SplashBuddy: An Educational Toy for Interactive Bath Time

Encouraging Self-Care and Parental Interaction

Nowadays, children are often glued to their electronic devices, hindering communication between parents and children. Wai Sum Tsang, the designer behind SplashBuddy, recognized this issue and sought to create a solution that would not only engage children in play without electronic devices but also increase interaction between children and parents. The result is a unique educational toy that transforms bath time into a fun and interactive experience.

SplashBuddy consists of five components, each serving a specific purpose during bath time. The goggle-like shower hat adjusts the angle and width of the water flow, preventing soap from getting into the child's eyes. The octopus-shaped comb not only combs hair but also doubles as a dropper, adding an element of surprise to the bathing routine. The anglerfish container stores water and can be used to pour water over the child's body. The turtle-like sponge is perfect for cleaning the body, and the whale stool provides a safe and comfortable seat for the child while preventing injuries caused by slippery floors.

What sets SplashBuddy apart is its ability to foster creativity and imagination. All of the components can be detached and connected with each other, allowing children to create their own unique bathing experiences. The design encourages children to explore different combinations and use their imagination, making bath time an exciting and engaging activity.

SplashBuddy is not only a source of entertainment but also an educational tool. By engaging in the various bathing procedures, children develop their self-care abilities and learn important skills. The design promotes independence and teaches children the importance of personal hygiene.

Designed with limited bathroom space in mind, SplashBuddy is compact and easy to store. Its playful colors and charming characters, such as the whale, octopus, and anglerfish, are carefully chosen to attract children and make bath time enjoyable.

Wai Sum Tsang's SplashBuddy project started in September 2015 and was completed in May 2016 in Hong Kong. It was exhibited in the Annual Show 2016 of the School of Design at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University in June 2016. The design has received recognition and was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in the Toys, Games, and Hobby Products Design category in 2018.

SplashBuddy is a testament to the power of design in transforming everyday activities into meaningful and interactive experiences. By combining playfulness, education, and functionality, this innovative bathing kit encourages children to develop self-care skills while strengthening the bond between parents and children.