HOUSTON – Screen time is everywhere — and many parents worry it’s taking over childhood. On Houston Life, 13‑year‑old kid‑trepreneur Dylan Emery says kids can help lead the solution by choosing toys and gadgets that spark hands‑on learning, creativity and safe active play. Dylan, who travels trade shows and events around the country to find fresh ideas, shared five crowd‑pleasing picks that make unplugging fun.
Magic and showmanship for all ages
Dylan’s first love is magic. He was recently accepted into the Magic Castle Academy junior program and got his start with easy, age‑appropriate kits that teach sleight of hand and stage presence. He recommends Fantasma Fantasia Magic Sets for beginners and budding performers.
Dylan also performed for Bicycle Playing Cards executives at a recent trade show and points to Bicycle’s new waterproof decks and the patriotic Sparkler Tribute to America set as durable, collectible options for kids and adults alike.
Toys that move, build and inspire
For active play, Dylan demoed the Zipstring rechargeable string toy — a handheld spinner that’s great for coordination and tricks across ages (and rechargeable for endless play).
For builders and decorators, he’s into GE Cync Dynamic Effects smart LED thin‑profile and shapeable light strips as a safe, creative way to personalize a bedroom or play space.
Safe games that bring everyone together
Dylan’s family favorite game is Pop Darts, a safer dart‑style game that keeps play competitive without sharp tips — a good pick for mixed‑age family nights and playdates.
He also says tools for hands‑on projects and a little parental guidance go a long way toward reducing passive screen time.
Want to shop Dylan’s picks?
Visit mrdylanemery.com and follow him on social at @MrDylanEmery.
Dylan’s message is simple: let kids lead sometimes — they’ll pick toys that teach, move and inspire.