The Biz: Feature Articles

The ABC Spring Educational Conference will be held “Where Dreams Come True” at Disney World Resorts on May 20-22. The ABC annual spring event allows juvenile stores, manufacturers, reps and media to get to know more about each other and their industry. The juvenile industry has been built on dreams, and continues to serve and be inspired by families with new dreams. That’s why I asked several exhibitors these questions: “What are your dreams that have come true, or that you still have?” and “What dream product are you showing at the ABC spring trade show?” I received replies from Duux, MD Moms, Reflo, pello, and oogaa.

Three friends had two things in common, the desire to work together, and a shared passion for natural living. While brainstorming, they realized all their talents combined could create an all-natural skincare line. And thus, 3Girls Holistic was born. Following the “Going Green” trend, 3Girls Holistic features five product lines that commit to using only natural and organic ingredients targeting the environmentally conscious consumer. The lines include: Skin Care, Aromatherapy, First Aid, Postpartum and For Kids.

We are all aware that our country has economic problems and the job market is challenging. Merchants can do their part to help correct this situation by showing customers a wide variety of American-made goods. By selling products made in the U.S.A., you are supporting important safety regulations, helping the economy, protecting workers and helping to save environmental resources. The Giggle Guide® salutes four companies that produce fashion for kids, made in the U.S.A: Dillonger, Milly and Tate, Alivia Simone and Max & Bean.

With the unblinking glow of screens just about everywhere, many families are turning towards simpler times… and simpler means of entertainment. Simple toys like marbles and wooden cutouts encourage creativity. Simple craft projects inspire kids to explore their artistic senses and then utilize their personalized artwork in imaginative play. The attraction of simple toys and games lies in the ability to gently challenge, bring people together, and entertain. Companies like Maple Landmark Woodcraft, House of Marbles, eeBoo, and Seedling New Zealand are bringing some of the best in children’s products to generations of families.

In her new children’s chapter book, Scary Spring: Our Polio Fright of 1955, author C.A. Hartnell seeks to bring the spirit of the ‘50s alive for elementary school-age readers. The events are seen through the eyes of 11-year-old Carol-Ann and her friend Pete, whose adventures in their neighborhood are a mix of classic youthful mischief (finding a stray puppy, spying on the local “crabby old man”) to more serious themes like witnessing the dangerous consequences of hot rod racing and facing the realities of polio. Pete and Carol-Ann’s friendship is a good old-fashioned coming of age buddy adventure.

Caring for an infant can be overwhelming enough without throwing skin problems into the mix. With Baby Pibu™ products, infant skincare doesn’t have to be a confusing chore. The loving brainchild of dermatologist mom Dr. Amy Kim, Baby Pibu produces the ideal combination of gentle, effective products made from high-quality, clinically-tested ingredients, so parents can focus less on figuring skincare out, and more on their tiny bundles of joy.

Be honest, at some point “What’s in it for me?” has crossed your mind. Generally, this question is accompanied with negative, self-serving behavior. It carries with it derogatory connotations and if this was a conversation about generational behaviors, think Boomers, Gen-Xers and Millennials. Then the conversation would spin towards entitlement and the supposition that many people approach the world today with an “I am, therefore I should receive” mentality. But before I go too far into opening that Pandora’s box, I want to stop and see if I can convince some that maybe it’s not all bad to surmise “What’s in it for me?”

By now, all merchandisers who have an ear cocked to the public pulse show lots of green products. Sustainable fabric, environmentally-friendly packaging, and companies that truly embrace their workforce are good for everyone. Some green companies may have taken their path to differentiate themselves from others. They may find setting a positive example makes customers think more highly of them. Often, the company really likes making and selling goods that don’t harm anyone, either in the making or the end usage. The Giggle Guide® presents four companies with green profiles and offerings: Winter Water Factory, Bright-Brained Toys, trash-á-porter, and Dot&Co.

Happy Earth Day! Initially started to call attention to the necessity of protecting the environment and natural resources, Earth Day has evolved into a celebration that highlights the grandeur of nature and the various ways that we can all pull together to make the world a better place. Of course, many children’s companies have strong environmental policies they practice every day of the year. Companies like Prince Lionheart, Simple Nature, BooginHead and Tiny Tater Tees are bringing useful products to families while helping to build a better world.

Login:

Username:
Password: