Because trouble comes in all sizes.
The New York Toy Fair, much like Spring, gives new life to one’s imagination. It wholeheartedly embraces the idea that human beings need play time. I always look forward to attending the event to discover innovative toys and gadgets.
In this episode of The CuteMonster Show podcast I spoke with Chief Elemental Officer Julie Kerwin about IAmElemental. Her toy company sparked the Toy Industry discussion about the role female action figures play in the 21st century. Listen as Julie weighs in on IAmElemental’s mission as well as what the future may hold for the toy company.
It’s hard to escape the mayhem of this year’s Presidential Election. There’s no corner of the digital media space that hasn’t let politics creep into their news cycle. After all, focusing on partisan hijinks helps drive up viewership and revenue. In addition, the candidates inadvertently create “newsworthy” content for free – too tempting to ignore for most media outlets. Families looking to avoid the stress and anxiety attributed to a lengthy, derisive, and emotionally charged Presidential election have their work cut out for them. Yet, hope springs eternal.
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.
From the moment my youngest entered the world it began. My then two year old son instantly recognized there was a challenger to his throne. Sure his newborn sister was tiny and cute yet in his mind she represented a formidable opponent. “She can’t play with any of my toys!” he exclaimed. And for her part, she didn’t. At least not for a few months anyway.
I went to the playground over the weekend with my 3 year old son. Quite frankly I felt tired, irritable and hazy courtesy of the latest flavor of antihistamine potion taken to combat seasonal allergies. My son on the other hand, a veritable explosive comet streaking across the playground universe, descended upon his kid nirvana ready for adventure. He stormed the playground apparatus racing up the steps, dashing across the bridge, then hurtling his agile frame down the slide. Filled with excitement, he playfully implored me to “Catch me Daddy! Tag your it!” Yet I was too consumed with my state of health to chase him so I passed on his request. Uncharacteristically, I allowed my mood to dictate my response.