Projects – KidStuff Public Relations

At Playcor, every piece is carefully crafted with durable materials, minimal yet charming color palettes, and thoughtful details, perfect for little hands to explore. We believe that when children engage with toys that encourage both curiosity and imagination, they learn to see the world in new ways. And when parents see these toys thoughtfully arranged on shelves or coffee tables, they feel a renewed sense of peace and pride in their home décor. Learn more at: Playcor.com.

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Press Releases

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“SGT. STUBBY: AN AMERICAN HERO” RETURNS NATIONWIDE IN A NEWLY REMASTERED EDITION FOR AMERICA 250

Family animated feature inspired by the true story of America’s most decorated war dog will be presented through theatrical and community screenings in the nation’s 250th anniversary year

Missoula, MT (May 12, 2026) — As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary, a newly remastered edition of Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero will return to audiences nationwide through a series of theatrical and community screenings as part of America 250 programming marking the nation’s bisesquicentennial.

Based on the true story of a stray dog who became the most decorated canine of World War I, the film follows Stubby’s journey from the streets of Connecticut to the trenches of France, where his loyalty and courage made him a symbol of resilience and companionship during wartime.

The remastered presentation gives families a renewed opportunity to experience the film on the big screen while preserving the film’s emotional authenticity and historical spirit, which continue to resonate with family audiences.

“Stubby has always been more than a war story to us,” said Richard Lanni, writer and director of the film and founder of Fun Academy. “It is a story about loyalty, courage, friendship, and the small acts of love that can carry people through difficult times. That feels like a meaningful story to share with families during America’s 250th anniversary year.”

Screenings will be presented in partnership with theaters, schools, and community organizations across the country as part of coordinated America 250 initiatives. Forty-eight states are currently confirmed to participate, with Colorado and Ohio still pending confirmation.

The return of Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero also reflects Fun Academy’s continuing commitment to historically inspired family storytelling and companion content rooted in real events, emotional authenticity, and stories families can trust.

For more information and updates on screening locations, visit https://stubby250.org/ and follow Stubby Squad channels. For more about the story of Sgt. Stubby and related family content, visit https://stubbysquad.com/.

About Fun Academy

Fun Academy creates historically inspired family entertainment built around courage, loyalty, compassion, friendship, and the quiet choices that shape character. The studio’s work is story-first, emotionally sincere, and designed for families seeking entertainment they can trust.

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Fun Academy

Fun Academy is a U.S.-based entertainment company focused on creating family storytelling inspired by real history. Its work includes Sgt. Stubby: An American Hero, based on the true story of a decorated U.S. war dog. The company is building a broader storytelling ecosystem spanning film, episodic content, podcasts, books, and interactive experiences, with a focus on emotionally authentic, values-driven content for audiences worldwide.

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Press Releases

“SGT. STUBBY: AN AMERICAN HERO” RETURNS NATIONWIDE IN A NEWLY REMASTERED EDITION FOR AMERICA 250

Family animated feature inspired by the true story of America’s most decorated war dog will be presented through theatrical and community screenings in the nation’s 250th anniversary year Missoula, MT (May 12, 2026) — As the United States approaches its…

ECO-WOOD-ART (EWA) INTRODUCES US MARKET TO THEIR MECHANICAL WOODEN MARVELS

Pinsk, Belarus (April 15, 2026) – There are tons of toys both new and old that are made of wood, but we bet you’ve never seen anything like this before! EWA Eco-Wood-Art, a Belarus-based company which makes STEAM construction kits and mechanical models, is counting on it! Founded in 2026 with the goal of creating unique, high-quality mechanical models from all-natural materials, EWA now has over 400 unique birch plywood 3D puzzles that range from beginner friendly to mind-bendingly complex, all of which reinforce STEAM skills like spatial awareness, engineering knowledge, and aptitude with complex directions/assembly!

Each EWA kit has satisfyingly thick birch plywood sheets with pieces laser pre-cut to precision, and building tools are packed inside the box, meaning you’re ready to start building immediately! Clear step-by-step instructions are included ensuring that even curious crafters new to the hobby will be able to keep up with the most seasoned puzzle or model masters. And from vehicles of all sorts, to nearly every animal you can imagine and beyond, EWA has a kit out there for everyone! Whether you’re introducing a teenager to the joys of model building, or a retired parent looking for a new hobby, EWA kits are the perfect entry point. Better yet, none require glue or specialized tools!

Strap in for hours of fun and creativity with the EWA Vehicles Set ($49.46), a 5-in-1 collection of mechanical wooden puzzles! This set features small and stylish vehicles that are a joy to assemble. With a total of 364 pieces, you’ll have the opportunity to build a Hot Rod (61 pieces), Monster Truck (108 pieces), Prerunner (77 pieces), Dragster (92 pieces), and Cross Bike (26 pieces). Each puzzle comes with its own unique design and varying levels of difficulty, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. An ideal starter set for a group activity with friends or family. Whether you’re a puzzle enthusiast or looking for a fun activity for the whole family, our 5-in-1 set of mechanical wooden puzzles is the perfect choice!

Replicate the most broadly beloved reptile with EWA’s Turtle ($46.76) set! This 269 piece set features finely etched detail all over each piece, illustrating scaly skin, and a rough, ridged shell texture. The mesmerizingly segmented shell houses a rubber band-powered walking mechanism that you can wind up with the dial on its belly. Watch its mighty legs trudge forward with a distinct turtle gait!

The mighty Triceratops ($46.76) joins EWA 3D puzzles to bring a nice vintage to the animal selection. Crafted from exquisitely cut pieces, this 283 piece set comes together in a way that accentuates and mimics this massive creature’s powerful musculature. Triceratops’ distinctive head shape is faithfully depicted through a combinations of ingenious engineering and incredibly intricate etched detail. Scale and horn detail coalesce to make this a must-have display piece. Wind up the rubber band engine and let it stomp along, unstoppable as the original Cretaceous creature!

For such a technical toy, it makes a ton of sense to lean into the mechanical look! The 152-piece EWA Cruiser ($35.99) turns a motorbike into gorgeous 3D-puzzle splendor. Complete with complex angles, diagonals and slick industrial design details, you’ll scarcely believe this beautiful bike is built from wooden pieces. Essential details are replicated with care, like headlights, a windshield, and even side panniers. As part of the breezy and enjoyable build, you’ll assemble a fully functional pull-back engine mechanism, for incredible zooming play-action once complete. See also the 281 piece EWA Trike ($38.66) set for a slightly more challenging and intricate build. Full of engraved detail from front to back, this elegant motor trike features a storage container in the back and a wind-up rubber band engine.

For a super-satisfying, mechanical build, seek the EWA Tractor Belarus-82 ($51.97) set at 269 pieces. This delightfully detailed set has it all; grill detailing, layered gears that become tire treads, a fully detailed interior and more. The tractor has a wind-up rubber-band motor with 4 gears which make the front wheels turn. Open the moveable hood to reveal a realistic piston engine underneath. A meticulous and enjoyable set, it’s perfect for any fan of machinery or agricultural vehicles!

EWA sets must be seen to be believed, so visit their website https://ewaecowoodart.us/ for more information! Build mind-blowing wonders with Eco-Wood-Art!

About Eco-Wood-Art

EWA Eco-Wood-Art is a team of professionals with the shared idea to create fascinating STEAM construction kits of realistic mechanical models for self-assembling (without glue or specialized tools), made of natural, pure and safe materials. EWA Team works hard every day with high-quality materials and technology. We use creativity and inspiration to create new wooden construction kits, puzzles and interior items that ensure entertaining spare time, stylish view and safety for people of all ages. Learn more at https://ewaecowoodart.us.

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BEVERLY HILLS TEDDY BEAR IS A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR SOFT OR SQUISHY SENSORY DELIGHT

Santa Clarita, CA (April 14, 2026) – Aficionados of the soft and sublime, your search is over; Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company is the destination for plushy and squishy play of all kinds! With legacy brands like World’s Softest Plush and MushMeez under their umbrella, the company has developed even more options based on feedback and a very close eye on what’s popular in play. Pushing the envelope in trendy movements like slime, tactile plush play, collectibles, squishy toys and more, connoisseurs of cute will have just as much to enjoy this year from Beverly Hills Teddy Bear as will scholars of squish!

The 6-style launch MushMeez styles (Hot Dog, PB&J Sandwich, Hamburger, S’more, Cinnamon Bun and Donut) brought perfected taba-style squish fun to a wider audience in 2025. Thanks to the popularity and rousing success of the brand, which won accolades like the Mom’s Choice Gold Award, National Parenting Product Award (NAPPA) and PAL Award, Beverly Hills Teddy Bear is excited to introduce the latest sweet sensation in taba-style squishies, MushMeez: Sweet Friends ($10). As delicious as these look and smell, they’re so much better being squished and stretched in your hand! Each Sweet Friends pack comes with three mini tabas served on a stick like dango dumplings. In addition to the ways fans will be familiar with MushMeez: tactile, layered, super soft and slimy play – Sweet Friends introduce a new dimension of play, letting you squish, throw and stretch the mini tabas together or separately. Each set comes in different colors and shapes, so mix and match to make your ideal sweet toy treat! And just like standard MushMeez, just rinse with warm water and a smidge of soap to clean them up, good as new! Look out for two launch styles: Strawberry and Chocolate!

But MushMeez has another surprise for this year, a swimmingly satisfying stim toy that can be taken on-the-go: MushMeez Water Pets ($8)! Folks who love slime-style fidgeting can have a worry-free experience thanks to these smartly engineered pocket toys. Designed to resemble a goldfish swimming in a water-filled plastic bag, Water Pets contain ASMR style water slime action in a sealed container, allowing for endless hours stress-free squeezing, squashing and swooshing. Each time you squish, the wide-eyed fish inside swims to and fro! These fishy friends come in 5 different color styles and include a bag clip to take their mess-free fun with you wherever you go. Even some adults have been spotted in Manhattan wearing these on their designer bags and backpacks!

Beverly Hills Teddy Bear’s World’s Softest Plush line absolutely lives up to the name with unmatched softness and a wide diversity of plush pals, which is why the line won six awards in 2025, including PAL Award, PAL Top 10 Infant Award, NAPPA and Mom’s Choice Gold Award. This series of plush comes in all shapes and across a huge menagerie of animal buddies, but the Large Lushee 16” Frody the French Bulldog ($30) is a perfect picture of what makes the World’s Softest Plush brand special. Truly man’s best friend, the prestigious Oppenheim Toy Portfolio certainly agreed when they awarded Frody and his bestie Bri-Bri the Bunny its highest honor, the Platinum Award! Charming as can be on the surface, it’s the little details that really count. Featuring dreamily soft lush-tec fabric for maximum snuggle factor, Lushees have endearing dome eyes for tons of sweet personality and weighted hands, feet and bottoms for hugs and easy sitting display. Frody has distinguished white fur with bold black spots, a look that will instantly charm you on sight!

Any World’s Softest Plush is tender to the touch, but the brand-new line 10” Feathers style plush ($16) truly feel lighter than air. Feathers are soft as a dream, and each Feathers plushie is a whisper of comfort, crafted with the gentlest touch of the most unique “feather” inspired plush fabric. Each Feathers friend has long, plush feathers that mimic the real thing to caress and run your fingers through, plus a plush, dense base for a little extra weight in your hand and more balance for display. A perfect medium size plush pal, Feathers from World’s Softest Plush are ideal for plush collectors who prefer a wilder look!

Is it a giraffe or is it a duck? Yes, lol! Duckees ($13) bring the charm of World’s Softest Plush to a smaller scale and with a quirky twist. These adorable combinations of animals surely won’t run “afowl” of any admirer of all things soft and cute. Each cuddly Duckee plush has a super-soft, lush exterior, an interior filled with small pellets for a satisfying weight and hand-feel, plus their own personality and lore. Tundee the Giraffe Duckee loves playing tag and of course, eating salad like all herbivorous giraffe-ducks do! Tundee even has unmistakable giraffe spots and ossicones (fun fact: those are “giraffe horns”)! At 7” in size, and 12 styles to collect, Duckees are ideal for small cuddles during playtime, naps, or bringing warm comfort with you on-the-go. And watch for Duckee Clippees designs coming up!

New for 2026 comes a surprise equal parts sweet and adorable. Squish Berries ($10) are quintessential sensory, soft, and squishy fun experiences – all in one! Like colorful slices of Swiss rolls come to life, Squish Berries will instantly win you over with their kawaii faces, fuzzy tails and delectable decoration. Cupped perfectly in your hand, you can gently caress them to feel their tender softness on the surface or squish them to detect the satisfying sugar-maltose marshmallow-goo filling. This combination of sturdily stitched and embroidered plush exterior plus pliable squishy interior creates the ultimate in slow-rise squish play!

All this variety and much, much more can be found on Beverly Hills Teddy Bear’s official website https://stuffedanimals.com/collections and Amazon.com. Dive into their wonderful world of plush and squish fun!

About Beverly Hills Teddy Bear

Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company stands at the forefront of innovation in the plush and trend manufacturing industry. For over three decades, some of the world’s leading companies have entrusted us to design, create, and manufacture products that captivate audiences worldwide. Since our inception in 1994, we’ve worked with major studios and corporations to bring their ideas to life. We’ve also taken strides in creating our own proprietary brands, which are now enjoyed in over 90 countries. BHTB continues to push boundaries with new, engaging and diverse products that bring joy to children and collectors alike.

