I’m doing something different this Christmas. Rather than succumbing to the new technologically driven toys and devices that promote screen time, I’ve decided to gift my kid classic toys that filled my own childhood with joy. These nostalgic treasures spark creativity and imagination in children by encouraging hands-on play and developing their problem-solving and social skills.

Let me share my motivations further before revealing my retro Christmas list for Santa.

Why I’m Choosing Timeless Gifts Over More Screen Time

This year, I’m purposely choosing physical toys from the 1980s and 1990s for my child to give them a break from their screens and provide a different kind of fun. These timeless gifts do more than hold great memories — they drive creativity, and promote teamwork and encourage socialising, something kids generally wouldn’t experience by pushing buttons on a smartphone.

As a parent, there’s another reason that’s equally, if not more important. When kids play, they can find a safe space to act out their thoughts, worries and emotions. Their brains release endorphins, serotonin and dopamine — the “feel-good” chemicals — to boost their moods and naturally lower stress and anxiety, leaving them calmer and happier. You can surely relate when I say there is no greater feeling than seeing your child at ease and happy.

My Nostalgic Christmas Shopping List

Reflecting on my childhood and recalling the fun times these classic toys brought me, I’m excited to share them with my child — and with you now.

1. A Superhero Costume

Do you remember dressing up as Catwoman or Batman in the days when comic books were still part of our youth instead of watching our favourite heroes on the screen? The entire DC and Marvel universes roamed local neighbourhoods then, allowing us to imagine ourselves as the superheroes we admired.

The benefits of dressing up and imaginative play for children go beyond the fun and games — by creating role-playing scenarios, they’re growing their creative sides, developing social skills and learning problem-solving through their pretend fun and interaction. It can also inspire our little ones to relate to these role models and be brave, kind and super.

2. A Board Game

The best thing about board games is that they never seem to go out of style and are always there when you need them. During a prolonged power outage when it’s bucketing down outside, with the TV off and phone batteries dying quickly, a board game like Clue Junior or Candy Land can be perfect for passing the time and enjoying time together.

Do you remember how we used to play these on similar occasions 30-40 years ago? We didn’t realise it then, but they helped our strategic thinking, number recognition and hand-eye coordination, along with making social-emotional skills like turn-taking and patience more natural.

3. A Tamagotchi

Tamagotchis are making a delightful comeback. I definitely miss my little yellow “pet” Tammy from the 1990s and am thankful for our time together. It’s incredible how many valuable lessons I learned from Tammy that are beneficial to us, as parents. If you feel the same way, gifting your child their own Tamagotchi will almost feel like passing down a cherished piece of your childhood.

A virtual pet, such as a Tamagotchi, provides your child with entertainment while also teaching them important traits, including responsibility and empathy. Caring for their Tamagotchis — feeding them, playing with them and ensuring they stay healthy — allows kids to develop valuable life skills and understand the importance of proper nurturing.

4. A Nerf Gun

When I think of Nerf guns, my mind drifts back to the early 1990s, when our neighbourhood’s kids were fortunate enough to have Blast A Ball guns. Outdoor play was the norm back then and the fun we had running and dodging those air-pumped foam balls while strategically planning our next moves was incredible.

While some parents may hesitate to give this gift due to concerns about violence or messes, the sponge shooters encourage your child’s outdoor play with a friend without causing any harm. It’ll keep them both occupied and exercised for hours instead of zoning out on their iPhones. These toys make for great, healthy exercise and respectful play with friends.

What Are You Buying for Christmas?

My secret is out, but please don’t tell my kid. Here’s hoping the surprises under the tree this Christmas will encourage my child’s active mind and body exercise, keeping them as happy and healthy as I was.

Mia Barnes is a professional freelance writer and the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Body+Mind Magazine. Mia specialises in women’s and family wellness with the goal of empowering parents everywhere to be the best they can be. 

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