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What’s Trending in the Toy Box? The Toy Insider™ Experts Dish on What’s Hot to Help Holiday Shoppers Find Toys Sure to “Wow” Kids and Kidults

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A Barbie-fueled doll craze, toys inspiring future chefs and makers, parent-approved pets and active toys, plushies in all shapes and sizes, plus toys and games made for adults, all on trend 

 NEW YORK /PRNewswire/ —The Toy Insider, the toy industry’s most influential organization and a trusted go-to resource for parents and gift-givers, revealed the top toy trends of 2023 and expert toy picks from each trend for effortless holiday shopping. As inflation persists in toy aisles this holiday season, consumers should prepare to add a couple more dollars to their budget and shop early to find trending toys at the best price.


The Toy Insider revealed the top toy trends of 2023 and expert toy picks from each trend for effortless holiday shopping.

“This year’s trending toys are filled with thoughtful and fun innovations, giving everyone the chance to revel in the joy of play, whether you’re a kid or kid at heart,” says Marissa Silva, Co-Editor-in-Chief, The Toy Insider. “We’re seeing trusted classics—dolls, stuffed animals, active toys and activity kits—undergo a modern-day renaissance for today’s kids. More options are tapping into kids’ love of food and pets. Plus, a rapidly growing assortment of options for adults proves grown-ups just want to have fun, too!”

Shoppers can choose from a wide range of trending toys, with something for every budget, using The Toy Insider’s 18th annual Holiday Gift Guide. Broken down by age, the guide has more than 360 toys from 135 vetted toymakers, with direct links to multiple retailers for an easy toy shopping experience. 

The Toy Insider’s Top Toy Trends of 2023:  

Hello, Dolly!: Thanks in large part to Barbie: The Movie, the doll aisle is busier than ever! These classic toys promote social skills, inspire imaginations, and spark creativity.

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: Barbie Dreamhouse Playset (Mattel), Cry Babies Newborn (IMC Toys), Disney ily 4EVER Fashion Dolls (JAKKS Pacific), Fidgie Friends Fairie Garden (Sunny Days Entertainment), Glitter Girls Gia & Gypsy (Glitter Girls), Hugs & Giggles (Madame Alexander), Latinistas Fashion Dolls (Purpose Toys), Rainbow High Color & Create (MGA Entertainment), Style Bae (Just Play), The Fresh Beats Collection (The Dr. Lisa Co., formerly World of EPI)

Bake It ’til Ya Make It: They always say, “Don’t play with your food,” but we must disagree! These toys encourage pretend play in the kitchen, from popping pizzas in the oven to mixing up batches of cookies!

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The Toy Insider’s Favorites: Build-a-Slice Pizza Cart (LeapFrog), Cook & Care Kitchen Nursery (Step2), Cookeez Makery (Moose Toys), Disney Princess Style Collection Fresh Prep Gourmet Kitchen (JAKKS Pacific), MGA’s Miniverse Make It Mini Food Café & Diner – Series 2 (MGA Entertainment), Mini Brands Series 5 Capsule (ZURU), My Baking Oven with Magic Cookies (Hape), Pretendables Cinnamon Roll Set (Fat Brain Toys), Shape Sorting Grocery Cart (Melissa & Doug), Sushi Go – Spin Some for Dim Sum (Gamewright)

Kids @ Heart: “Kidulting” is a big buzzword this year because toys have a new audience: adults! More grownups are playing with toys than ever, and toy companies are making toys with kids at heart in mind.

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: 3Doodler Flow 3D Printing Pen Set (3Doodler), Crayola HD Coloring Set (Crayola), Deadlines (Foxmind), Disney Castle Revolution (Ravensburger), Kanoodle Pyramid (Educational Insights), Lite-Brite Touch (Basic Fun!), Monopoly Prizm: NBA Edition Game (Hasbro), Rainbow Brite 3-inch Figures (The Loyal Subjects), Risk The 1980’s Edition (Winning Moves Games), Super Mario Wonder (Nintendo)

Make & Create: Whether it’s learning how things work or gaining a new hobby, the benefits of creating something or learning a new skill are monumental for kids at any age! If they love music, building, jewelry, beauty, or anything else, there are plenty of ways for kids to unleash their creativity.

