Updated: Dec. 19, 2016
Originally Published: Sep. 1, 2012
It all began quite innocently. My daughter started showing a keen interest in “Paw Patrol.” In moments when I needed a few minutes to myself—whether to shower or prepare a meal—I turned to YouTube on my iPad to find Paw Patrol videos to keep her entertained. This led to her discovering those Kinder Surprise Egg videos, featuring a woman with long, brightly painted nails and an annoyingly high-pitched voice, opening plastic eggs (often covered in Play-Doh, which I find perplexing) to reveal various toys like Paw Patrol characters or Peppa Pig figures.
I found it a bit strange, but I only paid partial attention. I vetted the content for any inappropriate language or themes and tried to ignore the cacophony from the iPad so I could enjoy a moment of peace without a toddler clinging to me.
As she grew older, her interests expanded alongside the increasingly flashy toy videos on YouTube. Her new obsession revolved around superheroes, leading her to watch adults unboxing action figures and discussing their “articulation,” “gimmicks,” and other intriguing details. The thrill of “blind bags” especially captivated her, as all kids seem to enjoy a good surprise.
These videos are essentially elaborate commercials for toys, yet they are somehow far more engaging and addictive for kids than traditional ads. At times, I’ve questioned the intellect of those who create these videos, as well as whether they are being compensated by toy companies—transforming them from mere creators into savvy entrepreneurs.
Regardless of their intent, these videos are undeniably effective. Each unboxing is accompanied by an exaggerated, amplified “crinkle” sound as the package is opened, heightening the excitement. It’s like a drug for toddlers.
Remember the longing for that one special toy as a kid? I vividly recall dreaming about Cabbage Patch Kids, Rainbow Brite, and My Little Pony. I would imagine going to the store, purchasing the toy, and carefully opening the packaging at home. Nowadays, children no longer need to rely on their imaginations—thanks to YouTube, everything they desire is displayed right before them.
My daughter not only knows precisely which toys she wants; she also knows their prices, the specific combinations available in each package, and where to find them (usually at Walmart). The incessant requests for toys, candy, and even candy-shaped toys can be overwhelming.
Not too long ago, she figured out how to access my Amazon account and actually ordered a Batcave along with a few action figures. I was furious, but I couldn’t help but feel a bit impressed that a preschooler had such tech skills. Now, I’ve tightened security on my Amazon account and am contemplating doing the same for the YouTube toy videos, but that would feel akin to weaning her off a troublesome addiction. At this point, I’ve grown accustomed to those brief breaks I get to breathe and reclaim a sliver of my humanity.
So thank you, YouTube. You’ve ensnared both of us in this plastic nonsense, and there’s no going back.
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Summary:
The article humorously chronicles a mother’s experience with her child’s growing obsession with YouTube toy videos, illustrating how these videos have replaced traditional play and imagination. The mother reflects on her daughter’s overwhelming demands for toys and the lengths she has gone to manage her online shopping. Ultimately, she acknowledges the addictive nature of these videos and their impact on both her and her child.