--- description: From cameras to coding, the best toys of 2021 keep the magic of childhood alive with technology, special effects and good old-fashioned fun. title: The Best Toys of 2021 image: https://static.time.com/v3/assets/bltea6093859af6183b/bltd47f60172dd0e1ee/698a1ff68fd2ee746b3633b6/TFKToyGuide_2021_Hero.jpg?branch=production&width=3840&quality=75&auto=webp&crop=16:9 ---  * [Business](/section/business/) ## Business Update your preferences in [Account Settings](/account/preferences/) Close # The Best Toys of 2021 by [TIME for Kids](/author/time-for-kids/) ## TIME for Kids Update your preferences in [Account Settings](/account/preferences/) Close Nov 20, 2021 1:36 PM CUT  by [TIME for Kids](/author/time-for-kids/) ## TIME for Kids Update your preferences in [Account Settings](/account/preferences/) Close Nov 20, 2021 1:36 PM CUT The best toys of 2021 keep the magic of childhood alive with technology, special effects, and good old-fashioned fun. With [Magic Mixies](https://go.skimresources.com?id=143429X1608040&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FMagic-Mixies-Magical-Misting-Cauldron-with-Interactive-8-inch-Blue-Plush-Toy-and-50-Sounds-and-Reactions-Toys-for-Kids-Ages-5%2F472855923 "undefined"), kids mix up a potion and—poof!—summon a new stuffed pet. LEGO Vidiyo Party lets kids create a music video in real time, wherever they are, through the power of virtual reality. And the [Spirograph Animator](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08VFFTBX2/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08VFFTBX2&linkId=4b1324bc38045d46edd141cbf36f8b4a rel= "undefined") reinvents a beloved classic toy, using a light show to add animated effects to your child’s spiral designs. Here, the editors of TIME for Kids round up the best toys of the year.  ## **Work Your Magic** The [Magic Mixies Magic Cauldron](https://go.skimresources.com?id=143429X1608040&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FMagic-Mixies-Magical-Misting-Cauldron-with-Interactive-8-inch-Blue-Plush-Toy-and-50-Sounds-and-Reactions-Toys-for-Kids-Ages-5%2F472855923 "undefined"), from Moose Toys, includes a spell book and everything kids need to create a magic potion. After they add the ingredients to the cauldron, the mixture foams and bubbles. Kids then wave a magic wand, say the magic words, and—poof!—a mist rises from the cauldron. When it clears, an adorable creature called a Mixie is revealed. The [Got2Glow Fairy Finder](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08TMWQBPM/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08TMWQBPM&linkId=99a94e935cdd204f27611864cbcf4579 rel= "undefined"), by WowWee, sends kids on a search for more than 30 virtual fairies that are hiding in plain sight. They could be anywhere: in a bedroom, the garden, or the kitchen. Once kids have gathered the fairies and placed them safely in the electronic jar, they can “bond” with the magical creatures by feeding and hugging them. (Magic Mixies Magic Cauldron, ages 5+; Got2Glow Fairy Finder, ages 5+) **Buy Now:** [Magic Mixies Magic Cauldron](https://go.skimresources.com?id=143429X1608040&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FMagic-Mixies-Magical-Misting-Cauldron-with-Interactive-8-inch-Blue-Plush-Toy-and-50-Sounds-and-Reactions-Toys-for-Kids-Ages-5%2F472855923 rel= "undefined"); [Got2Glow Fairy Finder](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08TMWQBPM/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08TMWQBPM&linkId=99a94e935cdd204f27611864cbcf4579 rel= "undefined")  ## **Say “Cheese!”** This is no ordinary camera. Sure, it takes photos. But the [VTech KidiZoom PrintCam](https://go.skimresources.com?id=143429X1608040&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FVTech-KidiZoom-PrintCam-Digital-Camera-and-Printer%2F924224317 "undefined") also lets kids add special effects, borders and digital stickers to their snaps. When your selfie or portrait looks just right, hit the print button and a black-and-white version instantly ejects from the front of the camera. Use it to create comic strips and to turn your photos into coloring pages. There’s also a video-record function and fun games built in. The camera comes with enough paper to print 80 pictures. Refill packs are available. **Buy Now:** [VTech KidiZoom PrintCam](https://go.skimresources.com?id=143429X1608040&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FVTech-KidiZoom-PrintCam-Digital-Camera-and-Printer%2F924224317 rel= "undefined")  ## **All Your Marbles** Put your family’s scientific minds to work with one of these Rube Goldberg–style contraptions. The [Marble Rush Ultimate Set](https://www.amazon.com/VTech-Marble-Rush-Ultimate-Multicolor/dp/B08V8CG76Q "undefined"), by VTech, sends marbles careening along tracks and