If You Grew Up in the ’70s You Probably Played with These Toys

by Allison SutcliffeApril 22, 2018

Sure your kids have hoverboards, virtual reality goggles, and LEGO sets you only dreamed of. But don’t forget, kid toys from the ’70s were cutting edge … in their day. So go ahead and relive those hours spent playing on the shag carpeting with this list of retro toys you’re sure to remember. Scroll down to see them all.

via ebay

You totally beat Han’s 12 parsec Kessel Run record when you captained Kenner’s Millennium Falcon Spaceship. Every time.

Mattel website

You puckered up alongside Kissing Barbie and planted lipsticked kisses on your unsuspecting kid brother.

via ebay

You used your Speak & Spell to practice spelling, but secretly wondered if it could really “phone home.”

via ebay

You blasted Asteroids and conquered Space Invaders on your Atari 2600 every chance you got. Curious about other games kids played back in the day? Find more favorites here.

via ebay

You went through all your Lite Brite peg sheets in one sitting and still wanted more. (Get the retro reboot for your kid on Amazon.)

Allison Sutcliffe

You were always on the winning team when you played electronic football.

via ebay

Snoopy was always invited to chill at Barbie’s place when you mixed and matched your Colorforms. (Get the retro reboot for your kid on Amazon.)

via ebay

If you concentrate real hard, we bet you can still conjure the smell of Strawberry Shortcake’s sweetly scented hair.

via ebay

You spun serious tunes on your Fisher Price record player. Jack & Jill, London Bridge and Edelweiss never sounded so good.

via ebay

You waffled between anticipation and terror every time you wound up Mattel’s Jack in the Box.

You never did answer the question “just how far can Stretch Armstrong stretch before he breaks?” But you got close plenty of times. (Get the retro reboot for your kid on Amazon.)

via ebay

You chucked Nerf balls at your friend’s head … indoors!

At least once a summer you’d beg your parents to please, please let you and your friends make a cherry red snow cone with your own Snoopy SnoCone Machine (Get the retro reboot for your kid on Amazon.).

via ebay

Shopping wasn’t your priority when you pulled out the Fisher Price Cash Register. Ringing up sales was.

via etsy

Strapping on skates and hitting the sidewalk was how you rolled on warm summer days. Psst ... find more nostalgic sidewalk toys here.

via ebay

Your parents were swimming in key chains from all the Shrinky Dinks you colored, cut and baked.

via ebay

When you played with your Fisher Price Sesame Street Playhouse, Mr. Snuffleupagus was still Big Bird’s imaginary friend.

via ebay

You did your best Swiss Family Robinson impression every time you played with the Tree Tots Family Tree House.

Did your favorite childhood toy make it on our list? If not, what would you add? Share your favorites in a comment.

— Allison Sutcliffe

10 Spectacular Scenic Views in San Diego

by Nikki WalshOctober 18, 2017

San Diego is full of awe-inspiring views, from the ocean to the mountains to the bay––so whether you want to treat out-of-town guests to stunning vistas or you and the fam want to appreciate the beauty in your own backyard or find the perfect photo backdrop, we’ve got a sight for you. Click through our slideshow to feast your eyes on vantage points around the city that are nothing short of spectacular.

Carlsbad Sea Wall

Exercise with the tots in tow with an expansive view of Carlsbad Beach below–– or take a morning or evening stroll. (Mr. Bow-Wow is welcome too). Grab the stroller or small scooter for the littles to navigate this two-mile stretch of coastline. When you're finished, stop by Choice Juicery for a cold pressed juice and a healthy Orange Dreamsicle smoothie for the littles and let them play in the grass area.

See a list of our favorite juice and smoothie bars in San Diego (including Choice Juicery) here.

Carlsbad Sea Wall
Carlsbad Blvd.
Between Pine St. and Tamarack Ave.
Carlsbad, Ca
Online: carlsbadca.gov/seawall

Choice Juicery
430 Carlsbad Village Dr.
Carlsbad, Ca

photo: Jeremy Ricketts

Where do you go for breathtaking views? Share with us in the comments below.

—Nikki Walsh

Today Is Sweatpants Sunday

by amynicosiaNovember 22, 2016

Daily

Today Is Sweatpants Sunday

Elastic waist for the win.

No need to change, just keep those stretch pants on and do some yoga at home with your child.

Sweatpants go great with books: here are 53 we think every kid should read before they turn 12.

Let the kids make the beds (in their sweats!) with a little help from games that are anything but a chore.

