Children’s Entertainment is Serious Business: Here are 7 Reasons Why

Last updated on March 23rd, 2024 at 01:07 pm

Have you ever thought about just how much money is poured into children’s entertainment? It’s a business that generates billions of dollars every year!

There are TV shows, movies, toys, video games, and more all aimed at kids. So, why is that? Why is children’s entertainment such a big business?

That’s what we’re going to explore in this article. Let’s dive into the world of children’s entertainment.

Children’s Entertainment: Why It’s Serious Business

Messaging

As society has evolved, children’s media has become more aware of how import it is to send positive messages and show positive role models. 

Today, this messaging is a priority in children’s entertainment. After all, the media plays a large part in shaping young minds, especially as children get older and are exposed to more types of media and entertainment.

You can see the evolution from years past in the way characters are represented–from cartoons to movies.

And, seeing themselves represented can have a positive impact on kids. For example, if children often see cartoon characters with glasses it can make them feel more comfortable about wearing glasses. If they see children in a wheelchair or children with autism represented, it can help foster understanding and help children to become more accepting of all of their peers.

Media companies have been taking more care in recent years to ensure that their messaging is inclusive, positive, and uplifting. 

If you watch children’s programs, you’ll see that many incorporate life lessons into their entertainment.

There’s no better example than Sesame Street, a TV show that actively works to teach kids not only academic skills, but inspires them with stories of friendship, respect, kindness, and love.

And, of course, we can’t forget Mr. Rogers, who for many of us, was the embodiment of positivity.

A Major Industry 

Children’s entertainment has become a major industry that’s packed with innovative and captivating content.

The sheer size of the market is ample evidence of this fact. Children’s programming can be found in theater, online streaming services, cable, broadcast television, DVD, gaming, toys, books, and home video releases. 

Companies involved in this vibrant industry understand that engaging kids requires significant investment and creativity to create content that stands out in a crowded marketplace. From the biggest Hollywood studios to independent creators, children’s entertainment is a lucrative business with billions spent every year on development, production, and marketing.

Longevity 

When it comes to entertainment in general, no one is looking to be a “flash in the pan.” Most entertainment, and business ventures too, are aiming for longevity.

The most successful projects are carefully planned out with long-term goals in mind–whether through partnerships, content plans, or merchandising strategies. Children’s entertainment relies on a well-thought-out strategy focused on long-term success as opposed to short-term gain.

It takes dedication, consistency, and creativity to keep kids engaged and active viewers. But with the right combination of talent, creativity, and business savvy, investing in the youth audience can result in a truly worthwhile venture that stands the test of time.

For older kids and adults, the entertainment of our youth can foster feelings of nostalgia. Disney and Cartoon Network are two examples of companies who have made the effort to nurture their audiences across different life stages.

Influence 

The influence children’s entertainment can have on kids is undeniable, which is why it has become such a serious business. From cartoons to movies, from books to toys, the industry spends vast amounts of money investing in content that appeals to the minds of children. 

One could argue that what we present to our kids affects how they view the world, so for many companies, it’s important to present values and messages that point toward positive futures. After all, media is an important influence that can ultimately shape who they become as adults.

Merchandising

Merchandising is a major reason why children’s entertainment is such a serious business. Through merchandising, brands can drive audiences to consumer more of their media. Here are the most common forms of children’s entertainment merchandising:

• Clothing
• School supplies
• Bedding 
• Toys and action figures
• Accessories 
• Books and comics
• Games
• Home décor
• Party supplies
• Foods and snacks 

Merchandise linked to popular shows and movies often becomes highly sought after by fans around the world, providing lucrative opportunities for creators and companies involved in these projects.

From licensed t-shirts and other products emblazoned with beloved characters to entire stores devoted to related toys and collectibles, merchandising works at leveraging an audience’s love of children’s entertainment into a profitable industry.

Ultimately, merchandise helps both creators and viewers capitalize on the incredible value that exists within the childhood experience.

Educational Value

A big factor driving the success of the kids’ entertainment industry is the educational value it provides. When viewers, whether they be kids or parents, understand that the content can help them learn more about their surroundings, they are more likely to invest in it. 

And, this doesn’t have to mean a traditional classroom setting. Children today are educated through games, movies, and TV shows that emphasize learning values such as empathy and problem-solving.

With these tools at their disposal, young minds are given an opportunity to experience the joy of learning—all while being entertained by stories and characters brought to life on the screen!

For example, the classic children’s show Sesame Street has stood the test of time, due in part to its commitment to teaching not only preschool academics, but important values and life lessons. By blending humor and education into one package, it allows viewers of all ages to gain something meaningful from their experiences.

Global Appeal 

In this day and age of worldwide connectivity, it is unsurprising that children’s entertainment has become a global business. After all, children everywhere can be reached through an international platform, and many stories have the potential to resonate with young audiences regardless of location or culture. 

This worldwide appeal gives producers and distributors unparalleled opportunities to expand their potential market, as they endeavor to tell captivating stories that inspire, educate, and entertain children across the globe. 

There may be no greater proof of this than how entrenched children’s programming has become on a global scale. You can now access content from platforms spanning dozens of countries and languages.

The influence that these productions have over our culture cannot be understated—from positive messaging to educational value to merchandising profits, the world of children’s entertainment presents an immense opportunity for creativity that continues to shape young minds worldwide.

Also read:
Free Words of Affirmation for Kids Coloring Pages
Fun Mindfulness Activities for Kids: 6 Free PDF Printables
6 Smart Tips for Setting Screen-Time Boundaries

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