Retro toys are no longer a thing of the past, they have sustained a new lifeline with today’s generation and, most likely, will be around for the next. The reason for their staying power is simple: good quality entertainment, low-tech and easy to use, and they afford a creative outlet for kids to burn off their excess energy.

Toy manufacturers spend a great deal of time and money in an effort to create the “cool” kid’s toys each year. These companies spend millions of dollars trying to create a buzz about their newest offerings in the hopes that they will become the next big thing and make significant profits. And while many of these toys are simple novelties that never catch on, there are others that are consistently listed as top sellers.

In today’s high-tech world, electronic toys are by far the most popular type of toy currently on the market. Advanced electronics that ten years ago would’ve been considered the stuff of science fiction are now so popular that they are actually considered “toys”. They include They include a wide range of different products, from video games to remote control vehicles and can cost anywhere from a few to several hundreds of dollars, from video games to remote control vehicles and can cost anywhere from a few to several hundreds of dollars.

Video games have been at the top of the “cool kid’s toys” list for at least the last two to three decades. Ever since the computer was the first video game were available in a console for use at home, these toys have only increased in popularity with each passing year. Today’s video games are vastly superior to those of just ten years ago, often including life-like graphics and highly interactive game-play.

Music players have also become so popular that they are usually given as children’s toys. These items have quite literally revolutionized the way we listen to music, and their popularity has helped to drive the costs down. It is not uncommon to see children as young as seven or eight years old walking to school with one of these devices in their hand. Many of the newer versions of these devices can also be used to surf the Internet, make phone calls, and of course, play video games.

There are also a host of other electronic devices that can make for cool kid’s toys. For younger children that are learning to read, eReaders can be found in models specifically designed for kids. Digital cameras can also be a great toy idea for children, with many companies that sell kid-friendly versions. Even laptop computers are available in designs that are made just for kids.

Retro toys are no longer a thing of the past, they have sustained a new lifeline with today’s generation and, most likely, will be around for the next. The reason for their staying power is simple: good quality entertainment, low-tech and easy to use, and they afford a creative outlet for kids to burn off their excess energy.

1. Hoola-Hoop.

The Hoola-Hoop was the life of the party, set to your favorite tunes and artists for competitions with the girl next door or solitary enjoyment. Toys that engage children in physical activity never go out of style, and they are a great way to release the endorphins and keep everybody happy.

2. Easy Bake Oven.

Often imitated, but never surpassed, the Easy Bake Oven is still on the market today. Who can forget that classic 50′s style oven in pop-art pink and purple with the ready made pan baking up your favorite flavored cake? The Easy Bake Oven is a snap to operate and can be mastered by young chefs under 10. Cake mix refills and frosting kits will keep your little ones busy with decorating, serving and eating.

3. Twister.

Released in 1966, the Twister game has never missed a beat when friends got together to test their balance and agility skills. The game consists of a plastic mat with a series of dots in color codes and line formation. When the leader spins the wheel, he or she calls:”right foot yellow” or “left hand green”, and the players must scramble to place themselves on the right color without tumbling over. Twister takes some practice, but its one of those all-time classics that will last another century.

4. Etch-A-Sketch.

The Etch-A-Sketch art pad is a great way for kids to pass the time in a car, plane or train. The two knobs control a series of lead pencil-like lines that can be pulled in all directions to form a picture. Your child can draw a work of art without the use of crayons, paint or anything that could make a mess and its a clever tool to stimulate your child’s creative energy. The Etch-A-Sketch retro toy remains a value for the money and its durable design resists cracking, scratching and part separation through breakage.

5. Hot Wheels.

The Hot Wheels collection of cars and trucks was one of the biggest sensations from Mattel in the 1970′s and is still drawing a big fan base today. The cars have all been updated for the here and now, but the excitement of getting your next dream machine for your collection hasn’t waned a bit over the last 40 years. These classic retro toys are still sold nationwide and even have their own online connection at HotWheels.com.