When it comes to toys, most people think of LEGO sets, teddy bears, or remote-control cars. But in 2025, savvy parents are thinking differently. They’re seeking out toys that offer more than just a few hours of entertainment—things that build skills, spark imagination, and even support emotional growth.
That’s where Hamleys comes in—not just as the world’s most iconic toy store, but as a trendsetter quietly filling shelves with unexpected, enriching, and refreshingly modern toys that speak to the needs of today’s families.
Let’s take a look at the products that are actually making waves with parents this year—no hype, just substance.
1. Calm-Down Corners: The Rise of Emotional Wellness Toys
Helping kids process big feelings is more important than ever—and now it’s easier to do with dedicated calm-down toys. At Hamleys, parents are turning to plush weighted lizards, calming jars, emotion flashcards, and guided breathing toys. These tools make emotional learning tangible and age-appropriate.
Why it matters:
- Supports self-soothing and empathy
- Great for neurodiverse children
- Builds emotional vocabulary through play
2. Story Projectors That Turn Bedtime into a Show
Bedtime routines are getting a glow-up. One of the coolest products this year? Storytelling projectors. They project classic tales or custom family stories onto the ceiling while playing soft narration and sound effects.
Benefits include:
- Replaces overstimulating screen time
- Encourages imagination before sleep
- Easy for parents to use during wind-down
You’ll find some of the best-reviewed options available through Hamleys, with interchangeable story discs and nightlight features built-in.
3. Crystal Growing Kits & Home Science Labs
Forget bulky chemistry sets—this year’s science toys are clean, compact, and visually stunning. Crystal growing kits, DIY volcanoes, slime labs, and magnetic reaction sets are all trending as kids lean into hands-on learning.
These toys help:
- Reinforce classroom learning through fun
- Encourage curiosity in STEM subjects
- Build patience and observational skills
Expect kits that are mess-friendly and designed for home setups.
4. The Return of Build-It-Yourself Play Furniture
Here’s a 2025 surprise hit: modular play furniture that kids can build, climb, hide in, and reconfigure themselves. Think giant foam blocks, fort-building kits, and puzzle-piece mats that form chairs or tunnels.
Top features:
- Supports gross motor skills
- Encourages independent creative play
- Folds down easily for small spaces
Hamleys has stocked several imaginative play furniture kits that double as interior decor and functional toys.
5. Real-Feel Tool Sets for Young Builders
Today’s kids want authenticity. Toy tool sets are no longer plastic pretend versions—many now include soft-grip child-safe hammers, battery-operated screwdrivers, and even working tape measures. They give little builders a real sense of contribution and skill.
Why they’re trending:
- Sparks interest in DIY and problem-solving
- Great bonding activity for parent-child projects
- Ideal gift idea for hands-on learners
Browse Hamleys for beautifully packaged tool kits, workbenches, and even mini construction hats.
Why This Shift Matters
These trending toys don’t just entertain—they equip. They meet kids where they are emotionally, physically, and developmentally. In 2025, it’s clear that parents want more thoughtful toy choices—products that evolve with their children and add real value to playtime.
And that’s what makes Hamleys such a trusted name in UK households. Their collection goes far beyond the expected, constantly updating with toys that reflect the way families live, learn, and grow today.
Playtime Is Evolving—Are You?
The best toys aren’t always the loudest or flashiest—they’re the ones that connect with kids on a deeper level. Whether that’s helping them self-regulate, create something new, or imagine entire worlds, play is still how children grow best.
Thanks to curated, thoughtful collections from Hamleys, UK parents now have easier access to toys that do more than sit on shelves—they spark change, joy, and growth at every age.
