The Tingle Factor Box

So They're Asian? - Dominoes

Imagine, you are a child living in the 1800s. You don't have a lot of time for fun, as you always seem to be working, but one thing you love is the quiet time with Mother and Father when you can just enjoy each others company. It is rare that Mother and Father have the time to play with you, but occasionally, they get down the treasured set of dominoes and play a game or two with you and your siblings. You don't know where the dominoes came from, you don't think your parents would have spent the money on a set, but you love it all the same.

I Can't Believe They Are Still Around - Animal Cut Outs

Imagine, you are a child living in the late 1800s. It is coming up to Easter, and your father tells you he has purchased a present for you, and you must now be good while your Grandparents visit. If you behave well, he will give you the present he bought. You think it might be the sheet of ducks you saw for sale. You have quite a collection of little cut out animals which you have carefully cut out and stood up in little scenes, and you just loved the ducks you saw.

So, Is It Part Of A Set? - Jolly Nigger Money Bank

Note: I mean no offence by the terms Black or Nigger. I am simply seeking to place the object in its historical context. It is my understanding that black is currently an accepted terminology, while 'jolly nigger' is simply the wording used to market and sell the money bank and thus the correct term to describe the bank itself. 

Imagine, you are a child living in the late 1800s. Your family is not poor, but you father thinks it is important for you to understand that money doesn't just grow on trees. Recently he gave you a money bank, in the shape of a 'Jolly Nigger', to save your coins in. Usually, when you have a spare penny you go to the shops and buy some lollies, but Father tells you that if you give your money to the bank to look after, one day you might have enough for a pretty new dolly, or even a new dress!

What Do They Do? Lead Soldiers

Imagine you are a little boy living in the 1920s. You have just been paid for the extra chores you have been doing around the house, and for the neighbours, and now you have enough to buy a new figure for your collection. When you get to the shop though, and look at the lead toys, you notice a little cannon on the shelf. You haven’t got a cannon for your set of soldiers yet, and this one even fires matches! You decide it will be the perfect addition.

It's So Cute - Toy Robot

Imagine, it is the 1960s and you are a child. It is your Birthday today, and you have almost finished unwrapping all your presents. This last one, from your Uncle, is very small, but his smile suggests it will be awesome. You had asked for a robot, but you know you probably won't get it - they are very expensive after all. When you unwrap your last present though, you are thrilled to see a tiny robot. It is the smallest you've ever seen, and so clever the way its arms wind it up.

It's So Cute - Childrens Picnic Set

Imagine, it is a beautiful day in the mid 1900s. Your Mummy and Daddy have promised to take you on a picnic this week, and you hope they remember – it is such a perfect day to be outdoors. You love picnicking, so much that Mummy found a little picnic set, just the right size for you to use with your dolls and your friends. Perhaps if Mummy and Daddy don’t take you picnicking today you could ask Mummy for some sandwiches to enjoy with your dolly.

They're Really Sweet - Crochet Dolls

Imagine, it is the 1930s. You are a Mother and Christmas is fast approaching. The Great Depression is taking its toll on your family, and you aren't sure how you will be able to afford the sweets you usually give to your children. Most of their gifts will have to be secondhand or made by you or your husband. Your daughter really wants a doll small enough to hide in her pocket, and you have found a pattern to crochet a little ballerina. You have even managed to find enough thread to make a pair of dolls, but you will have to get to work to make sure they are finished in time!

It's So Pretty - Kolorscope Kaleidoscope

Imagine, you are a child living in the early 1900s. You are lucky, because your father has a good job and you live in a nice house and you even have a tutor! Even more lucky, your have lots of things to play with. You want something new though. You saw a beautiful kaleidoscope for sale in the toy shop, and you have been begging your parents to buy it for you. Mummy says if you are very good and do well in your lessons, you can have it as a reward.

So They're About Politics? Weird! Teddy Bear

Imagine, you are a child living in the early 1900s. Today is a special day, because you don't have to go to school and your little brother and sister will both be out. For once you will have time all to yourself, and do not have to look after them! You have saved a few pennies and purchased a cake and a fizzy drink to have on a picnic. Now all you need is a friend to share them with. Luckily, Teddy is also free today, and he will keep you company.

It's So Cute - Glove Puppet

Imagine, you are a young child living in the early 1940s and it is coming up towards your Birthday. You wonder what present you will be given. You know you can't expect too much and usually, you get books and clothing - practical gifts. This year though, you asked Mum and Dad for a little soft toy. It doesn't have to be grand or anything, but you'd really like a friend to take on adventures. Mum said she'd see what she can do, and you were so happy when you opened your gifts to discover a little bear. He's even better than a soft toy - he's a puppet. Mum made him specially for you.