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VOICEGIFT HELPS MAKE MOTHER’S DAY EVEN MORE SPECIAL FOR BOTH MOM AND CHILD!

Give Moms the Most Treasured Gift of All: The Gift of Your Voice!

Westport, CT (April 13, 2026) – If there’s one thing moms and grandmoms love more than anything else, it’s their children (and grandkids). Gifts can show that you care, but they’ll never be a substitute for your presence. Well, never say never! Thanks to sound recording accessories developed by VoiceGift, it doesn’t have to be either/or. Products from VoiceGift like their Tags, Voice-Over, and PLAY allow you to leave mom special messages in your own words and with your own unique voice that she loves so much. Inject any gift with a little piece of yourself, giving mom the gift of your inimitable presence, whether near or far. Remove the barrier of the written word and speak directly from the heart to let her know how much she means to you! She’ll certainly appreciate the gesture.

On Mother’s Day we still call our moms… call volumes actually peak by 10% on Mother’s Day. With VoiceGift, mom can hear the voices of those she loves every day of the year and share with pride with her friends and family.

VOICEGIFT HELPS MAKE MOTHER’S DAY EVEN MORE SPECIAL FOR BOTH MOM AND CHILD!—Give Moms the Most Treasured Gift of All: The Gift of Your Voice!

No matter what you get for mom this Mother’s Day, pairing it with a VoiceGift Tag ($13.00 each) will up the wow factor and make it one to remember. Let her know the significance of your gift (“I know you’ve been wanting this” or “I thought you might be able to use this!”) in your own words. VoiceGift Tags record up to 60 seconds of crisp audio so that your voice comes through clear as can be to brighten mom’s day. But that’s not all, the Tag recorder is high fidelity enough for music, so send her a bit of a song you both love without fear of muffling or static. Acid-free paper covers the outside of the Tag, offering two 3″ x 4.25″ sides to decorate with supplementary messages in writing. Mail-safe and can be replayed up to 300 times, a Tag is a perfect way to make any gift to mom even more impactful.

The Voice-Over ($14.99) is an amazing gift for Mom, since it can be highly specific, or super open-ended! Voice-Overs are compact recorders that come with up to 60 seconds of recording space which can be split among multiple messages. The handy adhesive mounting tape lets you stick it to anything you want, be it the back of a framed picture of you and mom, or inside the lid of a container of her favorite snack. It even has options for how to play your message – button activated or light-sensitive. Use the light-sensitive setting to automatically play your message the moment that mom opens her gift. Or opt for the button activated option to pair with a framed, special photo so mom can listen to the accompanying message in your voice whenever she wants. Voice-Over allows you to express even more intention and thought in your gift-giving!

But it’s not all about voice, moms love to look at their kids too, especially old photos from when they were in their younger years. Instantly breathe new dimension into any family photo album using the VoiceGift PLAY® ($60.00). Play is a remote-control-sized device versatile enough for any recording purpose; notes, directions, stories or narration, PLAY has you covered. The PLAY remote has 10 buttons, 0-9 allowing you to record up to 999 different voice messages spanning 10 hours in total. Label each photo in an album or scrapbook with a number and record an anecdote for each. Then family, friends, or mom herself can press the corresponding combination on the PLAY to hear your story for each picture. Get together with the rest of the family to record messages of gratitude and appreciation like, “this is my favorite activity to do together with mom” or “I’ll always remember this day I spent with her!” It’s also a perfect gift served brand-new for scrapbooking moms to take their craft to the next level!

Whether for Mother’s Day or any other gift-giving occasion, find out more about VoiceGift products by visiting their website at https://voice.gift/ or their Amazon storefront. Make this Mother’s Day one she’ll never forget with a little help from VoiceGift!

About VoiceGift

Since the year 2000, VoiceGift had the vision of making it easy for people to add a personal touch to their gifts, crafts, and memories. We offer a wide variety of recordable gift tags and voice boxes that are perfect for any occasion. Our voice is the best way to express ourselves. Whether you want to give a gift, capture a memory or a feeling, we want to help make every personal gift more personal. Because there’s no substitution for the voice of those closest to us or the music we love to listen to. Our suppliers are compliant with the International Council of Toy Industries (ICTI), CARE (Caring, Awareness, Responsible, Ethical) certification, or comparable designation. These programs promote ethical manufacturing, from fair labor treatment to employee health and safety, in the toy industry worldwide.

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K2A Brands

K2A Brands is the parent company of Moosh-Moosh. Based in Simi Valley, CA. It’s a dynamic company with over 40 years of experience delivering some of the most trending items on the market. With a keen eye on current trends, the company’s seasoned team swiftly turns insights into innovative, highly desired products. Balancing top-notch quality, creativity, and a deep understanding of consumer preferences, K2A Brands stands as a leader in bringing to life today’s most sought-after items.

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Press Releases

K2A BRANDS OFFERS A GLIMPSE OF UPCOMING 2026 WHIMSY AT TOY FAIR BOOTH #6742

Simi Valley, CA (February 11, 2026) – In order to keep up in the ever-shifting toy landscape, one must always keep their fingers on the pulse of culture but simultaneously keep a healthy dose of invention and creativity. Few can…

MEET JASEY’S TOY CHEST: FRESH, JOYFUL WOODEN TOYS BUILT WITH PURPOSE

Westport, CT (April 6, 2026) – What could be more important to a child than imaginative play? Modern toys are feature rich, no doubt – but sometimes bells and whistles can take center stage over fundamental design. Does it need to charge to be played with? Does it really need an app? How much thought has been put into the toy as a play object, rather than simply a conduit for new and shiny features? There will always be a need for companies with big ideas and a grounded philosophy of fostering analog, imaginative play. Jasey’s Toy Chest brings the joy of classic, imaginative play back to households with thoughtfully designed wooden toys that are developmentally rich and joyful, while centering on educational play and fun. And with Mental Health Awareness Month on the horizon in May, there’s no better time to give Jasey’s Toy Chest a chance!

Jasey’s Toy Chest made their debut at Toy Fair 2026 with a spacious booth to accommodate a wide range of high-quality, responsibly sourced wooden toys, all made from FSC®-certified materials. The assortment includes everything from pretend play sets to learning puzzles for ages 1 through 5. Founders Brian and Lauren Bernstein were thrilled to meet fellow industry insiders, toy media and more to help spread the word about Jasey’s Toy Chest and their vital mission. Their family-led brand has a deeply personal pursuit: to honor their late son, Jason (“Jasey”) Bernstein, support youth mental health, and help other families find joy, resilience, and connection through play.

Youth mental health advocacy is at the heart of the Jasey’s Toy Chest identity. Their toys are created in collaboration with Early Learning Centre (ELC), a trusted British preschool brand with over 50 years of heritage encouraging learning through play. The company also partners with The Jed Foundation (JED) to protect emotional health and prevent suicide for teens and young adults nationwide. Jasey’s Toy Chest is honored to be The Kids Mental Health Foundation’s (KMHF) Corporate Collective partner in the preschool and early childhood toy category. Working together with clinical experts at The Kids Mental Health Foundation, they develop play tools and resources that complement their toys.

Promoting healthy social, emotional and mental development, Jasey’s Toy Chest toys are designed from the ground up to foster pretend play and imaginative exploration for young children during tender, formative years – all while being affordable for the average household budget. With 89% of products priced under $30, Jasey’s Toy Chest makes quality developmental toys accessible to families while supporting a meaningful mission.

Magnetic Mix & Match People | Ages 2 + | $19.99 | – Teach your child early that they can be anyone they want when they grow up! Mix, match and imagine with wooden everyday heroes that click together with hidden magnets for creative play. The separate head and body pieces let kids invent their own characters and create stories through imaginative play. Characters include a firefighter, chef, astronaut, doctor and police officer. These friendly faces and colorfully decorated characters welcome kids into pretend play naturally!

Wooden Sparkling Smile Dentist Kit | Ages 3+ | $29.99 | – Dental visits can be intimidating for little ones. Introduce the concept of oral care to children while taking the fear out of dentist visits with this play set! Each wooden dental tool features real functionality: the included dental mirror has an actual mirror, the syringe presses in, and the pretend toothpaste tube has a removable lid. Kids can practice extractions and cleanings using the wooden mouth base, which has 8 removable teeth, and the full set of wooden tools that includes a toothbrush, a pair of tweezers, and a play drill. This 11-piece set also includes a teeth cleaning diagram card and a soft carrying bag designed for effortless portability!

Cruisin’ Crocodile Wooden Pull Toy | Ages 12 months + | $24.99 | – This wigglin’ crocodilian follows you wherever you go! Meet your new favorite walking buddy with this friendly green crocodile that zigzags and wiggles with every step. Lightweight with a rope easy for little ones to grasp, this crocodile is the perfect companion for toddlers who are just finding their feet. As kids pull their new friend along, the crocodile’s tail wags, and the chunky wheels roll smoothly across the floor. Every step builds gross motor skills, coordination, and confidence.

Wooden Shape & Animal Blocks | Ages 12 months + | $29.99 | – Take note: this is not your average block set! Inside this set, you’ll find blocks with a jingle bell, a rattle, and colorful beads that add a whole new sensory layer to playtime. Shake the rattle, roll the cylinders along the floor, or build a tower and knock it all down. Top your tower with the elephant, giraffe, and lion to create stories with your cute animal friends. Every block has graphics on both sides, giving kids even more to look at and talk about as they play.

Wooden Magnetic Fishing Puzzle | Ages 3 + | $16.99 | – Gone fishing! Children ages 3 and up can catch 10 colorful wooden sea friends with the magnetic fishing rod, then place each one back where it belongs. The vibrant, illustrated puzzle board features a beautiful underwater seascape and decorated artwork to help kids identify where each sea critter belongs. This set includes all sorts of marine life – 2 fish, a shark, octopus, clam, turtle, crab, jellyfish, whale, and starfish – all illustrated in a colorful and friendly style, inviting young kiddos to work on mindfulness and hand-eye coordination.

Wooden Pets Puzzle & Play Pieces | Ages 12 months + | $14.99 | – Eight pet friends are waiting to find their spots in this colorful living room scene! Match each chunky piece to the board, then lift them out and let the storytelling begin. The pieces stand on their own, so the fun doesn’t stop when the puzzle is solved. A cat, rabbit, hamster, parrot, fish, turtle, and 2 dogs are all chunky, smooth, and sized just right for little hands.

To see the full spread of diverse toys from Jasey’s Toy Chest in advance of Mental Health Awareness Month in May, and to learn more about their core mission, visit https://www.jaseystoychest.com/. The Jasey’s Toy Chest website also offers strategies and activities to help support a child’s emotional and mental health development, developed in partnership with experts from The Kids Mental Health Foundation. Bring the wonder back to playtime with Jasey’s Toy Chest!

About Jasey’s Toy Chest

At Jasey’s Toy Chest, we believe in the power of magical moments – the kind that blossom through open-ended play, joyful learning, and heartfelt connection. This brand was created in loving memory of our son Jason (“Jasey”), who filled our home with creativity, adventure, and immense joy. His toy chest was a daily treasure hunt – every morning, he’d pull out blocks, puzzles, musical instruments, costumes, and dinosaurs, creating magical worlds of his own making. Our toys are a tribute to those memories and to the simple, magical moments that shape childhood. We’re also committed to supporting youth mental health, a cause deeply personal to our family. Drawing on decades of toy-industry experience, we craft toys designed to build skills, nurture confidence, encourage connection, and create lasting memories.

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STAR-STUDDED SPRING SURPRISE ‘LAND OF SOMETIMES’ PREMIERING APRIL 2026

Los Angeles, CA (March 16, 2026) – A magical new family adventure is ready to cast its spell. The Land of Sometimes arrives digitally on AppleTV, Google Play, Amazon Prime and Fandango At Home on April 7^th ($14.99 to own, $5.99 to rent), followed by a DVD release ($19.99) at Walmart and Amazon on June 16th, inviting audiences of all ages (with a focus on 5-10 years old) into a wondrous world where imagination reigns and family means everything.

Featuring an extraordinary voice cast, the film stars Asa Butterfield (Hugo, Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children), and The Boy in the Striped Pajamas), Helena Bonham Carter (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Harry Potter), Ewan McGregor (Star Wars, Beauty and the Beast), Terry Jones (Monty Python), EGOT-winner Mel Brooks (Spaceballs, Blazing Saddles) and his grandson Henry Brooks, Alisha Weir (Matilda: The Musical, Abigail), Jessica Henwick (Glass Onion), and Andrei Shen (Matilda: The Musical).

Reminiscent of beloved classic adventures such as Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan, and The Wizard of Oz, The Land of Sometimes is directed by Leon Joosen, produced by Tony Nottage and Nottage Productions, and executive produced by Alan Yentob (Imagine, Mel Brooks and Me), Bonnie Arnold (Toy Story, How To Train Your Dragon), Two Daughters executive chairman James Reatchlous and CEO Simon Bobin, and Kaleidoscope Film Distribution CEO Spencer Pollard. The film blends timeless storytelling with rich animation to create a heartfelt cinematic experience for modern audiences.

The story follows twins Alfie and Elise, whose lives are turned upside down when they summon a mysterious Wish Collector and are whisked away to a fantastical realm brimming with unforgettable creatures, surprises at every turn, and an unexpected revelation. As the twins journey through this enchanting world, they discover a truth more powerful than any wish: the enduring strength of family.

