Have you ever dreamed of becoming a toy tester? Imagine getting your hands on the newest toys before they hit the shelves, all while providing valuable feedback to toy companies. In this comprehensive guide, I will give you the best websites and insider tips on how you can turn this dream into reality so you and your kids can become a toy reviewer.

For the last 10 years I’ve been able to get free toys in exchange for reviews. Fall is the biggest time for toy reviews because all the companies are gearing up for Christmas. However, I review toys during every season of the year. Toy companies want real moms to have their kids play with the toys and then write their honest reviews on their website. Crazy easy, right? You can see some of our reviews here.

In recent years, the toy industry has increasingly recognized the value of real-world feedback from normal kids and their parents. Fall is typically the biggest time for toy reviews because companies are gearing up for the holiday season. They want honest opinions from families to improve the quality of their products and gauge market interest.

 Let’s dive into the world of free toys, honest reviews, and the joy of play!

Did you know that toy companies want kids to be toy testers?

Yes, that’s right, they will send you free toys just to see if your kids enjoy them. Just like that your kids can be a toy tester! The toy industry needs real-world feedback from normal kids and their families. Toy companies are actively seeking testers for several reasons:

1. Quality Control: Testers help identify potential issues with toys before mass production.
2. Market Research: Feedback from testers gives companies insight into how well a toy might sell.
3. User Experience: Real families can provide authentic opinions on a toy’s entertainment and educational value.
4. Safety Checks: Testers can help ensure toys meet safety standards in real-world conditions.

The Best Ways to Become a Toy Tester

While I doubt any of us will get a full-time toy testing job anytime soon, it sure is fun to imagine. Seriously, who wouldn’t want Tom Hanks’ job in the movie Big? It is truly a childhood dream come true! So, don’t quit your day job to become a toy tester just yet. Instead thinking of this as a legitimate way to get free toys for your kids. It’s a win-win really. You get free toys, your kids have fun, and it is a good way to help companies figure out if a toy is actually good!

Here are my favorite ways to get a toy testing gig:

1. Direct Contact with Toy Companies

Be proactive! Email the PR or media contacts for your favorite brands. A quick Google search for “[company name] PR contact” should provide this information. Express your interest in becoming a toy tester and ask about their testing programs.

2. Build Your Online Presence

While not always necessary, having a strong online presence can make you more valuable as a reviewer. Consider:

• Starting a blog focused on toy reviews
• Creating a YouTube channel for video reviews
• Becoming active on review platforms
• Building a following on Instagram or TikTok with toy-related content

3. Join Online Communities & Review Platforms

Become a member of online communities focused on toy testing and product reviews. Sign up for the email lists to get exclusive invitations! Some popular platforms include:

• Mom Select
• The Toy Insider 
• Influenster
• BzzAgent
• Parent Tested Parent Approved
• Toluna
• Social Nature 
• Home Tester Club
• Vocalpoint 

RELATED POST: Best Word of Mouth Marketing Websites that Send FREE STUFF!

4. Leverage Social Media

Follow your favorite brands on social media channels like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Companies often post toy testing opportunities directly to their followers. Some key pages to follow include:

• Mattel Imagination Center Facebook Page
• Mega Bloks Facebook Page
• Discovery Toys Facebook Page
• Fisher-Price Facebook Page
• LEGO Facebook Page

5. Check with Local Toy Stores

Don’t overlook small businesses! Local toy stores might be interested in having customers test and review new products. It’s worth inquiring about these opportunities.

6. Create Engaging Video Content

YouTube. Instagram and TikTok have made video reviews increasingly popular. Consider starting a YouTube channel dedicated to toy reviews. This can be a great way to catch a toy company’s attention and potentially lead to more testing opportunities.

7. Participate in Market Research

Keep an eye out for market research opportunities related to toys. Companies often conduct studies to gather feedback on new products before they hit the shelves.

Maximizing Your Chances of Being Selected as a Toy Tester

1. Be Professional: When applying or contacting companies, present yourself professionally.
2. Showcase Your Skills: Highlight any relevant experience, such as blogging, photography, or video editing.
3. Emphasize Your Reach: If you have a significant social media following or blog readership, mention it.
4. Be Genuine: Show your true passion for toys and play.
5. Stay Active: Regularly engage with toy brands on social media and keep your profiles up to date.
6. Follow Instructions: When applying for testing opportunities, carefully follow all guidelines provided.

Tips for Successful Toy Testing

1. Understand Age Ranges: Be clear about the age range of toys you’re able to test based on your family situation.
2. Be Thorough: Provide detailed, honest feedback. Consider aspects like durability, educational value, and entertainment factor.
3. Follow Safety Guidelines: Always adhere to toy safety standards and manufacturer instructions.
4. Create a Good Testing Environment: If making video reviews, ensure you have a clean, well-lit recording environment.
5. Be Consistent: Whether writing reviews or creating video content, maintain a consistent style and schedule.
6. Engage Your Inner Child: Let your enthusiasm shine through in your reviews!
7. Network: Attend toy fairs or industry events when possible to make connections with toy designers and companies.

The Future of Toy Testing

The toy industry is evolving, and with it, the role of toy testers. Some companies have even created high-profile positions like “Chief Toy Tester.” For example, Mattel announced a Chief Toy Tester position in 2023, offering a child the chance to test new toys at the company’s toy lab.

While these coveted positions are rare, they demonstrate the industry’s growing recognition of the value of toy testers. Whether you’re looking to score some free products, earn extra money, or potentially kickstart a career in the toy industry, toy testing can be a fun and rewarding experience for the whole family.

Remember, becoming a successful toy tester takes time and effort. Be patient, persistent, and most importantly, have fun! After all, it’s all about bringing out the inner child in all of us while helping to shape the future of play.

A Word of Caution

Always be cautious when signing up for toy testing opportunities. Legitimate programs should never require you to pay money upfront. Read terms and conditions carefully, and be mindful of sharing personal information online.

Becoming a toy tester is a fantastic way to engage your whole family in fun activities while providing valuable feedback to toy companies. Whether you’re reviewing the latest educational toys, testing the durability of outdoor play equipment, or exploring innovative tech toys, your input helps shape the future of playtime for children everywhere.

So, what are you waiting for? Start your journey to become a toy tester today! Who knows? You might just find yourself playing with the next big toy sensation before anyone else!