The Toy Association has put together an in-depth report, Decoding STEM/STEAM, to explore the history and evolution of public perception about STEM/STEAM, tackle common misconceptions, address how to encourage kids to take more interest in science- and math-related subjects and careers, and suggest how toys and play can further STEM/STEAM learning.
When it comes to gifts for kids, you want your customers to think of your store first. You want new customers to discover you. Be at the top of your game this holiday season with a focus on these strategies from The American Specialty Toy Retailing Assocation (ASTRA):
The issue of marketing to children is gaining traction as advertisers across a broad array of industries step up their investments in new media and government authorities strengthen their efforts to ensure that children remain protected as technologies evolve.
ASTRA kicks off its second annual Neighborhood Toy Store Day this November 12. Here are some tips for planning a simple day that will draw a lot of attention.
Fall Toy Preview gets underway in Dallas on October 4. Read which retailers will be in attendance.
The TIF shares its recent experiences helping kids through its Play Heals program.
ASTRA is readying its retailers for the 2011 Holiday season with tips to garner as much media as possible, drawing consumers into stores.
For the past several years I’ve been attending the TAGIE Awards (The Toy & Game Inventor Awards). Held during CHITAG, the Chicago Toy & Game Fair, I’ve watched the event grow tremendously. This year’s event, held at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry, was completely sold out. It was hosted by Tim Walsh (inventor of Tribond and Blurt and now filmmaker for the movie Toyland) who has a great comedic style. Hasbro inventor relations’ main man, Mike Hirtle, gave the keynote address. For me, there were two highlights during the evening. The first was the lifetime achievement award presented to Eddie Goldfarb. He has created more popular toys than can be named here. However, some of his highlights include Yakity Yak Chattering Teeth, Ker Plunk, and Battling Tops. The second highlight was watching Kate Daniels win the Young Inventor Award. It was presented by Seth Calvin, the 2009 winner, and John Ratzenberger (of Cheers and Toy Story fame. He’s the voice of Hamm the piggy bank). I also enjoyed the open bar. . . perhaps a little too much.
ASTRA is gearing up to better serve its members in 2011 through media outreach, seminars, and a redesigned website.