Adding to the magic is a vibrant musical score, featuring original songs by singer-songwriter Francesca Longrigg, along with new songs by legendary lyricist and EGOT-winner Tim Rice (Aladdin, The Lion King, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Evita) and Pete Hobbs (Jean, Easy A). The Land of Sometimes marks Rice’s return to animated features after 25 years, making the film a special milestone for musical storytelling.

The film celebrated its World premiere at the 42nd Annual KidFilm Festival on January 17th, 2026, and will enjoy a theatrical run at the Laemmle Glendale Theatre in Los Angeles from March 20–26, offering families the chance to experience the magic on the big screen before its home release.

About Radial Entertainment

Radial Entertainment is a newly formed global entertainment company, operating the FilmRise and Shout! Studios brands, backed by funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management. As a premier content distribution studio, Radial Entertainment boasts a diverse library of over 70,000 movies and episodes–making it one of the largest independent catalogs in the industry. The company delivers high-quality entertainment across all major consumer platforms, including FAST channels, AVOD, SVOD, TVOD, physical product, theatrical film and more. Its programming spans a wide range of genres, including true crime, reality, animation, action, westerns, award-winning titles, classics, medical, food, U.K. content, cult classics, and horror.

#RadialEntertainment | IMDb
FACEBOOK | TIKTOK | INSTAGRAM | LINKED IN

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Radial Entertainment

Radial Entertainment is a newly formed global entertainment company, operating the FilmRise and Shout! Studios brands, backed by funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management. As a premier content distribution studio, Radial Entertainment boasts a diverse library of over 70,000 movies and episodes—making it one of the largest independent catalogs in the industry. The company delivers high-quality entertainment across all major consumer platforms, including FAST channels, AVOD, SVOD, TVOD, physical product, theatrical film and more. Its programming spans a wide range of genres, including true crime, reality, animation, action, westerns, award-winning titles, classics, medical, food, U.K. content, cult classics, and horror.

#RadialEntertainment
FACEBOOK | TIKTOK | INSTAGRAM | LINKED IN

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Radial Entertainment Press Releases

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STAR-STUDDED SPRING SURPRISE ‘LAND OF SOMETIMES’ PREMIERING APRIL 2026

Los Angeles, CA (March 16, 2026) – A magical new family adventure is ready to cast its spell. The Land of Sometimes arrives digitally on AppleTV, Google Play, Amazon Prime and Fandango At Home on April 7th ($14.99 to own,…

VOICEGIFT MAKES PRESENTS MORE PRECIOUS WITH YOUR VOCAL PRESENCE

Legacy Voice-Recorder Manufacturer VoiceGift Lets You Leave a Heartfelt Message to Make Any Gift Even More Special

Westport, CT (March 3, 2026) – “It’s so great to hear your voice!” How many times have we said that to a loved one through a call or zoom? We can’t always be together, and opportunities to communicate are becoming less and less frequent in a world that always demands our attention. Giving gifts in absentia can retain this cherished warmth like you never thought possible thanks to the efforts of VoiceGift®, expert manufacturers of voice recording devices for both consumer and business. VoiceGift is a new way to gift, helping friends and family add messages, memories and soundtracks to gifts, crafts, cards and packaging. Add some humor, a little help, or a whole lot of personality to the things you gift and cherish!

The founders of VoiceGift have major industry chops! When the now iconic Build-A-Bear brand was merely one store, VoiceGift/ Voice Express founder Geoffrey Stern set up a demo of a new voice recorder that had just been produced by his company to Build-A-Bear founder, Maxine Clark. The rest is history! Voice Express’ tech has helped bring over 60 million sounds to Build-A-Bear enthusiasts worldwide – truly a marvelous match for the toy history books!

VoiceGift now caters to the consumer and retail market with the goal of helping connect families and friends together through intuitive, easy-to-operate voice recording tools for ages 4-94. Their VoiceGift Tags ($13.00 each) resemble familiar tags you would find on a wrapped present, but with a crisp, clear voice recorder/player within! Whenever you wish to send an extra special gift from afar or offer meaningful context as the recipient opens their present, use this tag to record (and re-record) a message up to 60 seconds in length. This recorder’s fidelity is high enough to play voice, sound effects of music reliably and without worry of muffling. The acid-free paper on the outside of the tag offers two 3″ x 4.25″ sides to decorate as well! It’s mail-safe and can be played up to 300 times.

From behind-the-scenes beginnings introducing patented voice recording tech to iconic toy brands, VoiceGift has further refined their inventions to multiple uses. Look no further than Mini®-Me ($15.00), a small, circular voice recorder/player with limitless play potential. Record multiple messages into the Mini-Me, up to 60 seconds in total. The compact size and smooth rounded shape make it ideal for sewing into plush pals both homemade and store-bought (sewing skills sold separately!) Parents, grandparents or relatives can record messages of love, encouragement or soothing into Mini-Me, and whenever a kiddo squeezes their cuddly plush just right, their loved one’s voice will play!

Got a lot to say? You should check out VoiceGift PLAY® ($60.00)! Play is a remote-control size device versatile enough for many purposes; notes, directions, stories or narration, PLAY has you covered. Anyone who has been to an audio tour at a museum and entered a number associated with a picture or sculpture will feel right at home. Record up to 999 voice messages spanning up to 10 hours! To hear a given recording, just type in the number associated with the recording on the keypad. Got an extensive photo album? Write numbers next to each picture and record a story to contextualize each and every one, so friends and family can be immersed in your memories even more! Record and play back notes for yourself for personal projects to help stay organized and remind yourself of key information. Free up space in your journals and ensure PLAY lives with your photos and memories with the built-in book clip. Or simply fill Play with anecdotes and fun memories to listen to again and again – through the headphone port, if you prefer! This offering from VoiceGift truly lives up to its name! And for youngsters who are still getting a handle on numbers, there’s also Play for Kids ($60.00) which sports illustrated symbols on each button instead of numbers. Read and record up to 12 different stories/books spanning 2.5 hours of high-quality audio. Use the included stickers to label books and match each button on the PLAY, so kids know which button to press for which book. Kiddos can practice reading or be treated to storytime with Mom and Dad’s voices while staying over with grandparents, or vice-versa. With PLAY you can read a story to your favorite kid, even when you’re not there.

VoiceGift products can be found on https://voice.gift/ or on their Amazon storefront. Give gifts that keep on giving with the help of VoiceGift!

About VoiceGift

Since the year 2000, VoiceGift had the vision of making it easy for people to add a personal touch to their gifts, crafts, and memories. We offer a wide variety of recordable gift tags and voice boxes that are perfect for any occasion. Our voice is the best way to express ourselves. Whether you want to give a gift, capture a memory or a feeling, we want to help make every personal gift more personal. Because there’s no substitution for the voice of those closest to us or the music we love to listen to. Our suppliers are compliant with the International Council of Toy Industries (ICTI), CARE (Caring, Awareness, Responsible, Ethical) certification, or comparable designation. These programs promote ethical manufacturing, from fair labor treatment to employee health and safety, in the toy industry worldwide.

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VoiceGift

Since the year 2000, VoiceGift had the vision of making it easy for people to add a personal touch to their gifts, crafts, and memories. We offer a wide variety of recordable gift tags and voice boxes that are perfect for any occasion. Our voice is the best way to express ourselves. Whether you want to give a gift, capture a memory or a feeling, we want to help make every personal gift more personal. Because there’s no substitution for the voice of those closest to us or the music we love to listen to. Our suppliers are compliant with the International Council of Toy Industries (ICTI), CARE (Caring, Awareness, Responsible, Ethical) certification, or comparable designation. These programs promote ethical manufacturing, from fair labor treatment to employee health and safety, in the toy industry worldwide.

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Press Releases

VOICEGIFT HELPS MAKE MOTHER’S DAY EVEN MORE SPECIAL FOR BOTH MOM AND CHILD!

Give Moms the Most Treasured Gift of All: The Gift of Your Voice! Westport, CT (April 13, 2026) – If there’s one thing moms and grandmoms love more than anything else, it’s their children (and grandkids). Gifts can show that…

VOICEGIFT MAKES PRESENTS MORE PRECIOUS WITH YOUR VOCAL PRESENCE

Legacy Voice-Recorder Manufacturer VoiceGift Lets You Leave a Heartfelt Message to Make Any Gift Even More Special Westport, CT (March 3, 2026) – “It’s so great to hear your voice!” How many times have we said that to a loved…

DAM LLC HANDS OVER REINS TO BRIGHT STRIPES LLC TO DISTRIBUTE 4 EUROPEAN AND AUSTRALIAN SPECIALTY BRANDS EFFECTIVE SPRING 2026

(March 2, 2026) – Maryland-based DAM LLC and its parent company Belgium-based DAM bv are pleased to announce that they have secured an ideal new U.S. distribution partner for their finely-crafted and hard-to-find Australian and European specialty brands. Beginning in Spring 2026, Bright Stripes LLC, based in Bloomfield, NJ, will expand its portfolio to become the exclusive distributor in the United States for four brands under the agreement.

The four brands are Viking Toys, Sam & Julia, Wheely Bug and Find That Hippo.

Bright Stripes and DAM share a long-standing relationship dating back to 2019, when both companies launched in the U.S. market. Frequently exhibiting side by side at trade shows, they have also shared sales management resources, worked with identical nationwide rep groups, and operated logistics and customer service from the same fulfillment center.

The transition of distribution from DAM LLC to Bright Stripes LLC ensures continuity and a seamless experience for retailers, sales teams, and brand owners alike. The European brand owners of Viking Toys, Sam & Julia, and Find That Hippo, as well as the Australian brand Wheely Bug, fully endorse this transition while continuing their existing distribution partnership with DAM bv across several European markets.

With Bright Stripes LLC’s strong market reach, this partnership will expand access to these distinctive, beautifully designed brands throughout the United States and further strengthen the brands’ presence in the specialty retail market.

The Bright Stripes team is thrilled to welcome these lovely high-quality brands into their catalog as each embody the spirit of tactile, open-ended imaginative play. These brands will complement Bright Stripes’ top-notch innovative arts and crafts kits, and all parties share a value for screen-free fun for kids.

For more information about DAM LLC, visit www.dam-toys.com, email customerservice@dam-llc.com, or call 833-895-3853.

For more information about Bright Stripes LLC, visit https://brightstripes.co/
Email orders@brightstripes.co, or call 888-873-8551.

About Bright Stripes

After working in the Toy & Children’s Product world for over 25 years combined, Sabre Mrkva and Eric von Stein started their dream company, Bright Stripes, in 2018. With a shared love of all things craft and DIY, they believe in the power of creative play to empower kids to create the world they want to live in. Sabre brings her 15+ years of experience of nuts & bolts kids’ product development and a strong business analysis to every decision and design choice. Eric studied Toy Design at FIT in NYC, where he learned the ins and outs of industrial design, childhood development and toy concepts, and has been working in toys for the past 13 years. A true toy super pair! They excel at transforming inspiration into market-ready, eye-catching product packaged in dynamic, trend- right graphics. Equally important to the founders is their charity partner, Art Feeds. Art Feeds equips schools and children’s organizations in the US and around the globe with resources to create spaces where children’s creativity and expression thrive. For more information and to see what’s fresh and new, visit their delightfully colorful website at https://www.brightstripes.co/.

KIDS PREFERRED FEATURES NEW STAR WARS™ PRODUCTS AT TOY FAIR BOOTH 2927

Young Padawans (And Their Parents) Will Adore New Activity Toys & Snuggle Buddies Inspired by the Mandalorian, Chewbacca, Grogu & Ewoks

East Windsor, NJ (February 3, 2026) – Kids Preferred, a leading player in the toy and plush category for children and babies, is excited to attend Toy Fair this year at Booth #2927 and show off new products based on the galactic Star Wars™ brand, in collaboration with Disney Consumer Products. Stores will start stocking Ewok, Grogu, the Mandalorian and Chewbacca in loveable activity and stroller toys plus plush forms early this year.

Not just parents, but grandparents won’t be able to resist the dozens of Star Wars- themed characters created especially for the newest members of the household.

Take a peek at what Star Wars-inspired goodies to expect from Kids Preferred at this year’s Toy Fair:

Grogu Full Body On the Go Activity Toy – Ages 0+ | Size: 9” (11.25” including strap) – Start training your little ones in the ways of the Force early! Green buddy Grogu from The Mandalorian makes for an engaging companion for babies. The on-the-go Strap ensures he never gets lost, and Grogu has tons of play-based stimulus, including crinkly noises, ribbons, multiple surface textures to feel, and a teether. Coming soon to Amazon and Target.

Ewok Plush Cuddle Pals® – Ages 0+ | Size: 11” – This little guy may strike fear in the hearts of stormtroopers, but to everyone else he’s the friendliest of creatures! This adorable Ewok sports his orange tunic and ultra soft fur all over. Clean, precise embroidery decorates the friendly face to help babies feel at ease. Plus, who can resist those adorable ears? Coming soon to Amazon.

Chewbacca Plush Cuddle Pals® – Ages 0+ | Size: 11” – The biggest and fuzziest member of the Rebellion is rendered in adorable plushy goodness, featuring precise embroidery for his face and shoulder strap. Made from super soft materials on both the outside and inside, Chewy is just the right cuddle buddy to keep the Empire at bay. Coming soon to Amazon.

