Manhattan Toy and Zak Designs are getting in on the licensing action ahead of Genius Brands’ re-launch of its Baby Genius property with fresh new designs and toddler-targeted products.

Manhattan Toy is designing soft toys for children of all ages, as well as a line of developmental toys (puppets, wooden puzzles, play sets and other activity toys) targeting children aged 0 to 36 months. Also for toddlers, Zak will create a line of BPA-free mealtime products (sippy cups, plates, bowls and flatware). Products from both companies are expected to hit US retail shelves later this year.

Other recently announced licensees include LeapFrog Enterprises, which launched the LeapPad line of learning tablets (LeapPad3, LeapPad Ultra XDi) for kids. And home entertainment distribution partner PBS Distribution is delivering multi-platform content (DVD, CD, digital) to major US retailers this year.