Jessica Hartshorn
Contributing Writer
Jessica (she/her) is a contributor with several decades of experience writing lifestyle content and evaluating home, pet, and parenting products for families. A mom of two young adults and a cat, she was previously the Entertainment Editor at Parents and the Senior Lifestyle Editor at American Baby. When not testing toys, subtly starting at people's strollers, or taking meetings to learn about new car seats, she likes to travel. In 2026, she's made it to every continent except Antarctica.
- Topic Specialties
Latest from Jessica Hartshorn
The Ice Cream Trend Is Bigger Than Ever—and These Are the Coolest Toys Around
Here’s the scoop: play sets, wooden toys, slime, and plushies all themed around favorite frozen treats.
Bougie Toy Alert! Lovevery's Block Set Is the Toddler Toy to Grab Before Prime Day Ends
This classic, screen-free toy is heirloom quality and rich in learning and development opportunities.
7 New Travel Toys for Your Next Trip With the Kids
Among our year’s best toys are fun take-alongs that make great distractions for kids of every age.
The Most Popular Bluey Toys Are Up to 24% Off for Prime Day—Including Award-Winning Picks
A Bluey advent calendar and more are marked down during Amazon’s two-day sale.
Toniebox Bundles Are 42% Off Right Now—Here's Why They’re Such a Great Deal
Sets that bundle the popular, screen-free audio player for kids with some favorite characters are at their lowest price for Prime Day.
5 Best Rotating Car Seats
Being able to buckle your child in correctly keeps them safe in their seat, and this new gear option helps.
5 Best Automatic, Self-Cleaning Litter Boxes
With one of these electronic litter boxes, you won't have to scoop, and your cats will always have a clean box.
7 Food-Themed Games for Families, Parties, and Playdates
Grabbing gummy worms, sending boba bubbles sailing—the year’s best toys include some fun food games!
Everything to Know About the 2026 American Girl Advent Calendar
Let’s take a look at what’s inside!
The Baby & Toddler Toys That Help Little Ones Learn Through Play
These Good Housekeeping 2026 Toy Award winners stood out for helping babies and toddlers build new skills while having fun.
The Best Infant Bedside Bassinets
Keep your baby close for the first months with one of these safe sleep spaces.
Squishy Toys: A Guide for Grown-Ups About the Year’s Hottest Toy
I report on toys for a living, and I’m often asked to name a “hot toy.” NeedDoh is beyond!