Toy Fair University

Toy Fair University – Your ultimate resource for insights, creativity, and innovation in the global toy and play industry. Dive into expert-led sessions that explore the latest trends, address emerging challenges, and deliver practical strategies to shape the future of play. Connect with industry leaders, ignite new ideas, and stay ahead in an ever-evolving market.

Sessions from Toy Fair 2025 will be available weekly throughout the summer, featuring insights from thought leaders and innovators.

• Business Development
• Inventors
• Marketing
• Technology
• View All

Available on 6/16/25

IP in the Toy Industry

Frank Sardone, Carter, DeLuca & Farrell LLC

This session breaks down the various types of intellectual property protection available, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights. Discover how these protections differ, where they may overlap, and how some products may incorporate multiple protections.

Available on 6/23/25

Managing & Sourcing and Manufacturing in a Turbulent World

Steve Reece, Kids Brand Insight

This session addresses key issues and trends in manufacturing while looking ahead to predict future changes. Learn how Toy & Game companies can adapt their sourcing strategies to stay competitive.

Available on 7/7/25

Storytelling Should Not Stop at Retail Placement

Sharon Weisman, PowerStation Studios; Cindy Chang, Netflix; Kevin Tully, Jazwares and Kristen Fallon, BBC Studios

This panel explores the power of storytelling in toy development and the challenges faced at the retail shelf. Discover how extending your product’s narrative can enhance consumer engagement and build brand loyalty.

Available on 7/7/25

The Rise of AI in Toy Design: How to Avoid IP Claims and Protect True Creativity

Armin Ghiam

This session focuses on how to navigate IP claims when using generative AI in toy design. Learn strategies to protect your ideas, especially when generative AI has contributed to your creation.

Available on 7/14/25

WIT: Level Up-Maximizing Partnership Opportunities in Digital Gaming

Careen Yapp, Embracer Group & Women in Games International; Andrea Fasulo, Supercell; Afton Thatcher,SuperAwesome; Justine Higueras, Roblox and Tiffany Patterson, Jazwares

Hear from in Women in Toys, Licensing, and Entertainment about new opportunities for collaboration and innovation in digital gaming and consumer products.

Available on 7/28/25

An ESG Guide to Supply Chain Diversification in the Toy Industry

Carmel Giblin, Ethical Supply Chain Program

This session highlights the trends, pitfalls, and successes of taking a global approach to supply chain diversification in today’s ever-increasing regulatory business environment.

Available on 8/4/25

Building a World Where Every Child Experiences Play

Pamela Mastrota, The Toy Foundation; David Hung, Hope For New York; Deb Silver, Jazwares; Shelby Dettlinger, World Vision and Tammy Smitham, Spinmaster

Learn how the Toy Foundation is making a difference by supporting initiatives that ensure all children have access to play. This panel focuses on how strategic partnerships and community efforts are creating lasting change.

Available on 8/11/25

What Makes a Winner: The Testing Behind PARENTS Best Toys Awards

Kristen Altmeyer, PARENTS

Go behind the scenes to see how PARENTS select the winners of their annual Best Toys Awards. Discover their rigorous submission process, the key factors parents care about, and how editors make thoughtful selections for every age group.

Available on 8/18/25

Why Before AI: A Success Framework for Outcome Driven Innovation

Hamutal Schieber, Schieber Research

This presentation explores the “Jobs to be Done” approach and presents case studies from the toy and entertainment industries to offer an effective framework for integrating AI into product development, marketing, service, and customer experience.

Available on 8/25/25

Lure them in with your LinkedIn

Danielle Hughes, More Than Words Marketing

Build a strong LinkedIn presence with this step-by-step guide to crafting an engaging profile and leveraging the platform for professional growth.

Available on 6/9/25

Toy Package Design: Mass vs. Speciality Markets

Matt Nuccio, Design Edge

This session explores the distinct approaches to toy packaging in mass and specialty markets, highlighting how design strategies shift to meet audience expectations, build brand loyalty, and influence purchase decisions. Learn how packaging connects with consumers and why one size doesn’t fit all.

Available on 7/14/25

Dyanmics Illustrations for Product - How Illustrations Bring Product to Life

Carlos Mendoza III, Red Raven Stuios

See how dynamic illustrations can elevate your brand identity and create an emotional connection with your audience. Learn to integrate compelling visuals to enhance storytelling and product engagement.

