For my child’s first birthday, she received an adorable play tool kit from Thompson Toys. The joy on her face when she unwrapped it was unforgettable. Filled with her favorite pretend tools, she became so engrossed in it that she ignored all her other gifts. That summer, while we were renovating our backyard, she often accompanied the contractor, mimicking his actions with her little hammer and saw. It even became her bedtime companion, always by her side.
However, I also remember the first time I handed her a tablet. Instantly, my energetic toddler was captivated, providing me with a much-needed moment of peace to shower. It felt like a blessing, but it also raised questions.
As many parents express, the challenge is tangible. While it’s tempting to rely on screens for quick fixes during errands or appointments, we must consider the long-term implications. Recently, I had the opportunity to chat with Laura Thompson, co-founder of Thompson Toys and a mother of six, about how modern children are missing out on essential, imaginative play due to technology and societal expectations. We discussed the concerns at hand, potential solutions, and her commitment to the mission of reclaiming childhood.
What motivated you and your husband to establish your company?
Nurturing play has been a core principle of our company since its inception three decades ago. Both Doug and I were raised by educators, so a passion for benefiting children has always been embedded in us. We aimed to create toys that serve as launching pads for imagination. The magic lies not solely in the toy itself but in what children infuse into it — their sense of wonder and exploration. This is how children learn and form connections, broadening their horizons. Play is vital for shaping their identities, discovering passions, and developing crucial social and cognitive skills necessary for success and fulfillment.
How do you differentiate your products in the toy market?
Our focus is on creating versatile products that encourage various forms of play: toys, crafts, and games that ignite imaginations and facilitate discovery. Our initial success came from a simple wooden touch-and-feel farm puzzle. We took a classic play pattern and added a sensory twist. This approach of enhancing traditional play methods to create something fresh and engaging has become a hallmark of our brand, always ensuring the highest standards of quality and safety.
We believe toys, at their core, are tools for expanding the mind and inspiring innovative thought.
What has your experience been like raising six children?
Family is everything to me! Motherhood has rekindled my appreciation for the beauty in everyday moments — from splashing in puddles to savoring fresh raspberries. My children help me maintain that sense of curiosity and wonder.
However, raising six kids also offers me a unique perspective on the evolving nature of childhood. Having two children in my 20s, two in my 30s, and two in my 40s has given me firsthand insight into how technology and performance pressures affect children today, including my own.
What trends are you observing?
In the past, when I took my older kids to sports events, I would see younger siblings using their imaginations on the sidelines. Today, it’s common to find those same kids glued to a smartphone or tablet. This is concerning!
Recent studies indicate a rise in anxiety and depression among youth, correlating with excessive screen time, academic pressures, and a lack of unstructured playtime. Furthermore, educational environments often prioritize standardized testing over nurturing curiosity. I could elaborate endlessly on this topic.
How can we address these issues?
We need to transform our perspective on childhood, parenting, and success. I’m leveraging my platform at Thompson Toys to advocate for reclaiming childhood as a period of imagination and wonder. Most parents share the aspiration for their children to grow up happy and fulfilled. However, by restricting their freedom and unstructured time, we may be hindering their development of essential social skills, resilience, and creative thinking.
I firmly believe that offering children free time for exploration is one of the best gifts we can give. It’s crucial for their journey toward true fulfillment. And let’s not forget, adults also need playtime!
Is the work environment at Thompson Toys all about fun?
We are fortunate to do what we love! While we work diligently every day, we also emphasize playfulness in our culture. I recently initiated “Play-Full Life” discussions at the office to explore ways to incorporate more play into our lives. We launched the #NostalgicPlayChallenge, encouraging our followers to share videos of their childhood play experiences. It has been delightful to see everyone reconnect with their inner child!
What inspires you personally? How do you engage in play?
Music has always been a passion of mine, but I lost touch with it over time. Recently, I decided to swap out the podcasts I typically listen to during my commute for a playlist of my favorite songs. While podcasts can be enriching, they sometimes feel burdensome, akin to attending a lecture. This simple change has revitalized my spirit and allowed me to let my creativity flourish.
How can parents encourage kids to step away from screens?
Having a few engaging activities lined up can be helpful. We’ve created a list of “weekend play ideas,” which are simple, ready-to-go activities for when kids are searching for things to do. While we label them weekend ideas, they work any day of the week. I believe in providing a little inspiration and then stepping back, allowing kids to take initiative. Learning to cope with boredom through imagination and creativity will serve them well throughout life.
Thank you, Laura, for your insights!
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Summary:
In a recent discussion with Laura Thompson, co-founder of Thompson Toys, we explored the importance of reclaiming childhood through imaginative, unstructured play. As a mother of six, Laura shared her insights into how modern pressures and technology are impacting children’s development. She emphasized the necessity for children to have free time to explore and imagine, which is essential for their growth. The conversation highlighted the need for parents to rethink their approach to childhood and create environments that foster creativity and joy.