Your child could test toys for IKEA - and get to keep them

If your child has a great imagination and loves to play with toys, IKEA has a dream opportunity up for grabs, as it is on the hunt for a new Chief Play Officer.

The Swedish retailer has said the role is strictly open to children only and will allow the lucky applicant to test a range of toys before they launch in stores.

Toys to keep

For one whole year, the successful applicant will be in charge of testing new toys in 2021, before they launch in IKEA stores across the UK and Ireland.

Toys that have launched recently include the new BYGGLEK collection, in collaboration with Lego, the JÄTTELIK range of dinosaur-themed soft toys and bedroom accessories, and IKEA’s sixth annual SAGOSKATT collection - a range of soft toys designed by children, for children, selected through an international drawing competition, with all proceeds going to Barnardo’s.

The job is only open to children aged between four and 12 years old and involves playing with the various new toys to ensure they are fun for other kids to play with.

The position is home-based and part-time, and while it isn’t paid, the Chief Play Officer will be allowed to keep all the toys that they have tested.

IKEA has launched the role in an effort to encourage play among youngsters, after new research has found that children are spending an average of 254 hours less playing each year than their parents.

Thomas Parker, children’s business leader at IKEA, said, “When it comes to play, IKEA believes the home is the most important playground. Space and money should never be a barrier, which is why we offer a vast range of affordable games and activities.

“These allow children to use their imagination through role play, physical activity and creativity, wherever they may be.

“The creation of the Chief Play Officer role puts the focus back on play, and gives the power of creation to those who really know their stuff.”

How to apply

To apply for the role, you must be aged between four and 12 years old, be passionate about toys and play, and enjoy creating things.

Applications can take the form of an email, video, or anything else. IKEA encourages entrants to be as creative as they want.

The deadline for applications is 4 January 2021 and the role will last until 31 December 2021.

Once your application is complete, simply submit it to [email protected]

More information on the role can be found on LinkedIn.

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