ramps, around a lighted cone, and out of a cannon. Color-coded parts make the paths easy to assemble in multiple configurations. For even more-high flying fun, try the [National Geographic Makeway Magnetic Marble Run](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09DTS6MTK/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B09DTS6MTK&linkId=bccddd224e41099e4eed02880bb3937b "undefined"). Magnetic pieces let you build marble runs on vertical surfaces, like whiteboards and refrigerators. The set comes with a learning guide that explores scientific concepts such as energy, gravity and Newton’s laws of motion. (VTech Marble Rush Ultimate Set, ages 4+; National Geographic 100-piece Makeway Magnetic Marble Run, ages 8+) **Buy Now:** [Marble Rush Ultimate Set](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08V8CG76Q/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08V8CG76Q&linkId=e08789df848b546889ac73777eeb885d rel= "undefined"); [National Geographic Makeway Magnetic Marble Run](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09DTS6MTK/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B09DTS6MTK&linkId=bccddd224e41099e4eed02880bb3937b rel= "undefined")  ## **Code and Create** Get creative with the [Artie Max](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0977QLC14/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0977QLC14&linkId=c9aee70bf69a00ead404a9cf9f175cbb rel= "undefined") robot, from Educational Insights. This toy lets kids create art while they learn to code. Artie Max helps children learn five basic coding languages: Blockly, Snap!, JavaScript, Python, and C++. Kids then write code to tell Artie what to draw. The robot translates the code onto paper, using sensors and line recognition to create designs. Artie comes with three interchangeable markers and can be charged with a USB cable. (Artie Max, ages 8+) **Buy now:** [Artie Max](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0977QLC14/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0977QLC14&linkId=c9aee70bf69a00ead404a9cf9f175cbb "undefined")  ## **Family Game Night** Quick! What’s an item you find at a grocery store? Good! Now name another. Hurry! When playing [GibGab](https://www.amazon.com/Fat-Brain-Toys-GibGab-Games/dp/B08KFNXNCZ/ref=sr%5F1%5F1%5Fsspa?keywords=GibGab&qid=1637267369&s=toys-and-games&sr=1-1-spons&psc=1&smid=A154Z3BZB2CCWS&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzNEo3V1dIVDdGWVdJJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwNjg5MjU3MlZUTU5CWTEyWVJHVCZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwOTE3MjgyMVZVTVQ1TTBYNEs5TyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU= "undefined"), from Fat Brain Toys, thinking and speaking faster than your opponent is key. Face an opponent across the electronic game board. Choose a category from one of the cards. Press a button, and you’re in a head-to-head battle. GibGab is a great choice for a two-player game, or gather a gaggle of friends for tournament-style play. The [Disney Pixar Toy Story Talent Show](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08VW6P3XW/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08VW6P3XW&linkId=7d0e19125a79888c95bd8a6111c57d2f "undefined"), from Funko Games, brings beloved characters from the movie franchise to family game night. In this super-active game, players are invited to show off their skills in a series of themed challenges. Complete the challenges to win coveted prize tickets, and collect the highest number of prize-ticket points to win. (GibGab, ages 8+; Disney Pixar Toy Story Talent Show, ages 6+) **Buy Now:** [GibGab](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08KFNXNCZ/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08KFNXNCZ&linkId=57f59d4ad9bce12b0e0ce5c9add5419f rel= "undefined"); [Disney Pixar Toy Story Talent Show](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08VW6P3XW/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08VW6P3XW&linkId=7d0e19125a79888c95bd8a6111c57d2f rel= "undefined")  ## **Moments of Mindfulness** Looking for a calming, screen-free activity for the kids? These tactile toys will focus attention and soothe the senses. With[ Mindful Maze](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08R69QFZN/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08R69QFZN&linkId=9941a35ef451d831dfc343f778857436 "undefined") boards from Hand2mind, little ones can use their fingers to move through various patterns—including waves, rainbows, and stars—as they pace their breathing to each task. [Dimpl Pops](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B093G8NYQ3/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B093G8NYQ3&linkId=a6ba22b4894300376239d2f05a81aa47 rel= "undefined"), by Fat Brain Toys, offer a different sensory