At this year's Toy Fair, toymaker TOMY revealed that it will be releasing a range of toys in the shape of the rabbit Molang and his friend Piu Piu, both of which are popular characters from a show that's been widely shared across YouTube and TV.
These cartoon plush toys in the shape of Molang and his friends are set to teach kids the importance of certain values, such as happiness, mutual respect and solidarity and of course, friendship.
In addition to launching a number of skill-building toys that educate kids with STEM concepts, many toymakers are now also focusing on the development of emotional intelligence with toys that embrace themes like acceptance and empathy.
Cartoon Friendship Toys
TOMY's Molang Toys Teach Respect, Happiness and Solidarity
Trend Themes
1. Emotional Intelligence Toys - Toymakers are focusing on the development of emotional intelligence with toys that embrace themes like acceptance and empathy
2. Character-based Toys - Toymaker TOMY is releasing a range of toys based on the popular characters Molang and Piu Piu, which have gained traction on YouTube and TV
3. Values-based Education Toys - The cartoon plush toys of Molang and his friends aim to teach kids the important values of happiness, mutual respect, solidarity, and friendship
Industry Implications
1. Toy Industry - Toymakers are evolving by creating toys that focus on emotional intelligence and values-based education
2. Entertainment Industry - The popularity of Molang and Piu Piu characters on YouTube and TV shows there is a market for character-based toys
3. Education Industry - The development and use of toys that teach values and emotional intelligence provide opportunities for integrating them into educational settings