It seems ironic that the cell phone, intended to open the world to communication, actually closes down more person-to-person interaction than ever before. It’s a device we all can’t live without, and for good reason, but at the same time, we seem to be cutting off our eye-to-eye contact, which is so important in the development of human connection. We know and have read about how digital screens, especially cell phones, are inhibiting the necessary brain maturation in young

It does seem that way lately, doesn’t it? It looks like we have shut off all communications. Here’s an example. In my rather naive belief that, given all my experience developing products for children from birth to age 12, I could write a children's book, it seemed like I should be able to do this, and it’s something I’ve always wanted to try. After all, I wrote many scripts for animated videos, creative design briefs, and all sorts of written communications over the years.

“Then do it again until we get the right answer!” It is not unusual for companies to use research to validate their opinions. I have lived through that cycle many times. So many times, testing research tells us one thing really well: What's going on right in this moment. That’s not a bad thing if you are launching a product, a video game, or a streaming show in the next few months. But what about a year or two or three from now? How does research help solve that question of

Ahh, AI, isn’t it great? Or not? We could spend days, if not weeks, debating the pros and cons of AI. At CES this past January, you couldn’t swing your attendee badge without hitting a company touting AI in its product or service. Currently, most of LinkedIn’s job postings require a knowledge of AI. Sounds familiar to past techs’ sizzle machine. I’m not saying AI isn’t real or that it isn't and won't continue to impact our world. The problem is that FOMO seems to take over wh

Throughout my career, spanning many years, I have been in the business of ideas. That shouldn’t surprise anyone, because as a designer,...

Are you hearing a lot of ‘no’ lately? Boy, I have, and in fact, there has been a flurry of ‘no’ coming from everywhere. Whether it’s from...

What’s with all the screaming at the pool? Have you noticed that as soon as most kids and some adults who will never admit it jump into...

Let’s talk engagement. No, not between you and me, but between children and everything surrounding them. Engage: it seems like a simple...

It’s that Ho, Ho, Ho time of year again. Yup, it happens every year about this time, although it seems like it started well before...

Ahh, it's that time of the year when the top toy choices for the holidays are announced. Just like clockwork, it's the ritual that...