These classic toys are back to bring fun to a new generation. Toy Insider Senior Editor Marissa DiBartolo stopped by Better Connecticut to talk about great toys from way back that both kids and their parents will enjoy. For more on the products featured in this segment, check out the notes below, and for a full rundown of the best toys of the year, check out our complete holiday toy guide.


Kne.LincolnLogsAnniversaryTinLincoln Logs: 100 Anniversary Tin (K’NEX)

  • 2016 marks the 100th anniversary of LINCOLN LOGS
  • Inspired by an original LINCOLN LOGS building idea, the 100th Anniversary Tin is just like you remember!
  • Set includes 111 real wood logs
  • 100% Made in the USA
  • Ages: 3+
  • MSRP: $44.99
  • Available: Amazon

spirograph-shapes-set_kahootz-toys2Spirograph Shapes Set (Kahootz)

  • This classic toy gets an update for the first time in a generation!
  • This kit features 12 wheels in ALL-NEW unique shapes, as well as three new Spirograph rings to create a whole new, never-before-seen assortment of Spirograph designs.
  • The sturdy storage box comes with handy organizer tray, three colorful design markers, two 24-page drawing pads, detailed instruction guide and complete set of new shaped wheels and rings—which are compatible with all other Original Spirograph sets.
  • Parents can share their childhood memories with kids as they work together to create beautiful designs.
  • Ages: 8+
  • MSRP: $24.99

baby-so-real_wicked-cool-toys2Cabbage Patch Kids Baby So Real (Wicked Cool Toys)

  • CPK Baby So Real allows you to enjoy one of the most magical and interactive experiences in the history of the baby doll category. These life-like babies combine traditional play patterns with groundbreaking technology
  • Baby So Real’s interactive sweet baby sounds and random reactions are designed to surprise and delight.
  • With your touch, Baby So Real comes to life with beautifully animated LCD eyes that open, close and look around.
  • Loaded with realistic features that encourage interactive nurturing play, Baby So Real has sensors for peek-a-boo and tickle play, feeding from a special bottle, burping, diaper changing, and rocking to sleep.
  • If your baby should develop a fever, you can calm those red cheeks by administering TLC from a magical spoon. Just like the original Cabbage Patch Kids, Baby So Real is soft and cuddly with removable clothes.
  • Ages: 3+
  • MSRP: $99.99
  • Available: Amazon, Target, Toys R Us, Walmart

mini-arcade-games_the-bridge-directMini Arcade Games (The Bridge Direct)

Pac-Man and Space Invaders are back! The new line of Mini Arcade games from The Bridge Direct features classic arcade games, Pac-Man and Space Invaders!

  • These adorable arcade games are mini sized versions with real-time game play. Use the joystick to move around the maze, but watch out for the ghosts in Pac-Man!
  • Beat the invasion with the joystick and move the laser cannon across the screen on Space Invaders to fire at the aliens!
  • Ages: 8+
  • MSRP: $19.99
  • Available: Amazon, Toys R Us, Walmart

AlexToys,Shrinky Dinks Bake & Shape 3D JewelryShrinky Dinks Bake & Shape Jewlery (Alex)

  • Take your Shrinky Dinks jewelry to a new dimension by making bracelets, earrings and rings!
  • The specialized silicon mold bakes the thin flexible flat Shrinky Dinks shapes into thick sturdy plastic cuffs.  Another mold allows you to make rings and earrings. Enough supplies (including colored pencils) to make 26 jewelry pieces.
  • Includes 1 silicon ring mold, 1 silicon bracelet mold, 12 bracelets shapes, 14 ring/earring shapes, 48 sticky gems, 8 colored pencils, 8 jewelry findings, 4 earring hooks. 92 pieces in all.
  • Shrinky Dinks shapes are pre-printed and pre-cut
  • Design and color, slide into the mold, then bake in the oven following the step by step instructions. (adult supervision required)
  • Ages: 8+
  • MSRP: $24.99

rockin-rider-henley-holly-rocking-horses-sold-separately_tek-nek-toys2-copyRockin’ Rider Henley and Holly Rocking Horses (Tek Nek Toys)

  • Rockin’ Rider Henley and Holly are soft stuffed plush Rocking Horses on a beautiful wooden base.
  • They sing the exclusive “I’m a Little Pony” song when their left ears are squeezed and say 6 fun talking phrases with sound effects when the right ear is squeezed.
  • Kids will be amazed by Henley’s moving mouth and swishing tail.
  • Both ponies come with a removable Rockin’ Rider bandana that can be worn by either the horse or kids. Other features include full-body suedette bridle and reins, suedette high-back saddle, metal stirrups, glittery eyes, wooden handles, and a realistic mane and tail.
  • Ages: 3+
  • MSRP: $79.99
  • Available: Amazon, Target, Toys R Us, Walmart

nes-classic-editionnintendoNES Classic Edition (Nintendo)

  • NES Classic Edition is a miniaturized version of the groundbreaking NES, originally released in 1985.
  • Just plug the NES Classic Edition into your TV, pick up the retro controller, and rediscover the joy of 30 pre-installed classics like Super Mario Bros., Donkey Kong, and Pac-Man.
  • The NES Classic controller can also be used with Wii and Wii U systems.
  • The most epic, retro console there is!
  • Ages: 10+
  • MSRP: $59.99
  • Available: Amazon, Target, Best Buy

trolls-keychains-zuruTrolls Keychains (Zuru)

  • These 4-inch character keychains attach to school bags, purses or keys and showcase popular characters from the DreamWorks Trolls movie.
  • Each pack includes an exclusive comb to style the iconic Trolls mane for all occasions.
  • Ages: 4+
  • MSRP $6.99

About the author

Bill Reese

Bill Reese

Bill Reese is Business Operations Manager at Adventure Media & Events, where he's worked since 2014. A former editor at Playbill and graduate of SUNY–Purchase, he spends most weekends rooting for the New York Red Bulls pro soccer team and making subway systems out of Brio trains with his little boy Jonah.

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