satisfaction. The irresistible pop of colorful silicone bubbles makes exercising fine motor skills as fun as it is relaxing. (Mindful Maze, ages Pre-K to 8; Dimpl Pops, ages 3+) **Buy Now:** [Mindful Maze](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08R69QFZN/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08R69QFZN&linkId=9941a35ef451d831dfc343f778857436 rel= "undefined"); [Dimpl Pops](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B093G8NYQ3/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B093G8NYQ3&linkId=a6ba22b4894300376239d2f05a81aa47 rel= "undefined") ## **High-Tech** These two toys transform screen time with virtual- and augmented-reality technology. With Bill Nye as their guide, kids are transported to outer space to explore black holes, the cosmos, and more than 125 other immersive experiences, using [Bill Nye’s VR Space Lab](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08X2Z2MZ9/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08X2Z2MZ9&linkId=bbdc1ac196048698e51f5f6e2f481793 "undefined"), from Abacus Brands. The kit comes with VR goggles and a 96-page activity book that they bring to life. There’s also an 85-piece set of materials that kids can use to build a planetarium and do 30 hands-on experiments. With the Lego Vidiyo app, kids can create their own music videos. Just download the app, scan your Lego figurine, and create a music video that will take place in augmented reality, wherever you are. The [Party Llama BeatBox](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08NFBNJVC/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08NFBNJVC&linkId=5da03cc904d8ad99673db6287ccc8746 rel= "undefined") set comes with a scanning stage, a Party Llama figurine, and 16 BeatBits. Each BeatBit is used to create a different video effect in the app. (Bill Nye’s VR Space Lab, ages 8+; Lego Party Llama BeatBox, ages 7+) **Buy Now:** [Bill Nye’s VR Space Lab](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08X2Z2MZ9/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08X2Z2MZ9&linkId=bbdc1ac196048698e51f5f6e2f481793 rel= "undefined"); [Party Llama BeatBox](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08NFBNJVC/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08NFBNJVC&linkId=5da03cc904d8ad99673db6287ccc8746 rel= "undefined")  ## **Up for Grabs** [Candy Claw Machine](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08V123KDQ/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08V123KDQ&linkId=a4944f174e42e39fc25e8896236b7def rel= "undefined"), from Thames & Kosmos, puts an educational spin on the classic arcade game. This do-it-yourself kit lets kids build and engineer their own claw machine, using gears, cranks, belts, and levers. Then they can add their favorite treats—a supply of lollipops and decoy candy boxes is included—and practice reaching for prizes. The set also comes with three interchangeable claw types that kids can use to scoop and score. **Buy Now:** [Candy Claw Machine](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08V123KDQ/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08V123KDQ&linkId=a4944f174e42e39fc25e8896236b7def rel= "undefined") ## **Updated Classics** These classic toys, both from PlayMonster, are revamped for a new generation. With the [Koosh Sharp Shot game](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08VFHZJH9/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08VFHZJH9&linkId=d185fbf4e1d38cda39da925ae2c46a41 rel= "undefined"), soft and squishy Koosh balls—they were all the rage in the late ’80s and ’90s—are used in a slingshot game that tests a player’s aim. The [Spirograph Animator](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08VFFTBX2/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08VFFTBX2&linkId=4b1324bc38045d46edd141cbf36f8b4a rel= "undefined") is a modern twist on the original Spirograph, which was introduced in 1965 and allows kids to create elaborate geometric drawings. The Spirograph Animator takes the fun a step further: Once kids have created their designs, they set them on the animator, which spins the drawings and starts a light show, creating an animated effect. (Koosh Sharp Shot, ages 6+; Spirograph Animator, ages 8+) **Buy Now:** [Koosh Sharp Shot game](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08VFHZJH9/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08VFHZJH9&linkId=d185fbf4e1d38cda39da925ae2c46a41 rel= "undefined"); [Spirograph Animator](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08VFFTBX2/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08VFFTBX2&linkId=4b1324bc38045d46edd141cbf36f8b4a rel= "undefined")  ## **Bring It to Life** These kits let young gamers go behind the scenes to learn about video-game design and development. Nintendo’s [Game Builder