Photo: Nyen; Illustrations by Wanton Doodle
bazaar junior toy awards 2015 best toys
2-3 Years
1. BEST SENSORY TOY
Scary Dragon in the Castle, $47.90
Zibelka at Playhao
This book is a must-have for auditory learners. The child can move the characters after listening out for verbal cues from mum or dad.
2. BEST ECO-FRIENDLY TOY
Scooper vehicle, $26.90
Green Toys at Motherswork
Kids will enjoy the fill and spill fun that comes with this spunky little truck made from 100 percent recycled plastic milk jars. Mums will also be pleased to know that it’s dishwasher safe.
3. BEST FAMILY GAME
Scary Dragon in the Castle
$47.90, Zibelka at Playhao
This takes interactive books to a new level. Mum and dad can tell the story and the children can move the characters. It’s the most memorable way to make a story come alive.
4. BEST PLAYMAT
Beige Honeycomb/Pink Car Track, $319
Bumpa Mats at Motherswork
If you don’t want your home to look like a full-time nursery, snap up this playmat from Motherswork that doubles up as a car track for children to play on with their cars. Once playtime is over, just turn the mat on the other side to reveal a stylish honeycomb design that will look good in any designer home.
5. BEST BOOK
Scary Dragon in the Castle, $47.90
Zibelka at Playhao
When is a book not a book? When it is a game as well. This mini theatre makes bedtime stories very entertaining.
6. BEST DOLL’S HOUSE
Rosebud Country Doll’s House, $260
Early Learning Centre
This three-storey house will give children hours of fun. Both the roof and front of the house open to allow little hands to move around. The soft close catch on the roof protects little fingers from getting trapped.
7. BEST PUZZLE
Balancing Boat, $24.90
PlanToys at The Better Toy Store
This brightly coloured wooden boat develops your children’s motor skills. They have to balance as many animals as they can on the boat without it tipping over. The best part: The rest of the family can join in, too.