Part One:

https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1zytPl9oL77-EHUAnvSYtMhxboNJUi1rmyqoVLQBwUoE/edit?usp=sharing

Part Two:

How are toys different when intended for adults rather than children? What consideration is necessary when designing toys for adults compared to designing for children?

• Like we discussed in class, I think there isn’t necessarily a difference when it comes to toys for adults and children, it is all the marketing that makes us believe that we have a difference. Mainly it is because I like toys that are for more so marketed towards kids/babies (such as jellycats) but not restricted in age. But I guess it also depends on the purpose of the toy and what you like it for. And while there are a lot of considerations that goes into safety concerns for children, adults would understand what would be safe or not. If anything it wouldn’t hurt to add safety precautions/warnings and use safe materials to every toy (then all ages would be fine). That being said, there are still some distinctions in how toys are marketed and designed for different age groups. Toys for children often emphasize sensory stimulation, motor skill development, and imaginative play, whereas toys for adults might lean more towards nostalgia, relaxation, or even stress relief (like fidget toys, puzzles, or collectibles). Additionally, complexity plays a role, adult-targeted toys might have more intricate designs, require problem-solving, or cater to aesthetic and collectible appeal rather than hands-on play. Brian Sutton-Smith, in Toys as Culture, challenged the thought of how adults often frame play in terms of its usefulness rather than valuing it as an activity in itself. He points out that many adults see play as a tool for development, education, or socialization, particularly when it comes to children. Although like Cas Holman mentioned, young kids like to be taken seriously so even if it is catered to adults, young kids can still play with it. Another factor to consider is social perception. Adults engaging with toys often seek either a personal or social experience, whether it’s for display, as a conversation starter, or for mindful engagement. Meanwhile, children's toys are typically designed to encourage cognitive and social development (just a generalization because it is not correct). Despite these distinctions, I still think the best-designed toys go beyond age barriers, offering enjoyment and value regardless of who is using them and it shouldn’t be separated by age.