The Biz: Feature Articles

Historically, boys have been easy to please when it comes to shopping. They tended not to fuss over clothing styles and many were happy with simple, action-themed toys. Today, many parents of sons voice a need for more variety in boys’ products. To some extent, they crave a return to the traditional ideal of carefree, outdoorsy boyhood. At the same time, they’re aware that a young man needs to develop his mind as well as his body. Kapital K, Outset Media, Lil’ Teammates, and Manhattan Toy are all doing their part to expand a boy’s world well beyond “snakes and snails and puppy dog tails.”

Having a baby may seem like an unforgettable experience, but with the millions of childhood milestones, there may be a moment or two overlooked. If a mom doesn’t start a mommyblog, what’s she to do with the oodles of things she wants to tell junior when he or she grows up? Parents everywhere are looking for unique and special ways to record precious memories and save important documents. Offer your clients something different by allowing them several unique ways to show love for their children, with innovative products from Frittabello, Perfect Memory Creations, Penny Laine Papers, and Little Ones Showcase.

Move over tigers and bears and make room for the Anamalz, a wild and wonderful menagerie in the world of fun and fantasy play. In 2009, these bendable critter charmers won Australia’s prestigious Design Award for innovative use of materials and were also given three stars — the highest award — by The Canadian Toy Testing Council for excellence in function, design, durability and play value. A unique gift and story spinner, as well as a way for youngsters to meet many animal species, Anamalz come in a variety of figures finely crafted from sustainable maple with appealing fabric touches.

Staying fresh and relevant is a constant challenge for any business. A struggling economy doesn’t help much. How do you maintain your growth momentum or possibly kick-start a business experiencing a plateau? The answer is to look at your brand (your business) with fresh eyes. When doing so, you will discover new opportunities to pursue and uncover options you may have never thought you had. Of course, there are countless ways to revitalize a brand, but here are 5 universal strategies that most, if not all, in the children’s business can employ.