Toys Consumer Insights

Implications - Children have become so desensitized by the gore and aggression on TV, that they are no longer as drawn to infantile themes. Now toys for children, and even toddlers, can be as gory as zombie dolls, stuffed animals with offensive language and even plushies that have been dissected.

Implications - The appeal of surprises continues past childhood, as made evident by the popularity of “unidentified features” of certain products or services. This can range from a hidden object embedded within a product, such as inside soap, or risking the chance of getting something fun by ordering mystery gifts.

Implications - These innovations appeal to the innate urge to reminisce on products favored in ones youth. In this case, they are based on the Choose Your Own Adventure books in which readers can take alternate paths in each chapter to manipulate the story’s destiny. This also speaks to the desire for control.

Implications - Computers and technology are being integrated in courses for students from kindergarten to university, and their evolution must be on par with the development of the students. Progressive institutes understand that their level of new tech integration directly correlates with the success of their students.

Implications - She’s been around since 1959, and Barbie continues to be a pop culture sensation. Mattel has maintained the doll’s iconic status by evolving with the times and staying relevant to different cultures and niche interests. Expect a lot more Barbie innovations in 2009 as she celebrates her 50th birthday.

Implications - Many children exhibit an aversion to hand-washing, a trait that some even carry into adulthood. As people become more aware of the importance of proper hygiene, especially hand washing, creative soap designers are pushing hard to invent new soaps that will make the experience an enjoyable one.

Implications - Children have the most incredible imaginations, and the ability to dream beyond adult comprehension. While some artists have attempted to infuse their own work with the limitless creative qualities of children, others are harnessing the raw visions of real kids and bringing them to life.

Implications - The range of devices emerging to protect the next generation prove a timeless societal theme: when it comes to our kids’ safety, we want the very best. From toddler crash helmets to child tracking bracelets, to fetus radiation protection, parents will spend what it takes to ensure their children's safety.

Implications - Designers have been evoking people’s inner ‘geeks,’ appealing to anyone who has ever engaged in gaming. Using themes from the past as inspiration, from LEGO and Rubik’s cubes to Pacman and Tetris, designers have reintroduced arcade appeal to the modern age of virtual worlds and HD graphic gaming.

Implications - Dampened moods among adults due to the recession are in direct relation to the increasing depression among children. Parents who recognize this are beginning to make conscious efforts to increase positive interactive with children, namely playing with them and engaging in creative crafts in budget-friendly ways.