by: Lindsay Hutton
Hula Hoop®
Cardboard Box
As any parent of a small child knows, kids usually get more use out of a cardboard box than the toy that came in it. So, it's only fitting that this cheap and easy-to-find plaything would find its place in the Toy Hall of Fame.
The Ball
Radio Flyer® Wagon
Play-Doh®
The Stick
Whether they are used as swords, fishing poles, light sabers, or to build forts, children have been known to spend hours scouring the outdoors for the perfect sticks to complete their play. Who knew something nature provides for free could be so entertaining?
Mr. Potato Head®
Mr. Potato Head® is not only a Toy Hall of Famer, but an actor, too. It was the first toy to be featured in a television commercial, and also starred in the hit children's movie Toy Story in 1995 and Toy Story 2 in 1998.
Teddy Bear
With Roosevelt's permission, Brooklyn toy shop owner Morris Mictom sewed the first cuddly toy and dubbed it Teddy's Bear. As its popularity shows, the bear was obviously a hit, and to this day remains the most popular plush toy in history.
Slinky®
And so the Slinky® was born. Although initial sales were sluggish, its popularity soared during Christmas of 1945 when Gimbel's Department Store in Philadelphia allowed demonstrations for customers. By the end of the 20th century, over 250 million Slinky's® had been sold worldwide.
Easy Bake® Oven
Parents rest easy knowing their child won't get burned by the 100-watt bulbs that power each oven, and kids love the treats that come out of them. Each set comes complete with cake and cookie mixes, utensils, bake pans, and a recipe book that helps create delicious, single-serve desserts for each little baker. It's no wonder such a sweet toy has remained so popular through the years!
