Friday 5 | retro toys

With three children between the ages of 2 and 8, we've tested a mountain of toys in this house. There are very few that get played with repeatedly. Lego, the toy kitchen and their favourite cuddly toys have been great purchases, played with again and again. Everything else is pretty fleeting.

So, here we are, surrounded by a truckload of plastic piff that hardly ever gets used. I'd chose the more classic toys any day of the week and have been trying to make better choices for birthdays and Christmas. Wooden toys, toys with a retro design, classic brands and characters that have stood the test of time. These are some of our favourites so far.



Monchichi. I remember my Monchichi monkey so well. My parents bought him for me when we were on holiday in Majorca and I loved him so much. I knew Meryn would adore them too so, when I spotted them on Amazon, it didn't take much to twist my arm. He quickly became her favourite toy and goes everywhere with her. 



Fisher Price Classics till. This was a huge hit on Ayden's second birthday and all three of my children sat down to play with it. The chunky coins are just the right size for little hands and the mechanics are easy to operate. The coins can either drop into the cash register drawer, or roll down the ramp, depending on which button you press. We play shop with this most days.  

Janod Rocket. This little wooden toy was first sold in 1970 and still seems to appeal to parents and their children. As soon as I saw it, I knew Ayden would love one. It's a magnetic stacking toy, so great for developing motor skills and problem solving when they're little. It's really cute to look at and would make a lovely gift for a new baby or first birthday. 

Fisher Price Classics pull-along milk truck. Another great toy from the Fisher Price Classics range. Ayden loves to drag things along behind him; toys, sofa cushions, hoover attachments... you name it. Not only is this a fun toy to play with, it looks great too. Definitely one I'm happy to leave out on display.



Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Ok, so this isn't technically a 'retro' pick, but I love seeing some of my childhood favourites brought back for my children to enjoy. Our collection of turtles are some of the only plastic figures that get played with on a daily basis. Both my boys love them and, with six years age difference, it just goes to show that the classics appeal to all ages. 

Anyone else heard a rumour that Rainbow Brite and Jem are making a come back shortly? Is it wrong that I'm ridiculously excited about that!?