The Biz

Even if they don’t bend your ear about it, your customers probably wish there were simple ways to teach kids the value of money. Raise the subject of time spent with TV or video games and watch the attention shift to you. Then, show them a system that uses today’s technology to get across the concept of managing time and money. My Job Chart is an online system in which a parent either registers online or downloads an app, inputs information about the family and assigns chores to kids with a reward value for each job.

Sticky Fudge, a South African clothing company, provides families with pieces that encourage and enhance layering. It aspires to become part of all that is good about childhood, thanks to strong demand. “We had a very successful Spring/Summer 2013 Season,” explained Cheri Kroeger who handles marketing for Sticky Fudge. The company has its origins at an Organic & Natural Product market in Stellenbosch, South Africa; demand for the clothing outstripped the on-hand supply, so Frinette, the designer and creator of Sticky Fudge, expanded the business to meet customer needs. Almost every piece in the collection is crafted in Cape Town, South Africa.

While American “tweendom” is the most familiar type, Europe recognizes the tween years as a distinct developmental phase as well, and it is home to companies that target that demographic. Many of these companies are similar to their American counterparts, but have some unique traits inherent to European fashion and culture. Some American retailers have noticed that European-made products are big sellers, so they keep an eye on designers from across the pond to learn who’s who and what’s trending. Barbour, Caracoteen, molo and Mini Vanilla are among the hot companies that deserve a closer look.

Johnny Joker is an assortment of products meant to help children develop their sense of self-esteem and to master important life skills. The materials include books, plushies and interactive games designed to reach kids in ways they understand and enjoy. Johnny Joker books address five categories: This is Me, My Body and Me, My Feelings, You and Me, and World Around Me. These categories cover self-care and hygiene, managing emotions, identifying preferences and talents, interacting with others and much more.