• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
City Dads Group

City Dads Group

Navigating Fatherhood Together

  • About
  • Cities
  • Boot Camps
  • Press
  • Podcast
  • Blog
  • Contact

Having a “BALL” at the National Toy Hall of Fame

November 10, 2009 by Lance Somerfeld

I have only visited Rochester, NY once in my life, but if I ever make it back there, I would be sure to check out the National Toy Hall of Fame, housed at Strong National Museum of Play. The museum was established back in 1998 & recognizes toys that match two main criteria: 1. fostering learning, creativity, and discovery through play and 2. have enjoyed popularity over an extended period of time. Like the Baseball Hall of Fame, the “hall annually inducts and showcases new and historic versions of classic toys beloved by generations.”

“Anyone can nominate a toy to the National Toy Hall of Fame. Final selections are made on the advice of historians, educators, and other individuals who exemplify learning, creativity, and discovery through their lives and careers.” There are now 44 toys that have achieved this prestigious honor including the 3 newest inductees – The Ball, Big Wheels, and Game Boy for all of you Tetrus Fans. Go ahead, and check out the other 41 toys that have made it into the hall of fame. I used to love Lincoln Logs & Tinker Toys which have both made it successfully into the hall. However, Pick Up Sticks is not in there. I spent many hours during my childhood getting frustrated by that entertaining game, but they are certainly not as popular a toy as the ball. Any suggestions on what you would nominate?

You might also enjoy:

Filed Under: NYC, play, travel Tagged With: Museums, toys

About Lance Somerfeld

Lance Somerfeld, co-founder of City Dads Group, lives with his wife and two children in New York City. He frequently contributes to the conversation about modern fatherhood, work-life balance, shifting gender roles, and brand’s marketing to dads. He has appeared on local and national television, including CNN, Today and Katie. He has been quoted by The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, GQ, Parenting and The Atlantic.

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Primary Sidebar

Join Your Local Group

Your local City Dads Group is a welcoming and diverse community of engaged fathers sharing parenting perspectives, knowledge and experiences.

Join Join your local group

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Find us on Social

  • About City Dads
  • Press
  • Media Kit
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact

© 2023 City Dads Group All Rights Reserved.