Ahren Hoffman is a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) as well as a Certified Play Expert (CPE) who has been shaping the toy industry since 2007. She brings a unique blend of creativity, developmental insight, and marketing expertise to projects that showcase the power and possibility of play for people of all ages and abilities.

Ahren currently works as an independent contractor partnering with brands, organizations, and events to advance meaningful play and effective marketing strategy. Her recent work includes driving awareness and growth for MESH Helps, directing the Young Inventor Challenge, and supporting marketing initiatives for ThinkFun.

Previously, Hoffman served as the Director of Education & Training at the American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (ASTRA), where she developed and led educational programs, including the first iteration of ASTRA’s Certified Play Expert program. She also worked as the Manager of Industry Relations & Partnerships at the National Lekotek Center, where she evaluated toys for AblePlay.org and contributed to the nationally recognized Toys”R”Us Toy Guide for Differently Abled Kids. Hoffman’s work has been published in industry and parenting publications and in a manual on the benefits of sensory play.

Ahren earned her Bachelor of Science in Therapeutic Recreation with a minor in Psychology at Central Michigan University.