The Best Vintage Toys for Modern Kids
When I walk through the toy aisle at Target or Walmart, I immediately get overwhelmed by all the lights, noises, and bright colors. If all those toys overwhelm me, just think about the sensory overload our kids are experiencing when their playrooms are filled with these kinds of toy.
When it comes to toys, newer isn’t always better.
For Christmas, birthdays, and other gift-giving holidays, I find that I’m not scouring the latest toy catalogs to find the hottest new toys. I am searching Craigslist, Etsy, and garage sales for vintage toys that have stood the test of time. If you find these toys at a consignment sale or garage sale for a good price, snatch them up! Some child (or parent) in your life will love you for it! Here are the BEST Vintage Toys for Modern Kids!
10 Vintage Toys Modern Kids Will Love
Little Tikes Dollhouse
These doll houses are virtually indestructible, which is why there’s likely still one in your parent’s attic! We found one on a local garage sale website for a steal my toddler has loved it. Even better, you can find accessories that will instantly remind you of your childhood like a mini Cozy Coupe and turtle sandbox.
Tupperware Shape-O-Toy
This was another toy that I specifically looked for because I remembered how much I loved it growing up. Sure, there are no lights or sounds like many of the modern shape sorter toys, but that’s what makes the Tupperware Shape-O-Toy such a classic!
Tinker Toys
There are several building toys on this list because they never seem to go out of style. Tinker Toys are great for older kids because they don’t limit imagination.
Fisher Price Little People
No matter what set you find, kids love vintage Fisher Price Little People sets. A friend had a vintage school house and my husband’s grandparents have the airplane hangar. Both sets get pulled out every single time we visit their house.
Cabbage Patch Kids
I got a Cabbage Patch Kid the day my brother was born so that I would have a baby to take care of, so they have a special place in my heart. While some vintage baby dolls look a bit creepy these days, Cabbage Patch Kids are just as huggable as ever.
Fisher-Price Music Box Record Player
The Fisher-Price Record Player is essentially a music box, but the kids get to choose their record and play several familiar songs. I love that it’s so far away from looking up a YouTube video on your phone. Fisher-Price recently re-released this toy, which has the same classic look but operates on batteries.
Legos / Duplos
I have sung the praises of LEGOs and Duplos in the past, but that’s because they continue to be my toddler’s favorite toy. She loves building cars, planes, and buildings, then breaking them down. They helped her learn colors and hand eye coordination – all without an annoying song in sight! LEGOs and Duplos last forever, so you can find vintage sets in great condition.
Lincoln Logs
Another building set that is worth its weight in gold is Lincoln Logs. This classic toy has allowed kids to build log cabins and little towns for decades. Just watch, if you find a set of Lincoln Logs, dad is going to be just as enthralled as your kiddo!
Radio Flyer Tricycle / Wagon
Radio Flyer Wagons and Bicycles are the same as the ones your parents and maybe even grandparents rode when their were little. The company was started in 1917 and they began producing the classic wagon in 1923. These vintage ride on toys have lasted through generations and are the perfect toys for modern kids.
Mr. Potato Head
Mr. Potato Head found a new audience when he (and his misses) stole the show in Toy Story, but they were well loved long before Woody and Buzz had anything to say about it! Now you can find accessories for this famous spud to turn him into Darth Tater, Spud Trooper, Captain America, and more, securing his spot as the perfect vintage toy for modern kids.
Don’t worry about depriving your child of lights and sounds – they will inevitably find it (or make up their own). If you simplify your toys, you will likely find that your kids stay engaged with the toys for longer and in more meaningful ways. In fact, I have discovered that my toddler prefers her simple baby doll and grandma-made blankets to many of her more “interactive” toys.
Have your kids stumbled on any toys at your parent’s house that they love? Share your favorite vintage toys for modern kids in the comments below!
I love these toys!