R2-D2 On the Go Sensory Toy – Ages 0+ | Size: 9” (12” including strap) – The iconic and plucky astromech droid features an on-the-go Strap, crinkle noises when squeezed, ribbons, soft and varied textures, plus a teether. Coming soon to Amazon.

Grogu Deluxe Soft Book – Ages 0+ | Size: 8” H x 6.5 W” (10” including strap) – It’s never too early to cultivate a love of books! This plushy soft book is beautifully illustrated with cute caricatures of Grogu (and a cameo from his travelling companion/ guardian!) Choice pages include playful pockets, plus crinkle noises, ribbons and an on-the-go strap for extra dimensions of play. Coming soon to Amazon and Target.

Millennium Falcon/Ewok Crinkle Toy – Ages 0+ | Size: 13” – It’s the most legendary ship in the galaxy, now in the form of a super soft activity toy! Join Han Solo and Chewbacca on the crew of this Rebel ship with fun peekaboo characters that peek out from play pockets. This version of the Millennium Falcon has everything from a teether corner to ribbons, crinkle sensory stimulus, and super cute, illustrated décor! Coming soon to Target store endcap.

C-3PO On the Go Activity Toy – Ages 0+ | Size: 9” (12” including strap) You won’t find a more polite protocol droid out there, so C-3PO is the ideal companion for your baby! With a shiny gold and softly textured exterior, C-3PO also holds with him his plush buddy R2-D2, a teether toy, and ribbons on the sides of his head for more textural discovery play. Coming soon to MarMaxx.

The Mandalorian & Grogu Cuteeze Plush – Ages 0+ | Size: 14” – the unlikely yet iconic duo Grogu and the Mandalorian are now Cuteeze plush friends! Stuffed with the softest filling, these adorably proportioned characters have velvety soft surfaces and ultra precise embroidered surface detail. They also have weighted bottoms so they can sit upright on their own, but side by side – as they should be! Coming soon to MarMaxx.

Darth Vader On the Go Sensory Toy -| Ages 0+ | Size: 8” (12” including strap) The Dark Lord of the Sith gets a cute makeover in soft blanket form, complete with bumpy teething corners, multiple soft textures to feel, and super detailed and clean embroidery for Vader’s mask features and an affirmational message to outshine all others –“Together we can rule the galaxy!” Coming soon to MarMaxx.

“Star Wars has a passionate, multigenerational base of loyal fans and Kids Preferred is excited to ‘unlock’ authentic and innovative infant toys to a brand-new generation of children,” Larry Presser, President and Chief Revenue Officer. “This is truly an exciting time for Kids Preferred. Not only do we deepen our close working relationship with Disney Consumer Products, but we also add one of the most beloved & timeless brands of the past almost 50 years to our dynamic licensed portfolio.”

To see this exciting and out-of-this-world selection plus much, much more, come by Kids Preferred’s booth at #2927 if you’re attending New York Toy Fair 2026!

About Kids Preferred®
Kids Preferred is a company completely dedicated to delivering the most meaningful products that create magic and memorable moments for babies and children. It successfully does this through deep knowledge and understanding of a child’s development, the importance of a well-crafted toy and the power of play. Parents, grandparents and retailers know that Kids Preferred is a trusted reliable source by offering the very best in product quality, customer service, merchandising and parent solutions based on insight. By creating unique and on trend “on” brands along with partnering with the very best in children’s literature and family entertainment, Kids Preferred designs and brings to life the products and characters that children and parents love. Discover more at kidspreferred.com.

STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © & TM Lucasfilm Ltd.

#kidspreferred | SHOP | Instagram | Facebook

BEVERLY HILLS TEDDY BEAR COMPANY UNVEILS FULL PLUSH & TREND PLATFORM AT TOY FAIR WITH WORLD’S SOFTEST PLUSH™, MUSH MEEZ™, SQUISH BERRIES™, SHIMMERS™, FLUFFEES™

Custom & Licensed Programs Will Also be Showcased Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Co. Will Show Plushies, Innovative Trends and Licensed Goods

Santa Clarita, CA (January 29, 2026) – Beverly Hills Teddy Bear (BHTB) Company will showcase its complete, multi-tier plush platform at its Toy Fair Booth 2565 in New York, highlighting a curated ecosystem of heritage plush, trend-driven brands and programs, custom development, and licensed programs designed to serve today’s fast-moving global retail environment. The full platform was already met with rave reviews by retailers at the Dallas, Atlanta, and Las Vegas Gift Markets early this year.

With decades of manufacturing expertise and proven retail execution, the company delivers a heritage of plush and trend solutions across specialty, mass, grocery, seasonal, and international channels.

Custom & Licensed Programs

Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company provides full-service plush development, including concept design, sampling, packaging systems, compliance, and global production. Licensed programs support entertainment and lifestyle brands with retail-ready collections and scalable packaging solutions.

“Our strategy is to be a plush and trend partner, not just a vendor,” said David Socha, president and founder of BHTB. “Whether it’s World’s Softest Plush™, a fast-moving trend line like the all-new Feathers or Shimmers lines, or innovative pop-culture products like MushMeez Taba Squishies, or a private-label or licensed program, we help retailers build profitable, scalable plush programs.”

Serving mass, specialty, grocery, and international retailers, the company combines trend insight, speed-to-market capabilities, and global sourcing to deliver programs that balance brand appeal and margin performance.

(Left to right: Shimmers, Feathers, Fluffees)

Beloved Brands, Softly Reimagined

The company’s licensed collections bring recognizable entertainment and lifestyle names into a world of premium plush, pairing faithful character design with signature softness and elevated presentation.

“Our vision is to make plush part of how people express care, joy, and personal style,” Socha said. “From World’s Softest Plush™ to the playful personality of Squish Berries™ and Chunka Dunkas™, every collection is designed to live beautifully in both homes and hearts.”

Compounding on the ASMR Trend

Leading with new products in the successful MushMeez Taba Squishies line, BHTB will roll out multiple lines in the compound category, meeting the demands of retailers who continue to see strong sales.

About Beverly Hills Teddy Bear

Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company stands at the forefront of innovation in the plush and trend manufacturing industry. For over three decades, some of the world’s leading companies have entrusted us to design, create, and manufacture products that captivate audiences worldwide. Since our inception in 1994, we’ve worked with major studios and corporations to bring their ideas to life. We’ve also taken strides in creating our own proprietary brands, which are now enjoyed in over 90 countries. BHTB continues to push boundaries with new, engaging and diverse products that bring joy to children and collectors alike.

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MAKE MUSIC COUNT EXCITED TO CREATE HARMONY WITH TOY FAIR 2026 ATTENDEES AT BOOTH #6439

Inventor and Entrepreneur Marcus Blackwell is Eager to Meet Fellow Attendees at Atlanta, Dallas and Las Vegas Gift Markets, as well as Toy Fair 2026

Atlanta, GA (January 28, 2026) – From grassroots beginnings in Atlanta educational facilities and community afterschool programs, Make Music Count – the incredible music-based STEM toy – is now making its debut at the Atlanta, Dallas and Las Vegas Gift Markets, as well as Toy Fair 2026 at Booth 6439. Inventor Marcus Blackwell is ecstatic to meet fellow industry professionals and have the chance to demonstrate the ingenuity of Make Music Count to a wider audience in the toy and retail sphere.

2025 was an auspicious year for Make Music Count! In addition to enlisting the help of KidStuff Public Relations, Marcus welcomed Founder & President of Product Counsel Robert Yusim into the fold to assist with the business on mass retail sales, school district sales and licensing opportunities. As a direct-to-consumer marketer with experience mentoring emergent businesses to success and getting entrepreneurial inventions off the launch pad, Robert’s expertise has helped take Make Music Count to new heights! The 2026 Gift Markets and Toy Fair is yet another steppingstone on the upward trajectory of the company.

On the subject of the partnership with Make Music Count, Robert remarked, “Make Music Count is magical! Transforming basic math calculations into music you can play is next level. It’s not a conventional play pattern, so our plan is to make the messaging very easy to understand – that will result in kids and adults being unable to resist playing Make Music Count!”

Marcus, elated with the progress made since working with Robert, commented, “Robert is incredibly knowledgeable and has a proven track record of guiding companies and brands like ZipString, Pixicade and many others to huge success. We look forward to experiencing similar success.”

The secret to Make Music Count is in its brilliant challenge and reward loop which teaches kids mathematics and keyboard technique at the same time. Have your child select a song that will be used to frame the math lesson. Make Music Count has over 1,500 popular songs, including tracks from chart-topping, contemporary artists, to classic musicians and hits from movies and TV. Kids will be challenged with a series of math problems, framed through the language of music. For example, the equation (F + ½ = ?) introduces kids to counting in half intervals, by viewing the piano as a number line. Starting from F, count a half interval (to the right) in the positive direction…which leads to the answer, F#! As they solve equations, kids collect notes until their reward is a lesson in how to play these notes in sequence from a section of their chosen song, all on the keyboard. Through this framing, Make Music Count has successfully demystified math for tons of otherwise arithmetic-avoidant youth from every grade level in schools across the country!

Families are sharing their excitement and love of Make Music Count. @GreenEclecticMama said in her Instagram review: I’m always looking for educational tools that are engaging and fun for home learning. If math has ever felt intimidating for your kids meet @_makemusiccount. It’s a groundbreaking way to turn math into music!

The Make Music Count keyboard and app turns math practice into playtime. There are 1,500+ songs and a built-in reward system that keeps kids excited to learn. So many artists are included like Blink 182, Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, Kendrick Lamar, and even movie soundtracks!

MAKE MUSIC COUNT EXCITED TO CREATE HARMONY WITH TOY FAIR 2026 ATTENDEES AT BOOTH #6439 - Inventor and Entrepreneur Marcus Blackwell is Eager to Meet Fellow Attendees at Atlanta, Dallas and Las Vegas Gift Markets, as well as Toy Fair 2026 — Review by @greeneclecticmama

Make Music Count is a brilliant way to help kids build confidence, stay engaged, and discover how math connects to real life. What I love most is how it transforms learning from something that feels like a chore into something kids look forward to. The app guides them step-by-step, and the reward is hearing the song they love come to life through their own playing.

When kids see how music and math work together, learning becomes exciting — not scary.

Make Music Count offers three core kits to help tailor a child’s experience to their proper math learning level. Each kit includes a 49-key keyboard and companion app, as well as workbooks that vary by kit. Helpful note stickers are also included to help label each key, so prior piano experience is not required!

The Math Maestro ($99.99) kit includes a keyboard, plus the Addition and Subtraction workbooks, the Ratio Rockstar ($129.99) kit throws in Multiplication and Division workbooks, and the Piano Prodigy ($149.99) kit combines all the former workbooks and adds in Fractions and Algebra 1! If you already have a keyboard or piano at home, don’t fret! Individual workbooks are also available for $19.99 each, and you can get started with the free Make Music Count app. A purchased subscription is also available which includes even more features, such as access to a backend data portal that tracks your children’s progress in the app. This includes songs played, time spent within the app, average math quiz score performance by subject, improvement data, and which songs drive the best results. Ideal for parents and homeschool families the optional subscription model is ideal for helping parents and educators stay informed on their children’s progress while using Make Music Count. Each subscription can support up to 4 children at once.

Learn about Make Music Count in advance by visiting the official website www.makemusiccount.com. Be sure to visit them at booth #6439 at New York Toy Fair, or the Winter Gift Markets in Atlanta, Dallas and Las Vegas to see a live demonstration!

ABOUT MAKE MUSIC COUNT

The mission of Make Music Count is to use creativity to allow every student to reach their full educational potential. We believe that every student should feel included during instruction and welcomed to the opportunity of being successful. Marcus Blackwell Jr has played the piano since the age of 5 studying classical, jazz, and gospel piano. He began playing professionally on the piano and organ for churches at the age of 14. However, in school he struggled in math due to intimidation. This was corrected once he saw that you need math to play the piano. This newfound confidence in his math abilities led to him receiving a B.S. in Mathematics from Morehouse College. He then invented and founded Make Music Count as a creative way to improve students math performance by playing songs on the piano. It’s the solution he wished he had growing up. Marcus believes that we need creative methods like Make Music Count to truly reach students early enough to see more students pursue STEM degrees in college.

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K2A BRANDS OFFERS A GLIMPSE OF UPCOMING 2026 WHIMSY AT TOY FAIR BOOTH #6742

Simi Valley, CA (February 11, 2026) – In order to keep up in the ever-shifting toy landscape, one must always keep their fingers on the pulse of culture but simultaneously keep a healthy dose of invention and creativity. Few can ride this delicate balance like K2A Brands, parent company of the beloved plush line Moosh-Moosh. Through close observation of trends, K2A Brands has brought highly successful plush brands to the retail market with expediency. The company is eager to exchange ideas and show off a sneak peek of their own 2026 offerings at New York Toy Fair Booth #6742.

Fans of Moosh-Moosh plush will be delighted to know, K2A Brands has new offerings blooming in Spring 2026. Moosh-Moosh Hatchlings ($14.99, Ages 8+) bring a fun new theme to Moosh-Moosh that’s ready to break off its shell. Just in time for Easter season, these springtime-themed plush offer stylized animals and super colorful patterns in equal measure. Hatchling pals are designed to look like they’re hatching out of decorated eggs, a sweet and colorful celebration of when nature blooms anew. Launch characters will include Dot the Ladybug, Vee the Bee, and Bitty the Bunny, all mascots of spring in their own right!