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: Craft Your Own PomPom Purse (Purple Ladybug), Hydraulic Boxing Bots (Thames & Kosmos), Magic Sketch Glow (Boogie Board), Monster High Ghoulish Glam Nail Salon (Cra-Z-Art), Penn & Teller Magic Lab VR (Abacus Brands), Pinxies Unicorn Creation Studio (Luki Lab), Snap FM Radio (Snap Circuit), STMT Infinity Jewelry (Horizon Group USA), Switch & Go 3-in-1 Rescue Rex (VTech), Tinkertar (Buffalo Games)

Movin’ and Groovin’: We know how important regular movement can be to both physical and mental health — so why not use playtime to encourage kids to move? These playthings get kids moving, dancing, and staying active.

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: 3-in-1 Skate Trainer (Flybar), Bebé Fuerte Stack & Count Kettlebell (TOMY), Bluey 12-inch Kids Bike (Dynacraft), CoComelon Big Bouncer (Bestway USA), Droyd Romper (Droyd), KanJam Pickleball (Eastpoint Sports), Koosh Face-Off (PlayMonster), Laser X Ultra Double Blasters (NSI International), Sesame Street Elmo Slide (Just Play), Stapelstein Rainbow Set Classic (Stapelstein)

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Pet FrenzyNo mess, no stress—just fun! Kids can care for these digital pets and furry friends that encourage nurturing and responsibility, while providing companionship.

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: Bitzee (Spin Master), Furby (Hasbro), Jurassic Park Real FX Baby T. Rex (Wow! Stuff), Little Live Pets My Puppy’s Home (Moose Toys), MINTiD Dog-E (WowWee), My Fuzzy Friends: Magic Whispers Kitty (Skyrocket), Pokémon Dreams Plush (The Pokémon Co.), Pokémon Train & Play Deluxe Pikachu (Jazwares), PYXEL: A Coder’s Best Friend (Educational Insights), Tamagotchi Uni (Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles America)

Pint-Size Pals: There’s nothing better than a bestie—and a lot of times, kids really connect with the characters they see in their go-to entertainment content. Kids’ BFFs from their favorite shows and movies come to life in the toy box!

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: Disney Bluetooth Karaoke with Wireless Mic and Easy Link Technology (eKids), Batman and Wonder Woman Tonies (tonies), LEGO Disney 100 Years of Disney Animated Icons (LEGO), Numberblocks Step Squad Mission Headquarters (hand2mind), PAW Patrol Chase’s Mighty Transforming Cruiser (Spin Master), Playmobil 1.2.3. & Disney: Winnie’s & Piglet’s Tree House (Playmobil), RTR Blaze RC Rock Crawler (NKOK), Sonic Prime Paradox Prism (PMI Kids’ World), Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Mutant Mayhem Pizza Fire Van (Playmates Toys), YuMe Disney 100 Surprise Capsules (YuMe)

Plush-a-Palooza: Plush toys are often one of the most memorable staples of childhood—and this year, they are hot, hot, HOT for kids of all ages. Stuffed animals, collectibles, and plushies in all shapes and sizes are topping wish lists this year.

The Toy Insider’s Favorites: BumBumz (Jazwares), Bumpas (Bumpas), Care Bears Sequin Cheer Bear (Basic Fun!), Emotional Support Fries (Relatable, formerly What Do You Meme?), Fluffie Stuffiez (MGA Entertainment), GUND Sustainably Soft Plush (Spin Master), Snackles Super Sized 14-inch Snackles (ZURU), Squishmallows (Jazwares), TeeTurtle Plushie Tote Bags (TeeTurtle), Vs World Cows Vs. Aliens (Cepia)

About The Toy Insider

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The Toy Insider is the go-to source for information about toys, tech and entertainment. Its expert team publishes two seasonal gift guides yearly and reviews toys daily to find what’s hot and trending. Visit www.thetoyinsider.com for reviews, toy news, giveaways and parenting tips. Follow them on InstagramTwitterFacebook and YouTube.

