All they want for Christmas is a PlayStation

Children grow up so quickly. I know I sound old (I’m 24), but these words came to mind recently when I was in the company of a 10-year old (another thing, since when are 10-year olds allowed in “big people” company?).

He loves cellphones, iPads, DSTV, flat screens and the like. What happened to good old-fashioned toys? Where are his toy cars? Why hasn’t he played with one since he was in diapers? It’s a sad reality, really.

I remember that a big part of my childhood was spent playing with cars. I begged my parents for a Micro Machines set of cars and every time I went to my cousins’ house, I’d play with their miniature cars. The best part was that they had one of those childrens’ mats with a road layout on it. I used to love driving their small cars along this mat and I tried to make sure that when we had to buy them birthday or Christmas presents, they got a new set of cars. For my benefit, not theirs.

Nowadays, the only cars that children play with are ones in video games. And the only time I see a kid clutching a car is when it’s obvious that these children are too young to be let loose near a joystick, game control, computer, etc. Are toy cars a dying breed? I only ever see miniature cars in collections that belong to adults. I personally have a small collection going on. Not an impressive one, but a collection nonetheless.

Have children stopped wanting to play with tangible toys such as Micro Machines and Hot Wheels? When I become a parent, I would want my son playing with these things. Not only because I think it’s cool, but it’s great for the imagination. They get to make up different scenarios, races and events (think of Andy in Toy Story).

I eventually got my Micro Machines set. It was the petrol station set-up. I now have a nephew. I’m once again looking for Micro Machines car sets to buy. For my benefit, not his.

What’s on your child’s shopping list?

Tags: Hot Wheels, miniature cars, mocro machines, road carpet, toy cars, toys