They’re tiny, they look like items you’d find in a store, and they’ve completely dominated your life! If you’re familiar with what I’m talking about, then your home, like mine, is experiencing Shopkins mania—an obsession more intense than any zombie apocalypse. If you’re unaware, brace yourself: Your children are about to become enamored with these miniature collectible toys, and things are about to spiral into adorable chaos. Here are some signs that Shopkins have infiltrated your life, and if you recognize any of the following symptoms, it may already be too late for you.
1. You invent your own Shopkins names.
Shopkins are little plastic figures that resemble various products like fruits, pastries, shoes, and household items—essentially anything you can find at a store. They have cute expressions and whimsical names like Daisy Dish and Toaster Tina. My three-year-old can rattle off over a hundred names, and I’ve found myself creating my own—like Patty Pie, Sneaky Vacuum, and Rhu-Berry. I could keep going, but I’ll stop. (Shopkins HQ, feel free to reach out!)
2. You’d go to great lengths to find an ‘ultra-rare.’
Shopkins come in pairs inside a miniature shopping basket, and the surprise of discovering which ones you’ve got is part of the fun. Each package includes a collector’s guide resembling a shopping list, allowing you to mark off your collection. Certain Shopkins are rarer than others, and the ultra-rare ones are particularly sought after. Apparently, some parents might be tempted to bend the rules just to snag them… hypothetically speaking, of course!
3. You’ve memorized the delivery schedule of your local toy store.
Adding to the obsession, the immense popularity of Shopkins means they often fly off the shelves. Many stores are perpetually out of stock. I find myself making the rounds to the toy store, waiting for the delivery truck to arrive… just kidding! Surely that must be another mom in a blue minivan.
4. Your YouTube subscriptions are dominated by Shopkins unboxing videos.
An unusual aspect of this craze is the overwhelming number of Shopkins unboxing videos on YouTube. These videos showcase people opening their Shopkins packages to reveal their new collectibles. That’s literally it—just unwrapping toys. Yet, these videos garner millions of views, many of which probably come from my own kids.
5. You feel envious of your children.
Despite your mixed feelings towards Shopkins, you can’t help but feel a twinge of jealousy toward your kids. What did we have to collect in our childhood? Garbage Pail Kids cards? Troll dolls with wild hair? Why were we so fascinated by those? I’d much prefer a Sweetie Cupcake or Cheery Choc!
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In summary, if you notice yourself or your household showing any of these signs, it may be time to accept that Shopkins have become an integral part of your family life.