And the survey says…
Consumers show keen interest when speaking up about toys
Maria Weiskott, Editor-in-Chief -- Playthings, 1/1/2003
Think politics and religion bring out the opinions in people? Hah! Try toys for a topic. Our recent online consumer toy survey evoked a flood of opinions and comments that we never expected; but they gave us some really great insight and, in most cases, reinforced what we already believe about toys. And about consumers too: They are a pretty savvy lot these days. Following are some of the more thought provoking comments.
- Here's something my dad observed in my nephew when he was about 3 or 4. It was my nephew's birthday and he got a lot of toys all at once. Over the next few days, all the toys with batteries and pre-programmed play held his interest for a little while, but the stuff that required his imagination held his interest for a lot longer.
- I believe that children's toys can tell a parent a little bit about their child's interests in life and personality. My daughter at 4 years old stated to me that she would like to be an artist. I kind of figured that, from the toys she plays with at home.
- We have a rule about noisy electronic toys, once the original batteries go dead, that's it. No replacements!
- Encourage children to play dress up. Do not put away the costumes from Halloween.
- A toy is not only for a child to play with but should encourage them to use their imagination and to ask questions.
- My grandchildren love to put on music and dance!
We received more than a fair share of humorous replies too. Following is a sample.
"I just took your survey and wanted to tell you I think there is a big flaw in it when it comes to asking about a favorite toy. Outside of a few singularly obsessive kids, favorite toys change yearly, monthly, whenever the newest, best thing comes out. A better question would be to ask for one or two examples of toys we remember wanting more than anything else. I can think of three off the top of my head: a Mickey Mouse talking telephone (which I didn't get until the price went down and I had pretty much lost interest); a Rudy the Robot (which I broke the day I got it) and Rock'em Sock'em Robots. None of them were my favorite toys, but I remember the chase!"
To participate in the PLAYTHINGS toy survey, see the December issue—Toy Stories— or www.playthings.com.
|
