14 Fun Toys for Adults That'll Make You Feel Like a Kid Again
You can still play with LEGO—it’s OK!
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I’ll gladly admit it: I am a 51-year-old woman who still loves to play with toys. Sure, that’s partially because I’m a toy editor—but it’s also because I never quite grew out of having stuffed animals on my bed or building LEGO. While that once made me “uncool,” brands have finally started catering to “kidults” in recent years. It’s my time to shine!
You guessed it: “Kidults” are Gen X and Millennial-aged people who yearn to feel like kids again (i.e. playing with toys for the sake of enjoyment without any pressure). The toys targeted toward grown-ups include everything from cuddly cuties to elevated Play-Doh. I’ve rounded up some of my personal favorites that are guaranteed to heal your inner child.
I recently got a chance to see the newest innovation from Play-Doh. With the Play-Doh you know (but in prettier colors), you can create a series of lifelike florals to display. It’s easy—I promise! Just follow the step-by-step directions to create your own arrangements. Spritz them with the included spray so they dry for preservation, or flatten them out and make new creations. Each kit comes with almost everything, including the clay, tools, and templates. You’ll just need a vase to display your Play-Doh flowers in! Ages 8+
LEGO has a whole line of sets designed for ages 18 and up, which includes everything from the brand’s botanical collections to travel sets to elevated displays for fandoms like Star Wars and Lord of the Rings. One of my personal favorites—and I have over 100 sets—is this 1,710-piece Tuxedo Cat, which resembles my old kitty. It comes with eyes that can be swapped out and has a posable head. Ages 18+
Adult coloring books have been around for a while, but Crayola just released a line of markers that are designed specifically for older users. It’s still the same Crayola quality you are used to, but with alcohol-based inks that blend and shade (instead of the washable ones you buy for the kids). Even though I’m a crafter with a ton of markers, I’ve been impressed by the color selection and blending of these. Ages 14+
Sticky slime is pretty much meant for kids—but thinking putty, on the other hand, is for all ages. This color-changing putty can be purple, pink, or white as it’s held in your hands. I spoke to the founder, Aaron Muderick, a few months ago—and he said he created this toy for adults who needed something fidgety for work. I can attest that it’s very relaxing during long video calls. Ages 3+
Technically, Jellycat isn’t making its plushes specifically for adults (as this line is safe for most ages) but you can’t convince me that a 4-year-old would appreciate the whimsy and charm of this sardine tin like I would. The brand has so many unique animals and food objects with absolutely irresistible faces and expressions. All ages
As Pokémon celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, the franchise is more popular than ever. The card game has had a major resurgence in the past few years, and adult collectors are in the mix trying to find the most elusive chase cards (a.k.a. the really rare ones) and buy up packs. Personally, I’m partial to my Pokémon in LEGO form or as plush Squishmallows. Ages 6+
POP MART, the retailer known best for the Labubu craze, has more than just The Monsters in its arsenal. I adore Molly, and it just released these cute blind box collectibles of Angry Molly that I absolutely need to add to my work bag. If you do want a Labubu, might I suggest the brand’s new Hair Salon line? Ages 15+
The Nintendo Switch 2 has such a variety that it appeals to the more casual gamer like me. There’s a new Game Chat feature so you can talk to your friends and family while playing (multitasking!) even if they’re playing a different game. Like the original Switch, you can use this as a portable gaming system or connect to a TV and play head-to-head physical games. Ages 5+
If you’ve read the entirety of the dragon-filled series Fourth Wing but are looking to fill your time while we all anxiously wait for Rebecca Yarros to finish the next installment, this new board game is perfect for book club or girls’ night. You and your friends can compete for status at Basgiath. Ages 14+
As a certified Disney Adult, I have seen more than my share of adults sporting these 5-inch toys on their shoulders at the park. This one makes Grogu noises, and it’s perfect for wearing to Galaxy’s Edge. The toy has a magnetic base that you put inside your shirt and it connects through your clothing for a secure feel. Ages 3+
While kid blind boxes feature traditional-looking toys, the ones designed to target older fans are unique, like this Yoyo and Toy Story collab. It’s the Toy Story characters you know and love, but with an artistic twist. Ages 15+
Little People’s collector series caters to adults, focused on horror movies, sitcoms, and even iconic movies like The Devil Wears Prada. There’s just something utterly adorable about Stanley Tucci in this small plastic form. Little People has sets for almost everything you can think of, so they make great gifts. Ages 13+
While you might not want a doll or stuffed animal on your desk or in your home, pins are a fun way to show off your love of your childhood favorite shows. I like this four-pack of nostalgic Rainbow Brite pins that has a little bit of sparkle and is sure to be a conversation starter. Ages 14+
This 7-inch-tall Pac-Man machine still plays just like you’re at your favorite arcade, all without taking up a lot of space in your house. There are no quarters necessary, and there’s even a headphone jack so you can enjoy the classic theme song and noises without disturbing others. Ages 14+
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