SOURCE The Toy Insider

Automotive

Hyundai 2024 Santa Fe and Kona Win Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX Award

Hyundai’s 2024 Santa Fe and Kona named winners of Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX award.

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"Hyundai 2024 Santa Fe and Kona interior"
The 2024 Kona is photographed in Baltimore, Md. on Sept. 12, 2023.

Exciting news for Hyundai enthusiasts! The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2024 Hyundai Kona have been named winners of the prestigious Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX award by WardsAuto. Making Hyundai the only manufacturer with two vehicles on the list.

The Wards 10 Best Interiors and UX competition focuses on identifying driver interfaces that are user-friendly, navigation systems that are easy to program, and smartphone integration that allows for safe access to various features while on the road. This award evaluates the overall quality and comfort of the vehicles’ interiors, as well as the user-friendliness of driver-assist technologies.

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Hyundai’s 2024 Santa Fe and Kona named winners of Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX award. https://stmdailynews.com/hyundai-2024-santa-fe-and-kona-win-war ♬ original sound – STMDailyNews

This isn’t the first time Hyundai has been recognized by WardsAuto. Last year, the Hyundai Palisade took home an award, cementing the brand’s commitment to creating innovative and desirable vehicle experiences.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona stands out for its dual 12.3-inch panoramic display screens, offering a versatile interior that is both visually appealing and technologically advanced. With a price point of $35,000, the Kona provides great value for its modernist aesthetic and abundance of features.

The 3-row Santa Fe, on the other hand, impresses with its spacious interior, perfect for urban and outdoor activities. The Calligraphy grade’s ivory and olive-green geometric interior sets a new standard for vehicle interior design, revolutionizing the industry.

Wards judge, Christie Schweinsberg, praises both vehicles for their exceptional features and value. The Kona’s affordability makes it an accessible choice for many, while the Santa Fe’s thoughtful additions such as a drawer for second-row passengers and a UV-C sterilization tray for phones further elevate its appeal.

The evaluations for the 2024 Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX competition took place during winter and early spring, giving judges ample time to experience the vehicles in their daily driving routines. Metrics such as design and aesthetics, comfort, materials, connectivity, and infotainment are taken into consideration, along with advanced driver-assist system content and overall value.

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To celebrate the achievement, the 2024 Wards 10 Best Interiors & UX awards ceremony will take place on June 6, 2024, during the AutoTech: Detroit Conference. This event promises to be a showcase of innovation and excellence in the automotive industry.

Hyundai continues to listen to its customers and push the boundaries of vehicle design and technology. With these awards, the brand proves its commitment to providing innovative, intuitive, and desirable vehicle experiences.

So if you’re in the market for a Hyundai, the 2024 Santa Fe and Kona should be at the top of your list. Not only do they offer exceptional interiors and user experiences, but they also represent the cutting-edge innovations that Hyundai stands for.

About Hyundai Motor America
Hyundai Motor America offers U.S. consumers a technology-rich lineup of cars, SUVs, and electrified vehicles, while supporting Hyundai Motor Company’s Progress for Humanity vision. Hyundai has significant operations in the U.S., including its North American headquarters in California, the Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama assembly plant, the all-new Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (in development in Georgia), and several cutting-edge R&D facilities. These operations, combined with those of Hyundai’s 835 independent dealers, contribute $20.1 billion annually and 190,000 jobs to the U.S. economy, according to a recent economic impact report. For more information, visit www.hyundainews.com.

