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These 10 Crazy Cool Toys in the 70’s

June 12, 2024 | Leave a Comment

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In the 1970s, the toy industry witnessed a revolution, introducing a plethora of innovative and imaginative toys that captured the hearts and minds of children worldwide. This decade, characterized by its vibrant creativity and cultural shifts, gave rise to an array of iconic playthings that not only entertained but also shaped the childhoods of countless individuals. From groundbreaking electronic games to beloved action figures, these toys became cultural phenomena, leaving an indelible mark on an entire generation. As we take a nostalgic trip down memory lane, we’ll explore ten iconic toys from that era, each one evoking fond memories and a sense of wonder that still resonates today. Whether you were a child of the ’70s or simply an admirer of vintage treasures, these timeless toys offer a glimpse into a bygone era of endless imagination and joy.

1. Stretch Armstrong

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Stretch Armstrong was the epitome of cool in the 70s. This gel-filled action figure could be stretched, pulled, and twisted in all sorts of ways, providing endless entertainment. With his muscular physique and stretchy limbs, he became a favorite among kids who loved to see how far they could stretch him without breaking.

2. Pet Rock

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The Pet Rock craze swept the nation in the mid-70s, proving that sometimes the simplest ideas are the most successful. Each Pet Rock came in a cardboard box complete with breathing holes and a tongue-in-cheek instruction manual. Despite its simplicity, the Pet Rock became a cultural phenomenon, showcasing the power of clever marketing and whimsical novelty.

3. Lite-Brite

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Lite-Brite illuminated countless childhoods in the 70s with its magical combination of art and technology. Children could create colorful designs by placing translucent pegs into a backlit board, resulting in mesmerizing light-up creations. It fostered creativity and imagination, allowing kids to express themselves in a unique and visually stunning way.

4. Evel Knievel Stunt Cycle

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The Evel Knievel Stunt Cycle allowed kids to recreate the daredevil feats of the legendary motorcycle stuntman. With a wind-up launcher, kids could send Evel Knievel soaring through the air, performing death-defying jumps and stunts. It captured the excitement and thrill of Evel Knievel’s real-life performances, inspiring a generation of aspiring stunt performers.

5. Simon

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Simon was the brainchild of Ralph Baer and Howard J. Morrison, offering a futuristic twist on the classic memory game. With its four colored buttons and electronic sounds, Simon challenged players to repeat increasingly complex sequences of lights and sounds. It was not only a test of memory but also of concentration and reflexes, providing hours of addictive gameplay.

6. Shrinky Dinks

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Shrinky Dinks allowed children to unleash their creativity by shrinking plastic sheets into miniature works of art. Kids could color pre-printed designs or create their own masterpieces before watching them shrink in the oven. The magic of seeing their creations shrink and harden into durable plastic charms or ornaments was truly captivating.

7. Big Wheel

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The Big Wheel was the ultimate ride-on toy for kids in the 70s, offering a low-riding, trike-style design that provided both speed and stability. With its oversized front wheel and adjustable seat, kids could race around the neighborhood with ease, feeling like kings and queens of the sidewalk. Its iconic design and durability made it a staple of childhood play for generations.

8. Rubik’s Cube

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Rubik’s Cube took the world by storm in the late 70s, challenging puzzle enthusiasts with its deceptively simple yet fiendishly difficult design. The goal of aligning each side of the cube with a single color seemed straightforward enough, but the combination of twists and turns required to solve it proved to be a formidable mental challenge. Despite its difficulty, millions of people became obsessed with solving the Rubik’s Cube, turning it into a cultural icon.

9. Weebles

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Weebles wobbled but they didn’t fall down, captivating children with their quirky and resilient design. Shaped like eggs with weighted bottoms, Weebles could wobble and rock without ever tipping over, providing endless amusement. With their cheerful faces and bright colors, Weebles became beloved playmates for kids across the globe.

10. Hot Wheels

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Hot Wheels revolutionized the toy car industry in the 70s with its sleek designs and innovative features. These die-cast metal cars offered unparalleled speed and performance, racing down tracks and performing gravity-defying stunts. With a vast array of models to collect and customize, Hot Wheels fueled the imaginations of children and sparked a lifelong passion for cars and racing.

Toys of the 70’s

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The toys of the 70s were more than just playthings—they were gateways to adventure, creativity, and endless hours of fun. Whether it was stretching Stretch Armstrong, solving Rubik’s Cube, or racing Hot Wheels, these toys left an indelible mark on the memories of those who grew up with them. As we look back on these iconic toys, let’s celebrate the joy and wonder they brought into our lives.

Click on the links to explore modern twists on these classic toys and relive the magic of the 70s!

