Global Toy News Insight
Ted Kangaroo’s Sideways Rocker earning a USA TODAY Editor’s Picks: Best Toys & Games Award for 2026 highlights an opportunity for the toy industry: products that combine playfulness, sensory support, and functional design. Developed with input from clinicians, the patent-pending rocker uses gentle side-to-side movement to provide calming sensory input for children. Its recognition demonstrates how products designed around children’s developmental and sensory needs can compete alongside traditional toys, expanding the definition of what makes a successful play product.
For toy manufacturers, inventors, and retailers, this recognition reinforces the business potential of inclusive, purpose-driven product development. By incorporating sensory-friendly features, collaborating with pediatric specialists, and designing products that serve multiple environments, including homes, classrooms, and therapy spaces, companies can reach audiences beyond traditional toy shoppers. Ted Kangaroo’s success also illustrates how combining thoughtful aesthetics with practical benefits can help differentiate products in a competitive marketplace, creating opportunities for innovation in the growing intersection of play, wellness, and child development.
Patent-pending Sensory Support Chair Recognized for Making a Meaningful Difference for Children
CHICAGO, Nov. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Ted Kangaroo, the sensory support brand known for creating premium but playful, functional tools that help children regulate, focus and thrive, is a winner of USA TODAY’s Editor’s Picks: Best Toys & Games Award in the Best Toddler Toys of 2026 category for its patent-pending Ted Kangaroo Sideways Rocker.
The Sideways Rocker is a one-of-a-kind toy that integrates lateral movement in a supportive, contained seat, allowing children to experience calming vestibular input through gentle, side-to-side motion. Developed through consultation with clinicians, the rocker is a beautifully designed sensory chair that fits into any home, classroom or clinic, providing a plush, inviting space for children to feel secure and grounded.
The USA TODAY Editor’s Picks: Best Toys & Games Award 2026 recognizes outstanding toys, games and play experiences that deliver exceptional quality, innovation, creativity and lasting play value.
“Not every award-worthy product is designed for play. Some are designed to help kids feel comfortable, calm and supported in their own bodies,” said USA TODAY Award editors in their review of the Sideways Rocker. “Designed with sensory-seeking children in mind, including those with autism, ADHD and sensory processing differences, it offers a safe place to rock, reset, focus or simply take a break when the world feels overwhelming. Lightweight enough to move between bedrooms, classrooms and therapy spaces, it’s the kind of product that can make a meaningful difference in a child’s daily routine.”
“We’re thrilled to see the Sideways Rocker awarded Best Toy of 2026,” said Jacob Fisch, CEO of Ted Kangaroo. “While our products are useful tools for clinicians, educators and parents supporting children’s sensory needs, our mission is to turn complex sensory science into joyful and fun everyday experiences that help children feel grounded and capable.”
Learn more and shop Ted Kangaroo sensory support rockers, seats, vests and more online at www.ted-kangaroo.com.
ABOUT TED KANGAROO
Ted Kangaroo is a sensory-support brand creating playful, functional tools that help nurture and support children so they can reach their full potential. Developed in collaboration with pediatric therapists, Ted Kangaroo products translate sensory science into accessible, everyday solutions for families, educators, and clinicians. From calming vests to tactile activity tools, each product blends gentle therapeutic support with joyful design—encouraging calmness, focus, and body awareness. More than a product line, Ted Kangaroo is a trusted partner in helping children build essential skills, navigate daily routines, and grow with confidence. Learn more at ted-kangaroo.com.
