In time for the most critical shopping days of the year, The Toy Foundation (TTF) announced Squishmallows from Jazwares has been named the winner of both the “Toy of the Year” and the “People’s Choice” awards, as part of the 23rd edition of the Toy of the Year (TOTY) Awards & Celebration. TTF previously recognized the creativity of the toy industry and awarded 18 winners across 17 categories of play during a TOTY Awards ceremony on September 20 in Dallas, TX. Squishmallows was previously named “Plush Toy of the Year” and “License of the Year” during the celebration.

The 18 awarded toys and games represent the most innovative playthings on store shelves and must-have products for children and adults alike. From action figures to playsets and STEAM toys, there is a toy for everyone as peak holiday shopping commences this week.

The TOTY Awards profiled TTF’s key programs – Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Children’s Hospital Play Grants, and The Toy Bank – alongside its impact partners for attendees to see first-hand the effect of their collective philanthropy. In 2022, TTF has sponsored a diverse group of interns as they explore careers in toy; funded play-based therapies for 175,000 pediatric patients; and provided $4 million in relief to children and families in Ukraine, all thanks to the industry’s yearlong generosity.

All event proceeds benefitted TTF, making every company and individual who submitted a nomination, attended the awards, or made an onsite donation a vital supporter.