{ Today’s ideas brought to you by Sofas }

Wrapped Around: 11 Best Enclosed Playgrounds

by rtjeannetteswansonOctober 17, 2016

Park play time should be characterized by playful physical activity and not by safety-related stress. In theory, wide open spaces are wonderful, but not so much when your eyes are working overtime. This is why we love fenced in playgrounds or at least semi-enclosed playgrounds that take the worry factor down a few notches. Here are 11 of our favorites.

photo: Anne C. via Yelp

1. NTC Park
While this one is not surrounded by a fence, it makes the list because of a generous stretch of grass acts which acts as a barrier between the play area and parking lot. Because of the addition of the Public Market, parking is quite scarce in the lot behind Kid Ventures, but (usually) abundant at the park. The two age-specific play structures often solve the worry of the smaller set being intimidated by the more seasoned park players. This park scores an A+ for catering to all ages and a central location that’s a magnet for mamas from all over San Diego.

2370 Cushing Rd.
San Diego, Ca
Online: parkpogo.com/park/liberty_station_ntc_park

photo: Jeannette Swanson

2. Silver Terrace Park
This park is a little gem, and when we say little we mean don’t blink or you might miss it! On Friars Rd. close enough to hear the trolley rumble past, this park is entirely fenced in. The play structure is well kept and there’s plenty of grass for the kiddos run amuck. There’s a paved sidewalk for easy stroller access, and if you’ve got a sleeping babe you need not wake them while your older kids play thanks to the cozyness of the park.

Insider Tip: There are no restrooms and the parking lot is a tad small, so try to limit sippy time and plan on leaving a little early so you can look for parking in case the attached lot is full.

5550 Friars Rd.
San Diego, Ca
Online: sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation

photo: Melissa Heckscher

3. Kensington Mini Park
This park is for the family who appreciates smaller spaces (and a Starbucks just across the street!) The equipment is simple, but in a positive way that won’t overload your tots brain. This one is ideal for those in the neighborhood or for those who need a break from other too crowded playgrounds.

4121 Adams Ave.
San Diego, Ca
Online: parkpogo.com/kensington_mini_park

photo: Matt E. via Yelp

4. Nobel Park
Since this park often gets an overflow from the rec center next door, your littles are almost always guaranteed impromptu play dates. Most would consider this park to be divided into three areas that can stand on their own. There’s a spot for sand toys and digging, slides and playground equipment for younger kids as well as a separate set for the older crowd. A row of covered picnic tables sits between the playground, so bring a to-go breakfast or lunch to nosh on outdoors.

8810 Judicial Dr.
San Diego, Ca
858-552-1626
Online: sandiego.gov/park-and recreation/nobel

5. Jackson Park
This neighborhood park can be added to your itinerary on a day you’re planning to visit Grossmont Center or the Costco in La Mesa. Test drive a couple of cars and yield to the in-ground stop sign before proceeding. After your tots imagination has driven them at least three times around the faux Nascar circuit, make sure they climb out and stretch their legs as they zip down the slides. With all the shade supplied by the abundance of nearby trees, this is a must visit for our many months of warm weather.

5870 Jackson Dr.
La Mesa, Ca
Online: lamesaparks.org/parks/jackson-park/

6. 4S Heritage Park
This neighborhood park might look small in relation to the grassy area that wraps around it, but it’s surrounded by almost a complete circle of fencing. The large area of grass is actually a plus, since they have the option to frolic barefoot on the sweet green blades after being corralled in the entertaining play area. Although, it might be tough to get them to forfeit the wobbly bridge, twisting slide and peek-a-boo hole that beckons them to ask for just five more minutes.

16600 4S Ranch Pkwy.
San Diego, Ca
Online: sdparks.org

photo: Jeannette Swanson

7. Western Hills Park
Just like NTC Park, this hidden park is not fenced in, but it makes the list because of its elevated location from the street and tucked away nature in general. Located in a quiet neighborhood in Bay Park, this one should make its way onto your calendars each Friday of the month if you’re in the area. Bay Park Connection hosts a weekly play date at this location and they generously bring a batch of coffee and donuts to fuel us and our mini play dates. Starting at 9:30 a.m. and going until the sugar rush has worn off, there’s plenty of companionship to be had here. Even if you can’t make the Friday play date, the safe location, expansive grassy area with a fence of trees and the trail that makes for a perfect mini hike, is enough to warrant a play trip here.

