The History of Toys and Games

This unique two-hour special explores the history of the world's playthings. Universal in occurrence and appeal, toys and games are found in every culture and era. But more than just devices to amuse the young, toys can be a window in which to study and learn the history of any given period or area. Toys reflect the economic, social, technological, gender, and political trends and events of a society, and the plaything of today can become the valuable collector's item of tomorrow.

The History of Toys and Games would be useful for classes on World History, American History, American Culture, Gender History, the History of Science and Technology and Psychology. It is appropriate for middle school and high school.

Part 1

• albeit
• artisans
• authenticity
• bauble
• beleaguered
• belies
• exquisite
• genteel
• infancy
• integral
• intrinsic
• melee
• napoleonic
• optimism
• pillory
• predecessor
• sociologist
• testosterone
• trifle
• trinket

Discussion Questions

1. Toys are universal and found in every part of the world. Discuss how each culture has its own distinct types of toys. Compare different toys from different regions. How are they similar? How are they different?

2. Discuss how toys are both stimulants for imagination and the product of the imagination.

3. Toys can tell much about their society. How do toys reflect their culture?

4. Discuss how toys “tell” the history of humankind.

5. What are the origins of the word “toy?”

6. We all know that toys provide entertainment and delight for children, but they also serve other purposes. What do toys do for children? How do they aid in the process of maturation? How do toys teach children the skills they need as adults? How can toys also teach children what is acceptable in their culture or society and what is not?

7. How do toys serve as vehicles for our fantasies?

8. Girls' toys and boys' toys can be very different and gender specific. Discuss how a society's accepted gender roles are evident in the ways in which toys are assigned to girls or boys. How do advertisers contribute to this segregation?

9. Why do war games seem to appeal to male children?

10. Archeologists have found dolls among the oldest ruins and artifacts. Why do think dolls are among the earliest toys?

11. How do dolls reflect the image of the members of their society?

12. What were the origins of the Teddy bear?

Extended Activities

1. Create a simple toy and explain how your toy can be used and what benefit it would be to a growing child.

2. Use some of the toys popular today to discuss our culture and society.

3. Write an essay on your favorite toy and what that toy has done for your benefit.

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Air Dates

• December 13, 2005