Garage](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0948GP1FZ/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0948GP1FZ&linkId=12e46075c6ea6e00e1180c46850a848f rel= "undefined"), which can be played on Nintendo Switch systems, provides interactive lessons in programming and design. It guides kids as they build seven games, from a thrilling car race to a challenging maze. Once they’ve learned the basics, kids can create almost any game they can dream up. BitOGenius Inc.’s [Pixicade Mobile Game Maker ](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08ZJ2TQV1/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08ZJ2TQV1&linkId=855244a06e93d1c49dd4e458c3a3b1da rel= "undefined")is perfect for art lovers. It comes with paper and five washable markers that kids can use to draw their own game. After they use the Pixicade app to snap a photo of their work, it’s transformed into an animated game that can be played on a smartphone or tablet. (Game Builder Garage, ages 8+; Pixicade Mobile Game Maker, ages 6) **Buy Now:** [Game Builder Garage](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0948GP1FZ/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B0948GP1FZ&linkId=12e46075c6ea6e00e1180c46850a848f rel= "undefined"); [Pixicade Mobile Game Maker](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08ZJ2TQV1/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08ZJ2TQV1&linkId=855244a06e93d1c49dd4e458c3a3b1da rel= "undefined")  ## **From 2D to 3D** Keep little hands busy with [Cubles](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08H8SSXKS/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08H8SSXKS&linkId=439d671f4baf03e0f80fff9067dfaa1e rel= "undefined"). The toys, made from 100% recyclable paperboard, are part puzzle and part origami. To create a Cuble, kids pop out shapes from paperboard and follow color-coded instructional tabs. Pieces fit together to make a three-dimensional toy. Cubles become a variety of creatures, including dinosaurs, dragons, and unicorns. They also turn into characters from beloved children’s book series, such as _Little House on the Prairie_ and _Dog Man_. Cubles are small and don’t require scissors or glue, so they’re especially helpful for keeping kids occupied during holiday road trips. (Cubles, ages 6+) **Buy Now:** [Cubles](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08H8SSXKS/ref=as%5Fli%5Fqf%5Fasin%5Fil%5Ftl?ie=UTF8&tag=giftguides-21-20&creative=9325&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B08H8SSXKS&linkId=439d671f4baf03e0f80fff9067dfaa1e rel= "undefined") These are independent reviews of the products mentioned, but TIME receives a commission when purchases are made through affiliate links at no additional cost to the purchaser. ```json [{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"NewsArticle","@id":"https://time.com/6121565/best-toys-2021/","mainEntityOfPage":{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https://time.com/6121565/best-toys-2021/"},"headline":"The Best Toys of 2021","datePublished":"2021-11-20T13:36:29.000Z","dateModified":"2026-05-11T04:42:06.773Z","description":"From cameras to coding, the best toys of 2021 keep the magic of childhood alive with technology, special effects and good old-fashioned fun.","url":"https://time.com/6121565/best-toys-2021/","keywords":["Living","E-Commerce"],"thumbnailUrl":"https://static.time.com/v3/assets/bltea6093859af6183b/bltd47f60172dd0e1ee/698a1ff68fd2ee746b3633b6/TFKToyGuide_2021_Hero.jpg?branch=production&width=1200&quality=75&auto=webp&crop=1200:675&height=675","author":[{"@type":"Person","name":"TIME for Kids","jobTitle":null,"url":"https://time.com/author/time-for-kids/"}],"articleSection":"Business","image":[{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https://static.time.com/v3/assets/bltea6093859af6183b/bltd47f60172dd0e1ee/698a1ff68fd2ee746b3633b6/TFKToyGuide_2021_Hero.jpg?branch=production&width=1200&quality=75&auto=webp&crop=1200:675&height=675","width":1200,"height":675,"headline":"TFKToyGuide_2021_Hero","caption":"","creditText":"","representativeOfPage":true}],"publisher":{"@type":"Organization","name":"Time","url":"https://time.com/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","url":"https://time.com/images/logo.png","width":528,"height":156},"foundingDate":"March 3, 1923","sameAs":["https://www.facebook.com/time","https://www.instagram.com/time/?hl=en","https://twitter.com/time","https://www.pinterest.com/timemagazine"]}},{"@context":"https://schema.org","@type":"BreadcrumbList","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"item":{"@id":"/section/business/","name":"Business"}},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"item":{"@id":"https://time.com/6121565/best-toys-2021/","name":"The Best Toys of 2021"}}]}] ```