Kind + Jugend, the international trade fair for premium baby and toddler products, is teaming up with futures agency, TrendBible, to provide an exclusive preview of the top consumer and product trends for the coming year. Visitors can experience the trends first-hand at the show in Cologne on 9-11 September 2025.
“Trends are far more than fleeting phenomena,” explains Jörg Schmale, director of Kind + Jugend. “They offer valuable insights and inspiration for innovation in a changing world. By showing where markets and consumer needs are headed, they play a vital role in future-ready product development. We’re excited about our partnership with TrendBible and thankful for their profound expertise in trend research, design and strategy.”
This year’s trend forecast, curated by TrendBible’s Anri Hamilton, delivers insights into how tomorrow’s parents think as well as how their desires and expectations are changing. The following four central themes, pointing towards greater autonomy, a sense of purpose and smart sustainability, are shaping the baby and toddler market in 2026.
Freedom with safety
Young parents are increasingly questioning the ideal of the constantly present, overprotective “helicopter parent.” Rather than monitoring every move, they want spaces where their children can discover the world independently while staying safe. This “safe enough risk” philosophy is gaining momentum, prompting brands in the play, outdoor and wearables categories to create products that allow freedom without compromising safety.
“In 2026, we’ll see a growing shift towards ‘safe enough risk’ – where caregivers begin to embrace the idea that giving children space to explore and learn independently is just as important as keeping them safe,” says Hamilton.
Products that inspire wonder
A new awareness of neurodiversity and the growing influence of AI technologies are paving the way for hyper-personalised immersive play, learning and storytelling experiences. At the heart of this transformation in product development are imagination, curiosity and creative freedom, brought to life through exceptional designs, captivating stories, and multisensory experiences.
Practical and well thought out
Faced with time and budget constraints, parents are increasingly looking for products that combine convenience, sustainability, and smart design with good value for money. They want durable, multifunctional solutions that adapt to everyday family life, grow with the child and bring joy. For instance, suitcases that transform into strollers, bags that open into play mats, customisable twin strollers, and bike trailers that convert into comfortable wagons.
Sustainable material innovations
Biodegradable materials made from cellulose or food waste, safe plastic alternatives, and sparkling textures with a wow factor feel – the industry is finding bold ways to combine both environmental consciousness and engaging product experiences. Brands are placing greater emphasis on sustainable supply chains, smart material choices, and AI-powered production processes to balance quality, availability and cost-effectiveness while reducing waste.
Tangible trends at Kind + Jugend 2025
In the new Trend Space, trade visitors from around the world will have the opportunity to receive a one-on-one consultation with Stefan Barksby from TrendBible and also discover real-world trend applications from over 800 exhibitors representing more than 40 countries.
In addition, the Innovation Award ceremony, including the special Midwives’ Choice award in the Europasaal, the accompanying Innovation Award Exhibition, and the New Product Trail, will provide guidance and inspiration for the retail trade. For further information, please click here.