Ashleigh Clyde
Ashleigh Clyde

Ashleigh Clyde is a dedicated youth advocate, journalist, and researcher. Passionate about shedding light on important issues, such as financial literacy and marketing tactics. She has extensive experience in entertainment journalism.

Filed Under: Shopping Tagged With: 70's, Amazon, Hot Wheels, Shrinky Dinks, Simon, Stretch Armstrong, Toys

8 Best Cool Toys for Teaching Financial Literacy

June 5, 2024 | Leave a Comment

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In today’s fast-paced world, financial literacy is more critical than ever. Teaching kids the basics of managing money from a young age can set them on the path to a financially secure future. Here are eight cool toys that make learning about money fun and engaging.

1. Monopoly Ultimate Banking Edition

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Monopoly has been a family favorite for generations, and the Ultimate Banking Edition brings a modern twist to the classic game. This version uses electronic banking instead of paper money, helping children understand digital transactions. Monopoly teaches essential financial skills such as budgeting, investing in properties, and paying rent. It’s a great way to introduce concepts like credit, loans, and interest. Plus, it’s an excellent opportunity for family bonding while learning about money management.

2. The Allowance Game

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The Allowance Game is an interactive board game designed to teach children the basics of earning, saving, and spending money. Players move around the board completing chores, earning allowances, and making purchases. This game helps kids understand the value of money and the importance of saving for future goals. It’s particularly effective for younger children who are just starting to grasp financial concepts. The Allowance Game is a fun and educational way to prepare kids for real-life financial decisions.

3. Learning Resources Pretend & Play Calculator Cash Register

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This pretend cash register is more than just a toy; it’s a powerful educational tool. With a working solar-powered calculator, kids can practice addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. The Learning Resources Pretend & Play Calculator Cash Register includes play money and a credit card, allowing children to simulate shopping experiences. This helps them understand the mechanics of transactions and the importance of math in everyday financial activities. The realistic experience encourages role-playing, enhancing both financial literacy and social skills.

4. Moonjar Classic Moneybox

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The Moonjar Classic Moneybox is a three-part savings bank designed to teach kids about budgeting. It has three compartments labeled Save, Spend, and Share, encouraging children to allocate their money thoughtfully. This hands-on approach helps kids understand the importance of saving for future needs, spending wisely, and sharing with others. The Moonjar Moneybox provides a practical way for kids to manage their money and develop good financial habits early on.

5. Cashflow for Kids

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Created by Robert Kiyosaki, the author of “Rich Dad Poor Dad,” Cashflow for Kids is a board game that introduces children to investing and financial independence. The game simplifies complex financial concepts, making them accessible and engaging for young minds. Players learn about income, expenses, assets, and liabilities through interactive gameplay. Cashflow for Kids is an excellent tool for teaching children how to build and manage wealth, encouraging strategic thinking and financial responsibility.

6. Greenlight Debit Card for Kids

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The Greenlight Debit Card is a real-world tool that helps kids learn about money management through practical experience. Parents can set up a Greenlight account and transfer funds to their child’s debit card, which can be used for spending, saving, and giving. The accompanying app allows parents to monitor transactions and set spending limits, teaching children about budgeting and financial responsibility in a controlled environment. This hands-on approach prepares kids for future financial independence.

7. Money Bags Coin Value Game

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Money Bags is a fun and educational game that helps children understand the value of different coins and bills. Players move around the board collecting, counting, and exchanging money, which enhances their math skills and financial knowledge. Money Bags also introduces concepts like earning, saving, and making smart purchases. Money Bags is an engaging way to teach kids about the various denominations of currency and how to manage their money effectively.

8. Zillionz Talking ATM Machine

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The Zillionz Jr Talking ATM Machine is an interactive toy that teaches kids how to save and withdraw money. It works like a real ATM, with a card and PIN system, helping children learn about banking and secure transactions. The Zillionz Jr. keeps track of deposits and withdrawals, providing a practical understanding of account balances. This toy is a fantastic way to introduce kids to the basics of banking and the importance of keeping track of their finances.

Check Out These Cool Toys

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Teaching kids about financial literacy doesn’t have to be boring. These toys provide fun, interactive ways to introduce essential money management skills. By integrating these tools into their playtime, you can help your children develop a solid foundation for financial success. Explore these options and find the perfect fit for your family’s needs.

Ashleigh Clyde
Ashleigh Clyde

Ashleigh Clyde is a dedicated youth advocate, journalist, and researcher. Passionate about shedding light on important issues, such as financial literacy and marketing tactics. She has extensive experience in entertainment journalism.

