Information for Students on the British Toy Industry & Trade 2006
Compiled by the BTHA (British Toy & Hobby Association) and the TRA (Toy Retailers Association)
This information is compiled for use by both schools and colleges. It is not intended for business students requiring more in-depth information. They are advised to seek assistance from a good reference library able to access commercial reports by research companies such as Mintel, Euromonitor and others.
As regards to students undertaking a project on toy design, we are only able to provide guidelines on the safety requirements in this leaflet. We are unable to assist in any technical way as toys can be made of many materials from paper, board, wood, plastic, metal or a combination of all these. A book entitled GCSE Design and Technology: Resistant Materials by Colin Lever (published by Causeway Press Ltd., PO Box 13, 129 New Court Way, Ormskirk, Lancs L39 5HP) is aimed at students aged 14-16 taking this GCSE qualification and could be useful.
If you would like information on the history of toys or board games, there are several excellent books available at most good libraries including some on how to make toys. And of course, toy museums should be visited if possible. If you are interested in designing toys for children with disabilities, you should write to the charity that deals with that disability, e.g. Royal National Institute for the Blind.
When deciding what toy to design, you need to decide whether you are devising a 'teaching' toy or activity toy, the age range for the item and how the children will play with the toy. That brings us to the most important fact: much of the information is on your doorstep. A visit to your local toyshop will show you what is popular with different age groups, what is already on the markets, and what toys are suitable for very young children. Finally we hope that these Web pages will help you with your project and wish you every success with your work.
Please select from the contents below
 General Information Sources of Information The Role of the BTHA and TRA The Value of Play Children at play Aggressive Toys and Play Toys for Boys and Girls |
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