Melissa Bernstein, co-founder and chief creative officer of the renowned toy company Melissa & Doug, has shared her remarkable journey as a mother of six and a successful entrepreneur. Alongside her husband Doug, she launched the company over three decades ago, creating toys that have become staples in many homes. However, her passion for toy-making was born from a deeper struggle: a long-standing battle with depression and anxiety. In her new book, LifeLines, Bernstein opens up about her emotional challenges and the journey towards self-acceptance.
To provide support to others facing similar issues, she has also established LifeLines.com, a platform dedicated to fostering self-love and connection. In an interview, Bernstein discussed the motivations behind starting Melissa & Doug and some of her favorite products.
The Journey to Create Melissa & Doug
“What sparked our decision to create Melissa & Doug was a realization that traditional career paths weren’t fulfilling. Doug and I began our careers in conventional roles, but I found myself feeling so miserable that getting out of bed became a challenge. He encouraged me to pursue something meaningful and impactful—something we could build together. So, we took a weekend retreat to a cozy bed and breakfast in Massachusetts, determined to decide our next steps. We knew we wanted our business to focus on children, as both our backgrounds were rooted in education,” Bernstein shared.
Favorite Toy Categories
When asked about her favorite toy categories, Bernstein expressed her love for the Pretend Play collection, which she believes fosters creativity and independence in children. “These toys allow kids to explore adult roles in a safe space, teaching them valuable lessons through trial and error,” she noted.
For more insights into parenting and toy creation, check out this post on Modern Family Blog.
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In summary, Melissa Bernstein’s story not only illuminates her creative journey in the toy industry, but also her brave battle with mental health challenges. Her commitment to empowering children through play while sharing her personal journey serves as an inspiring beacon for many.
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