Retailer Resource Hub:
Helping Customers Help Kids Through MESH Skills
Parents and caregivers are looking for toys that not only entertain but also help children build mental health resilience. This resource hub will help you confidently talk to customers about skill-building toys and ensure they leave with the right products for their child’s needs.
STEP 1: Get to know MESH Helps
Learn how MESH Helps connects play with real developmental outcomes.
THE 4 PLAY PATTERNS IN RETAIL CONTEXT
Use these patterns to guide product recommendations and conversations with customers.
OVERCOMING OBSTACLES
Problem solving and persistence
INCREASING CHALLENGE
Adaptability and growth
STORYTELLING
Emotional expression and imagination
BRIDGING
PLAY
Communication and connection
STEP 2: How to Talk to Customers
When a customer approaches you asking about products for resilience, follow these steps:
1. Empathize with the customer as much as you can or as appropriate. Excitement for the products should be greeted with excitement and concern should be greeted with understanding. There is never a moment to discuss a diagnosis. Please refer to “That sounds hard. I’m sorry that’s happening.”
2. Always recommend the consumer to visit MESHhelps.org for further information.
3. If you encounter a situation of someone in immediate crisis, please advise them to call 988. This is a 24/7 national mental health crisis hotline.
​COMFORT VS SKILL-BUILDING TOYS
Comfort Toys | Skill-Building Toys |
|---|---|
Immediate/short-term support | Long-term skills to navigate change and challenge |
Often plush, sensory, or familiar items | Often found in a variety of toys and games |
Help soothe emotions | Encourage emotional growth and coping skills
|
HOW TO GUIDE CUSTOMER CONVERSATIONS
You can ask:
​“Are you looking for a comfort item to help a child who’s having a hard time or looking for skill-building to strengthen a child’s resilience?”​​​
And respond with empathy:
“That sounds hard. I’m sorry that’s happening.”
STEP 3: Apply MESH in Your Store
Apply MESH in Your Store
USE MESH TO IMPROVE PRODUCT SELECTION
MESH Helps provides a structured way to evaluate toys based on real interaction, behavior, and development outcomes. This allows retailers to build stronger assortments and guide customers with confidence.
GET STARTED WITH MESH
Explore how MESH Helps can support your store and product selection.