How do advertisements influence children?

Advertisements can influence children very strongly because young kids do not always understand that the main purpose of an advert is to sell something. Bright colours, catchy music, cartoon characters, and influencers can make a toy look much more exciting than it really is. As a result, children may put pressure on their parents to buy things they do not actually need. I do not think all advertising aimed at children should be completely prohibited, but it should be strictly regulated, especially when it encourages unhealthy habits, materialism, or unrealistic expectations. Toys have also changed a lot over time. In the past, many children played with simpler things, like dolls, wooden blocks, toy cars, or outdoor games, which often required more imagination and physical activity. Nowadays, many toys are electronic, interactive, or linked to apps and screens. Modern toys can be educational and engaging, but they may also make children more passive if they simply press buttons and watch the toy respond. So the main advantage is that they can develop problem-solving and digital skills, while the disadvantage is that they can reduce creativity or social interaction. In my view, parents should not focus on buying more toys. It is much better to spend quality time with children because attention, conversation, and shared play help them feel secure and develop emotionally. As for boys’ and girls’ toys, I think the traditional difference is becoming less important. Boys are often given cars or construction toys, while girls are often given dolls or craft sets, but these choices are shaped more by culture and marketing than by children’s natural interests. Ideally, children should be free to play with whatever helps them learn, imagine, and enjoy themselves.