Filed Under: Money and Finances Tagged With: Amazon, amazon affiliated links, cool toys, financial literacy

Want an Amazon Gift Card Worth up to $100?

November 24, 2017 | Leave a Comment

Help us help you and you just might win an Amazon gift card worth up to $100 – it’s one of 50 prizes we’re offering in a drawing to encourage readers like yourself to give us quick feedback.  [Read more…]

Jackie Cohen
Jackie Cohen

Jackie Cohen is an award winning financial journalist turned turned financial advisor obsessed with climate change risk, data and business. Jackie holds a B.A. Degree from Macalester College and an M.A. in English from Claremont Graduate University.

www.jackiecohen.xyz

Filed Under: Money and Finances Tagged With: Amazon, Gift Card, Survey

How Does Giving Assistant Work?

February 27, 2017 | Leave a Comment

giving assistantI think we can all agree that shopping online is the bees’ knees, right? Not only are online prices super competitive, the “work” of shopping can often be done faster from home. And bonus; the items you buy are delivered right to your front door. As an added benefit, companies like Giving Assistant are actually paying customers to shop online.

That’s right. They give you cash back on the things you buy.

How Giving Assistant Works

The first step is to create a free account with Giving Assistant.

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After you log in to your account, you can start shopping either by store or by category. Each store offers a certain percentage of cash back on purchases. Five percent is the average discount percentage. However, many stores offer discounts of up to 7% and even more, depending on the day.

When you make a purchase, the store pays that cash back to Giving Assistant. If you’re a member, the cash back goes right into your account.

If you’re a non-member, Giving Assistant keeps the cash back and donates a meal to Feeding America. In fact, Giving Assistant donates a meal to Feeding America for every single qualified purchase.

As a bonus, Giving Assistant informs buyers of any online coupons that can help bring their purchase price even lower. When you combine coupons with cash back bonuses you save even more money on the things you buy.

How to Receive Your Cash Back Bonuses

As you accumulate cash back rewards, the site allows you to transfer those rewards to a debit card through Paypal. You’ll have the option to transfer your money once you’ve earned at least $5.01 in bonus cash. No waiting for checks to come in the mail or trying to reach high minimum payout balances.

Giving Assistant pays out pretty quickly as well – often within one business day when using Paypal’s secure site.

Giving to Charity through Giving Assistant

When members earn cash back, they also have the option of donating some or all of their earnings to charity. Members can choose from hundreds of non-profit organizations to donate to, such as Feed the Children or the Red Cross.

Which Stores Participate?

According to their website, Giving Assistant has over 2700 stores participating in its cash back program. Some examples are:giving assistant I

  • Big box stores such as Walmart, Target, Kmart and Kohls
  • Online retailers such as Amazon and Coburn’s
  • Specialty sites such as Etsy, Redbubble, Café Press and Ebay
  • Specialty stores such as Macy’s, Nordstrom, Coach and Ann Taylor

 

With nearly 3,000 stores to choose from, everyone is bound to find a shopping venue that fits their needs.

In this day and age, people are becoming more mindful of how their purchases affect the world as a whole. With Giving Assistant, shoppers can become a part of a growing conscious capitalism movement.

By combining shopping with charity, you meet your needs and help the less fortunate get their needs met, too.  Shopping responsibly has arrived.

Are you a fan of shopping online? Would you ever try Giving Assistant? Share why or why not below!

ATTN Stay-At-Home Moms: Make sure you bookmark or pin some of these resources for later!

  • 10 Steps to a Successful Stay-at-Home Mom Budget
  • How to Afford Your Dream of Becoming a Stay-at-Home Mom
  • 14 Online Jobs for Stay-at-Home Moms (That Are Worth Your Time)
  • 13 Ways for Stay-at-Home Moms to Save Money
  • Loans for Stay-at-Home Moms – What Are YOUR Options?
  • The SAHM Budget Test: How to Afford to Be a Stay-at-Home Mom
  • Walmart Savings Catcher
  • How Much Do Youtubers Make?

Filed Under: Discount Sites, Product Reviews for Parents, Reviews News, Shopping Tagged With: Amazon, donate money online, giving assistant, how to save money online, online shopping

5 Ways to Save Money on Diapers Using Amazon

October 10, 2016 | Leave a Comment

If you're already a fan of online shopping, then here are some great ways to save money on diapers using Amazon.Every parent knows having a child drastically changes your finances. One of the largest expenses to enter the picture is diapers. It’s a fixed expense for the first three years of a child’s life, right? So, how can we save money on diapers?

The list is long. I wrote a post about this earlier called “How to Save Money on Diapers.” That would be a good place to head once you’re done here.

