Become a toy tester this Christmas

A dream job for kids in Dudley has been announced this week, with an exciting new opportunity that will see lucky participants testing out the hottest new toys for Christmas 2026.

The Toy Retailers Association will be recruiting a panel of Mini Toy Testers from around the UK, who will have the opportunity to try out toys from the coveted DreamToys list and report back on their experience – and recruiters are now searching in Dudley! 

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 toy retailers and experts from small independents to national chains. 

For the second year, the experts will be joined by eight children to try out the 15 toys set to appear on the 2026 list, including toys, games and gadgets from the industry’s leading brands.   

Successful applicants will be invited to Birmingham on Friday 30 October to test each of the toys and report back on their findings, giving the list the official child-approved stamp of authority ahead of its release.  

As well as getting their hands on an array of exciting new toys, the lucky candidates will also get the 15 toys for themselves – just in time for Christmas.   

Applications are open for children in Dudley aged 3-12 and parents or guardians can apply on their child’s behalf via the online form at toyretailersassociation.co.uk 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’re back and now looking for children from Dudley to apply. Regardless of their age, 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 toyretailersassociation.co.uk.