How Christmas Toys Have Changed Through History

Explores popular Christmas toys from different time periods and how children’s holiday gifts have evolved over the centuries

How Christmas Toys Became a Tradition

Giving toys to children is one of the most joyful parts of Christmas. For centuries, families have surprised kids with dolls, games, puzzles, and treats during the holiday season. But Christmas toys weren’t always as bright, high-tech, or widely available as they are today. The history of Christmas toys shows how much society, technology, and traditions have changed—and how the spirit of giving has stayed the same.

Early Christmas Gifts

In the past, toys were simple and often handmade. Before factories existed, families created toys using materials like wood, fabric, or clay.

Common early toys included:

wooden dolls
carved animals
simple balls
tops and spinning toys
hand-sewn cloth dolls

These early gifts were small treasures that brought huge joy.

The Victorian Era: A New Age of Toys

The 1800s transformed Christmas gift-giving. As factories grew and more toys could be made quickly, families had more choices.

Popular Victorian toys included:

tin soldiers
rocking horses
dollhouses
marbles
puzzles
jack-in-the-box toys

Books, especially illustrated children’s stories, also became popular gifts. The idea of placing toys under a Christmas tree began spreading during this time.

The Early 1900s: Classic Toys Are Born

Many toys we consider “classic” today were invented in the early 20th century.

Famous toys from this era include:

teddy bears
train sets
construction sets
yo-yos
early board games

The teddy bear, inspired by President Theodore Roosevelt, became one of the most beloved toys of all time—and remains a popular Christmas gift today.

Mid-1900s: Television Inspires New Toys

As television became popular, many toys appeared that were based on characters from shows and movies. Toy companies created colorful advertisements to excite children during the Christmas season.

Popular toys included:

Barbie dolls
Mr. Potato Head
Slinky
Matchbox cars
Legos

These toys became staples of childhood and holiday wish lists.

The 1980s and 1990s: The Era of Trendy Toys

In the late 1900s, toy trends changed quickly. Some items became so popular that stores sold out during the holidays.

Kids asked for:

action figures
video game consoles
Cabbage Patch Kids
Tamagotchis
Beanie Babies
Transformers

Holiday shopping became more competitive, and “must-have” toys often made news headlines.

21st Century Christmas Toys

Modern Christmas toys use advanced technology, creative designs, and digital tools.

Popular gift categories include:

tablets and handheld electronics
coding robots
virtual pets
collectible figures
themed Lego sets
drones
interactive stuffed animals

Online wish lists and digital catalogs make it easier than ever for kids to request toys.

How Christmas Toys Reflect Society

The types of toys children receive show how the world is changing. Over time, toys have become:

more educational
more diverse
more interactive
more creative
more high-tech

But the purpose remains the same: toys encourage imagination, learning, and joy.

The Spirit of Christmas Giving

Although toys have changed through time, the meaning behind them hasn’t. Whether a toy is carved by hand or made with the latest technology, it represents love, celebration, and the joy of giving. Christmas toys help create memories that last long after the holiday is over.

Kid-Friendly Summary

Christmas toys have changed a lot over the years. Long ago, children played with simple wooden dolls and handmade toys. Later, factories produced rocking horses, teddy bears, and train sets. In the 1900s, popular toys included Lego, Barbie, and action figures. Today’s toys include video games, robots, and digital gadgets. No matter the era, toys make Christmas fun and exciting.