Every year as the holidays creep up, we start exploring what’s new on the toy scene. And we always seem to come to the same realization: Toys and games were so much better when we were kids, weren’t they? Sturdier and requiring more imagination, the classic toys we loved as kids inspire oohs and ahs of recognition, as well as some wistful sighs.
This season we discovered that many of our favorite toys have been re-imagined or made over (see Strawberry Shortcake’s much more stylish attire and the Shred Sled’s new take on the skateboard), yet still retain their retro charm. We’re sure these selections will enchant a new generation of children while immersing parents in plenty of nostalgia.
BABIES and TODDLERS
Mr. Potatohead, $9.99
Nothing new or updated about this popular spud, who continues to delight toddlers with his ever-changing plastic parts: bulbous noses, wacky moustaches, and bright-pink pitcher ears that are sure to inspire hours of entertainment.
Radio Flyer’s Big Flyer, $79.99
No other toy at Minnesota Parent headquarters received more nostalgic gasps than Radio Flyer’s take on the big wheel, the original must-have toy for kids too tough for a tricycle but not big enough for a bike.
Sit and Spin, $29.99
Remember when the simple act of spinning was revolutionary (pun intended)? Playskool has added music to the mix, so toddlers can wrap their legs around the center wheel and press a button to engage songs and a dazzling light show as they twirl.
Lullaby Gloworm, $12.99
Though smaller than the original Gloworm introduced in the 1980s, Playskool’s Lullaby version still enchants babies with its light-up face, and the addition of soothing music makes it the perfect sleepytime toy.
Baby Alive, $34.99
Looking at Baby Alive, the popular 1970s and ’80s doll who poops and pees, it’s hard to believe we were once enchanted by the idea of changing diapers. But enchanting she still is as young girls delight in her gurgles and cries — not to mention her easily soiled nappies.
Candyland Sweet Celebration, $25.99
Who needs a regulation game board when you can create your own? Sweet Celebration takes the standard game of Candyland up a notch by giving players the chance to build this mouthwatering game from the ground up.
ELEMENTARY
Shrinky Dinks, $10
These shrinking plastic toys have gotten much more creative since their creation in the 1970s, including a jewelry-making kit that offers more than 40 pre-cut shapes kids can color to create barrettes, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces. Of course, the best part isn’t the final product, it’s watching the shapes shrink and curl in the oven!
Strawberry Shortcake doll, $24.99
Some things never change: You can still smell Strawberry Shortcake’s sickly sweet scent before you see her. But when you do see this flame-haired doll, you might not recognize her thanks to a thoroughly modern makeover that turned her droopy tights into hip leggings. This is a less controversial (see Dora the Explorer) reimagining that works.
Booby Trap, $17.99
No matter your age, when the tension bar snaps in the Booby Trap game and the pieces go flying you can’t help but let out a shout (possibly getting a piece in your mouth at the same time). The design has changed since the late 1960s, but the thrill is perfectly preserved.
Baton, $8.99, and the Skipper, $4.95
Leaping the Skipper’s plastic ball as it swings around your ankle offers a new twist on the standard jump rope, while the lightweight baton is meant for hours of coordinated twirling — two great ways to get kids engaged outside.
Brew Your Own Root Beer Kit, $14.95
Science-minded kids get a tastier payout than classic chemistry sets can offer when they dive into the Brew Your Own Root Beer kit. Using real brewing yeast kids can create four gallons of all-natural, old-fashioned root beer and even make their own labels.
Erector Multi Models, $24.99
Inside: 220 parts, 10 possible models (options range from a helicopter to a motorcycle), and endless afternoons of building and rebuilding await the owner of this timeless toy, which only seems to improve with age.
Hit the Spot, $17.99
The satisfaction of mastering a game like Hit the Spot, which seems deceptively simple, is like no other. Today’s kids might be skeptical at first, but the challenge of landing the metal ball in the “rock star” sweet spot will quickly lure them in.
TWEENS and TEENS
Shred Sled, $120
This redesigned skateboard has two decks connected with a flexible middle spring, offering the ability to make sharp turns and twists unimaginable on a more rigid classic skateboard. Sure the jerky, weaving style of propelling the sled isn’t as clean, but this modern board promises endless options when it comes to tricky footwork.
Retro Handset, $34.99–$49.99
Wrap your head around this: Kids growing up today have never known life without cell phones. Offer a trip back in time with the Yubz Talk receiver, which easily plugs into cell phones for a hilariously retro look.
Monopoly Here and Now Edition, $29.99
Ever wonder what Monopoly would look like if it had been invented today? The Here and Now edition gives you that chance: The railroads are now popular airports like O’Hare and LAX, properties for sale include the Mall of America and Fenway Park, and you can navigate a Prius playing piece around the shiny new board!
Nerf n’ Strike Bundle for Wii, $21.99
Up to four kids can battle it out to take down robots and improve their skills in this popular Nerf-meets-Wii game (which does not involve shooting actual Nerf darts at the TV). Each level adds additional challenges, which means kids can play this addictive game over and over for new variations.
Michael Jackson’s Thriller album, $8.99
It’s easy to be burned out on all things Michael Jackson this year, until you realize that plenty of kids only knew Jackson as a curiosity, not because of his musicianship. Thriller may be over 25 years old, but classics like “Billie Jean” and “Human Nature” are songs you can unashamedly share with your kids.
