Toy Association and Genius of Play Spread Awareness about Toy Safety and Importance of Play at “Biggest Family Shower” in LA

August 14, 2018 | The Toy Association spread awareness about toy and play safety, top toy trends, and the developmental benefits of play at Big City Moms’ “Biggest Family Shower Ever!” The event attracted hundreds of new and expectant parents to the California Market Center in Los Angeles, CA on Saturday, August 11.

At the event, which showcased nearly 100 companies and their products, services, and brands, The Toy Association hosted a booth with information about the recently re-launched PlaySafe.org – the toy industry’s free online resource for families offering advice on toy safety, shared information with parents about this year’s hot toy trends, and invited attendees to participate in a toy raffle to win one of several new toys.

The Association also hosted a booth highlighting its Genius of Play initiative, where visitors learned about the importance of play and were challenged to engage in play activities or answer trivia questions for a chance to win a $250 gift card to the toy retailer of their choice.

Joan Lawrence, The Toy Association’s “Toy Safety Mom” and senior vice president of standards and regulatory affairs, spoke on a panel with other child and baby care experts, providing the audience with tips for keeping their children safe at play. During a separate panel discussion, Jackie Retzer, Toy Association trends spokesperson, explored toy trends including Toys that Teach, the Big Reveal, and Millennial Nostalgia, while Genius of Play expert Dr. Deborah Wisneski spoke to the session’s attendees on why all types of play is important for a child’s physical, emotional, and cognitive development.

“As a parent, it can be overwhelming and confusing to sift through all of information and advice online,” Lawrence said. “Playsafe.org is an online resource for them that’s been vetted by experts and contains facts families can trust. Being on-site at the Biggest Family Shower gave us an avenue to reach many families and influencers so we could share important information on safe toys and play and why play can be extremely beneficial for young children.”