Hyundai Motor America on Twitter | YouTube | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok

To access additional content about cars and related topics, please explore the Automotive category on STM Daily News. https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner/automotive/

About STM Daily News

STM Vlog and Podcast is dedicated to creating content that promotes Social Good. Our platform, Stories This Moment, highlights and profiles individuals who are making a positive impact on the world. From arts and entertainment to science, community activism, events, and philanthropy, we cover a wide range of topics to inspire and uplift our audience. Our goal is to spread positivity and reach people in a meaningful way. Through our engaging video content and informative podcast episodes, we aim to create a community of like-minded individuals who want to make a difference in the world. Join us on our journey to promote Social Good by checking out our STM Vlog and Podcast on YouTube. https://stmdailynews.com/about-us/

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home improvement

10 Tips to Make Your Air Conditioner More Energy Efficient and Sustainable

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(Family Features) Updating your HVAC (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) system to cool your home in a smart and sustainable way involves several steps that not only improve energy efficiency but also reduce environmental impact.

Consider these tips from the heating and cooling experts at Carrier to help make your cooling system more eco-friendly:

  1. Upgrade to an Energy-Efficient HVAC System. If your HVAC system is outdated, consider replacing it with a more energy-efficient model. Look for systems with an Energy Star or high SEER2 (seasonal energy efficiency ratio) rating, which indicates better energy efficiency. The higher the SEER2 rating, the more efficient the unit. Financial incentives for installing a higher-efficiency system are available through the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. You can also shop for rebates from manufacturers and utility companies.
     
  2. Look for a Carbon-Free HVAC System. Heat pumps, ductless and VRF (variable refrigerant flow) systems that run on electricity and use low global-warming potential refrigerant, like Carrier’s Puron Advance, can help reduce your home’s negative impact on the environment.
     
  3. Install a Smart Thermostat. A smart thermostat can be programmed based on your preferences and adjust temperatures automatically. These devices can be controlled remotely through smartphones and help reduce energy consumption by cooling your home only when necessary.
     
  4. Conduct Regular Maintenance. Keep your HVAC system running efficiently with regular maintenance. This includes cleaning or replacing air filters every 1-3 months, checking refrigerant levels, cleaning outside condenser coils and ensuring the system’s components are in good, working condition and the airflow is not blocked.
     
  5. Seal and Insulate. Improve your home’s insulation to maintain a consistent temperature. Seal windows, doors and any gaps or cracks to prevent cool air from escaping. This can significantly reduce the workload on your HVAC system.
     
  6. Use Ceiling Fans. Ceiling fans can help circulate cool air throughout your home, allowing you to set the thermostat at a higher temperature without sacrificing comfort, thus saving energy.
     
  7. Add Window Treatments. Use blinds, shades or curtains to block out sunlight and reduce heat gain during the hottest parts of the day. This simple step can make a big difference in how much your air conditioner needs to work.
     
  8. Upgrade to a Variable-Speed Compressor. Traditional compressors operate at full power or not at all. However, a variable-speed compressor can adjust its output to match your cooling needs precisely, resulting in better efficiency, energy savings and improved indoor comfort.
     
  9. Ventilate Properly. Ensure proper ventilation in your home, especially in areas like the kitchen and bathroom, to remove excess heat and humidity, which can reduce the need for air conditioning.
     
  10. Update Roofing. If you’re replacing your roof, consider cool roofing materials that reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard roofing materials, reducing the heat that enters your home.

By implementing these strategies, you can improve or update your HVAC system to cool your home more sustainably. Not only do these steps help the environment, they can also lead to lower energy bills and improved indoor comfort. Always consult with an HVAC professional to determine the best and most efficient options for your home and needs.

Find more information and tips to sustainably cool your home at Carrier.com.


SOURCE:
Carrier

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Automotive

Nissan Dominates the Best Value New Cars List: A Closer Look at the Kicks, Frontier, and Sentra

Nissan dominates as Kicks, Frontier, and Sentra clinch spots on Cars.com® 2024 Best Value New Cars list, showcasing remarkable value and excellence.

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Image: Nissan Motors USA


In a resounding triumph, Nissan has once again emerged as a leader in the automotive industry by securing coveted spots on the highly esteemed Cars.com® 2024 Best Value New Cars list. This prestigious recognition serves as a testament to Nissan’s unwavering commitment to excellence and delivering exceptional value across their lineup. In this blog post, we will delve into the phenomenal achievements of the 2024 Nissan Kicks, Frontier, and Sentra, as well as the notable recognition received by the Versa SV.

