Why do some toys disappear and others become timeless? Shane Rhinewald from The Strong National Museum of Play joins Shane Hewitt to unpack what turns a simple object into a multigenerational icon — and why play is as vital for adults as it is for kids.

From the 2025 Toy Hall of Fame inductees (slime, Battleship, and Trivial Pursuit) to how kids learn life skills through make-believe, this episode explores the science and soul of play. Hear how toys like LEGO and Rubik’s Cube fuel creativity, why boredom matters, and how parents often forget to join the game themselves.

Rediscover the power of play — and why it’s never just child’s play.

GUEST:
Shane Rhinewald
http://museumofplay.org

Originally aired on 2025-12-18