Nagging Nine: 2011 Toy Commercials ~ Bombarding Our Children's Senses??

Take back the control of your holiday spending...buyer BEWARE~!!

Methodology: CCFC reviewed all commercials airing between 6AM and 8PM from November 21-27, 2011 on 5 children's networks (Nickelodeon, NickToons, Disney XD, Cartoon Network, and the Hub).  There were more than 11,500 total advertisements, of which, 9,000 were for toys and games.  The toys listed in the table above were the most advertised.

Why This Matters: We all know that commercialism is toxic for children— and it always gets worse around this time of year. Marketers have transformed the holiday season into a materialistic feeding frenzy, teaching kids that its all about demanding—and getting—“must-have” toys.”   Thoughtful consumers already include issues like environmental impact, labor practices and where a product is made in their buying decisions. But most of us don’t think about how, and to whom, the toys are marketed. 

No matter your buying decision, it ultimately comes down in your choice as a parent and a consumer as to what you spend your hard-earned cash on.  Education and value are important in a struggling economy and this is just one more aspect in your product purchasing. 

Advertising has both its advantages and disadvantages...

So if you’re shopping for a child you love this holiday season, please consult CCFC’s Nagging Nine before you hit the checkout line.