4800 Kane St.
San Diego, Ca
Online: yelp.com/biz/western-hills-park-san-diego

photo: Richard G. via Yelp

8. West Hills Park
This smaller Santee playground receives light foot traffic during the week and a fence that’s only one panel short of being entirely enclosed. This one might be the East County equivalent of NTC Park, since it also has a separate structure for the older jungle gym lovers. There’s even a bright blue whale on springs that your beach lover can bounce around in and pretend they’re actually minutes from the water.

8790 Mast Blvd.
Santee, Ca
Online: ci.santee.ca.us

9. Kroc Center Playground
This playground not only stands out because of its vibrant purple color scheme, but its design was inspired by many local tot artists. The playground sits between an athletic field and the gymnasium and sits in the shade in the late afternoons. While the park is only accessible to members, it’s a wonderful resource for its members and to area families. The park can either be the focal point of your day or it can be a quick jaunt after a scheduled activity at the center.

6845 University Ave.
San Diego, Ca
619-287-5762
Online: sd.kroccenter.org

photo: Jeannette Swanson

10. Mills Park
While this playground is only open to those with access to MCAS Miramar, its smaller size is very welcoming to new moms or moms with multiple kiddos. This fenced in playground has a nice slice of shade that’s provided by a canopy and it makes for a nice sitting spot with baby while you watch your older ones play. On the way in or the way out, consider getting a cup of coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts. After all it’s one of the rare five in the San Diego area!

MCAS Miramar
Bauer Rd.
San Diego, Ca
Online: mccsmiramar.com/mills-park/

11. MCRD Bay View Marina Park
This fully fenced-in, ADA approved playground by the marina is a dream come true for kids and parents alike. There’s a Marine-themed vehicle and a variety of obstacle-themed structures to give them a tactical experience. There’s also a soft turf here that will appeal to the little movers who prefer not to have sand in their shoes. To round out the day, walk around the marina before heading home. But like the park above, this one is only open to those with base access, so consider making a date out of this with one of your military gal friends.

MCRD San Diego Boathouse & Marina
2221 Guadalcanal Ave.
San Diego, Ca
Online: mccsmcrd.com/boathouse-marina/

What are your favorite fenced in parks? Let us know in the comments!

—Jeannette Swanson

Chris Pratt is Taking A Break From Hollywood to Spend Time With His Family– And We’re Trying Not to Cry

by Red TricycleJuly 26, 2016

Blockbuster actor Chris Pratt announced he was taking a well-deserved break from acting to spend more time with his family. After shooting three films back-to-back (The Magnificent Seven (out Friday), and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2), Chris Pratt is focused on the biggest role any man can ask for: husband and father.

Photo: annafaris via Instagram

He and his lovely wife, actress Anna Faris, and their two-year-old son, Jack, will be spending quality time together for the next six months. Chris told Parade “I’m taking Jack to Jack’s Beach—which is what we named the little stretch of beach on an island up on the San Juan Islands where we got a place. We’re going to go back to the fort we built about a month and a half ago when we went for a short visit and see if that’s still there. If not, we’re going to build it again.”

Photo: annafaris via Instagram

Have fun, Mr. Pratt!

Will you miss Chris Pratt from the screen? Let us know in the comments below!

Travel with Your Kids (& Your Car!) on Amtrak Auto Train

by rtstephenApril 19, 2016

There’s no doubt that some of your family’s favorite vacation memories include piling into the car and playing eye spy. Clearly, getting there is a big part of the fun. But what if you could do it without the traffic and tolls?

Amtrak Auto Train allows you to take your car along for the ride, so you’ll have it as soon as you reach your destination. Hop aboard and watch the scenery go by as the train speeds across a 900-mile route that ends near Orlando, Florida (Disney World, here you come).

Family-friendly amenities make the trip as comfortable as can be. Curl up in your seat or take advantage of the ample leg room to stretch out. Wake up to a continental breakfast that includes something for everyone. Movies in the Lounge car and free WiFi make the miles fly by. Plus, meals are included no matter whether you choose coach or a sleeping accomodation.

Ready to hit the road? Purchase a kids Auto Train ticket by May 21, 2016 and your little adventurer can ride the rails for just $29 from June 3-Sept. 31, 2016.

Looks like your summer plans are headed down the right track.

