The toy testing job Cornwall kids can apply for before Christmas

Somewhere in Cornwall there’s a child who already knows exactly what makes a toy brilliant. They just haven’t been asked yet.

That could change this autumn. The Toy Retailers Association is looking for Mini Toy Testers to try out the toys predicted to be this year’s biggest Christmas hits, and recruiters are now searching for children in Cornwall.

The reward is the toys themselves. All 15 of them.

What the Mini Toy Testers will do

The panel will try out the toys set to appear on the 2026 DreamToys list, the UK’s most authoritative prediction of the most desirable new toys on the high street. The list is chosen by a panel of toy retailers and experts, ranging from small independents to national chains.

This is the second year children have joined the experts. Eight youngsters will get hands-on with the 15 toys, games and gadgets on this year’s list, all from the industry’s leading brands.

Successful applicants will head to Birmingham on Friday 30 October to test each toy and report back on what they found. Their verdict gives the list its official child-approved stamp ahead of its release.

And once the testing is done, the children get to keep all 15 toys, just in time for Christmas.

📷Cute happy excited children, boy and girl in santa hats unwrap christmas present box in beautiful room. Sister and brother give Xmas gifts near decorated tree. Family Christmas and New Year holiday

Who can apply

Applications are open for children in Cornwall aged 3 to 12. Parents or guardians apply on their child’s behalf using the Mini Toy Testers online application form.

The deadline is midnight on Saturday 17 October. T&Cs apply.

“Children are the ultimate toy experts”

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 Cornwall 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.”

📷Cute super excited young girl opening large red christmas present while sitting on living room floor. Candid family christmas time lifestyle background.