The 1960s were a vibrant decade filled with innovation and creativity, especially in the world of toys. This era introduced a plethora of iconic playthings that not only entertained children but also sparked their imaginations and shaped their childhood experiences. Join us as we explore ten of these beloved toys that have left a lasting legacy.
10. GI Joe: The Action Figure Revolution
GI Joe, created by Hasbro in 1964, marked a significant shift in the toy industry by introducing the concept of the action figure. Initially representing various branches of the U.S. military, these 12-inch figures were designed with realistic features and articulation, allowing for dynamic play. The term “action figure” was coined to avoid the stigma associated with dolls, which were primarily marketed to girls. This innovative approach not only appealed to boys but also set the stage for a new genre of toys.
As the years progressed, GI Joe evolved with changing themes, yet its military roots remained a core aspect of its identity. The original figures featured lifelike hair and gripping hands, enhancing the play experience. In recognition of its cultural impact, the original GI Joe was inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame in 2004, solidifying its status as a timeless classic.
9. Easy Bake Oven: A Culinary Adventure
The Easy Bake Oven, introduced by Kenner in 1963, quickly became a staple in many households. This innovative toy allowed children to bake miniature cakes and cookies using two 100-watt incandescent light bulbs as a heat source. Its charming design, available in pale yellow or turquoise, mimicked a real kitchen oven, making it an exciting addition to playtime.
By the end of its first year, Kenner had sold over 500,000 units, showcasing its immense popularity. The Easy Bake Oven came with packets of cake mix and small pans, enabling kids to mix and bake their own treats. This toy not only provided endless fun but also introduced basic cooking skills, fostering creativity and independence in young users.
8. Etch A Sketch: The Magic Drawing Board
Invented by André Cassagnes in the late 1950s, the Etch A Sketch was introduced to the American market by the Ohio Art Company in 1960. This drawing toy features a thick gray screen encased in a red plastic frame, with two white knobs that control a stylus. By turning these knobs, users can create intricate drawings by displacing aluminum powder on the back of the screen.
The Etch A Sketch quickly gained popularity, selling over 600,000 units by the end of its first year. Originally named “L’Invention Magique” or the magic screen, it was rebranded for American audiences. This toy not only entertained children but also encouraged artistic expression and fine motor skills, making it a beloved classic.
7. Barbie: The Fashion Icon
Barbie, created by Ruth Handler and introduced by Mattel in 1959, revolutionized the world of dolls. Inspired by a German toy named Bild Lilli, Barbie quickly gained popularity due to her adult appearance, which contrasted sharply with the baby dolls of the time. Marketed as a teenage fashion model, Barbie’s stylish clothes and accessories were designed by Charlotte Johnson, making her a trendsetter for young girls.
Throughout the 1960s, Barbie’s success led to the introduction of new outfits, friends, and even a boyfriend named Ken. By the end of the decade, Barbie had become an iconic symbol of glamour and aspiration, representing the dreams and ambitions of countless young girls. Initially manufactured in Japan, Barbie’s clothes were hand-stitched by skilled workers, adding a touch of authenticity to her fashionable persona.
6. Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots: The Ultimate Showdown
Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, designed by Marvin Glass and Associates and first produced by the Marx Toy Company in 1964, became a cultural phenomenon. This two-player action toy features two boxing robots, Red Rocker and Blue Bomber, controlled by players using joysticks. The objective is simple: knock the opponent’s robot’s head off to win.
Inspired by earlier arcade boxing games, Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots quickly gained popularity, selling hundreds of thousands of units. The toy remained largely unchanged for over a decade, captivating children with its competitive gameplay. Despite initial concerns about its design, the concept was saved by transforming the figures from humans to robots, ensuring its place in toy history.
5. Hot Wheels: Speed and Style
Hot Wheels, created by Elliot Handler and introduced by Mattel in 1968, revolutionized the diecast toy car industry. Handler’s inspiration came from watching his son play with Matchbox cars, leading him to design a line of cars that emphasized speed and style. The original series, known as the “Sweet 16,” featured 16 custom-designed cars, including the iconic dark blue custom Camaro.
Unlike Matchbox, which focused on realistic models, Hot Wheels embraced hot rod culture with exaggerated features like big rear tires and flame paint jobs. These cars were designed to roll smoothly on specially designed orange tracks, making them a hit among children. Hot Wheels quickly disrupted the market, forcing competitors to innovate and adapt to the new standard of play.
4. Chatty Cathy: The Talking Doll
Chatty Cathy, a pull-string talking doll made by Mattel from 1959 to 1965, was one of the first dolls capable of speaking. Created by Ruth and Elliot Handler, Chatty Cathy could say 11 different phrases, including “I love you” and “Please take me with you.” With various hair colors and styles, she became a beloved companion for many children.
In 1963, her design was updated to feature long twin ponytails, further enhancing her appeal. The voice of Chatty Cathy was provided by June Foray, a renowned voice actress. As the second most popular doll of the 1960s, right after Barbie, Chatty Cathy captured the hearts of children and remains a nostalgic figure in toy history.
3. Spirograph: The Art of Geometry
Spirograph, a geometric drawing toy developed by British engineer Dennis Fisher, was first sold in 1965. This innovative toy consists of plastic gears and rings that interlock, allowing users to create intricate mathematical curves known as hypoids and epitrochoids. By inserting a pen into holes in the gears and rotating them, children could produce stunning designs with ease.
Spirograph quickly gained popularity, earning the title of Toy of the Year in 1967. Its ability to create complex and beautiful patterns with simple movements captivated young artists and encouraged creativity. Kenner Products introduced Spirograph to the U.S. market in 1966, further expanding its reach and solidifying its status as a classic toy.
2. Lite Brite: Illuminated Creativity
Lite Brite, introduced by Hasbro in 1967, became a favorite among children for its creative potential. This toy consists of a light box with small colored pegs that fit into a panel, allowing kids to create illuminated pictures. Invented by Bert Meyer and Joseph Burke, Lite Brite encouraged artistic expression and fine motor skills.
Children could use templates or create their own designs on black paper, with the light from a bulb inside the box shining through the colored pegs to create glowing images. Celebrated for its creativity and educational value, Lite Brite was named one of the top 100 toys of all time by Time Magazine and was inducted into the National Toy Hall of Fame in 2022.
1. Creepy Crawlers: A Hands-On Experience
Creepy Crawlers, introduced by Mattel in 1964, allowed kids to create their own rubbery bugs and creatures. The set included metal molds shaped like various insects and a liquid substance called plastigoop. Children would pour the plastigoop into the molds and heat them on a small electric hot plate oven, transforming the goop into semi-solid rubbery critters.
Part of a larger series called Thing Maker, which also included molds for flowers and soldiers, Creepy Crawlers became a popular hands-on toy. Despite its success, the toy was eventually discontinued in the early 1970s due to safety concerns with the heating element. However, in the 1990s, Toy Max revived the Creepy Crawlers brand using a safer light bulb-powered heater, allowing a new generation to enjoy this creative experience.
