( Connetix $99.99) If you have a magnetic tile builder in your family, you're going to want to take a look at this new ball maze from Connetix. It's a big set with 106 pieces and 8 wooden balls. The kit was a huge hit with our preschool testers -- but it does require adult participation for younger builders. The ramps need to be snapped into the tiles that have special round holes and grooves to receive them. Our builders also used their stash of tiles to build more robust

(eeBoo $27.99) A fun twist on a classic dominoes game where you are matching object or number as you go. Here you are adding the top or bottom of familiar farm objects or animals. For example, the Mother Hen will be connected to the three little chicks or the front of the cow will be matched with her back. The set comes with 28 pieces. 3 & up. Also fun for Fairy lovers, Giant Shiny Cottage Fairies Dominoes. Ages: Preschool Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award 2026 Shop

( eeBoo $17.99) Most memory games come with way too many pairs -- which we usually suggest paring down with younger preschoolers. This new set from eeBoo comes with just 10 pairs -- making it a great place to start. The images (mostly of farm animals) are easy to tell apart. Ages: Preschool Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award 2026 Shop this game on Amazon

(Gund $31.51) Muttsy is 14" of sweetness with floppy ears and very soft teddy bear brown colored shaggy plush. An armful for toddlers and preschoolers. Also notable, Toothpick Bear is truly skinny like a toothpick with easy-to-grab arms and legs. Perfect gifts for 2 & up. Ages: Toddlers, Preschoolers Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award 2025 Click here to purchase the product from Amazon.com Click here to purchase Toothpick from Amazon.com

( Beverly Hills Teddy Bear $29.99 ) Cute, delicious, beyond soft --- pick your favorite way of describing the sweetest 16" plush dog. The company says these are the "World's Softest Plush" -- while we can't verify -- we definitely don't want to let go of this adorable pup. A great gift for preschoolers or anyone who needs a huggable. Also sweet, the company's Bunny called Bri Bri Rose ($29.99) Ages: older preschool, early school Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award 2025

( Educational Insights $15.99 ) We love this set of binoculars that are designed for younger kids. They have soft plastic where you place the binoculars to your face - making them more comfortable to use. They are scaled for kids and also come with a break-away neck strap. And while it seems weird to say, these really work. Many that we have tested really don't work that well. A STEM toy at it's best. Marked 3 & up, will be most enjoyed by older preschoolers and early schoo

( Mattel $24.99 each) If Wicked is big in your house, you'll want to consider these special dolls from Mattel. Push each of the doll's middle and you'll hear a snippet of For Good. We wish they sang more of the song, but will still be a memorable gift. These are marked 4 & up. There are more elaborate versions (non-singing ) for the next age group. Ages: Preschool, Early School Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Awards 2025 Click here to purchase Elphaba on Amazon.com

( Red Toolbox $32.99) If you've ever had a child that wants to help you paint, you'll appreciate this pretend kit. It comes with a big bucket, a painter's tray, a brush, a roller and a deck of color samples. Pour water in the tray and get your junior painter working. Fun! Ages: Preschool Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal Award 2025 Click here to shop this toy on Amazon

( Moose Games $44.98) Fans of Bluey will enjoy this three story Supermarket. Our tester loved the escalator that also has a place for the shopping cart ("just like our store!"). The set comes with a Bluey, a Bingo, a shopping cart, lots of food, stickers, and a check out area. The box shows in the corner that you're getting two figures (But the picture of the toy shows many which may be disappointing to kids). There is also a sound box that isn't too loud - it can be set fo

( Moose Games $11.95) A follow up to the Bluey Hide & Seek last year, Moose Games has introduced the Bingo version. Just like the original, you'll have a plastic version of this beloved little sister. Hide Bingo and she'll make noises and say things to help find her. Once you find her, push her nose and everyone can dance with Bingo. Our younger testers also just loved pressing Bingo's nose to hear the theme song from the show. Ages: Preschool Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Plati