Recently, I received a call from a family member inquiring about the toys my children are currently interested in. I hesitated for a moment before replying, “Honestly, my kids don’t really play with toys.”
Internally, I was screaming (Please, for the love of all things holy, don’t buy any more toys). My living room resembles a scene from a toy hoarding show, and if I have to find space for even one more toy, I might just lose it—especially with all the random plastic pieces and forgotten figures littering the floor.
It’s true that my kids have some favorites, like Legos and action figures, but they primarily enjoy screen time, bouncing on the trampoline, or hanging out with friends outside. At ages 10, 8, and 5, they rarely spend time in their rooms playing with the multitude of toys we already have.
So, I’m begging you: please don’t buy my kids any more toys.
I often find myself sorting through the toy chests, donating things that seem to just collect dust. My children never miss these items. They might grumble for a moment, but I’ve yet to hear them say, “I miss that blue squishy toy from Grandma.”
It seems that older generations cling to the belief that children need more toys than they actually do. It’s akin to how I need a trip to the grocery store with my three kids on a Saturday—meaning, it’s really not a necessity.
I think back to the days when my mother held onto our old toys, hoping to pass them on to us. Do I feel nostalgic about my childhood toys? Sometimes, when I see a nostalgic article online. But do I wish I still had them? Not really.
I do worry that my kids will be upset one day about the giant toy truck they once begged for while I was shopping. My youngest talked about this truck for days, so I bought it and saved it for Christmas. He opened it, showed a fleeting moment of excitement, and now it just sits there, gathering dust.
When I hear “I’m bored,” I point out the toys they once couldn’t live without, only to be met with blank stares. “Go play with your fire truck!” I might suggest, only to be reminded that they don’t even remember which one I’m talking about. “The one from Santa last year?” I try, and I’m met with indifference. Their disinterest reminds me why kids can be so frustrating at times.
But it’s not really their fault—they’ve been conditioned by adults to believe that collecting toys is the ultimate goal, and I’m done contributing to this myth. I’m tired of living in a house filled with forgotten toys.
When night falls, it’s not a whimsical adventure like in Toy Story. Instead, it’s a chaotic scene of broken toys and dolls with scribbled faces.
So please, don’t buy my kids any more toys, no matter how incredible you think they are. They won’t remember Aunt Lisa every time they see that toy; they’re kids, and they already have way too much stuff.
Instead, consider spending quality time with them. Take them for ice cream, a fun outing to the zoo, or a visit to the local park. They’ll cherish those experiences far more than any toy.
If you insist on giving something physical, opt for a book that you loved as a child. Write a note about your favorite memory inside the cover, and then read it to them together. You can never have too many books!
Encourage experiences over material possessions. My children thrive on visits to the zoo or art classes. Support their interests and encourage them to explore the world rather than acquiring more toys. Bonus points if you join them in these activities! And if you can’t be there, I’ll make sure they know who gifted them that special class.
Ultimately, none of us need more “stuff.” While there are those truly in need, my children are not among them. I aim to teach them gratitude for what they have, but it’s challenging when relatives keep spoiling them with toys.
So, please, resist the urge to give my kids the latest gadget or toy in an attempt to connect with them. Instead, build a bond through shared experiences. Join them as they play outside or take them to an art class. Trust me, I refuse to buy a bigger house just to accommodate another forgotten toy.
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Summary
In a world filled with toys, it’s time to rethink what truly matters for our children. Instead of accumulating more toys, offer experiences, quality time, and meaningful gifts like books. Teach them gratitude and foster connections that last a lifetime.