as old as time: Pink is for girls and blue is for boys—but not anymore. If there’s one thing that North American Toy Fair 2016 made clear, it’s that infant toy manufacturers have made the shift toward gender neutral lines. Whether it’s characters whose stories and personalities have the ability to appeal to any toddler, regardless of gender, or toys with patterns and neutral aesthetics suitable for both boys and girls, the classic pink and blue gender divider isn’t as prevalent as it once was. That’s one small step for baby, one giant leap for mankind.
Mini Plush Set (Sago Sago)
Sago Sago’s line of mobile apps are a hit with parents and children because of their push toward exploration and creativity play. Another key ingredient to the brand is the four main friendly faces that accompany the apps. Children concern themselves more with the traits and personalities of the bird, bunny, cat, and dog than with the actual gender of each Sago Sago mascot. Now, available in the mini plush set, on-screen play turns into physical play. This move further encourages play with gender neutral dolls and lines, and would make a perfect gift for any little boy or girl.
Teepee Activity Gym (Skip Hop)
Toy Fair was a huge launch for Skip Hop’s newest line of activity gyms. Staying true to the Skip Hop character, the new gyms feature modern aesthetics and pops of color to stimulate babies. One set that was able to grab instant attention was the first ever baby safe teepee. With grey, green, and aqua colors, as well as squirrels, a raccoon, and turtle toys and noisemakers, it’s a great fit for any infant.
CuddleBot (Hexbug)
The CuddleBot Honey Bee is almost too cute too handle. The soft, round bot scurries around the floor, and is sure to mesmerize any baby girl or boy. Unlike most infant toys, Hexbug’s bee isn’t specifically for a boy or girl, and instead works for any infant 18 to 36 months. The CuddleBot Honey Bee has an adorable grey face and yellow body, and is nearly impossible not to love.
Iggy Monster (Cloud B)
Iggy is the one monster that all babies and toddlers will want to be friends with. Perfectly designed for any gender, the teal and green adorable soft knit monster projects light that changes from red to green to blue. When the colorful lights cast on the ceiling, Iggy’s stomach also lights up with a warm and soothing glow. The best part is that parents can set Iggy to automatically shut off after 45 minutes, once their child is sound asleep. Be sure to keep an eye out for Iggy the Monster, which will hit stores this fall.
3-in-1 Rocker (Tiny Love)
Whether you’re a parent-to-be who prefers not to know the gender of your baby, or simply do not want to subject your infant to all pink or all blue accessories, Tiny Love’s new 3-in-1 Rocker Napper is just what you need. The grey and turquoise colors are perfect for a baby boy or girl, and with borders that raise, it creates the perfect environment for naptime. The 3-in-1 rocker easily switches from napper to seat in seconds, making it a must-have for your little one.
Multicolored Bath Mats (Prince Lionheart)
There’s a lot to love about these bath mats. The mats still suction to the floor, but leave a space for water to flow underneath to prevent the buildup of germs and mold. If you aren’t sold yet, they also come in cool colors, like teal, grey, and green, which help to stimulate toddlers thoughts and don’t limit them to a specific color because of their gender.
Snoozy (Edushape)
The grey and cream plush animal will ensure that little ones feel safe and secure. Snoozy’s soft texture and warm colors go well in any bedroom setting or theme. Snoozy comes with a cozy wraparound blanket with special shapes to help you build a bedtime story with your baby. Perfect for any toddler ages 3 and up, it is available now for $29.95.
