MentalBloc
This project challenged us to reimagine products that were more successful in past versions than versions today.
I decided to take successful aspects of classic toys and design a toy by integrating those aspects, a distinct aesthetic and developmental advantages for children who use it.
​
My research on competing toys and what child development experts had to say led me to the conclusion that
open-ended toys provide the biggest mental advantage to the user. This adaptability in play allows the user to make his or her own decisions about how to play; this open-ended method encourages the use of critical thinking which would not be used in otherwise straightforward toys such as action figures.
​
​
​
​
​
​
Through use of laser cutting, an initial functioning prototype was made.
Feedback from fellow students and children allowed me to make key improvements.
The name MentalBloc was reached because it communicates the product's function and benefit while being lighthearted.
This was an attempt to turn one the toy pieces into a character with cuteness appeal. Although this idea was not used, it helped to inform the final logo.