And when mother nature decides to turn up the heat, Moosh-Moosh has some companions planned that will help you stay cool in the pool. Moosh-Moosh Aqua Pool Plush ($14.99. Ages 8+) bring the familiar softness of Moosh-Moosh but crafted from water-safe materials. Both the interior and exterior materials are designed to withstand repeated and extended dunks into water, making them the perfect playmate for pool or bathtime. Nautical buddies Crush the Shark, Bubblegum the Narwhal and Elle the penguin will all be launching in Summer 2026!

No one can say that K2A Brands doesn’t have a sense of humor. A reinvention of a classic prank in plush form is just the kind of inspired thinking that makes toys fun and fresh. Tootz ($7.99, 7+) are just that – innocent at a glance but hiding a mischievous surprise within. Squeeze these soft and fuzzy critters and be “rewarded” with an unmistakable sound of flatulence! You’ve never seen whoopie cushions like these before. For a dose of more melodic sound, Qwackups ($9.99, 7+) have you covered. Cute and compact, Qwackups feature expressive faces and colorful detailing. Want to hear a birthday tune? Just give the little slice of birthday cake a squeeze and you’ll receive a music present. Qwackups aren’t just filled with plushy fluff, they’ve got tunes too! Watch for both Qwackups and Tootz in late Summer 2026, with seasonal-themed surprises in store for Holiday 2026.

Plush collectors are a discerning crowd; tactility and suppleness are not equal among all brands and manufacturers. K2A Brands knows this and thus offers plush people a premium quality experience in Teddyville ($24.99-$29.99) Teddyville offers plush pals made from sturdy, quality materials that will stand the test of time if given love and care. Featuring super-soft, fuzzy exteriors, clean embroidery for facial details and filled with beads for a soft feel, the luxury line Teddyville is sure to please plush perfectionists. Summer 2026 launch characters include Crumble the Capybara, Peanut the Pug, Corey the Corgi, and Bandit the Fox.

For the full fuzzy experience, come visit K2A Brands at booth #6742 this Toy Fair. For more information on operations, branding, distribution and more, visit https://K2ABrands.com/.

About K2A Brands

K2A Brands is the parent company of Moosh-Moosh. Based in Simi Valley, CA. It’s a dynamic company with over 40 years of experience delivering some of the most trending items on the market. With a keen eye on current trends, the company’s seasoned team swiftly turns insights into innovative, highly desired products. Balancing top-notch quality, creativity, and a deep understanding of consumer preferences, K2A Brands stands as a leader in bringing to life today’s most sought-after items.

BRIGHT STRIPES OFFERS CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION AT TOY FAIR BOOTH #6319

Bloomfield, NJ (January 9, 2026) – When it comes to arts and crafts toys, there’s stiff competition – and yet Bright Stripes has cemented itself as a true disruptor since their relatively recent launch in 2019. The company quickly made a positive impression with parents and kids with their incredibly distinct branding, high-quality kits and thoughtfully novel ideas, appropriately bringing creativity to the art toy/activity space. Now with retail success stories at giants like Nordstrom and Barnes & Noble under their belt, Bright Stripes’ latest and greatest selection of creative kits are not to be missed! The dream team of Sabre Mrkva and Eric von Stein are super excited to share their new innovations for 2026 with toy media and fellow industry professionals at Toy Fair Booth #6319!

For starters, Bright Stripes has a product that’s so exciting it rises off the page, literally. Enter Puffy Pages ($19.99 | Ages 4+) – color in any of the 18 sea animal pictures with the 6 included markers, then once you’re done, just add water! No, seriously; right before your eyes the colorful sea critter will puff up off the page and gain an extra dimension! Once your puffy pal is water activated, it has a soft and spongy texture that’s satisfying to hold. Add pipe cleaner antennae and tentacles to create your 3D characters and decorate the scenes with stickers and punchout shapes. Best of all, this robust set comes packaged in an activity book, complete with a handle to take it on the go. The activity book folds out into a free-standing display for further decorative play. Pack everything up in the fold-out zipper pouch for even easier organization and transport.

Watercolors demand a dedicated space and the potential for a bit of mess…or do they? Bright Stripes Watercolor Journals ($14.99 | Ages 6+) are built mindfully with particular attention paid to portability and organization, so you can practice painting on the go. Thick watercolor cakes are included inside the folding portfolio, which closes shut securely with magnets. Also included in this beautiful, all-in-one travel journal are a refillable water brush pen, a felt-tip pen, and 25 printed watercolor pages. The pages have beautifully illustrated images printed in a soft line so you can focus entirely on watercolor technique! New for 2026 are the Woodland Wildlife and Forest Fauna styles, featuring a mix of woodland creatures, flora, mushrooms, insects and more between the two. These sets are so beautiful and feel like moments of self-care when they are enjoyed—not just for kids, kidults and older will love them too!

Bright Stripes keeps a finger on the pulse of culture, and to prove it, they’re extending their line of crafty bag charm kits: DIY Chenille Cuties ($11.99 | Ages 8+). Inspired by the Korean Moru dolls trend made popular in recent years, these kits include extra thick pipe cleaners lined with super fluffy chenille material. Feel the softness before you buy through the special cutaway “try me” packaging. Bend and twist these extra fluffy chenille stems and add outfits and accessories specific to each themed kit. Show off your creations as you decorate your room, or hang them from your bag and turn heads wherever you go with your super cute accessory!

DIY Chenille Cuties ($11.99 | Ages 8+) - DUCKS — DIY Chenille Cuties ($11.99 | Ages 8+) – DUCKS

DIY Chenille Cuties ($11.99 | Ages 8+) - UNICORNS — DIY Chenille Cuties ($11.99 | Ages 8+) – UNICORNS

DIY Chenille Cuties ($11.99 | Ages 8+) - DOGS — DIY Chenille Cuties ($11.99 | Ages 8+) – DOGS

Thanks to the extra sturdy pipe cleaner wire, DIY Chenille cuties can be posed and played with again and again. The line is launching with 6 themes in 2026, including Ducks, Dogs, Unicorns and more to be revealed at Toy Fair!

Knitting can be a challenge for kiddos (and even adults who are freshly entering the hobby!) Thankfully, Bright Stripes is here to offer their delectable Snack Knit Kits ($11.99 | Ages 8+), beginner-friendly knitting kits that make learning the craft fun and easy! No complicated counting of stitches and mastering multiple knots; these characters are created by knitting simple rectangles and adding fun felt shapes.

BRIGHT STRIPES OFFERS CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION AT TOY FAIR BOOTH #6319 — Snack Knit Kits ($11.99 | Ages 8+) – Juicy Cutie apple juice box

Once complete, these neat, knitted friends are perfect for cuddling, or crafting into a fashionable bag charm that will get everyone asking where you got it. Take pride in responding “I made it!” New for 2026 and on display at Toy Fair are 3 new characters to launch in Spring 2026: Juicy Cutie apple juice box, Water-Melonie, and Toast-n-Jammy!

A timeless classic is back and reimagined with true Bright Stripes ingenuity! Splash*Tastic Wonderful Wings ($8.99 | Ages 3+), with two 2026 debut styles: Butterfly and Dragon. These bright and detailed activity books feature 5 pages of water-reveal fun. Load your refillable water brush and ‘paint’ over the white areas of the page to magically reveal a cornucopia of mesmerizing images. Once the entire page has been revealed, now you can play an “I spy” style game to find specific pictures amidst the colorful chaos! Look closely at the Butterfly patterns and find kittens, ice cream sundaes, toys, jewels and more. The Dragon wings have themes of fire, water, forest, treasures, knights and beyond. This activity is perfect for artsy travel fun thanks to the snap-in storage for the water brush and mess-free book structure for the pages.

All of this artistic excellence and more will be available to preview at the Bright Stripes Booth (#6319) at New York Toy Fair. Come by and see for yourself what the palpable personality of Bright Stripes!

About Bright Stripes

After working in the Toy & Children’s Product world for over 25 years combined, Sabre Mrkva and Eric von Stein started their dream company, Bright Stripes, in 2018. With a shared love of all things craft and DIY, they believe in the power of creative play to empower kids to create the world they want to live in. Sabre brings her 15+ years of experience of nuts & bolts kids’ product development and a strong business analysis to every decision and design choice. Eric studied Toy Design at FIT in NYC, where he learned the ins and outs of industrial design, childhood development and toy concepts, and has been working in toys for the past 13 years. A true toy super pair! They excel at transforming inspiration into market-ready, eye-catching product packaged in dynamic, trend- right graphics. Equally important to the founders is their charity partner, Art Feeds. Art Feeds equips schools and children’s organizations in the US and around the globe with resources to create spaces where children’s creativity and expression thrive. For more information and to see what’s fresh and new, visit their delightfully colorful website at https://www.brightstripes.co/.

Bright Stripes

After working in the Toy & Children’s Product world for over 25 years combined, Sabre Mrkva and Eric von Stein started their dream company, Bright Stripes, in 2018. With a shared love of all things craft and DIY, they believe in the power of creative play to empower kids to create the world they want to live in. Sabre brings her 15+ years of experience of nuts & bolts kids’ product development and a strong business analysis to every decision and design choice. Eric studied Toy Design at FIT in NYC, where he learned the ins and outs of industrial design, childhood development and toy concepts, and has been working in toys for the past 13 years. A true toy super pair! They excel at transforming inspiration into market-ready, eye-catching product packaged in dynamic, trend- right graphics. Equally important to the founders is their charity partner, Art Feeds. Art Feeds equips schools and children’s organizations in the US and around the globe with resources to create spaces where children’s creativity and expression thrive. For more information and to see what’s fresh and new, visit their delightfully colorful website at https://www.brightstripes.co/.

Press Releases

DAM LLC HANDS OVER REINS TO BRIGHT STRIPES LLC TO DISTRIBUTE 4 EUROPEAN AND AUSTRALIAN SPECIALTY BRANDS EFFECTIVE SPRING 2026

(March 2, 2026) – Maryland-based DAM LLC and its parent company Belgium-based DAM bv are pleased to announce that they have secured an ideal new U.S. distribution partner for their finely-crafted and hard-to-find Australian and European specialty brands. Beginning in…

BRIGHT STRIPES OFFERS CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION AT TOY FAIR BOOTH #6319

Bloomfield, NJ (January 9, 2026) – When it comes to arts and crafts toys, there’s stiff competition – and yet Bright Stripes has cemented itself as a true disruptor since their relatively recent launch in 2019. The company quickly made…

MISSION-FOCUSED COMPANY JASEY’S TOY CHEST EAGER TO MAKE TOY FAIR DEBUT AT BOOTH #6404

Westport, CT (January 5, 2026) – Toy manufacturers are first and foremost in the business of fun, no doubt about that. But the integrity found in a company with a guiding, core mission can’t be fabricated. See for evidence Jasey’s Toy Chest, founded and run by spouses of 35 years Brian and Lauren Bernstein. Together, they bring a lifetime of love, creativity, and resilience to this endeavor. Their family-led brand has a deeply personal pursuit: to honor their late son, Jason (“Jasey”) Bernstein, support youth mental health, and help other families find joy, resilience, and connection through play.

Launching in February 2026 with 47 products made from FSC^®-certified materials, Jasey’s Toy Chest offers beautifully designed developmental toys for children ages 1-5, including wooden puzzles, blocks, pretend play sets, and trains. With 89% of products priced under $30, Jasey’s makes quality developmental toys accessible to families while supporting a meaningful mission. Jasey’s toys are created in collaboration with Early Learning Centre (ELC), a trusted British preschool brand with over 50 years of heritage encouraging learning through play. The company will make its debut at Toy Fair 2026 in Booth #6404.

At Jasey’s Toy Chest, youth mental health advocacy is foundational – not a campaign. Jasey’s is honored to be The Kids Mental Health Foundation’s Corporate Collective partner in the preschool and early childhood toy category. Jasey’s Toy Chest is working with the clinical experts at The Kids Mental Health Foundation to develop play tools and resources that complement our toys. The company also partners with The Jed Foundation (JED) to protect emotional health and prevent suicide for teens and young adults nationwide.

“As a parent of two kids in the early childhood stage, I am beyond thrilled about the partnership between Jasey’s Toy Chest and The Kids Mental Health Foundation,” said Dr. Ariana Hoet, executive clinical director of The Kids Mental Health Foundation and pediatric psychologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. “Parenting can be overwhelming for parents and caregivers. We look forward to working with Jasey’s to provide educational resources that help turn play into moments of emotional growth and connection, which are so important to kids’ mental health. This partnership continues to help our mission to build a world where mental health is a vital part of every child’s upbringing.”

Brian brings over 21 years of toy industry leadership from Melissa & Doug, where he helped grow the company from a small family startup into a global brand and forged strategic partnerships with retailers across virtually every channel. Lauren, a classical piano teacher for over 30 years, brings a deep understanding of child development and lived experience navigating mental health challenges with her own family.

Jasey’s Toy Chest has developed a wide array of responsibly sourced, primarily wooden toys and wooden puzzles across key categories. Every product supports fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, problem-solving, or social-emotional learning through a screen-free experience.

Here is a sampling from each category:

Toddler Activity Toys: On-the-Go Wooden Workbench| Ages 12+ Months | $89.99| – Imagine an activity workbench that grows with your child! This awesome set is two toys in one: a sturdy walker for kiddos 12 months and older taking their first steps, and then when they’re 2+ years old, a standalone activity workbench! Each sturdy wooden tool has realistic functionality, from screwdrivers that fit into matching screws, to a functioning vise, hook-and-loop fabric for realistic sawing action and a real chalkboard surface. There’s even a clock face with movable hands to help teach children how to tell time. This 23-piece set contains so much play value: shape sorting, hammer tapping, gear turning, bead counting, pretend sawing — and best of all, tools store in color-coded holes, with a storage tray below for everything else.

