Parents' Choice Award

Parents' Choice Award. Established in 1978 by Diana Huss Green, this prestigious honor recognizes the highest quality in children's media, toys, books, and software. Administered by the Parents' Choice Foundation, a non-profit organization, it serves as a trusted guide for families seeking enriching content. The awards are bestowed across multiple categories and are judged by panels of educators, scientists, artists, librarians, parents, and children themselves.

History

The award was founded by the editor-in-chief of Parents' Choice magazine, Diana Huss Green, who sought to create a reliable, independent guide for parents amidst a growing commercial market for children's products. Its establishment coincided with the rise of new media forms like home video and early personal computer software. Over the decades, it has adapted to evolving technologies, expanding from reviewing books and toys to evaluating video games, websites, television programs, mobile apps, and streaming media. The foundation's work has been supported by various institutions, including the Carnegie Corporation of New York and the Ford Foundation.

Award categories

The foundation presents awards in several distinct tiers and categories. The highest honor is the **Gold Award**, signifying outstanding product quality and developmental value. This is followed by the **Silver Award**, **Recommended Award**, and **Fun Stuff Award**. Categories for evaluation are broad and reflect the media landscape, including **Children's Books**, **Audio Stories**, **Toys**, **Video Games**, **Television**, **Websites**, and **Apps**. Special distinctions, such as the **Classic Award** for enduring products and awards for **Parenting Resources**, are also occasionally given.

Selection process

The selection process involves a multi-tiered review system conducted by independent experts. Reviewers include professionals from fields such as child development, education, library science, and the arts, as well as parents and youth testers. Products are evaluated on criteria including enrichment value, skill development, originality, aesthetic quality, and age appropriateness. The process is designed to be rigorous and impartial, with no fees required for submission and reviewers operating without knowledge of manufacturers or publishers to avoid commercial influence.

Notable recipients

Over its long history, the award has honored a vast array of creators and products that have become staples of childhood. In literature, celebrated authors like Maurice Sendak for works such as his iconic book and J.K. Rowling for the Harry Potter series have been recognized. In television, acclaimed series like Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, Sesame Street, and Blue's Clues have received awards. Notable toy recipients include products from LEGO and the American Girl doll line. In digital media, educational software from The Learning Company and apps from Toca Boca have been honored.

Impact and reception

The award is widely regarded within the industry and by consumer advocacy groups as a "Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval" for children's products, signifying a benchmark of quality and educational integrity. Its endorsements are frequently featured in marketing materials and on product packaging by publishers and manufacturers like Scholastic and PBS Kids. The foundation's reviews and awards have influenced purchasing decisions for generations of parents, educators, and librarians, helping to highlight products that foster creativity, learning, and positive values. Its longevity and consistent methodology have cemented its reputation as a authoritative voice in the evaluation of children's culture.

Category:Awards established in 1978 Category:American children's awards Category:Parents' Choice Foundation