Just Opened: Happy Baby Yoga

by Melissa HeckscherApril 17, 2016

If you’ve been looking for a place where you can set your baby free on the floor and take a nice, deep breath, stretch and feel a little more zen—your search is finally over. Happy Baby, a serene little spot on Main Street in El Segundo, offers parents and their little ones a place to say “Ohm” together (or separately) without worrying that toddler tantrums or baby blowouts will zap the zen. Read on for the scoop on this wonderful new oasis of calm.

photo: Happy Baby

Itsy Bitsy Yoga
Your baby may not know what he’s doing, but remember that time she squatted down on the floor and clapped her hands? That was yoga! So get your pint-sized yogis on the mat and see what happens. Classes for pre-walkers and toddlers will get both mom and baby moving while introducing basic yoga concepts in a light and whimsical way — i.e., if the cat/cow poses don’t catch your babe’s attention, a few rounds of “Wheels on the Bus” or “Itsy Bitsy Spider” may help. And when it’s all over, even the teensiest of fingers can come together for a little “Namaste.”

photo: Melissa Heckscher

Ohm Options
Whether it’s a 7 a.m. parent and baby pilates class or a 7:30 p.m. prenatal yoga class, there’s no shortage of choices here. Higher energy toddlers might benefit from a Yo-Hop class, which combines yoga fundamentals with hip hop-inspired dance movements. Got a little ballerina? Try Happy Baby Ballet. Baby like music? Stretch and groove in the Joyeux Bébé Musique class. Just remember, Mama: If your kiddo is under 5, you’ll need to be in the studio with her, so get ready to stretch, dance and move with your little one!

photo: Melissa Heckscher

For moms who just want a good workout with baby-in-tow, there are classes, including a hardcore baby boot camp class and a Mama Flow class, where little ones are welcome to toddle around on the floor (or sleep alongside in a car seat) while moms sweat it out. So long, sitter stresses.

Keep an eye out; plans are in the works for even more Parent and Me classes, parent support groups, mindful parenting classes, and more.

photo: Melissa Heckscher

Drop-Off Zen
For older kids who need a little tension-taming, Happy Baby also has drop-off classes for kids from ages 5-12, including traditional yoga classes and higher-energy dance classes. Youngsters who want a little more action, for instance, will dig the “GroovyKids” class, which gets kids jumping with hip-hop-inspired dance moves.

photo: Happy Baby

The Studio
Nestled right next door to a coffee shop on El Segundo’s uber-quaint Main Street, Happy Baby is a sunny, airy studio with sparkling clean floors (baby-friendly cleaners only!) and bright blue walls that keep things feeling, well, happy. Worried parents will appreciate that there is nothing in the studio except a sofa and the necessary yoga props; meaning your baby can explore to his heart’s delight without worrying that he’s going to wander into unsafe territory. There are also no obligatory waiting room-style toys—a plus for parents who don’t want their little yogi to come home with a dose of zen-inspired germs.

There’s a comfy “nursing couch” in the back of the room for moms who need a quiet place to feed their little ones, and a well-stocked bathroom in the back is perfect for mamas-to-be who just can’t make it through another downward-facing dog without a potty break of their own.

photo: Happy Baby

Prices: $22 for a drop-in class; $100 for a 5-class pack; $190 for a 10-class pack; $340 for a 20-class pack; or $140 a month for unlimited classes. Class membership includes parent and child.

Happy Baby
353 Main St.
El Segundo
424-218-9774
Online: happybabyla.com

Where do you bring the kids for down dog and child pose? If you’re looking for another fabulous family yoga spot, we’ve also rounded up our favorite places all over town.

—Melissa Heckscher

Today Is Kazoo Day

by rtstephenDecember 25, 2015

Today Is Kazoo Day

Get the buzz.

1

No kazoo? Make one yourself with waxed paper and cardboard tubes.

2

Now that you have a kazoo, learn to perform one of these easy-to-learn songs.

3

If you need a little inspiration for what a kazoo can actually do, check out this awesome video of a world record kazoo-a-thin
during the 7th inning stretch of an SF Giants game.

{ Today’s ideas brought to you by The Kazoo Kid }

Jump for Joy at These 5 Preschool Bounce Times

by rtstacycoplinpdxAugust 23, 2015

If your energetic tots make you feel like you live with a house full of Tiggers, you need a setting (other than your living room) where they can literally bounce off the walls. For guaranteed nap time success, head to these five preschool-aged tailored spots that feature inflatable play spaces, slides, tunnels and trampolines. Flip through the gallery for the scoop.

