Care-A-Lot Set

Care Bears,  Care-A-Lot Play-set

Who created the message?

Kenner, a company that partnered with American Greetings (the creator of the Care Bear)

What are the creative techniques that are used to attract attention?

Happy music playing the background

Two cute girls playing nicely with the toy

A nicely furnished and clean room

And a part I find funny after having my own children is how quickly the girls respond and get the set cleaned up when the mom says, “Bedtime, girls.” (Parent appeal)

How might different people interpret the message?

Kids will see a fun toy and parents will see a toy that makes kids happy, does not take up much room and can easily be cleaned up.

Some people might feel that this is not a toy for their children because it looks to be for children from a wealthy home.

What viewpoints or world views are included and Who is left out of the conversation?

The setting of the commercial, a young girl’s very nice bedroom, definitely is playing on a wish for “perfect”.  The girls have nice nightgowns on and their hair is fixed as if they are ready to leave the house, not go to bed.  I doubt there are many people whose homes and situations compare to that of the commercial.  Also both of the girls are white, which was more typical of commercials in the 80s.  Also, since boys are not included in the commercial, it is inferring that this toy is only for girls.

Why is this message being sent?

The company is trying to entice little girls and their parents to buy the Care-A-Lot Playset.