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🌟 Explore Nissan’s award-winning lineup! 🚗✨ #NissanExcellence https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner/automotive/ ♬ original sound – STMDailyNews

  1. 2024 Nissan Kicks S: Best Value in Subcompact SUV Category
    The 2024 Nissan Kicks S has undoubtedly made its mark as the ultimate subcompact SUV that offers unbeatable value. With its stunning design, remarkable features, and impressive fuel efficiency, the Kicks S showcases a perfect blend of style and practicality. From city streets to off-road adventures, this versatile SUV is a true game-changer.
  2. 2024 Frontier King Cab S 4×2: Best Value in Midsize Pickup Segment
    Nissan’s commitment to excellence shines through with the 2024 Frontier King Cab S 4×2, which has claimed the prestigious title of Best Value in the Midsize Pickup segment. Boasting remarkable performance, durability, and an array of advanced safety features, the Frontier is built to effortlessly conquer any terrain. Whether it’s for work or play, this pickup truck exceeds expectations.
  3. 2024 Sentra S: A Standout Compact Car
    The 2024 Sentra S secures a well-deserved third place in the Compact Car category, further solidifying Nissan’s reputation for crafting outstanding vehicles. With its sleek design, cutting-edge technology, and exceptional fuel efficiency, the Sentra S offers a remarkable driving experience matched with an exceptional value proposition. Embrace the joy of every journey with this impressive compact car.
  4. Honorable Mention: 2024 Nissan Versa SV
    The 2024 Nissan Versa SV receives an honorable mention, highlighting its noteworthy features and outstanding value proposition. With its spacious cabin, advanced safety technologies, and remarkable fuel efficiency, the Versa SV proves to be a reliable companion for everyday adventures.


The recognition earned by the 2024 Nissan Kicks, Frontier, Sentra, and Versa SV on the Cars.com® 2024 Best Value New Cars list showcases Nissan’s dedication to delivering top-notch vehicles that offer exceptional value, unrivaled quality, and remarkable performance. As Nissan continues to push the boundaries of automotive innovation, car enthusiasts can confidently explore these award-winning models with the assurance of a remarkable driving experience. Embrace excellence and discover the best value with Nissan’s impressive lineup of vehicles!

“For further details regarding Nissan’s products, services and their dedication to sustainable mobility, please visit their website.” nissanusa.com. “Feel free to follow Nissan on their social media channels.” FacebookInstagramOpensX (Twitter) and LinkedIn and “Please take a look at all of our newest videos” on YouTube.

https://stmdailynews.com/category/consumer-corner/automotive/

About Nissan Motors

Nissan Motor Co. Ltd. is a multinational car manufacturer based in Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan. The company sells vehicles under the Nissan, Infiniti, and formerly Datsun brands. Nissan also offers in-house performance tuning products (including cars) under the Nismo and Autech brands. The company’s roots date back to the early 20th century with the Nissan zaibatsu, which is now known as Nissan Group.

Nissan has been a member of the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance since 1999, with Mitsubishi joining in 2016. This partnership is between Nissan and Mitsubishi Motors of Japan, along with Renault of France. As of November 2023, Renault has a 15% voting stake in Nissan, while Nissan holds the same stake in Renault. Additionally, Nissan acquired a 34% controlling stake in Mitsubishi Motors in October 2016.

Nissan ranked as the sixth largest car manufacturer globally in 2017, following Toyota, Volkswagen Group, Hyundai Motor Group, General Motors, and Ford. In the same year, Nissan held the title of the largest car maker in North America. With a revenue of $78 billion in 2022, Nissan secured the ninth spot among the world’s automobile makers and emerged as the leading Japanese brand in China, Russia, and Mexico. As of April 2018, Nissan became the largest electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer worldwide, with over 320,000 all-electric vehicles sold. The Nissan LEAF, the car-maker’s top-selling electric model, claimed the second position in global electric car sales, just behind the Tesla Model 3.

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