Dynamic multisensory experiences encourage inquisitive exploration and positive play. Colour-coded problem-solving toys and games boost cognitive processes, while intriguing tactile surfaces build babies’ fine motor skills. Also, see Reinvigorating Sensory Engagement in our Look Ahead 2025.

Architects and designers are creating modern modular kids’ spaces that act as blank canvases, featuring wooden shapes that slot together, portable partitions and adaptable zoning. It’s all about extending usability, promoting frugality and devising beautiful long-lasting products that grow and adapt with children while telling a story.

While plastics are often demonised, high-quality non-toxic silicone offers potential for biomimetic breastfeeding accessories and mould-free messy play toys. Plastic waste finds new life as furniture, melded into delightfully irregular terrazzo surfaces, whereas thermoplastics show promise in medical settings.

As explored in our A/W 26/27 Direction Pivot, sport’s bold visual language inspires CMF applications across fashion, lifestyle, interiors and outdoor spaces. Pattern comes courtesy of vibrant colour-blocking, go-faster stripes and graphic shapes, while durable performance fabrics update kids’ toys and accessories.

The growing demand for sensory-friendly kids’ clothing is driving an uptake of natural, breathable fabrics and non-itchy labels. Sustainable wool and sheepskin offer year-round comfort for babies, while 3D knitting technology provides potential for zero-waste circular textile manufacturing.

Designer collaborations are shaking up the baby and kids’ market, offering sophisticated colour palettes, edgy prints and luxury materials, such as leather, Merino wool and jacquard. Trends in mini-me styling and kidult collectables mean parents and children are dressing more alike, creating opportunities for character-licensing prints.

Brands are helping parents prolong smartphone-free childhoods with colourful, retro-leaning landline phones and pagers and sustainable STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) kits that promote hands-on learning. Magnetic boards and devices help neurodivergent kids communicate, while smart haptic devices offer reassuring companionship.

Museums, brands and local initiatives are teaching kids to get creative with waste, forming art supplies and toys from food scraps and upcycling clothing. Regenerative systems and rental subscriptions for high-ticket items, such as performance outerwear and baby strollers, are gaining momentum.

With children’s screen time at an all-time high, outdoor play is crucial for improving physical and emotional wellbeing. Intriguing interactive play sculptures, audiovisual creative projects and nature-positive illustrated books foster an affinity for the great outdoors.