I love the nostalgia that comes with the holiday season, don’t you?! Nothing beats time with your loved ones, from your mom’s baked apple pie to your annoying uncle’s jokes. The house is buzzing with people and, most importantly, laughter. Being back with family and friends always does that to me. I always think about the wonderful memories I’ve all shared with my family and friends under one roof. Besides the delicious food and joyous spirit in the air during the holidays, nostalgic toys always come back to the forefront of my mind. I can remember when I got my first doll, and what immense joy it brought me for years to come. This holiday season, I’ve rounded up 12 nostalgic gifts you need to add to your shopping list for that special younger sibling, or for a bestie who wants to relive the good old days!
Slinkys and life-size cash registers were just some of my favorite childhood toys. There wasn’t a place I’d not been thanks to my imagination during my younger years. Toy food had ridiculously made-up prices, and my dolls represented a family of their own. With so many technological advancements, I believe it’s time to return to the basics. What’s wrong with a simulated baby that eats food?! For a family member, or yourself, these nostalgic gifts will be a sure win this holiday season. Here are 12 of my favorite options that are all under $30!
Bratz x Cult Gaia Special Edition Doll ($25)
Your Passion 4 Fashion started early, thanks to your favorite Bratz doll! This is perfect for that budding fashionista in your life.
Barbie “Brooklyn” Roberts – Lyla + Pet ($13)
There are thousands of Barbie dolls that all have different purposes. Lyla is a music-loving girl from the city, who’s enjoying life with her puppy by her side!
Slinky Retro Dog ($19)
One of my favorite toys from the Toy Story series, and he’s even cuter in person! Slinky also comes in 1950s-style packaging. How cute is that?!
Nickelodeon Light Up Yo-Yo ($1)
I’m all for a Yo-Yo, and this Spongebob Squarepants-themed one seals the deal for me every time. Choose from your favorite TV characters and unleash that inner child!
Baby Alive Magical Mixer Baby Doll ($28)
This version of Baby Alive comes with a real blender to mix up her food, and a few diapers in case of accidents!
View-Master Disney 100 Mickey Mouse ($20)
Travel through time with Disney’s Mickey Mouse and his friends with this lovely 3D viewer!
Adofi Cash Register Playset ($28)
This play set comes with 46 pieces, including all food items, a credit card, paper money, and even a scanner that beeps!
VTech Kidi Secrets Notebook ($22)
How many of us had this journal growing up?! I know I did. This modern take on the nostalgic journal features a voice entry feature to document all those sleepover-worthy stories!
Bop It! Game ($13)
This fun-loving game is all about timing. Listen closely to the commands and Bop It!
The Game Of Life ($19)
Life is full of surprises, and so is this board game. This family-friendly game is perfect for those game nights surrounded by your loved ones!
Operation Board Game ($17)
This classic board game is great for laughs and a steady hand. A pair of tweezers is included to extract the wackiest body parts of the patient. If you graze the sides, a buzzer will go off!
Tamagotchi ($20)
Tamagotchi is the digital pet you can keep in your pocket or on a keychain. You have the option to feed it, play games with it, and even put it to sleep for the night!
Rubik’s Cube ($9)
This is an all-time favorite toy that stretches back generations! The classic Rubik’s Cube features those bright colors we all know and love. Take your time and match every side to one color!