Blog Post: Generational Interchanges: Holiday Toys of Generations Past

It's the time of year for giving gifts and we're hearing a lot about children's toys.
This year, kids might vie for a hand-held bionic eye that magnifies the world it
views on a computer screen, an interactive stationary bike that pedals a video
game, or a Hannah Montana doll to sing-a-long with. How we play as children helps
to define who we are as adults. Here are a few toys that influenced prior
generations:

• Traditionalists (born 1925-1943) spent time with marbles and pick-up-sticks,
humble toys that taught them the value of patience and hard work. 
• Baby Boomers (born 1944-1962) coveted Slinkys and Silly Putty, applications
of modern science that reflected an era of innovation and optimism. 
• Generation Xers (born 1963-1981) played with Rubik's Cubes and PacMan,
games that resonated with a cohort of latch key kids who had to figure things
out on their own. 
• Millennials (born 1982-2000) had virtual pets and other "smart" toys that
enabled them to connect with each other through technology.

Happy Holidays from Amy Hirsh Robinson & Annika Hylmö!

Want more insight and tips for managing the different generations in your
workplace? Contact us at www.interchange-group.com.