Timeless Christmas toys
There’s an old adage we’re all familiar with: the more things change, the more they stay the same. There is certainly some truth to that when it comes to the Christmas holidays. The season of holiday greetings is steeped in tradition, but that hasn’t stopped us from celebrating in ever-changing ways. We went from real trees to pre-lit artificial Christmas trees. We stopped hanging homemade popcorn and decorations and replaced them with collectible garlands and decorations.
And our gift-giving gets more and more lavish with each passing year. Americans spend more dollars on holiday spending each December, and our consumer preferences have shifted from low-tech items to high-powered gaming systems and other electronics. Simply put, Santa’s elves are busier and his bag heavier.
But unfortunately, the adage rings true. Some things never change, regardless of the latest shopping trends. There are some gifts that are just as important to children today as they were 20, 30, and even 50 years ago. It’s no small thing for a toy to stand the test of time, but the jolly Saint Nicholas and his ever-attentive helpers keep a close eye on those who do. So, parents of America, unite! If you’re looking to give your kids some nostalgia that they’ll actually enjoy, you’ve come to the right place. Because we’ve got the inside scoop on products that never go out of style.
Barbie Dolls: America’s favorite doll has undergone massive changes over the years and has endured much backlash for setting what some parents believe is an unrealistic standard of beauty. But the reality is that Barbie, love her or hate her, has weathered the storms and is just as popular today as ever. If there’s a little girl in your house, chances are good that Barbie is as welcome as anything else you can dream of.
Toy Soldiers – Another time-tested but controversial option. Some say that toy soldiers instill a sense of pride, patriotism, and bravery in American youth. Others fear that they help foster acceptance of violence. But then again, love them or hate them, these toys appeal to our nation’s children. Toy soldiers have come a long way since the original GI Joe. They are more realistic and their uniforms have changed to keep up with the times. And their weaponry and means of transportation have become more sophisticated. But their popularity remains undisputed, and thousands of children from coast to coast still enjoy commanding their ranks.
Radio Flyer Wagons: a timeless classic. It doesn’t get any simpler than this, but boys and girls from toddlers to eight or nine years old still can’t resist these nostalgic gifts. Whether they’re riding while dad pulls or pulls their favorite stuffed animal or pup, these wagons are always a crowd pleaser.
Bicycles – It is true that bicycles have evolved as much as the Barbie doll and GI Joe. The colors are more extreme, the tires softer and the design more aerodynamic. But the feeling of freedom and exhilaration that comes from riding against the wind remains as irresistible as ever. The bikes have been a party hit for decades and will continue to be for decades to come.
Lincoln Logs – They’ve been around for about 90 years and still haven’t lost their touch. Lincoln Logs are the quintessential construction toys, and boys and girls alike still love them.