Safari Sam’s

If you are looking to cover all manner of energy exertion, Safari Sam's is the place for you. They have two bouncy houses in the back, and they are often not overly crowded due to the myriad of options Safari Sam's has. From climbing and swinging through their parent-approved climbing jungle gym, the technique and skill used on the glow-in-the-dark jungle themed miniature golf course and the busy arcade chock full with games for every skill level. Whether you start or end you visit in the Nemo-themed bouncy houses everyone will leave tired and happy.

Admission for ages 2-17 (adults are free): Mon.-Thurs. $4.99, Fri.-Sun. $7.49
To add the option to play on the bouncers (ages 3-12 only), it's an additional $5.
16260 S.W. Langer Dr.
Sherwood
503-925-8000
Online: jungleoffun.com

photo: elPadawan via Flickr Creative Commons

Where is your favorite place to bounce away a morning?

—Stacy Coplin

Perfect Pit Stops on Highway 101

by Lenya McGrathAugust 17, 2015

Ah the weekend! The perfect time to get in the car and get out and about. But if sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic on the 5 Freeway doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, then take the nearest exit to a more relaxed pace of life on the historic 101. This west coast highway connects Mexico to Canada with some surprising gems right along the San Diego stretch. From beach towns to great eats and sights to see, you’ll love puttering along on a classic family drive.

photo:Roman Königshofer via flickr

Best Destination – The California Surf Museum
If you’re a family of wave riders and wax heads, you’ll love the California Surf Museum. Well placed in the northern town of Oceanside, this destination chronicles the rise of surfing within California over the past 25 years. You can check out a brief history of surfboards with wooden planks reminiscent of Polynesian surfing roots all the way through to shortboard designs from today’s top pros. While you’re there you can take in their current exhibition on Bethany Hamilton, a courageous surfer who inspires others in spite of a shark attack. Plus there is a great surf wall which will serve as the perfect backdrop to your family adventure selfie. With plenty of parking and restrooms. the California Surf Museum makes for the perfect pit stop.

Locals’ Tip: Give the kids a challenge to find Wilson from the movie, Castaway! Ten points if you start calling “Wilson, Wiiiiiiilson!”

Cost: $5/adult, $3/student, Free/kids under 12
Open Daily, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

312 Pier View Way
Oceanside, Ca 92054
760-721-6876
Online: surfmuseum.org

photo: Eunice K. via Yelp.

Best Casual Lunch – Board and Brew
Cruise into the Del Mar village for lunch and you’ll find a mixture of a small town America mixed with a side of surf and sand. There you’ll find Board and Brew, an amazing sandwich restaurant with a secret sauce that takes their subs to the next level. Locals swear by the Turkado with special sauce but anything on their small, but delicious menu is great. There is plenty of first-in-best-dressed seating in the patio out front or, have your sandwich to go and walk down 15th Street to Sea Grove Park for some amazing views of Del Mar Beach and a mean kids playground.

Locals’ Tip: Board and Brew is located below street level so it might be a little hard to find the first time. Keep your eye’s peeled for a sunken patio out front.

Open Daily at 10 a.m.

1212 Camino Del Mar
Del Mar, Ca 92014
858-925-5791
Online: boardandbrew.com

photo: Ines M. via flickr

Best Beach Spot – Moonlight State Beach
Hit up Encinitas and you’ll find Moonlight State Beach, named after the midnight picnics locals you to hold here in the early 1900s. This is a family-friendly stretch of coast — the shore drops down nearer to sea level making it an easy swimming and splashing spot. You’ll find a wide stretch of sand, a kids playground, snack bar, fire pits, volleyball courts and plenty of parking. Stop here to rest the legs or take advantage of the ample restrooms if you need a potty break while travelling.

Locals’ Tip: Check out the locals version of “sledding” with kids zooming down the sand hills on boogie boards and sleds that start appearing in October and November.

Open Daily

400 B St.
Encinitas, Ca 92024
760-633-2740
Online: parks.ca.gov

photo Shawn H. via Pannikin Coffee & Tea Facebook Page

Best Coffee Stop – Pannikin Coffee & Tea
If you need a little pick-me-up to keep powering along the highway, Pannikin Coffee & Tea offers some of the best brews in all of North County. Nestled in an old yellow victorian house this cafe is rustic with wooden floors, farm house decor and sunshine streaming in. They do a great selection of teas, coffees, hot chocolates, baked goods and brunch-style food that you can enjoy in a huge selection of seating. Pull up a chair at the inside tables, relax on the balcony or enjoy the outdoors on the lawn chairs in the garden. Despite being so large it still gets busy here but the line for counter service moves quickly and people are friendly. There’s plenty of parking too.

