This paper discusses the quest for a framework that helps to research and design technology that supports fun activities of preschoolers in the home environment. We therefore review literature within Child-Computer Interaction and the Uses & Gratifications framework in Mass Communication Sciences. We propose that in order to be likeable, a product should fulfill the gratifications of the user. We conceptualize interactive toys and games no longer as tools but as media. Through the use of probes

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... and observations, we adapt and validate our framework to arrive at a final classification of gratifications. Our framework enumerates five important gratifications of preschoolers: (1) challenge & control, (2) social experiences, (3) fantasy, (4) creative & constructive expressions, and (5) body & senses. Furthermore, we detail how basic needs, individual characteristics and societal aspects complement the Likeability Framework.