Parents Call for Practical Skills as Kids go Back to School

LONDON, September 1, 2010 - As term time approaches, three quarters of adults think that schools
aren't doing enough to develop practical skills like woodwork in children,
according to a TNS survey released today. Celebrity DIY expert Tommy Walsh
agrees, and is backing a drive to increase practical skills, both at home and
in the classroom.

The survey, of people in Great Britain aged 16-64, shows that 93 per cent
think that practical skills are just as important as academic subjects.
Conversely, it shows that 75 per cent of parents believe schools aren't
devoting enough time to supporting children looking for careers in this area.

74 per cent of parents also see an internship or apprenticeship as
equally good career preparation as going to university. This is particularly
relevant in light of graduates' ongoing struggle to find work in a congested
job market.

The survey also found that older parents believe practical skills are
very important. Creative hobbies were also deemed to be the best ways for
children to spend their playtime with 35 per cent of parents wanting to
encourage this.

The survey was commissioned by JAKKS Pacific Inc. in conjunction with the
launch of Real Construction(TM), a range of construction activity sets that
allow kids to build whatever they can imagine. Real Construction uses a
combination of realistic tools and revolutionary Kid-Wood(TM), a unique,
durable foam material specially designed to look, saw, nail and build just
like real wood, but which is easy-to-use, safe, and mess-free. Tommy Walsh,
who is helping to launch the product to the UK, comments:

"Products like this can never be a replacement for practical teaching in
schools but they can help support children's development outside of the
classroom. This kind of practical activity also has significant educational
benefits; helping children to develop problem solving and logic skills, as
well as creative skills."

A June 2008 Ofsted report supports concerns, suggesting that schools
neglect traditional craft skills due to a shortage of trained staff.
Inspectors said some schools have ditched craft lessons altogether in favour
of computer programmes, believing that this presents a more modern and
academic image.

Tommy Walsh comments: "In this computer-dominated age, it's important for
children to value and explore their practical side and toys like Real
Construction allow kids to acquire hands-on skills that will help them
throughout their lives."

PHOTO CAPTION COPY:

Celebrity DIY expert Tommy Walsh launches the Real Construction toy range
at The Entertainer store, Westfield Centre, London, this week.

Tommy is backing a drive to get kids building, following a TNS survey
which revealed parents' concerns over limited practical teaching in schools.

According to the survey, three quarters of parents believe children are
not being taught enough practical lessons like woodwork.

The survey was commissioned by JAKKS Pacific to coincide with the launch
of its Real Construction activity sets for children.

Note to Editors:

A picture accompanying this release is available through the PA
Photowire. It can be downloaded from www.pa-mediapoint.press.net or
viewed at www.mediapoint.press.net or www.prnewswire.co.uk.

Further information and hi-res images available on request
Contact Lydia Ford or Michele Norton at the Jakks Pacific press office
+44(0)1608-812830 / Lydia@nortonandco.com or Michele@nortonandco.com

Further information and hi-res images available on request Contact Lydia Ford or Michele Norton at the Jakks Pacific press office +44(0)1608-812830 / Lydia at nortonandco.com or Michele at nortonandco.com