Because trouble comes in all sizes.
As long as I’ve been inhabiting this little blue planet, I’ve loved eating cereal. It nourishes me without requiring focus. I’m free to wander in thought. When I return from my mind’s journey the bowl’s empty yet I feel complete. As a Dad, I see this existential pattern forming with my children. They too will experience finding Zen in a bowl of cereal.
Conversation on the way to school:
Me: Who would take care of it?
7yo: You I guess. You’re doing an okay job as a Dad.
Off in the distance, my 9yo nods in agreement displaying a rare moment of solidarity with his younger sibling.
Another Toy Fair has come and gone. In taking the time to process what I’ve seen I couldn’t help feeling we’ve collectively lost our way. Let me preface by stating I love technology. I’ve been fascinated by innovation for as long as I can remember. I’m old enough to have experienced life without the internet, cellphones or personal computers. Yet we had books, newspapers, theater, television (broadcast only), and movies to spark our imaginations. In the late 20th century, young Americans often discussed the topic of living in the 21st century. We were obsessed with the future—a transformative leap into a remarkable world with infinite possibilities. Yet here we are in 2016, torn at the seams between the digital and analog fabric of our lives. The NY Toy Fair suddenly becomes a checkpoint for society—a snapshot of what lies ahead.
The start of Autumn does not mean the end of play outside. Children of all ages charge the air with palpable excitement. In many respects, Fall represents the best season of the year in the Northeastern part of the United States.