Available on 7/28/25

United Inventors Association: Insights from the Toy Hub

Matt Nuccio, Design Edge; Angus Walker, Hasbro; Dougal Grimes, EightTwo and Scott Landsbaum, United Inventors Association

Gain insights from the United Inventors Association experts as they guide you through the inventor world, offering practical tips to get started and thrive on your path to success.

Available on 8/4/25

Sneaky STEAM

Bob Becker & Kevin Daniels, Fun In Motion

Discover how STEAM lessons naturally unfold as children create colorful flexi-loops, hexagonal antiprisms, and truncated cubes – fostering creativity through limitless play possibilities.

Available on 8/11/25

Bringing Sustainability Into Play

Malte Neilbelschuetz, Shore Buddies

This session uncovers strategies to stand out in the sustainable toy market by delivering toys for customers who love to care, creating products that resonate with eco-conscious consumers who value environmental responsibility.

Available on 6/9/25

Marketing & Media in Play

David Becker, Blue Plate Media Services; Denise Vannucci, Blue Plate Media Services; Erica Buxton, Razor USA; Jessica Kavanaugh, JAKKS Pacific; Julie Gwaltney, TOMY International and Karen Branson, Relatable

Hear from top professionals in marketing and media as they break down what’s working, what’s not, and why. This panel reveals the insights, instincts, and innovations driving brand growth and consumer connection in a dynamic play environment.

Available on 6/16/25

How Toy Companies have Transformed from TV to Digital

Denis Crushell, Precise TV; Emily Hotz, Google!; Phyllis Starsia, Powerphyl and Sunny Laurdisen, Just Play

Mobile gaming and YouTube have become essential to digital marketing. Learn how to connect with your audience and overcome challenges when creating effective digital media plans.

Available on 6/30/25

The American Kid Consumer 2024

Philippe Guinaudeau, BrandTrends

Hear about the latest insights from BrandTrends on U.S. toy market behaviors, including children’s digital habits, the influence of VR, and the growing impact of the kidult demographic. Discover how these trends are shaping consumer choices and brand strategies.

Available on 7/21/25

Beyond the Hype: Navigating New Trends in Influencer Marketing

Amanda Lao, Beacon Media; Kotomi Nanjo, Goliath; Jake Rosen, Jake Rosen Entertainment; Nishi Arjan TikTok and Morgan Mooney, Beacon Media

This panel gives guidance on navigating the evolving landscape of influencer marketing with a focus on emerging trends to maximize brand impact. Stay ahead of the curve and build long-lasting partnerships in a rapidly changing digital space.

Available on 7/21/25

Going Global, Staying Local: Capturing Hearts and Market Share in the Toy Industry

Tom Williams, The Insights Family

This session highlights the critical role of localization, showing how understanding local nuances and emerging trends can help create culturally relevant toys and marketing campaigns that resonate with kids around the world.

Available on 8/18/25

Speed Round: Top Trends in Entertainment you Need to Know

Kristen McLean, Circana

This session delivers a fast-paced overview of the most important cross-entertainment trends, challenges, and opportunities you need to know to navigate the market over the next 12–24 months.

Available on 6/2/25

Beyond Chatbots: What lies Ahead for Kids and Ai

Robin Raskin, Virtual Events Group; David Phillips, Elf Labs; Elnaz Sarraf, ROYBI; Josh Garrett Readyland and Martin Horstman, BitOGenius

This panel explores the future of AI in play and how it’s moving beyond basic chatbot interactions. Learn how toy companies are creating more meaningful, creative experiences that give kids a sense of agency, imagination, and engagement.

Available on 6/2/25

Mech: The New Transformers?

David Kleeman, Dubit

This session introduces mech — customizable, humanoid machine avatars growing in popularity on platforms like Roblox — as a new frontier for brand integration in digital play. Learn how players use mech to express identity and enhance gameplay, and how Dubit research reveals trends in customization, fandom, and in-platform purchasing.

Available on 6/30/25

Interactive Storytelling and the Role of AI in Play

Jayesh Chatlani, Hula

Explore how AI tools can enhance storytelling in toy development while maintaining creativity and consumer engagement. Learn how to use AI thoughtfully, avoiding quick-fix solutions.

Available on 8/25/25

How Influencers, AI, and Amazon are Shaping the Toy Category in 2025 & Beyond

John LeBaron, Pattern

Learn how influencers, AI, and Amazon are reshaping the toy industry’s digital landscape, driving product performance and brand strategy.

Available on 8/25/25

The Bottomless Toy Box

David Kleeman, Dubit

This session shows how to effectively integrate your brand into the vast world of Roblox, exploring game types and strategies for brand engagement.

