Buying Is Easy, Attention Is Hard

I’ve been buying a lot of toys for my kids lately. I’m aware that too many toys can negatively affect children, yet I still find myself buying more.

Sometimes, I buy toys because they’re interesting to me, or I use them as bribes or rewards for good behavior. Other times, I hope that toys will keep them occupied so I can get some time to myself. And sometimes, I just give in to their demands because I’m out of willpower.

However, I’m starting to realize that the more I engage with them in play, the less they seem to want new toys. They become less interested in playing with existing toys as well, showing that they just want to spend time with their parents.

As an adult, I also tend to buy fewer things when I’m spending quality time with good friends. Conversely, I find myself shopping more when I’m feeling isolated or haven’t socialized in a while.

It’s clear that children, like adults, might seek out new toys when they’re feeling lonely, much like how adults might fill gaps in their lives with material possessions.