Pretend Play: Wooden Sparkling Smile Dentist Kit | Ages 3+ | $29.99 | – Dental visits can be intimidating for little ones. Introduce the concept of oral care to children while taking the fear out of dentist visits with this play set! Each wooden dental tool features real functionality: the included dental mirror has an actual mirror, the syringe actually presses in, and the pretend toothpaste tube has a removable lid. Kids can practice extractions and cleanings using the wooden mouth base, which has 8 removable teeth, and the full set of wooden tools that includes a toothbrush, tongs, plaque scraper, and teeth cleaning diagram card. Featuring wooden components which are FSC^®-certified, this 11-piece set also includes a diagram card and a fabric carrying case designed for effortless portability!

Learning & Educational: 4-in-1 Learn & Play Pack | Ages 4+ | $19.99 | – If you’re looking for the perfect all-around prep toy to get your child ready for pre-school, look no further! This set includes four complete activities made of extra sturdy cardboard designed for repeat use that won’t bend: alphabet photo/word puzzle cards, a tie-your-shoe board, double-sided number and animal picture dominoes, and a teaching clock. Real-feeling shoelaces adorn a shoe-shaped board with hook-and-loop backing that fastens over a child’s shoe or sock, making this transferable life skill that much easier to learn. Use the double-sided dominoes to match colors, match objects, and as a counting tool! Real-life photos adorn these alphabet cards with objects that correspond to each letter, making them perfect for early readers. Store it all in a pizza-style box equipped with a rope handle for simple storage and gifting.

Cardboard Puzzles: Dinosaur Floor Puzzle | Ages 3+ | $16.99 | – This jumbo 48-piece puzzle is big, bright, and built for little hands. Pieces are extra-large, durable and chunky for easy gripping and long-time use. The fun extends learning beyond puzzle time with a dinosaur fact sheet, filled with illustrations that directly match the puzzle artwork. It shows where each dinosaur lived, what they ate, a fun fact, and phonetic pronunciation guides to help youngsters learn how to say those tricky names, all written at a 3-year-old level. Parents can feel the quality for themselves before they buy with a try-it-yourself puzzle piece looped on the carrying rope featured on the box. The completed puzzle is approximately 2 feet tall and 3 feet wide.

Wooden Puzzles: Wooden Shapes Easy-Grasp Peg Puzzle | Ages 18+ Months | $17.99 | – For those who are brand new to the very concept of puzzles, check out this peg puzzle fully designed for beginners! Chunky easy-grasp pegs support each shape, designed specifically for developing fine motor skills in toddlers. Each shape matches to a colorful and cute illustrated background: sun, clouds and rainbow (plus a hidden mirror under the triangle for a fun peek-a-boo surprise!). This bright and sturdy peg puzzle teaches four basic shapes: circle, square, triangle, star, all with labeled names.

Blocks, Building & Construction: Wooden Shape & Animal Blocks | Ages 12+ Months | $29.99 | – Take note: this is not your average block set – these blocks do things! This set of blocks incorporates a multi-sensory experience: different blocks have a rattle, a jingling bell, and colorful beads! This 15-piece set features unique pieces with adorable animal characters and patterns – decorated on every side. Squares, circles, triangles and arches – all blocks are chunky and easy to grasp for little hands. The variety of shape and sensory features encourages explorative and experimental play!

Trains & Vehicles: Animal Friends Wooden Stacking Train | Ages 12+ Months | $29.99 | – Animals and trains, what more could a kid want in their toy set? This classic toy train is reimagined with clever critter details! Cute animal characters and colorful patterns adorn this rolling toy train, setting it apart from the typical solid-color blocks most stacking trains offer. This 16-piece set includes 3 train cars and 13 colorful stacking blocks in a variety of shapes, featuring 3 adorable animal characters. These connectable cars have a safety-first design – the pegs that connect the cars are bendable and will flex rather than poke if a child were to fall on them. A built-in mirror on one of the train cars adds peek-a-boo fun. Connect the cars in any order and chug-a-chug-a forward with push-along play!

This is just a sampling of what will debut with the launch of Jasey’s Toy Chest! To learn more, visit them in-person at New York Toy Fair booth #6404 or visit https://www.jaseystoychest.com. On its website, the company will share helpful activities and ways to support a child’s emotional and mental health development, with content developed in partnership with KMHF experts. The family at Jasey’s Toy Chest is committed to helping families navigate their children’s early years with resources and support.

About Jasey’s Toy Chest

At Jasey’s Toy Chest, we believe in the power of magical moments – the kind that blossom through open-ended play, joyful learning, and heartfelt connection. This brand was created in loving memory of our son Jason (“Jasey”), who filled our home with creativity, adventure, and immense joy. His toy chest was a daily treasure hunt – every morning, he’d pull out blocks, puzzles, musical instruments, costumes, and dinosaurs, creating magical worlds of his own making. Our toys are a tribute to those memories and to the simple, magical moments that shape childhood. We’re also committed to supporting youth mental health – a cause deeply personal to our family. Drawing on decades of toy-industry experience, we craft toys designed to build skills, nurture confidence, encourage connection, and create lasting memories.

About The Kids Mental Health Foundation (KMHF)

The Kids Mental Health Foundation is the leading organization promoting mental health for children in the United States, committed to building a world where mental health is a vital part of the upbringing of every child. The Kids Mental Health Foundation’s mission is to provide free, expert-created resources so everyone can understand and promote mental health for children. It was created by Nationwide Children’s Hospital, home to one of the largest pediatric behavioral health departments in the country. kidsmentalhealthfoundation.org

About The Jed Foundation (JED)

JED is a nonprofit that protects emotional health and prevents suicide for our nation’s teens and young adults. We’re partnering with high schools, colleges, school districts, and youth-serving community-based organizations to strengthen their mental health, substance misuse, and suicide prevention programs and systems. We’re equipping teens and young adults with the skills and knowledge to help themselves and each other. We’re encouraging community awareness, understanding, and action for young adult mental health. jedfoundation.org

About Early Learning Centre (ELC)

Early Learning Centre (ELC), established in the UK in 1974, is a trusted early years toy specialist dedicated to inspiring learning through play. Acquired by TEAL Group Holdings in 2019, ELC toys have been proven and loved across the UK, Europe, North America, Australia, the Middle East and Asia. ELC products are created by Addo Play Ltd, the manufacturing company of TEAL Group Holdings and global expert in product development and sourcing. ELC.co.uk

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Jasey’s Toy Chest

At Jasey’s Toy Chest, we believe in the power of magical moments – the kind that blossom through open-ended play, joyful learning, and heartfelt connection. This brand was created in loving memory of our son Jason (“Jasey”), who filled our home with creativity, adventure, and immense joy. His toy chest was a daily treasure hunt – every morning, he’d pull out blocks, puzzles, musical instruments, costumes, and dinosaurs, creating magical worlds of his own making. Our toys are a tribute to those memories and to the simple, magical moments that shape childhood. We’re also committed to supporting youth mental health – a cause deeply personal to our family. Drawing on decades of toy-industry experience, we craft toys designed to build skills, nurture confidence, encourage connection, and create lasting memories.

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Press Releases

MEET JASEY’S TOY CHEST: FRESH, JOYFUL WOODEN TOYS BUILT WITH PURPOSE

Westport, CT (April 6, 2026) – What could be more important to a child than imaginative play? Modern toys are feature rich, no doubt – but sometimes bells and whistles can take center stage over fundamental design. Does it need…

MISSION-FOCUSED COMPANY JASEY’S TOY CHEST EAGER TO MAKE TOY FAIR DEBUT AT BOOTH #6404

Westport, CT (January 5, 2026) – Toy manufacturers are first and foremost in the business of fun, no doubt about that. But the integrity found in a company with a guiding, core mission can’t be fabricated. See for evidence Jasey’s…

EWA ECO-WOOD-ART BRINGS MECHANICAL MAGIC TO TOY FAIR 2026 AT BOOTH #6720

Pinsk, Belarus (December 15, 2025) – There are tons of toys both new and old that are made of wood, but we bet you’ve never seen anything like this before! EWA Eco-Wood-Art, a Belarus-based company which makes STEAM construction kits and mechanical models, is counting on it as they make their New York Toy Fair debut this year at Booth #6720. Founded in 2026 with the goal of creating unique, high-quality mechanical models from all-natural materials, EWA now has over 400 unique birch plywood 3D puzzles that range from beginner friendly to mind-bendingly complex, all of which reinforce STEAM skills like spatial awareness, engineering knowledge, and aptitude with complex directions/assembly!

Each EWA kit has satisfyingly thick birch plywood sheets with pieces laser pre-cut to precision, and building tools are packed inside the box, meaning you’re ready to start building immediately! Clear step-by-step instructions are included ensuring that even curious crafters new to the hobby will be able to keep up with the most seasoned puzzle or model masters. And from vehicles of all sorts, to nearly every animal you can imagine and beyond, EWA has a kit out there for everyone! Whether you’re introducing a teenager to the joys of model building, or a retired parent looking for a new hobby, EWA kits are the perfect entry point. Better yet, none require glue or specialized tools!

If you’re “feline” like getting a new wooden toy, we’ve got the “purr-fect” kit for you! EWA’s Kitten ($47.99) set comes in 236 pieces and looks positively precious when all put together. Paws, ears, tail and ears, every detail is carefully engineered to look the part. You’ll be delighted by how sophisticated the face is when built! And best of all, YOU build the clever spring and rubber band mechanism that lets you wind it up and watch it walk all on its own! Choose from either Kitten (bare wood), Black Kitten or Ginger Kitten!

But if you’re more of a dog person, fret not! There’s also a very “fetching’ Puppy ($44.99) set! At 220 pieces, this build is pleasantly complex, but with an intuitive and satisfyingly simple build! Engraved detail adorns each piece that illustrate your pristine new pet’s face, eyes, mouth and fur. Details like individual toes and a lightly protruding tongue provide even greater immersive detail for your wooden pooch. Turn the dial on the side to wind its internal spring mechanism and let it loose for a solo walk. No leash necessary!

Replicate the most broadly beloved reptile with EWA’s Turtle ($44.99) set! This 269 piece set features finely etched detail all over each piece, illustrating scaly skin, and a rough, ridged shell texture. The mesmerizingly segmented shell houses a rubber band-powered walking mechanism that you can wind up with the dial on its belly. Watch its mighty legs trudge forward with a distinct turtle gait!

The mighty Triceratops ($44.99) joins EWA 3D puzzles to bring a nice vintage to the animal selection. Crafted from exquisitely cut pieces, this 283 piece set comes together in a way that accentuates and mimics this massive creature’s powerful musculature. Triceratops’ distinctive head shape is faithfully depicted through a combinations of ingenious engineering and incredibly intricate etched detail. Scale and horn detail coalesce to make this a must-have display piece. Wind up the rubber band engine and let it stomp along, unstoppable as the original Cretaceous creature!

For such a technical toy, it makes a ton of sense to lean into the mechanical look! The 273-piece EWA Bike ($35.99) turns a classic tourist bike into gorgeous 3D-puzzle splendor. Complete with complex angles, diagonals and slick industrial design details, you’ll scarcely believe this beautiful bike is built from wooden pieces. Essential details are replicated with care, like headlights, a windshield, and even side panniers. As part of the breezy and enjoyable build, you’ll assemble a fully functional pull-back engine mechanism, for incredible zooming play-action once complete. Rubber band-reinforced suspension adds an even more immersive dimension to this fully birch bike! See also the 152 piece EWA Cruiser ($21.99) set for a more easygoing experience. Admire the visible engine and the aesthetic flourish of the mechanical frame. Just pull it back, let go and watch it cruise!

EWA ECO-WOOD-ART BRINGS MECHANICAL MAGIC TO TOY FAIR 2026 AT BOOTH #6720

Harvester FS80 Pro

Mini Dump Truck

Tractor

Up the vehicular ante by adding more mass, more wheels and more color! The Harvester FS80 Pro ($47.99) set comes with colorful wooden sheets so that your assembled mechanical masterpiece is a beautiful red and black farming machine. The 181 piece set features play features like a detachable cutter bar and a rotating silage line, plus exquisite printed and sculpted detail that makes it an unmistakable portrait of the real work vehicle. If orange is more your hue, consider the 144 piece Mini Dump Truck ($44.99)! The Mini Dump Truck set features a striking two-color design, rotating wheels and a lifting bed for added play value. It’s truly an excellent set for beginners to the hobby! For the ultimate challenge and resultant reward, seek the EWA Tractor ($71.99) set at 357 pieces. This delightfully detailed set has it all; opening doors, an opening hood, a 4-gear shift system and a realistic engine. This set is the perfect gift for your most meticulous puzzle and model building buddies.

EWA sets must be seen to be believed, so come visit them at Booth #6720 at Toy Fair or visit their website EWAEcoWoodArt.us for more information! Build mind-blowing wonders with Eco-Wood-Art!

