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Editor's notes

Lisa Casinger, Editor -- Kids Today, 7/1/2007 12:00:00 AM

Last month I got together with a group of friends. As most of us do when we get together with friends, we talked about current events like what does "green" really mean and is there one designated resource for information on safe kids products; we also chatted with some friends who have really cool retail operations.

We invited a few speakers to share their thoughts with us, too. Of course I'm talking about the Kids Today conference, The Power of Change, we hosted in Florida a few weeks ago.

I know not everyone could attend — though our goal for next year is to get even more retailers and manufacturers to join us — so in this and next month's issues we'll have highlights of the panels and speakers. We'll also have coverage on the Web site, www.kidstodayonline.com.

Though I don't have a store and don't manufacture anything, I walked away with tons of ideas; way too many to share here, but here are some key points I took away:

Don't call a customer ma'am; it makes her feel middle aged. I should have known this, I hate when I'm called that. Since the conference I've become more aware of how often I say ma'am and I'm trying to cut back.
Being green doesn't mean you have to start eating granola, wearing only organic cotton and driving a hybrid. Like any big social change, it's going to take all of us taking baby steps.
Independents are not a dying breed. They have the ability to change with the times, better serve the customer and thrive.

One of the most important thoughts actually came from chats I had with first-time attendees. I can't tell you how many times people said, "These people seem like family."

Our industry is very close knit and passioinate I doubt you'd find one pococurante among those who've gained success and respect among their customers and peers.

So, here's a big thank you from all of us at Kids Today. We're glad you came to the conference. We hope to see you again next year.

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