Go back to webelieveingirls.comThe role of toys
Chuck Scothon
October 23rd, 2007
As I was sitting in a meeting at Mattel the other day, it struck me that talking about the role of toys with respect to our daughters was an area we might want to explore together in the space of this blog. So, here it goes from my point of view.
When I think of toys, I start with my dad hat on and see a few different ways to look at toys:
One: that they are something to keep my daughter busy, occupied, and to spark her imagination.
Two: that a toy has to be something I think is fun, too. It’s pretty simple … if I don’t get it, why would she?
And finally, three: how can a toy be a catalyst for Gabriella (my 5-year-old daughter) and me to spend some time together?
To me, that third one is incredibly powerful. It’s just so important to me. Now, don’t get me wrong, Gabriella and I do a ton of things that can keep us busy, and they don’t all come in a box. But, when we have something like a doll, a dollhouse, or any other toy that really unlocks her imagination, it begins to help me see what she sees in the world around her, how she imagines things, how she thinks and dreams. Anyone who has ever watched or played with dolls and their daughter knows exactly what I mean.
The challenge for all us is to ensure that we don’t let the busy parts of our lives take over those small times where we just play together. It doesn’t have to be an outing … it doesn’t have to be a new experience … it just has to be a little time where our kids are our sole focus.
Okay, I’m getting a bit serious here. Maybe it’s just all the meetings on my schedule today. But, remember, pull out a favorite toy when you get home and let your daughter lead the way. It’s amazing where they can take us. Don’t you agree?
Chuck
October 23rd, 2007 | 5 Comments
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Chuck Scothon is the General Manager, Senior Vice President, Girls, Mattel Brands
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Posted By: R.M.Fontana | November 5th, 2007
I guess I have chose to write because you are a father and you are possibly in a position of influence for girl\’s toys. I write to you, with utter respect, and hope my letter will serve as fuel for thought.
Each year, I grow increasingly concerned with the images of Barbie/Mattel brand dolls. The dolls are increasingly provocative, and their clothing (or the lack there of) gives a very damaging message to our daughters about the value of girls/women in our society. These toys are portraying images of \
Posted By: daniel | November 8th, 2007
hi,i am daniel,nice to see you.
you \’ re nice dad,you always listen to your children,but my dad isn \’t nice like you!
he doesn\’t like toys,he hates them very much,i don\’t know why does he hate toys??? do you can explain it for me?
Posted By: Kat | February 18th, 2008
I find it interesting that many of the complaints you’re receiving about Barbie are phrased as though she’s the only influence these children have in how they think, act, dress, etc.
I’m curious how much attention these parents actually pay to the music, TV, movies, websites or reading material their children encounter each day. If they honestly believe that Barbie is the worst influence in their childrens’ lives, then they may be in for a shock when they start *really* paying attention to what their children are exposed to.
Should Barbie be as positive an influence as possible? Absolutely. But throwing stones at a doll (who is proportioned to look right *when dressed*. 1:1 scale fabrics don’t always look right on 1:6 scale bodies) accomplishes little, besides giving the parent/activist in question the chance to say ‘Look, I did something”.
Start affecting *all* the things in your child’s life, instead of passing around urban legends about what Barbie would be ‘if she was real’. You may have to change some of the things your child currently does or observes, yes, but parenting doesn’t always involve making choices that are popular with your kids.
Posted By: maricar alcos maricar alcos | March 27th, 2008
hello there! I am already 26 years old but i still love playing with barbies,they inspired me to stay sexy and beautiful:-)))I love making gowns of barbies…I have 4 barbie dolls from mattel. ACTUALLY YOU CAN SEE SOME dolls and MY GOWNS CREATION IN MY FRIENDSTER. Now i have another new barbie dolls and i made them much beautiful gowns than my old creations.I am really a fan of barbie…thanks
Posted By: fudsnz | June 7th, 2008
i want a toy barbiegirl cause its gonno be my birth day this july,9,2008
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