About Eco-Wood-Art

EWA Eco-Wood-Art is a team of professionals with the shared idea to create fascinating STEAM construction kits of realistic mechanical models for self-assembling (without glue or specialized tools), made of natural, pure and safe materials. EWA Team works hard every day with high-quality materials and technology. We use creativity and inspiration to create new wooden construction kits, puzzles and interior items that ensure entertaining spare time, stylish view and safety for people of all ages. Learn more at https://ewaecowoodart.us.

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EWA Eco-Wood-Art

EWA Eco-Wood-Art is a team of professionals with the shared idea to create fascinating STEAM construction kits of realistic mechanical models for self-assembly (without glue or specialized tools), made of birch plywood. The EWA Team uses creativity and inspiration to create new wooden construction kits, puzzles and interior items that ensure entertaining spare time, stylish view and safety for people of all ages. Learn more at: EWAEcoWoodArt.us.

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Press Releases

ECO-WOOD-ART (EWA) INTRODUCES US MARKET TO THEIR MECHANICAL WOODEN MARVELS

Pinsk, Belarus (April 15, 2026) – There are tons of toys both new and old that are made of wood, but we bet you’ve never seen anything like this before! EWA Eco-Wood-Art, a Belarus-based company which makes STEAM construction kits…

EWA ECO-WOOD-ART BRINGS MECHANICAL MAGIC TO TOY FAIR 2026 AT BOOTH #6720

Pinsk, Belarus (December 15, 2025) – There are tons of toys both new and old that are made of wood, but we bet you’ve never seen anything like this before! EWA Eco-Wood-Art, a Belarus-based company which makes STEAM construction kits…

KIDS PREFERRED STRIKES KAIJU-SIZED LICENSING DEAL WITH TOHO INTERNATIONAL FOR GODZILLA LINE

The Industry Leaders in Licensed Plush Have Big Plans for Soft Toys Featuring the Main Monster from the Tokusatsu Pantheon: Godzilla!

East Windsor, NJ (December 9, 2025) – Kids Preferred is ecstatic to announce that they have struck an exciting new licensing agreement with Toho International for one of their biggest and most historic IPs: Godzilla, the King of the Monsters! This timeless icon of cinema is as relevant as ever, with a huge resurgence in popularity thanks to 2023’s Godzilla Minus One, 2024’s Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire and Apple TV’s Monarch: Legacy of Monsters. Followers of the gargantuan, global icon are also highly anticipating the newly announced Godzilla x Kong: Supernova, slated for release in theaters for 2027 and the upcoming Godzilla: Minus Zero. Needless to say, fans have Godzilla on the brain! Riding this wave of cultural interest, Kids Preferred is now planning to produce a line of stylized plush and assorted soft toys for launch in retail and online in Spring of 2026. Godzilla has had a long and storied career battling fellow kaiju, and thus Kids Preferred is designing these plush to appeal to collectors of any age!

Godzilla’s decades-long escapades have yielded a rogue’s gallery of both enemy and allied monsters, plus the gigantic monster himself has gone through several unique designs across the years. Starting with Godzilla in 1954, the enduring franchise had remained a powerhouse in pop culture well into the modern era. In fact, Godzilla’s rampage shows no signs of slowing down with the upcoming Godzilla x Kong: Supernova and Godzilla: Minus Zero highlighting the continuation of Godzilla’s modern box office appeal. With the expansive range of characters and lore, Kids Preferred is energized at the opportunity afforded to them through their agreement with Toho International to produce some truly epic plush toys. Kids Preferred is grateful and excited for the chance to work on such an in-demand IP, with fans all over the world and spanning across generations.

Larry Presser, President at Kid Preferred shared his thoughts on the new Toho International licensing deal, “Kids Preferred is thrilled to partner and collaborate with the Toho International team on Godzilla. We are excited to introduce a young, new fanbase into the exciting universe of Godzilla via our award-winning line of stylized soft toys.”

Kids Preferred’s new Godzilla soft toys and plush are planned for release online at their Amazon storefront and at select retailers in Spring of 2026. Very big things are in store from Kids Preferred in 2026, keep an eye out!

About Kids Preferred
Kids Preferred is a company completely dedicated to delivering the most meaningful products that create magic and memorable moments for babies and children. It successfully does this through deep knowledge and understanding of a child’s development, the importance of a well-crafted toy and the power of play. Parents, grandparents and retailers know that Kids Preferred is a trusted reliable source by offering the very best in product quality, customer service, merchandising and parent solutions based on insight. By creating unique and on trend “own” brands along with partnering with the very best in children’s literature and family entertainment, Kids Preferred designs and brings to life the products and characters that children and parents love. Discover more at kidspreferred.com.

#kidspreferred | SHOP | Instagram | Facebook

WORLD’S SOFTEST PLUSH WANTS TO SHARE THEIR LEGACY OF SOFTNESS WITH PLUSH ENTHUSIASTS OF ALL AGES

Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Co. Encourages Everyone to Enjoy Their World’s Softest Plush, from Kids to Adults and Everyone In be-Tween.

Santa Clarita, CA (November 13, 2025) – Try as you might, it’s impossible to think of a more timeless and quintessential companion than a plushie. The elegance lies in its surprising combination of simplicity and versatility. It can be a hugging buddy, a guardian to calm kiddos during bedtime, a playmate in the realm of imagination, or even a beautiful display piece for adults who are in touch with their inner child or who just need that moment of bliss while hugging the softest cutie pie ever. Well-treated plush can even cycle through companionship partners and achieve heirloom status for generations. Their appeal is broad as can be!

The design wizards at Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Co. are masters of the craft, and through their World’s Softest Plush line, they want to share the joy of plushie happiness with everyone. Crafted with exceptional high-density plush fur, World’s Softest Plush redefine softness and set a new standard in cuddly companions. True to the name, these plush will charm anyone in the world. A higher echelon of quality, World’s Softest Plush offer soul-soothing softness for any who crave it.

The judges at Mom’s Choice Awards agree that these plushies are the best of the best. World’s Softest Plush just won the Gold Award for excellence in design, feel and value. The plushies were also recognized by the PAL Awards, which said “The World’s Softest Plush Spots Piggy Lushee is an irresistibly cuddly companion and a comforting tool for sensory exploration, language development, and emotional growth. With its luxuriously soft texture and floppy, huggable body, this plush pig offers children a soothing sensory experience that can help promote calm, focus, and self-regulation.”

Each plush creation is infused with love, ready to become your trusted confidant. The irresistible softness beckons warm embraces, providing comfort like no other. World’s Softest Plush are toys built with quality in mind; they’re crafted to stand the test of time and offer a companion for a lifetime of memories. Embrace the comfort, variety, and style that World’s Softest Plush bring into your life – it’s a world of softness waiting to be explored. And whether you’re a kid, teen or kidult, World’s Softest will charm you like no other plush brand thanks to their especially dense fuzziness that’s as soft as a cloud. World’s Softest Plush show that true luxury is not loud, it’s soft.

World’s Softest Plus – Doggie

World’s Softest Plus – Karing Kitten

Portable plush make perfect pals on everyday adventures, and World’s Softest 10 Inch Plush are just the animals for the role! These smaller plushies make for the perfect, ultra-soft keepsakes. Experience the pinnacle of plushness on-the-go, a testament to innovation and comfort. Their smaller size makes them advantageous for packing in bags for trips or toting around town without too much bulk. They also feature weighted bottoms so they’re easy to sit and display on a shelf, desk or bed. And whether you’re a cat or a dog person, young or old, there’s a soft and fuzzy friend for you. Cats are known for being aloof, but Karing Kitten ($14.99) can give you all the attention you desire. The snowy white fur makes this brilliantly-coated friend as soothing as it is soft. Man’s best friend has been perfectly plush-ified too with Duds Doggie ($14.99)! With floppy ears and a distinguished spot over one eye, this dog would love to join you for a walk anytime.

World’s Softest 16 Inch Plush – Highlandee Cow

World’s Softest 16 Inch Plush – Tad Tiger

If you’re looking for a pal who can provide a particularly big hug, then World’s Softest 16 Inch Plush are for you. Taller and more striking in presence, these plushie friends have even more surface area with which to enjoy the softest feeling around. Softness is more than just a sensation – it’s a source of comfort and solace. It gives a sense of well-being and joy. Their bigger size ensures the 16 Inch Plush will add a huge source of coziness to any home. Crafted with care and with quality in mind, these plush can easily serve as cherished, tender heirlooms. Plush appreciators come in all stripes, which is something that Tad Tiger ($29.99) understands very well! Its fur is a beautiful russet hue and covered in iconic stripes, a look that makes a bold statement amongst your plush collection. Everything about Highlandee Cow ($29.99) is big. Big horns? Check. Big hair? Big love? Check! And most of all, he has a big heart, and a broad face that’s best for snuggling up and feeling the sheer bliss of World’s Softest Plush fur.

World’s Softest Plush – Spots Pig

World’s Softest Plush – Midnight Dragon

World’s Softest Plush – BriBri Bunny

This pig may be speckled but its track record for being a stellar friend is anything but spotty. Spots Pig ($29.99) has the most unique style around; brown spots, big ears for listening and an adorable snout that begs for a good *boop*. Of course, the Midnight Dragon ($29.99) needs no help reaching greater heights thanks to its velvety soft wings. Don’t let the dark and mysterious décor fool you, this dragon is a sweetheart. Purple accents adorn its horns, wings and tail, providing a rich and complementary color pop against the rich black fur, dark as the night sky. If you’re still stumped on a gift for someone on your list, you can’t go wrong with BriBri Bunny (29.99) . Blissfully lush & loppy & floppy & squishy ready for millions of hugs and memories, BriBri is sure to be your loved one’s new bestie.

With fresh styles unveiled every quarter, World’s Softest Plush’s enchanting collection spans a myriad of styles, featuring a diverse range of creatures from the animal kingdom, and a kaleidoscope of colors with an ever-expanding world of softness. To give these World’s Softest Plush friends and more a thorough look, visit https://plush.com/, Amazon or visit your local specialty toy store. Put them to the test yourself, World’s Softest Plush are designed for solace, crafted for bliss!

About Beverly Hills Teddy Bear

Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company stands at the forefront of innovation in the plush trend manufacturing industry. For over three decades, some of the world’s leading companies have entrusted us to design, create, and manufacture products that captivate audiences worldwide. Since our inception in 1994, we’ve worked with major studios and corporations to bring their ideas to life. We’ve also taken strides in creating our own proprietary brands, which are now enjoyed in over 90 countries. BHTB continues to push boundaries with new, engaging and diverse products that bring joy to children and collectors alike.

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MAKE MUSIC COUNT TEAMS UP WITH GLENDALE SCHOOLS TO DEMYSTIFY MATH FOR YOUNG MINDS

Atlanta, GA (September 18, 2025) – Who says math can’t be fun? Make Music Count, the innovative new STEM educational system created by Marcus Blackwell, will be used for teaching math in 16 elementary schools across Glendale, Cal. The Glendale school board recently approved the measure, and programming will begin in October of this year, shortly after the beginning of the academic year. Make Music Count is set to be utilized during extended learning time at participating schools and at after school enrichment spaces. With this new initiative across 16 additional schools, Make Music Count has now helped children overcome their fear of math in nearly 500 schools across the United States!

This is no trial run; the Glendale board decided to utilize Make Music Count in the 2025-2026 school year after a very fruitful pilot program over the summer, which included 6 of its schools. After tremendous success with increasing engagement and excitement from students in math, Glendale has now given the thumbs up to use Make Music Count in all 16 schools. Every day throughout the entire summer, participating students showed their excitement by sending new song suggestions that they wished to see incorporated into lessons through the Make Music Count app. Glendale educators loved the level of engagement demonstrated by their students and how the app even got historically math-averse students in their classes to actively participate and get excited about learning math in the unique Make Music Count way. This marks Make Music Count’s first foray into LA school districts and Marcus is hopeful that the impact his program is making will expand to more schools in the county of Glendale, and in the state of California at large!

Anyone familiar with Make Music Count understands the unique appeal and charm that causes kids to transform from ‘arithmetic averse’ to ‘mathematical masters!’ Through either guidebooks in Make Music Count’s Keyboard Bundles or the Make Music Count app, kids are given math problems to solve and work out notes on a keyboard. Once they’ve solved a series of problems, their reward is learning to play a section of their chosen song using the notes they figured out through math power. This brilliant positive reinforcement loop incentivizes mathematical improvement by providing an appealing goal. Soon, kids will be learning to play on the piano and overcoming their fear of math all at the same time!

Information about Make Music Count, official keyboard kits and the companion app can be found through the official website www.makemusiccount.com. Bring the STEM learning tool trusted by almost 500 schools nationwide to your home with Make Music Count!

ABOUT MAKE MUSIC COUNT

The mission of Make Music Count is to use creativity to allow every student to reach their full educational potential. We believe that every student should feel included during instruction and welcomed to the opportunity of being successful. Marcus Blackwell Jr has played the piano since the age of 5 studying classical, jazz, and gospel piano. He began playing professionally on the piano and organ for churches at the age of 14. However, in school he struggled in math due to intimidation. This was corrected once he saw that you need math to play the piano. This newfound confidence in his math abilities led to him receiving a B.S. in Mathematics from Morehouse College. He then invented and founded Make Music Count as a creative way to improve students math performance by playing songs on the piano. It’s the solution he wished he had growing up. Marcus believes that we need creative methods like Make Music Count to truly reach students early enough to see more students pursue STEM degrees in college.

