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We’re noticing a major trend in toys this year, and we are Here. For. It. *Drum roll*Toys for kids that were popular in the ’80s and ’90s are making a major comeback. These tried and true favorites have some fun modern twists and we can’t help but revel in the sweet, sweet nostalgia.
We’re talking Pac-Man. We’re talking Koosh Balls. We’re talking Lite-Brite. We’re talking about all the high points of our childhood that today’s youth must (and will be lucky to!) experience. Best of all, the majority of them are screen-free and encourage kids to get up off the couch.
These kid toys of yesteryear really are the best, and we’re thinking of them as the time machine we so desperately want. Because what we wouldn’t give to spend just one more day in the ’90s …*Sigh*
Anyhoo! This nostalgic collection is currently at our fingertips and will only grow ahead of the holidays. Yes, it’s [unfortunately] already time to start thinking about stocking stuffers, Hanukah presents, and New Year’s Eve gifts. Should we make that a thing? Because what better way is there to ring in 2024 than taking a tangible trip down memory lane with toys that are so fun and so beloved that we just may have to take them out of our kiddos’ toy boxes every once in a while?
Koosh Flix Stix
Think of Koosh Flix Stix as a mix of Koosh and lacrosse. The genius design makes throwing and catching the ball seamless, and it’s perfect for playing in the backyard, at the beach, and in the basement. (How much damage could they possible cause with a Koosh ball… *Knock on wood*.)
Lite-Brite Touch
Yes, Lite-Brite is making a comeback! This digital version makes for a great travel toy since there aren’t little pegs to drop and/or lose. Just press the buttons to make a freeform design or follow one of the included templates. There are also three games that can be played on this version, including Snake! Yup, another classic inside a classic.
Tamagotchi Uni
A Tamagotchi watch! A Tamagotchi watch! Where was this design in the ’90s?! Taking care of one of these pets is a rite of passage, and not only is this version cool (so jealous!) but it’s harder for forgetful kids to lose.
Polly Pocket Friends Compact Playset
This incredible toy combines the best part of the 80s with the best part of the 90s: Polly Pocket and Freinds! Inside this adorable Central Perk “mug” is the cast and set of Friends in Polly Pocket form. Time to PIVOT! toward this perfect creation.
Polly Pocket Otter Aquarium
If you’re not looking to pay collector’s item prices for a collector’s item Polly Pocket (we understand!), they still make standard Polly Pockets too. This adorable otter aquarium comes with human and animal figurines and has nearly 4 thousand rave reviews on Amazon from shoppers who call it “super cute” and perfect for travel.
The Original The Floor is Lava! Family Edition Game
Who knows exactly when or how the concept of “the floor is lava” originated. It feels like one of those things that school kids made up eons ago that has been passed down from generation to generation. This official board game-type version includes 38 stones to move around on and 100 challenges to make it harder to stay out of the lava!
Kanoodle
ICYMI: Kanoodle is now majorly popular. The ’80s puzzle went viral on TikTok and now there are even more versions including this 2-player edition.
Spirograph Doodle Pad
This digital Spirograph also makes for a great travel toy! Kids can still make the fun geometric designs you did without needing reams of paper and an abundance of pens. They can also go ahead and draw freeform. Not so into their design? Just press the button and it will disappear and they can start over. Once they’re all done, the templates and stylus can be stored in the secret compartment.
Care Bears Lil’ Besties Surprise Micro Play Cubby
Care Bears just celebrated their 40th anniversary in 2023! And they’re not only stuffed animals anymore. These keychain “cubbies” come with two Lil’ Besties. When kids open the cube, they’ll find a pair of surprise bears, accessories, and play areas.
My Little Pony Pegasus Plush
My Little Pony also just celebrated their 40th anniversary! You probably remember them as plastic figures, but plushies — like this precious pegasus — are now available.
Pac-Man Retro Mini Arcade Game
CAN YOU DEAL WITH THIS MINI PAC-MAN AND ITS TEENY JOYSTICK?! We can’t. It’s so cute and kids are currently obsessed with all things mini (remember the Care Bears?).
Flybar
OK so technically the pogo stick goes way back and actually has an unexpectedly intricate history, but it was a total staple of the late 20th century. But it was also pretty hard to get the hang of. And so we love a Flybar which is also fun and bouncy but less likely to send a kid hurtling toward the ground. The indoor-outdoor contraption helps develop balance and coordination for kids ages 3+, preparing them for a standard pogo stick if they want one in the future.
Lava Lamp
Schylling, the brand perhaps best known for Nee Doh, is bringing back lava lamps. The piece of decor can be thought of as a mindfulness toy because we definitely spent large chunks of time staring at the mesmerizing lamps that were popular way back when — even if they were also from well before the ’80s
Bop It! Micro Series
Have we successfully established that mini things are in? Shrinking down your beloved Bop It! is the perfect way to get your little one invested in the classic game.
Kids Walkie Talkies
Walkie Talkies…need we say more? They’re such a staple of imaginative play. And for kids and teens who are obsessed with texting, this is a cool, “retro” way to communicate with friends while pretending to be spies or during a particularly hard game of hide-and-seek.
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