Fisher-Price Headquarters
East Aurora, New York
June 29th, 2012
I looked at the showcase of vintage toys with polite disinterest. They were magnificent, of course, yet unsatisfactory in some vital way. Perhaps it was because I had already judiciously studied them the day before, reveling in the wonder and delight of Fisher-Price toys from as early as the 1930’s. Perhaps I was even slightly overwhelmed, taking in literally hundreds of toys that were once found in the nurseries, living rooms and kitchens of homes around the world. “What is missing?” I wondered. “What am I not seeing?”
Admonishing myself, I tried to generate the appropriate level of enthusiasm. Not everyone is lucky enough to receive a first-hand introduction; visiting the Fisher-Price headquarters was more than a special invitation from a toy company – it was the history of play unveiled before my eyes. And for that, I was both fortunate and grateful.
Still, I was dissatisfied.
Searching through the toys, I heard the audible gasps of fellow Fisher-Price Moms as they recognized a childhood favourite. Peals of laughter and screams of astonishment as they came across toys from the 1980’s; jostling each other gently in an effort to get a better view. And that’s when I knew what was missing: although I recognized toys that I had myself played with as a little girl, I didn’t have a special connection to them. I was like watching a foreign movie without the subtitles; I got the gist, but didn’t appreciate the nuances of the story line.
And just like that, it happened.
My eyes trained on a toy that I hadn’t seen the day before. How had I overlooked this? I stepped in for a closer view and instantly, memories flooded my mind.
Memories of turning the pieces over, studying the patterns, texture and colours. Rolling out the clay and cutting triangles, circles and flowers – being sure to gently ball up the scraps to repeat the process all over again. Putting the pieces back in the caddy so they were just so; tracing the pictures on the outer edge with my finger in admiration for such a fine specimen.
Without doubt, I instantly recognized my very favourite toy from childhood – one that I had long forgotten about. I played with this toy every day, and for far longer than was socially appropriate. Because to me, this was my little craft station – my escape from an annoying older brother, much too much math homework and often dueling parents. I would huddle in my room and roll out piece after piece, methodically perfecting my technique.
Back in the present, I excitedly asked if anyone could identify the toy, yet received a few sympathetic shrugs and guesses, but nothing concrete. I made a mental note to corner a Fisher-Price employee and demand more information, but sadly, the day progressed so quickly that the opportunity never arose.
Later that night, at home, I Googled every description of the toy I could think of – to no avail. Was the toy to remain in my past – and live only in my memories – forever? In desperation, I noticed the numbers “787” under the Fisher-Price logo and instantly, I found it.
Fisher-Price Creative Clay Tool Set.
This toy is a part of my history. It is a part of me. In an integral way, it sparked my imagination, fostered my creative spirit and likely initiated much of my obsessive-compulsive disorder (kidding – but I did work very hard at rolling out the perfect flower). This is the Joy of Learning. This is nostalgia.
I am part of the Fisher-Price Play Panel and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group.
The opinions on this blog are my own.
I am still in awe of walking those halls. Like stepping back in time yet peeking into the actual joy of play. Such an incredible experience, so happy I was able to share this event with you!!
:)
Probably my best press trip EVER. Such an awesome, magical experience!
I don’t think I’ve ever seen this toy but I can imagine it was a lot of fun. It’s funny how an old toy can instill such a strong sense of nostalgia.
PS. Totally love your writing style. You’re so talented!
Lena is awesome!
Exactly, Diana. I’m STILL thinking about it. And thank you for the kind words :)
I came across your blog as I saw the link on Twitter descibing childhood Fisher Price toys. How lovely your story is, I read it twice and its such a heartfelt depiction. Fisher Price toys are part of my childhood, my daughter’s and now my grandaughters. A beautiful blog.
Patti! Thank YOU for taking the time to leave such a sweet note. Happy to hear that your granddaughters are the next generation of Fisher-Price enthusiasts :)
Aw Lena this post is making me tear up!!! So happy you found a childhood toy and that you can relive the good times. Would not have thought to search for the number on the toy! How funny that they were named that way. Do you know what year this toy is from?
Yes! Through research I found that this toy was from 1982, making me around 4 years old at the time I started playing with it :)
It is amazing how one toy can be so important to us, can bring back those increible childhood memories! So happy you found your special toys, I think we all hold one or two Fisher Price Toys in a special place in our memories and love that you took us down memory lane with us!
Thanks so much Steph! I honestly forgot about the toy until I discovered in the showcase. LOVE the memories it brought back.
I had that toy too!!!! Always thought of it as the play doh center but I guess I was wrong! Wish I still had it, you could come over and borrow it.
Gah! Can’t believe you had it too – I would TOTALLY rock a play date with you if you still had it, LOL!
What a lovely post Lena – you are so creative and talented!
Aw, thank you Marissa :)
Totally had that toy and loved it. Remember playing with it while my mom watched As the World Turns!!!! We have obviously always been kindred spirits! xo
What?? I can’t believe you had it too!! I feel like this somehow bonds us even more, hahaha.
As the World Turns!!!!!!!! Forgot about that soap!
Ha! Me too! Don’t think I ever watched it ;)