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BEVERLY HILLS TEDDY BEAR CO. PROVES THEY’RE EXPERTS OF ‘SQUISH’ AS WELL AS ‘FUZZ’ WITH MUSHMEEZ

MushMeez Offer Dazzling Collectibles That You Can Squish, Squash, Stretch and Smush to Your Heart’s Content!

Santa Clarita, CA (August 27, 2025) – With a name like Beverly Hills Teddy Bear, you may not expect this toy company to be masters of the malleable, sorcerers of squish, and so on. But you know what assuming does! Say hello to MushMeez ($9.99), a “Taba squishy” style collectible toy where their delectable appearance is just as fun as their compelling texture. Take it from the experts: MushMeez’s sticky formula was rated #1 at New York Toy Fair 2025!

The debut patent-pending MushMeez line includes 6 scrumptious food-themed designs: Hot Dog, PB&J Sandwich, Hamburger, S’more, Cinnamon Bun and Donut! As good as these squishies look, don’t take a bite; this is a feast for the hands only!

The proprietary formula of MushMeez make it unbelievably soft and totally irresistible to squish! The material was carefully engineered by Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Co. to provide the best aspects of both slime and squishies. MushMeez bring the addictive tactile properties of slime with none of the mess, all contained within a perfectly squishy and stretchy object. The satisfyingly sticky texture may leave you worried that it will eventually attract dust and fade over time but worry not. MushMeez are super easy to clean! Some warm water and a little bit of soap is all you need to get your MushMeez back to brand-new condition!

Each MushMeez has multiple layers thanks to their thoughtful food-based designs, which makes them fun to handle even inside a plastic bag. Naturally, it’s even more fun when you take them out and get a hands-on experience. The sticky, squishy texture offers maximum malleability without the danger of permanently warping the main shape. MushMeez always bounce back to normal! Thanks to their sticky, slimy texture, it’s a ton of fun to disassemble your MushMeez and stick it right back together. You can even make a food abomination by collecting multiple to mix and match. Cinnamon Bun Burger? PB& J Hot Dog? Anything is possible with a very silly brand of creativity!

Taba squishes are totally in right now, simply take a look at social media to see the unmistakable trend! To capitalize on the wave, MushMeez bring the Taba squishy charm but stand out from the competition in a big way (and we do mean BIG). MushMeez are instantly recognizable for their jumbo size, offering an even more exciting and substantial sensory squish experience! 30% more mass to squish compared to competitors means an even more satisfying level of stretch and a more comprehensive slime experience. As mentioned, the multiple layers of each MushMeez offer a greater level of fidgety fun. Rearrange the ingredients in your burger or go glazed by remove the frosting on your donut. Speaking of, MushMeez also incorporate additional textural elements like “sesame seeds” or “sprinkles” which bring these special Taba squishies to a whole new level of sensory splendor.

Beverly Hills Teddy Bear has had success with other product lines outside its core plush products. For instance, Surprizamals and Butts on Things have also been extremely popular.

All of these innovations stem from the ambitious design philosophy of Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Co. They believe that if you’re going to try your hand at a toy, you need to make it exceptional in its category. David Socha, CEO of Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Co. places this virtue front and center. “We strive to always do things with the highest quality in mind at a price that can still hit the majority of consumers. For example, our World’s Softest Plush is arguably the highest quality, softest plush on the market at an affordable price. Same with our MushMeez; we are the gold standard of quality for Taba. This is the philosophy we try to take to everything we do.”

Keep your eyes out for MushMeez at your local brick and mortar specialty toy stores for $9.99 or on MushMeez.com and Amazon. Try out a Taba squishy toy with layers and layers of jumbo-sized fun with MushMeez! Follow them on TikTok or Instagram at @MushMeez to see all the fun!

About Beverly Hills Teddy Bear

Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company stands at the forefront of innovation in the plush toy manufacturing industry. For over three decades, some of the world’s leading companies have entrusted us to design, create, and manufacture products that captivate audiences worldwide. Since our inception in 1994 as a custom toy manufacturer, we’ve worked with major studios and corporations to bring their ideas to life. We’ve also taken strides in creating our own proprietary brands, which are now enjoyed in over 90 countries. BHTB continues to push boundaries with new and engaging stuffed animal toys, bringing joy to children and collectors alike.

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Beverly Hills Teddy Bear

Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company stands at the forefront of innovation in the plush toy manufacturing industry. For over three decades, some of the world’s leading companies have entrusted us to design, create, and manufacture products that captivate audiences worldwide. Since our inception in 1994 as a custom toy manufacturer, we’ve worked with major studios and corporations to bring their ideas to life. We’ve also taken strides in creating our own proprietary brands, which are now enjoyed in over 90 countries. BHTB continues to push boundaries with new and engaging stuffed animal toys, bringing joy to children and collectors alike.

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Press Releases

BEVERLY HILLS TEDDY BEAR IS A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR SOFT OR SQUISHY SENSORY DELIGHT

Santa Clarita, CA (April 14, 2026) – Aficionados of the soft and sublime, your search is over; Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Company is the destination for plushy and squishy play of all kinds! With legacy brands like World’s Softest Plush…

BEVERLY HILLS TEDDY BEAR COMPANY UNVEILS FULL PLUSH & TREND PLATFORM AT TOY FAIR WITH WORLD’S SOFTEST PLUSH™, MUSH MEEZ™, SQUISH BERRIES™, SHIMMERS™, FLUFFEES™

Custom & Licensed Programs Will Also be Showcased Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Co. Will Show Plushies, Innovative Trends and Licensed Goods Santa Clarita, CA (January 29, 2026) – Beverly Hills Teddy Bear (BHTB) Company will showcase its complete, multi-tier plush…

WORLD’S SOFTEST PLUSH WANTS TO SHARE THEIR LEGACY OF SOFTNESS WITH PLUSH ENTHUSIASTS OF ALL AGES

Beverly Hills Teddy Bear Co. Encourages Everyone to Enjoy Their World’s Softest Plush, from Kids to Adults and Everyone In be-Tween. Santa Clarita, CA (November 13, 2025) – Try as you might, it’s impossible to think of a more timeless…

BEVERLY HILLS TEDDY BEAR CO. PROVES THEY’RE EXPERTS OF ‘SQUISH’ AS WELL AS ‘FUZZ’ WITH MUSHMEEZ

MushMeez Offer Dazzling Collectibles That You Can Squish, Squash, Stretch and Smush to Your Heart’s Content! Santa Clarita, CA (August 27, 2025) – With a name like Beverly Hills Teddy Bear, you may not expect this toy company to be…

MAKE MUSIC COUNT: THE BEST WAY TO MAKE MATH LESSONS MUSIC TO CHILDREN’S EARS

The Make Music Count App and Keyboard Kits Demystify Math and Frame it in a Fun and Relevant Cultural Context

Atlanta, GA (July 10, 2025) – Math! The scariest school subject for many kids, but a critical one to understand. Some children would do anything to avoid math class, and it’s no wonder. In many public schools, a one-size-fits-all approach to teaching math, based on repetition, lectures and sheer memorization fails to connect with so many kids. We all have our own aptitudes, learning styles and cultural backgrounds which make this approach ineffective at de-mystifying math, let alone teaching it. It can be even more challenging for kids dealing with learning disabilities like developmental dyscalculia. That’s where Make Music Count comes in!

Like its tagline “Math Made Fun, Music Made Easy” says, this innovative method of mathematic mastery uses the language of math to simultaneously teach kids how to play the keyboard. Through an ingenious reward system delivered through a keyboard and a companion app, kids will become less intimidated by math, while also flexing their music muscles at the same time!

Hand kids a Make Music Count keyboard and challenge them to answer various musical problems using the companion app. First, select the song your child wants to learn. Make Music Count has a robust list of over 1,500 popular songs, from chart-topping artists like Kendrick Lamar, Taylor Swift and Beyonce, to classic artists and even tunes from television and movies. Once you’ve selected a song, the app will guide your child through a series of math puzzles to solve for the notes of their chosen song. For example, (F + ½ = ?) introduces kids to counting in half intervals, by viewing the piano as a number line. Starting from F, count a half interval (to the right) in the positive direction…which leads to the answer, F#! Once they’ve solved the remaining equations, their reward is getting to play those musical note answers of the song on the keyboard. This brilliant, positive reward loop draws kids in by tying math together with a tangible interest like music. Framing math in a practical and fun way shows kids how easy it can be to learn, especially when the standard classroom approach is alienating for them.

Make Music Count inventor Marcus Blackwell didn’t just recognize the problem of math-phobia in kids apropos of nothing; he lived it as a young man! As a 5-year-old boy with an exceptional interest in music, Blackwell quickly learned that math is necessary to become a skilled pianist, and thus he resolved to work through his fear of mathematics. Not only did he overcome his fear of math, he channeled his newfound confidence and went on to absolutely excel at it, earning a B.S. in Mathematics from Morehouse College. As it turned out, Blackwell had an aptitude for numbers the whole time! But what made the difference between math being intimidating and math being his primary degree focus? Interest! Music and math are inexorably linked, both informing the other. Taking math out of a vacuum and applying it in a practical and fun way was all it took. This got Blackwell to thinking, if this worked for him, why couldn’t it work for other kids? In 2013, Make Music Count was born!

From its beginnings in community service, Make Music Count evolved into an in-person after school and summer enrichment program that has helped over 500 schools across 12 years in operation. The Make Music Count app launched in 2018 and the rest is history! This app acts as a supplementary resource for school districts to use in math and music classes, but parents and kids can also use it privately in their own homes. Combined with its app, the award-winning Make Music Count blends the power of music with learning, helping students from 2nd to 12th grade build math confidence through its unique, STEAM-aligned math curriculum, and interactive product kits. Make Music Count transforms equations into musical notes so students can play popular songs on the piano while improving their math skills. Featured on CNN, TechCrunch, and TNT’s The Game Plan with Shaquille O’Neal, Make Music Count is striking a chord with educators, families, students and homeschool households nationwide.

Make Music Count offers three primary kits to give kids the opportunity to thrive with math and music. Every kit includes a 49-key keyboard and companion app, with each kit coming with different workbooks. No piano or keyboard experience is needed; each kit includes helpful stickers to put on the keyboard’s keys to provide visual cues for beginners. Math Maestro ($99.99) includes Addition and Subtraction workbooks, Ratio Rockstar ($129.99) adds in Multiplication and Division, and Piano Prodigy ($149.99) includes all the former workbooks plus Fractions and Algebra 1! Individual workbooks are also available for $19.99 each. The Make Music count app can be used entirely for free, but even more features are available with a purchased subscription. This subscription gives adult users access to a backend data portal that tracks their children’s progress in the app. This includes songs played, time spent within the app, average math quiz score performance by subject, improvement data, and which songs drive the best results. Designed for parents and homeschool families, this subscription and tool helps you stay informed and engaged in your child’s learning. Each subscription supports up to 4 children.

More information on Make Music Count and the official keyboard kits can be found through the official website www.makemusiccount.com. Help eliminate your child’s math-phobia with Make Music Count!

ABOUT MAKE MUSIC COUNT

The mission of Make Music Count is to use creativity to allow every student to reach their full educational potential. We believe that every student should feel included during instruction and welcomed to the opportunity of being successful. Marcus Blackwell Jr has played the piano since the age of 5 studying classical, jazz, and gospel piano. He began playing professionally on the piano and organ for churches at the age of 14. However, in school he struggled in math due to intimidation. This was corrected once he saw that you need math to play the piano. This newfound confidence in his math abilities led to him receiving a B.S. in Mathematics from Morehouse College. He then invented and founded Make Music Count as a creative way to improve students math performance by playing songs on the piano. It’s the solution he wished he had growing up. Marcus believes that we need creative methods like Make Music Count to truly reach students early enough to see more students pursue STEM degrees in college.

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Make Music Count

MakeMusicCount.com

The award-winning Make Music Count blends the power of music with learning, helping students from 2nd to 12th grade build math confidence through its unique, STEAM-aligned math curriculum, app, and interactive product kits. Founded in 2013 by professional pianist Marcus Blackwell, Make Music Count transforms equations into musical notes so students can play popular songs on the piano while improving their math skills. Featured on CNN, TechCrunch, and TNT’s The Game Plan with Shaquille O’Neal, Make Music Count is striking a chord with educators, families, and students nationwide. Learn more at www.makemusiccount.com.

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Press Releases

MAKE MUSIC COUNT EXCITED TO CREATE HARMONY WITH TOY FAIR 2026 ATTENDEES AT BOOTH #6439

Inventor and Entrepreneur Marcus Blackwell is Eager to Meet Fellow Attendees at Atlanta, Dallas and Las Vegas Gift Markets, as well as Toy Fair 2026 Atlanta, GA (January 28, 2026) – From grassroots beginnings in Atlanta educational facilities and community…

MAKE MUSIC COUNT TEAMS UP WITH GLENDALE SCHOOLS TO DEMYSTIFY MATH FOR YOUNG MINDS

Atlanta, GA (September 18, 2025) – Who says math can’t be fun? Make Music Count, the innovative new STEM educational system created by Marcus Blackwell, will be used for teaching math in 16 elementary schools across Glendale, Cal. The Glendale…

MAKE MUSIC COUNT: THE BEST WAY TO MAKE MATH LESSONS MUSIC TO CHILDREN’S EARS

The Make Music Count App and Keyboard Kits Demystify Math and Frame it in a Fun and Relevant Cultural Context Atlanta, GA (July 10, 2025) – Math! The scariest school subject for many kids, but a critical one to understand.…