How two IKEA designers dreamed up the first ball pit, new coral named after Chewbacca, Toys ‘R’ Us expands with nationwide store openings, and more

By: Todd CoopeeSeptember 20, 2025
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Six intriguing articles related to toys, games, and nostalgia that have hit the news this week.

Who first invented the ball pit? Two young Ikea designers, in 1970

[h/t Core77]

New species of coral named after Chewbacca

[h/t Boing Boing]

Toys ‘R’ Us announces nationwide store re-openings years after bankruptcy

[h/t Parade]

The Muppet Show is getting a 50th anniversary Disney+ special

[h/t Gizmodo]

More Charlton Comics heroes may be coming to the DCU

[h/t Nerdist]

Classic Sesame Street episodes are coming to YouTube

[h/t The Verge]