Stevanne Auerbach

In Memoriam: Stevanne Auerbach, Ph.D. ("Dr. Toy")

Stevanne Auerbach, Ph.D., widely known as "Dr. Toy," was an internationally recognized author, educator, speaker, and advocate for children's play, learning, and development.

Over a distinguished 50-year career, she authored 16 books on toys, parenting, and child development, including Dr. Toy's Smart Play Smart Toys, which was translated into 13 countries; Choosing Childcare, an early guide for parents seeking quality childcare; and the four-volume reference work Child Care: A Comprehensive Guide. Her writing also included The Alphabet Tree, a collection of poetry; My Butterfly Collection: On the Wings of the Butterfly; and her first novel, The Contest.

In addition to her books, Dr. Toy contributed articles to The Huffington Post and numerous other publications. She served as a consultant, speaker, researcher, and advocate dedicated to improving the lives of children and families through the power of play and education.

Dr. Auerbach passed away on October 19, 2022, from complications of a stroke.

Her final literary legacy, Amy's Butterfly Garden, written in 1992 and published posthumously in 2025, was lovingly brought to life by her daughter, Amy Beth Auerbach, through her debut publishing imprint, Heirloom Patchwork Press.