Since there was more to say after writing that first article, I decided to write a follow-up post specifically talking about Amazon.

5 Ways to Save Money on Diapers Using Amazon

I’m not saying you should only shop at Amazon for your diapers. I actually buy mostly off brand diapers in bulk at places like Target or Costco. That’s just how I do my shopping.

If you’re a pretty active online shopper looking to save money on diapers, then give these tips a try.

1. Subscribe & Save

No Prime membership required. All you do is sign up for Amazon’s Subscribe & Save program and choose from their selection of products. If there is something you need regularly, like paper towels or diapers, then subscribe. They’ll show up on your doorstep on the selected date saving you up to 15% off each time.

2. CamelCamelCamel.com

Want to know when diapers are at their lowest market price? Head over to CamelCamelCamel.com to find out. Enter the name of the product and look at its track record of the last year. That’ll help you determine when it’s best to shop next.

3. Price Tracker App

Do you prefer shopping on your mobile device? Save money on diapers by using the Price Tracker App. If you have Amazon’s store app already on your phone, then you have the Price Check feature within that app. That is a second method you could use to save money on your phone.

4. SnagShout.com

Find deep discounts on Amazon products on SnagShout.com. I first described SnagShout as a great resource when you’re searching for frugal Christmas gifts (read the full article here). But SnagShout can also be great for everyday items that aren’t quite as exciting but cost just as much green stuff in your wallet.

A.K.A. diapers.

Up until October 2016, SnagShout users were required to leave a review on Amazon in exchange for receiving the deep discounts on products. However, the policy was revised to reflect Amazon’s choice to make it illegal to require anyone to leave a review.

So, now you simply need to check out SnagShout’s merchandise, find the kids & baby section and see if there are any cloth diapers or nursing covers or other gems up for grabs.

5. Register for an Amazon baby registry.

If you’re having a baby shower, then consider registering on Amazon. Some perks include: free 90-day returns, millions of products from which to choose, 15% off Completion Discount on eligible items for Prime members.

Plus, people have the option of giving Amazon gift cards. Combine those with the 15% off through Subscribe & Save and you’ll get a bunch of diapers for not a bunch of money.

Have you ever tried to save money on diapers online? What’s one thing that worked for you?

Image Credit: Janko Ferlic (UnSplash)

Filed Under: Baby Stuff, Discount Sites, Home and Living, Money and Finances, Parenting, Shopping Tagged With: Amazon, baby registry, Baby Shower, save money on diapers, SnagShout

Mothers Day is Coming; Amazon Gift Cards

May 2, 2011 | Leave a Comment

Amazon gift cardMothers Day is almost here and although it may not be romantic, Gift Cards are something my wife always asks me for.  I don’t make it the only gift but I do try to make it part of the gift.  If you have read any of my articles in the past you know that we fell on pretty hard times and had no money to buy anything other than absolute necessities for a very long time.  Nothing made her happier when family members clued into how bad we were and got her gift cards so she could shop for things she needed but that we couldn’t afford since it wasn’t an absolute necessity to get by.

I just got an email from Amazon, they advertise on our site and they have some Mothers Day themed gift cards that are easy to purchase and will arrive in plenty of time for the big day.  If you want to make Gift Cards part of your Mothers Day, you can check them out at Amazon Mothers Day Gift Cards.

From the husbands/sons/father perspective, gift cards are great because of how easy they are to get and to give.  Just don’t make it the only thing you give her.  Being a Mom is a hard and incredibly wonderful job, show her she is worth more than the 5 minutes it takes to pick up a gift card.

What are you getting the moms in your life for Mother’s Day?

Brian
Brian

Brian is the founder of Kids Ain’t Cheap and is now sharing his journey through parenthood.

 
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Filed Under: Holidays, Money and Finances Tagged With: Amazon, Gift Cards, Gifts, Mothers Day

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Basic Principles Of Good Parenting

Here some basic principles for good parenting:

  1. What You Do Matters: Your kids are watching you. So, be purposeful about what you want to accomplish.
  2. You Can’t be Too Loving: Don’t replace love with material possessions, lowered expectations or leniency.
  3. Be Involved Your Kids Life: Arrange your priorities to focus on what your kid’s needs. Be there mentally and physically.
  4. Adapt Your Parenting: Children grow quickly, so keep pace with your child’s development.
  5. Establish and Set Rules: The rules you set for children will establish the rules they set for themselves later.  Avoid harsh discipline and be consistent.
  6. Explain Your Decisions: What is obvious to you may not be evident to your child. They don’t have the experience you do.
  7. Be Respectful To Your Child: How you treat your child is how they will treat others.  Be polite, respectful and make an effort to pay attention.
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