The Curious Case of Single Page Book - Sun
I recently stumbled upon something that left me scratching my head — visual aid books, specifically one that contained just few pics like single image: a sun, moon etc. Just a picture of the sun. It got me thinking… *why*?
I understand the initial novelty of these books. When the concept of visual stimulation for babies was new, these resources likely served a valuable purpose. But now? These theories are widely known. We understand the importance of high-contrast images and simple shapes for infant development. So, why are these books still being sold, and more bafflingly, bought?
Honestly, the thought of paying ₹100 for a book with five images when I could print the same thing for ₹10 seems absurd. ( Or rather draw myself). It’s not about the money but the value. It feels like being sold something that’s readily available for a fraction of the cost.
What impresses me, albeit in a slightly cynical way, is the marketing prowess of these companies. They’ve commodified something incredibly simple and turned it into a must-have item for new parents. They’ve marketed it so effectively that even well-educated individuals, perhaps especially well-educated individuals, fall into the trap. It’s almost as if the perceived value increases with the market commodity or with a price tag. We’re so conditioned to believe that a purchased good is better, especially when it comes to our children, that we sometimes overlook the obvious.
It makes me wonder if we, as a society, have become too susceptible to clever marketing. Are we so eager to give our children the best that we forget to use our common sense? Perhaps a simple printed image of the sun, lovingly shown by a parent, is just as effective, if not more so, than a fancy, overpriced book. For me, the connection and interaction are more valuable than the glossy page.
This whole experience of parenthood has made me more aware of the marketing tactics that surround parenting. I am reminded each day to be more discerning, to question the “must-have” items, and to trust my own instincts. After all, sometimes the simplest solutions are the best. And sometimes, the sun is just the sun.
PS: we did some DIY thing and made visuals and play cards. Our son looks at them while feeding, while playing on his own.
