OfficeMax is extending its line of educational resources with the announcement that multi-award winning Kimochis are now available nationally at OfficeMax.
Kimochis (pronounced KEY.MO.CHEES), which means ‘feelings’ in Japanese, are plush, educational toys designed to help children identify, understand and manage their feelings in a fun, comfortable way.
They are designed to get children talking, promoting strong connections with parents, teachers and other children, to help them learn about feelings-driven behaviours and how to manage them.
Australasian Kimochis Managing Director, Hilary Friedland, said the support from OfficeMax reflected its understanding of the valuable contribution Kimochis is making around the world.
“Given they have more than 45 years experience in education in New Zealand, Kimochis is delighted to see that OfficeMax understands that education tools extend beyond pen and paper in creating well-rounded children,” Hilary said.
“Kimochis were developed to address the increasing focus towards fostering emotional intelligence in children, and has been well received globally.
“Kimochis is pleased to be working alongside OfficeMax, who already has such strong and established relationships and reach into New Zealand schools. This is a huge coup for our business and we’re looking forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship,” she said.
Kimochis are currently sold in seven countries including USA, Canada, Israel, UK, Australia, Lithuania and Korea and are used predominantly in the education arena.
OfficeMax General Manager for Education, Dr Suzanne Flannagan, said OfficeMax is always looking at new products that bring educational benefit to New Zealand children.
“We’ve had some fantastic feedback on Kimochis from teachers who think they are an excellent tool for developing emotional intelligence as well as other behavior skills in children of all ages,” Dr Flannagan said.
“Children have a broad range of educational needs, and OfficeMax is committed to ensuring it has the tools to meet these,” she said.