12 Classic Toys That Still Rock

Stumped for gift ideas for your kids? Before you opt for the latest fad toy, consider one of these these 12 classic toys. Check your attic or grandma’s basement before you buy these oldies but goodies!

Mr. Potato Head

When Mr. Potato Head debuted, it was nothing more than a collection of plastic facial features. You actually had to supply the potato. Over the years, Mr. Potato Head has gone through some changes: He married, had little spuds, and eventually gained a plastic body. And although he’s spun himself off into software, books, and a starring role in the Toy Story series, his charm remains the same.

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Radio Flyer Classic Red Tricycle

If you had one of these — or if your parents had one of these — chances are, it’s still in the basement somewhere. That’s because the metal frame and solid construction means this bike never dies. This is a great way to scoot around the neighborhood. It’s easy to steer and looks great with a little bell on the handle bars!

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Barrel of Monkeys

It was a simple, but endlessly frustrating concept: A bunch of monkeys lived in a barrel and could be hooked onto each other. Could you hook them all together without breaking the chain? Nope, you couldn’t. All the monkeys hooked together were taller than you, after all. But what a great way to practice patience and hand-eye coordination! Today’s monkeys come in a larger size than you remember – just right for small hands.

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Wooden Blocks

Sure, a good set of wooden blocks can be expensive, but think back to the complex structures you built as a kid, with secret rooms, soaring towers, and daring bridges. Childhood just isn’t the same without those feats of architectural bravado? Blocks stand the test of time, too, keeping your child interested from the toddler years through grade school.

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Lincoln Logs

Continuing on a theme, this is another great building toy. Remember all the fences, walls and…well…log cabins you put together with these? You could make entire towns for your action figures and garages for your Hot Wheels cars.

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Hot Wheels

And speaking of these little metal cars, remember racing these along those little orange tracks? You’d build them over the couch and down the stairs to see who’s car could go the fastest? Well, they’re still around, orange tracks and all! There are thousands of cars to choose from, and they come in all kinds of multi-packs. Grab some track sets and you’re good to go!

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Twister

Get you kids’ wiggles out with this classic game. Let them twist and turn until their ready for bed! And why not jump in and play, too? Now that you’re bigger, the colors are a lot easier to reach!

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Wooly Willy

Got a car trip in the future? Don’t want to hand over your phone to keep the kids occupied. Throw a couple of these in the car and let your younger kids have fun giving Wooly Willy hair on his head, his chin and …in his nose? Come on, you know you did it, too!

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Simon Says

Follow the lights and sounds and do what Simon says! Yup, this game is still around. It’s not only a great 80s classic, it also teaches colors, patterns and hand-eye coordination. So, you’re not just getting a toy you can sneak after the kids go bed. You’re getting something educational!

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Tinker Toys

Talk about a classic toy! Tinker Toys were created in 1914. They’ve been used to make everything from simple structures to complex machines, and even a tic-tac-toe-playing computer. Think of the all the things your brilliant kid could make with these!

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Operation

Remember all the near-heart attacks you got when you touched the edges and heard that buzz? Gift your child the same gift of total shock! The organs have changed a bit from when you were a kid, but the game is still the same!

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Spirograph

This is a fun, creative toy that lets kids explore shapes, patterns and design. They can use it to make cards for friends and family, or just goof around with different spiraling shapes. You may even find yourself stealing this one to relive your own childhood.

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Looking for more great toys? Check out our toy finder!