Following the news that immensely popular toy store Toys "R" Us has recently gone bankrupt, it is more important than ever to consider the ways in which society has changed in its definition of childhood. Many remember Toys "R" Us as the epitome of childhood; a vibrant, near-magical land of toys and creativity whose prospect could draw even the most introverted child out of bed in excitement. The store's recent bankruptcy, however, implies a disconnect.
Why are children no longer interested in toys?
This can be most likely attributed to the recent emphasis that society has placed on technology and social media, creating a growing disinterest among our kids in the beauty that can come from the non-digital world.
Today, it is not unusual to witness a young child engrossed in an iPad, iPhone, or other "smart" device. I know, I sound like an old man when I say this, but when I was growing up, this kind of stuff would not fly. Having grown up in the early 00's, I spent my childhood reading books, exploring outside, and creating; a simple life devoid of digital influences aside from the occasional educational Television show.
Reading, playing, and creating are all activities that were very typical of the time (and often still are, don't get me wrong), and activities that served to open and stimulate the creative mind from a young age. Early childhood is a crucial time developmentally, and by exposing our young and impressionable children to the toxicity of the online world instead of placing an emphasis on the importance of creating and expanding the mind, we fail to lay the building blocks that will ensure their full potential in the future.
While the modern prevalence of social media and technology certainly has its benefits in connecting the world and facilitating business transactions, et cetera, there is no doubting that the online world comes with toxicity that can be harmful to the impressionable minds of children.
Popular social media, such as Instagram, has been known to promote unrealistic body standards and encourage comparison. The desire for young people to mimic those celebrities or "Insta-famous" people they see online is already a real problem, but as younger children are joining social media, it becomes even more important. In an effort to appeal to the typically adult trends that they see on their social media feeds, children begin to mimic these mannerisms, and it is without-a-doubt causing kids to grow up too fast.
There is something to be said about the joys of being a child without real responsibilities, comparison, or anxiety about how others perceive you. Being a teen and adult can be extremely hard, and I truly worry for the children who have fallen victim to these stresses early on in their lives due to the influence of social media. I hope that although the influence of technology on kids has become rampant, that we do not forget to expose our children to activities that remind them what it means to simply live in the moment and experience the wonders of childhood and naivety.
This one goes out to our fallen comrade, Toys "R" us. #KeepKidsCreative