Available on 6/2/25

Beyond Chatbots: What lies Ahead for Kids and Ai

Robin Raskin, Virtual Events Group; David Phillips, Elf Labs; Elnaz Sarraf, ROYBI; Josh Garrett, Readyland and Martin Horstman, BitOGenius

This panel explores the future of AI in play and how it’s moving beyond basic chatbot interactions. Learn how toy companies are creating more meaningful, creative experiences that give kids a sense of agency, imagination, and engagement.

Available on 6/2/25

Mech: The New Transformers?

David Kleeman, Dubit

This session introduces mech — customizable, humanoid machine avatars growing in popularity on platforms like Roblox — as a new frontier for brand integration in digital play. Learn how players use mech to express identity and enhance gameplay, and how Dubit research reveals trends in customization, fandom, and in-platform purchasing.

Available on 6/9/25

Marketing & Media in Play

David Becker, Blue Plate Media Services; Denise Vannucci, Blue Plate Media Services; Erica Buxton, Razor USA; Jessica Kavanaugh, JAKKS Pacific; Julie Gwaltney, TOMY International and Karen Branson, Relatable

Hear from top professionals in marketing and media as they break down what’s working, what’s not, and why. This panel reveals the insights, instincts, and innovations driving brand growth and consumer connection in a dynamic play environment.

Available on 6/9/25

Toy Package Design: Mass vs. Speciality Markets

Matt Nuccio, Design Edge

This session explores the distinct approaches to toy packaging in mass and specialty markets, highlighting how design strategies shift to meet audience expectations, build brand loyalty, and influence purchase decisions. Learn how packaging connects with consumers and why one size doesn’t fit all.

Available on 6/16/25

How Toy Companies have Transformed from TV to Digital

Denis Crushell, Precise TV; Emily Hotz, Google!; Phyllis Starsia, Powerphyl and Sunny Laurdisen, Just Play

Mobile gaming and YouTube have become essential to digital marketing. Learn how to connect with your audience and overcome challenges when creating effective digital media plans.

Available on 6/16/25

IP in the Toy Industry

Frank Sardone, Carter, DeLuca & Farrell LLC

This session breaks down the various types of intellectual property protection available, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights. Discover how these protections differ, where they may overlap, and how some products may incorporate multiple protections.

Available on 6/23/25

Managing & Sourcing and Manufacturing in a Turbulent World

Steve Reece, Kids Brand Insight

This session addresses key issues and trends in manufacturing while looking ahead to predict future changes. Learn how Toy & Game companies can adapt their sourcing strategies to stay competitive.

Available on 6/23/25

The Licensing Trends Driving Toy Sales

Maura Reagan, Licensing International & Jeremy Padawer, Jazwares

Discover the licensing trends shaping toy sales in 2025 with insights from Licensing International. Despite recent challenges, beloved brands, evergreen properties, and the rise of the kidult demographic continue to drive consumer interest.

Available on 6/30/25

Interactive Storytelling and the Role of AI in Play

Jayesh Chatlani, Hula

Explore how AI tools can enhance storytelling in toy development while maintaining creativity and consumer engagement. Learn how to use AI thoughtfully, avoiding quick-fix solutions.

Available on 6/30/25

The American Kid Consumer 2024

Philippe Guinaudeau, BrandTrends

Hear about the latest insights from BrandTrends on U.S. toy market behaviors, including children’s digital habits, the influence of VR, and the growing impact of the kidult demographic. Discover how these trends are shaping consumer choices and brand strategies.

Available on 7/7/25

Storytelling Should Not Stop at Retail Placement

Sharon Weisman, PowerStation Studios; Cindy Chang, Netflix; Kevin Tully, Jazwares and Kristen Fallon, BBC Studios

This panel explores the power of storytelling in toy development and the challenges faced at the retail shelf. Discover how extending your product’s narrative can enhance consumer engagement and build brand loyalty.

Available on 7/7/25

The Rise of AI in Toy Design: How to Avoid IP Claims and Protect True Creativity

Armin Ghiam

This session focuses on how to navigate IP claims when using generative AI in toy design. Learn strategies to protect your ideas, especially when generative AI has contributed to your creation.

Available on 7/14/25

Dyanmics Illustrations for Product - How Illustrations Bring Product to Life

Carlos Mendoza III, Red Raven Stuios

See how dynamic illustrations can elevate your brand identity and create an emotional connection with your audience. Learn to integrate compelling visuals to enhance storytelling and product engagement.

