Educational toys have evolved dramatically over the last few years, and 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most innovative periods yet. With new research on early childhood development—and a rising demand for toys & games that truly support learning—parents are seeking tools that stimulate creativity, cognitive growth, and hands-on exploration. But with thousands of new options on the market, figuring out which toys are genuinely beneficial can be overwhelming.
This trend forecast compiles expert insights, developmental research, and real parent feedback to highlight the must-have educational toys for infants and toddlers this year. You’ll discover which building & construction toys enhance brain development, how books & learning materials support early literacy, and which interactive toys have the biggest impact on cognitive and sensory skills. Whether you’re a new parent or you’re shopping for toddlers in girls’ apparel, boys’ apparel, or active playwear, this roundup will help you make smarter, evidence-based toy selections.
The Rise of Sensory-Based Learning Toys
Why Sensory Play Is Dominating 2025
Occupational therapists and child development experts agree: sensory toys are no longer optional—they’re foundational. In 2025, toys designed to enhance tactile, auditory, and visual exploration are leading the market.
Top sensory-based items include:
- Textured balls and rattles for infants
- Sensory blocks and sorters for toddlers
- Multi-texture dolls & stuffed animals
- Light-and-sound toys with adjustable settings
Experts note that sensory toys support early neural connections, helping infants build pathways related to focus, cause-and-effect understanding, and fine motor development. These toys pair beautifully with everyday essentials like playwear & activewear, since comfort and mobility are essential for engaged, confident exploration.
Building & Construction Toys Are Getting Smarter
What’s New in STEM Play for Early Learners
While traditional block sets remain a timeless favourite, 2025 introduces smarter, more developmentally informed construction toys. These include:
- Oversized magnetic blocks are safe for infants
- Eco-friendly stacking sets made from sustainable materials
- Convertible building toys that adapt in complexity as your child grows
Developmental specialists highlight that building toys strengthens problem-solving, hand-eye coordination, and spatial reasoning skills. They also encourage cooperative play, which helps toddlers practise sharing, communication, and patience.
Pair them with simple school supplies & stationery—like toddler-friendly markers—to extend building play into drawing and storytelling activities.
Books & Learning Materials Are Becoming More Interactive
Encouraging Early Literacy Through Play
In 2025, books for infants and toddlers aren’t just stories—they’re full-learning experiences.
Leading categories include:
- High-contrast visual books for newborns
- Lift-the-flap learning books for curiosity-driven toddlers
- Soft fabric books are safe for teething infants
- Interactive sound books that teach numbers, words, and animal sounds
Experts recommend integrating reading time into the nursery setting using coordinated bedding & room décor, organised furniture & storage, and comfortable seating. This setup helps infants associate books with relaxation and safety.
Pair reading time with adorable baby & toddler clothing, sleepwear & pyjamas, or playwear & activewear to build routines around comfort and consistency.
Eco-Friendly Educational Toys Are Trending
The Shift Toward Sustainable Play
Parents are prioritising eco-conscious toys more than ever, and manufacturers are responding with cleaner, greener innovations.
Popular options include:
- Wooden puzzles
- Recycled-material building blocks
- Organic cotton dolls
- Biodegradable stacking cups
Feeding & care essentials and nursery & baby gear are also trending toward sustainability, creating more cohesive, environmentally conscious homes.
Apparel That Supports Learning Is Also on the Rise
Why Clothing Matters More Than You Think
Educational play isn’t just about toys. Parents are increasingly choosing clothing—like baby & toddler clothing, girls’ apparel, boys’ apparel, and footwear—that supports movement, self-sufficiency, and exploration.
Trending apparel items include:
- Flexible playwear & activewear for gross motor development
- Outerwear & jackets designed for outdoor learning environments
- Easy-change outfits that encourage dressing independence
These innovations remove barriers, helping kids learn through confident everyday movement.
Key Takeaways
- Sensory learning toys are leading the 2025 market, helping infants build early neural connections.
- Building & construction toys are smarter, safer, and more sustainable than ever.
- Interactive books & learning materials make early literacy playful and engaging.
- Eco-friendly materials are reshaping the future of educational toys.
- Apparel matters, especially playwear designed for active exploration and independent movement.
Choosing high-quality educational toys doesn’t just support play—it builds the foundation for lifelong learning.
The world of educational toys in 2025 offers more opportunities than ever for meaningful play. By focusing on sensory-based tools, innovative building toys, interactive books, and sustainable materials, parents can support their child’s growth in ways that feel natural, engaging, and developmentally aligned. Add in comfortable clothing that encourages movement, and you create an environment where learning happens effortlessly throughout the day.
If this toy trend forecast helped you discover what to focus on this year, share it with another parent, or join our newsletter for upcoming expert roundups, product insights, and guides designed to help you confidently navigate the world of infant and toddler development.