It's no secret, engaging kids in branded games can be profitable for business. Great games engage kids, spark creativity, offer a learning opportunity and provide some value or reward to the participant. And this is exactly what we did recently for our client, The Original Pancake House.  

Their Pancakelicious Decorating Contest allows kids use a computer, tablet or smart phone to drag, drop, size and rotate fruit and other breakfast foods on a pancake to create their own funny face pancake. Once their creation is complete they can either bring their phone or tablet into the store or print off their masterpiece and receive an order of pancakes for their creative genius.*  

It's important to remember advertising to children is different than regular advertising and in 2004, Advertising Standards Canada (ASC) introduced an Interpretation Guideline to the Canadian Code of Advertising Standards which covers advertising to children in non-broadcast media, and new media. Unlike commercials aimed at children, however, there is no up-front clearance process (or approval process) for digital campaigns. If you're looking at adding a game to your website to involve your younger audience make sure to check it out.

In addition to abiding by the ASC guidelines, the key to a successful branded game is to make it fun and engaging. Spark kid's creativity and imagination and incorporate a learning opportunity. If you can do all of these it truly is WIN-WIN!