Available on 7/14/25

WIT: Level Up-Maximizing Partnership Opportunities in Digital Gaming

Careen Yapp, Embracer Group & Women in Games International; Andrea Fasulo, Supercell; Afton Thatcher, SuperAwesome; Justine Higueras, Roblox and Tiffany Patterson, Jazwares

Hear from in Women in Toys, Licensing, and Entertainment about new opportunities for collaboration and innovation in digital gaming and consumer products.

Available on 7/21/25

Beyond the Hype: Navigating New Trends in Influencer Marketing

Amanda Lao, Beacon Media; Kotomi Nanjo, Goliath; Jake Rosen, Jake Rosen Entertainment; Nishi Arjan, TikTok and Morgan Mooney, Beacon Media

This panel gives guidance on navigating the evolving landscape of influencer marketing with a focus on emerging trends to maximize brand impact. Stay ahead of the curve and build long-lasting partnerships in a rapidly changing digital space.

Available on 7/21/25

Going Global, Staying Local: Capturing Hearts and Market Share in the Toy Industry

Tom Williams, The Insights Family

This session highlights the critical role of localization, showing how understanding local nuances and emerging trends can help create culturally relevant toys and marketing campaigns that resonate with kids around the world.

Available on 7/28/25

An ESG Guide to Supply Chain Diversification in the Toy Industry

Carmel Giblin, Ethical Supply Chain Program

This session highlights the trends, pitfalls, and successes of taking a global approach to supply chain diversification in today’s ever-increasing regulatory business environment.

Available on 7/28/25

United Inventors Association: Insights from the Toy Hub

Matt Nuccio, Design Edge; Angus Walker, Hasbro; Dougal Grimes, EightTwo; and Scott Landsbaum, United Inventors Association

Gain insights from the United Inventors Association experts as they guide you through the inventor world, offering practical tips to get started and thrive on your path to success.

Available on 8/4/25

Building a World Where Every Child Experiences Play

Pamela Mastrota, The Toy Foundation; David Hung, Hope For New York; Deb Silver, Jazwares; Shelby Dettlinger, World Vision and Tammy Smitham, Spinmaster

Learn how the Toy Foundation is making a difference by supporting initiatives that ensure all children have access to play. This panel focuses on how strategic partnerships and community efforts are creating lasting change.

Available on 8/4/25

Sneaky STEAM

Bob Becker & Kevin Daniels, Fun In Motion

Discover how STEAM lessons naturally unfold as children create colorful flexi-loops, hexagonal antiprisms, and truncated cubes – fostering creativity through limitless play possibilities.

Available on 8/11/25

Bringing Sustainability Into Play

Malte Neilbelschuetz, Shore Buddies

This session uncovers strategies to stand out in the sustainable toy market by delivering toys for customers who love to care, creating products that resonate with eco-conscious consumers who value environmental responsibility.

Available on 8/11/25

What Makes a Winner: The Testing Behind PARENTS Best Toys Awards

Kristen Altmeyer, PARENTS

Go behind the scenes to see how PARENTS select the winners of their annual Best Toys Awards. Discover their rigorous submission process, the key factors parents care about, and how editors make thoughtful selections for every age group.

Available on 8/18/25

Speed Round: Top Trends in Entertainment you Need to Know

Kristen McLean, Circana

This session delivers a fast-paced overview of the most important cross-entertainment trends, challenges, and opportunities you need to know to navigate the market over the next 12–24 months.

Available on 8/18/25

Why Before AI: A Success Framework for Outcome Driven Innovation

Hamutal Schieber, Schieber Research

This presentation explores the “Jobs to be Done” approach and presents case studies from the toy and entertainment industries to offer an effective framework for integrating AI into product development, marketing, service, and customer experience.

Available on 8/25/25

How Influencers, AI, and Amazon are Shaping the Toy Category in 2025 & Beyond

John LeBaron, Pattern

Learn how influencers, AI, and Amazon are reshaping the toy industry’s digital landscape, driving product performance and brand strategy.

Available on 8/25/25

Lure them in with your LinkedIn

Danielle Hughes, More Than Words Marketing

Build a strong LinkedIn presence with this step-by-step guide to crafting an engaging profile and leveraging the platform for professional growth.

Available on 8/25/25

The Bottomless Toy Box

David Kleeman, Dubit

This session shows how to effectively integrate your brand into the vast world of Roblox, exploring game types and strategies for brand engagement.