PLAYFUL EFFORTS

Playful Efforts® was formed in 2000 by Erik Strommen, Ph.D. Its purpose is to provide research services that assist in the design, manufacture, and sale of products that encourage children to achieve their maximal creative and cognitive potential through play and other developmentally appropriate activities. We believe this goal is achieved by not only applying the results of published psychological and educational research to product development, but conducting new research as needed. Playful Efforts® information services include reviews of educational and psychological research as well as expert reviews of toy designs and storyboards. Research services range from the simple direct testing of specific prototypes with children up through complex "wizard of Oz" studies, where product ideas are mocked up through puppets and play props (the "man behind the curtain") and tested with children to assess their appeal, ease of use, and educational potential.