Locals’ Tip: Google “history of Pannikin Encinitas” and you’ll be able to see this coffee house locations history as the old Encinitas train station!

Open Daily, 6 a.m. – 6 p.m.

510 N Coast Hwy 101
Encinitas, Ca 92024
760-436-5824
Online: pannikincoffeeandtea.com

photo: Nathan Rupert via flickr

Best Way To Get Up Close And Personal With The Sea Life – Birch Aquarium
If taking in all those views of the beaches, inlets and coast lines are making the family yearn to get a bit closer to the sea life then take a detour to Birch Aquarium at Scripps. Sitting high on the hills of La Jolla, you’ll have some of the best views from above of the San Diego coastline. Inside you’ll find plenty of creatures of the deep. The kelp forrest offers a two story floor to ceiling view of an underwater paradise complete with fish, eels, leopard sharks and more while the tide pools outside offer some hands on exploration of local sea creatures found around San Diego. Once the fun is over, pick up an ice cream at the kiosk outside. There’s plenty of free parking and restrooms available too.

Locals’ Tip: Check out the hall of fishes and peer in at fish from around the world, octopuses, jelly fish and more.

Cost: $17/ adult, $14/ ages 13 – 17, $12.50/3 – 12 years old, Free/kiddos 2 and under
Open Daily, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

2300 Expedition Way
La Jolla, Ca 92037
858-534-3474
Online: aquarium.ucsd.edu

photo: Sean S. and Miles K. via Yelp

Best Dinner and Drinks – Pizza Port
If a spot of dinner is calling along with one of San Diego’s best craft brews, say hello to Solana Beach Pizza Port. With more than 21 brewed-on-site beers and a 14 delicious pizzas on the menu you’ll be able to relax and refuel. This restaurant is family friendly with a capital F. There are picnic tables indoors and out, fun music blaring and an arcade out back to keep the kids entertained. Regulars love the Carlsbad pizza with pesto, grilled, chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, artichokes and feta. They don’t take reservations, so you may need to line up for a little while. Parking is onsite and there’s plenty of it.

Locals’ Tip: If you want the good times to keep going, you can take a six pack of their craft brews like the Swami IPA home with you.

Open Daily, 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

135 N. Hwy, 101
Solana Beach, Ca 92075
858-481-7322
Online: pizzaport.com

What are your favorite spots on the 101? Let us know in the comments!

— Lenya McGrath

You totally beat Han’s 12 parsec Kessel Run record when you captained Kenner’s Millennium Falcon Spaceship. Every time.

You puckered up alongside Kissing Barbie and planted lipsticked kisses on your unsuspecting kid brother.

You used your Speak & Spell to practice spelling, but secretly wondered if it could really “phone home.”

You blasted Asteroids and conquered Space Invaders on your Atari 2600 every chance you got. Curious about other games kids played back in the day? Find more favorites here.

You went through all your Lite Brite peg sheets in one sitting and still wanted more. (Get the retro reboot for your kid on Amazon.)

You were always on the winning team when you played electronic football.

Snoopy was always invited to chill at Barbie’s place when you mixed and matched your Colorforms. (Get the retro reboot for your kid on Amazon.)

If you concentrate real hard, we bet you can still conjure the smell of Strawberry Shortcake’s sweetly scented hair.

You spun serious tunes on your Fisher Price record player. Jack & Jill, London Bridge and Edelweiss never sounded so good.

You waffled between anticipation and terror every time you wound up Mattel’s Jack in the Box.

You never did answer the question “just how far can Stretch Armstrong stretch before he breaks?” But you got close plenty of times. (Get the retro reboot for your kid on Amazon.)

You chucked Nerf balls at your friend’s head … indoors!

At least once a summer you’d beg your parents to please, please let you and your friends make a cherry red snow cone with your own Snoopy SnoCone Machine (Get the retro reboot for your kid on Amazon.).

Shopping wasn’t your priority when you pulled out the Fisher Price Cash Register. Ringing up sales was.

Strapping on skates and hitting the sidewalk was how you rolled on warm summer days. Psst ... find more nostalgic sidewalk toys here.

Your parents were swimming in key chains from all the Shrinky Dinks you colored, cut and baked.

When you played with your Fisher Price Sesame Street Playhouse, Mr. Snuffleupagus was still Big Bird’s imaginary friend.

You did your best Swiss Family Robinson impression every time you played with the Tree Tots Family Tree House.

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3

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