Calling all future toy critics! The hunt is on for a team of Mini Toy Testers to put the UK’s most sought-after Christmas toys through their paces before they appear on wish lists across the country.
The Toy Retailers Association is recruiting eight children from across the UK to become official Mini Toy Testers, giving them exclusive early access to toys tipped to be among this year’s biggest festive hits as part of the coveted DreamToys list.
Successful applicants will unbox, play with and review toys from the industry’s leading brands, sharing their honest verdicts to help identify the stand-out stars of Christmas 2026. Better still, each Mini Toy Tester will be paid in toys – receiving all fifteen of the toys they test as a reward for their hard-earned judging, and just in time for Christmas.
The DreamToys list is the UK’s most authoritative prediction of the most desirable new toys on the high street and is selected by a panel of independent toy retailers and experts from small independents to national chains.
Applications are open for children aged 3-12 and parents or guardians can apply on their child’s behalf via the online form at www.toyretailersassociation.co.uk/mini-toy-testers before midnight on Saturday 17 October.
Paul Reader, Chairman of the DreamToys Selection Panel at the Toy Retailers Association, said: “Each year, the DreamToys list shines a spotlight on the toys that are set to capture children’s imaginations and become the must-have gifts at Christmas.
“After the incredible response to last year’s search for our Mini Toy Testers, we couldn’t wait to bring it back. Children are the ultimate toy experts, they’re honest, imaginative and know exactly what makes a toy fun, exciting and worthy of a place on their Christmas wish list.
“We look forward to welcoming this year’s panel of Mini Toy Testers to put the toys through their paces and help us spread the word about the most exciting new products to hit the shelves this Christmas.”
For more information, or to apply on behalf of a child, parents or guardians can visit www.toyretailersassociation.co.uk/mini-toy-testers. T&Cs apply.
