The Jollybox Story
‘Imagination will often carry us to worlds that never were’ (Carl Sagan)
Do you remember a time when the most sophisticated toys we had were Mr Potato Head, a space hopper and a Girl’s World?
When a 10p mix was great value for money and sherbet dip didn’t make us chubby because we played outside until sundown?
When we could wander into our neighbour’s garden and nobody called the police?
When we made Superhero capes out of Mum’s pinny and princess gowns from her petticoat?
Memories like these were the inspiration behind The Jollybox Company. Founder of the company, Helen Ellison, wanted children to experience the same freedom and imagination in their play that she did as a child in the 70s.
“When I was growing up, my little sister Clare and I spent hours lost in imaginary worlds pretending to be someone else. Back then, we only had three TV channels and no one had even heard of computers. We had each other and our imaginations. Looking back, it all seems so innocent and uncomplicated. And that's what I wanted to tap into with the Jollybox range of products.
As a busy parent, I also wanted to give other parents a helping hand. The boxes are designed to keep active little bodies and minds occupied for hours. My own daughter, Beth, loves role play but needs some help getting started. The Jollybox inspiration books and cards do just that.
The products also encourage social development because they allow children to express different ideas and feelings through the role plays. Children develop problem-solving skills as they’re acting out tricky scenarios. They also learn how to work together and negotiate; for example, when they're deciding who plays what role.
Whether they’re drawing in the Activity Book or performing a role play in front of others, the activities will help children to grow in creativity and confidence.
Above all, Jollybox is about having fun. And I hope that your children (and you!) will have as much fun using the Jollybox products as I've had creating them.
Best wishes,
Helen”