Little Acorn Games

Blog Post 

Full Name: Jen Shillitoe

Job Title: Director

From Kitchen Table Idea to Toy Fair 2026: The Story of Little Acorn Games

When Little Acorn Games began as a “you only live once, let’s give this a go” idea seven years ago, the thought of exhibiting at Toy Fair 2026 felt like a distant dream. Yet here we are – and we absolutely can’t wait!

The Lightbulb Moment

Back in autumn 2018, I was a stay-at-home mum with a five-year-old and a two-year-old. One day, while playing some 90s classics with my daughter (does anyone remember I Created A Monster?!), I had a true lightbulb moment. The concept for our first game, Funny Fairies, popped into my head and it was all I could think about!

After creating a paper prototype that was a hit with friends and family, I decided to bring it to life. By autumn 2019, Funny Fairies was ready for Kickstarter – and it funded! In April 2020, 1,500 copies arrived (with no storage facility, the boxes doubled as coffee tables for a while!) and we launched on Amazon UK.

From Lockdown Project to Thriving Business

I had no sales targets; my only plan was to list it on Amazon and see how it goes…but as you know, lockdown was an incredible time for both board games and online shopping, and we were blown away by our sales and subsequent reviews. It was during Christmas 2020 that I realised Little Acorn Games had grown from a passion project into a real business!

Finding Our Footing

Fast forward to September 2021: our second game, PJ Pirates, launched with the same success as Funny Fairies. By now we had business storage, industry recognition, and growing confidence. Both games won Silver Medals in the Independent Toy Awards and were shortlisted in the Imagination Gaming Family and Education Awards. We joined Theo Paphitis’ Small Business Sunday network and began donating games to charities distributing toys at Christmas. Despite moments of imposter syndrome, it really started to feel like I was running a proper company!

A Sustainable Shift

The next step was retail – but before approaching retailers or trade fairs, I knew we needed a more sustainable, diverse range. So, in 2023, we moved our manufacturing from China to the Netherlands, transforming our entire production process to be more responsible and eco-friendly, and 2024 saw the release of two more award-winning games: Football Final (our new bestseller!) and Mermaid Party.

Looking Ahead to Toy Fair 2026

It’s been a whirlwind seven years. From crafting a homemade prototype at the kitchen table to building a growing catalogue of eco-friendly, family-favourite games, every challenge and success has led us here.

Exhibiting at Toy Fair 2026 feels like a milestone moment – a celebration of everything we’ve built so far. We’re so excited to showcase our games, connect with retailers and fellow creators, and soak up the incredible atmosphere. Something tells me this will be the highlight of our journey so far, and I can’t wait to see where Little Acorn Games goes next!