So much of what we claim to do in life—a job, the income, the house, the toys—is for the kids. I think my time with them is most important and the rest doesn’t really matter
A love of kite flying was all the impetus Jim Henry needed to open Air Traffic, a locally-owned multiple location shop selling toys, games, kites, juggling props, boomerangs, and more. In business since his first booth at the State Fair in 1987, Jim has been delighting children (including his own) and adults with toys that encourage activity, interaction, and skill-building.
How do you think owning and operating this chain of stores has shaped the way your kids [Max and Rebecca] are growing up?
They see both the fun and the challenges of owning a business. I think there is pride for my kids to be able to say, “dad owns the stores.” I don’t see it going to their heads too much. I hope we set an example of how hard work can pay off.
What’s your retail philosophy?
I sometimes wonder if I’ve made a difference. I did not start Air Traffic with any real plan. Just, “here I am, I love this stuff, I hope you will too.”
Like many people, there are those days when I question if it is worth all of the challenges. Yet, I’ve realized a couple of things:
Many kids have worked jobs here, had fun, learned a bunch, and moved on. It is amazing when they come back to the store with their children in tow.
Also, if the stores were not here, there are many who would not learn a new skill, gain the confidence that comes with it, and show it off to their friends.
One mom professed how her son’s learning to juggle “saved” him from some real issues. We simply taught him how to juggle at weekly lessons. She said it gave him focus and truly brought him to a spot in the family he had never been. That is cool.
I’m proud of what Air Traffic represents. I’m proud of my staff and what they represent. The stores would not be what they are, without them. We engage; we teach; we have fun; we hope to make a customer’s day good.
What’s your philosophy on work/life balance?
I wanted kids. Once I’d chosen that (and was lucky enough to have two healthy ones), I considered it one of the most important parts of my life. I am happy that I have been able to participate in almost everything they have been involved with. I make it a point to not travel too much, so I’ve been home for them. My work day starts when they wake up. I almost always see them out of the house for the bus, and many times am home when they arrive. This is important to me. They see me in the office, on the phone a lot. Yet they know I’m there for them.
So much of what we claim to do in life—a job, the income, the house, the toys—is for the kids. I think my time with them is most important and the rest doesn’t really matter.
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