Timeless Toys of Christmas

There's an old adage we're all familiar with: the more things change, the more they stay the same. There certainly is some element of truth to that when discussing the Christmas holiday. The season of yuletide greetings is laden with tradition, but that hasn't kept us from celebrating in ever evolving ways. We moved from real trees to artificial, pre-lit Christmas trees. We stopped hanging popcorn and homemade ornaments and replaced those with garland and collectible ornaments.

And our gift-giving becomes increasingly lavish with each passing year. Americans dedicate more dollars to Christmas spending each time December rolls around, and our preferences as consumers have shifted low-technology items to high-powered gaming systems and other electronics. Simply put, Santa's elves get busier and his bag gets heavier.

But, alas, the adage rings true. Some things never change, regardless of the hottest buying trends. There are some gifts that are as relevant to today's children as they were 20, 30, even 50 years ago. It's no small feat for a toy to transcend the test of time, but jolly ol' Saint Nick and his ever watchful helpers keep close tabs on those that do. So, parents of America, rejoice! If you're looking to give your kids a little nostalgia that they'll actually enjoy, you've come to the right place. Because we've got the scoop on the goods that never go out of style.

Barbie Dolls - America's favorite doll has undergone massive changes over the years and has endured plenty of backlash for setting what some parents believe to be an unrealistic standard of beauty. But the reality is that Barbie, love her or hate her, has weathered the storms and is as popular today as ever before. If there's a little girl in your home, there's a good chance Barbie would be as welcome a stocking stuffer as anything else you can dream up.

Toy Soldiers - Another time-tested yet controversial option. Some say toy soldiers instill a sense of pride, patriotism and bravery in America's youth. Others fear they help foster an acceptance of violence. But, again, love them or hate them these toys appeal to our nation's boys. Toy soldiers have come a long way since the original G.I. Joe. They're more life-like and their uniforms have changed to fit the times. And their weaponry and modes of transport have become more sophisticated. But their popularity remains inarguable, and thousands of boys from coast to coast still enjoy commanding their ranks.

Radio Flyer Wagons - A timeless classic. It doesn't get more simple than this, but boys and girls from toddlers on up to eight or nine years of age still can't resist these nostalgic gifts. Whether riding in them while daddy pulls or pulling around their favorite stuffed animal or puppy dog, these wagons are perennial crowd pleasers.

Bicycles - Admittedly, bicycles have evolved every bit as much as the Barbie Doll and G.I. Joe. The colors are more extreme, the tires smoother and the design more aerodynamic. But the feeling of freedom and exhilaration that comes with pedaling into the wind remains as irresistible as ever. Bicycles have been a holiday hit for decades, and will continue to be for decades more.

Lincoln Logs - They've been around 90 years and still haven't lost their touch. Lincoln Logs are the quintessential building toys, and boys and girls alike still love them.