We know that today’s culture is materialistic. It’s apparent just by watching the advertisements on TV or  walking down the street looking at billboards. The economic recession is receding and people have extra cash to spend on Christmas presents, cash which children are more than happy to spend. According to the family history website MyHeritage, children of a hundred years ago had much different wants than today’s children. They combed through their historical newspaper collections, looking for children Christmas lists. MyHeritage editors explained, “One hundred years ago parents often sent their children’s Dear Santa letters to local newspapers for publishing.” The following are the top ten things found on the wish lists of 1913:

1. Candy

2. Nuts

3. Rocking horse

4. Doll

5. Mittens/gloves

6. Toy train

7. Oranges

8. Books

9. Handkerchiefs

10. Skates

In those days, obviously there were no video games, no DVD players, and definitely no interactive toys. Children in those days had much simpler desires. The following is the top 10 list of popular toys for 2013 based on estimates provided by Toys R’Us, Target, Walmart, and other top retailers.

1. Furby Boom

2. Teksta Robotic Puppy

3. LeapPad Ultra

4. Flying Fairy

5. Bug Hugs Elmo

6. Barbie Dream House

7. Giggly Monkey

8. Nerf Gun

9. Ninja Turtles

10. Legos

Notice the top three toys are all electronic. They are also fairly expensive considering the short term of their use, with Furby Boom retailing for $65, Teksta Robotic puppy for $90, and LeapPad Ultra for $150.

As you shop for the people on your Christmas list this year, young and old, look for items they’ll be able to enjoy year after year. The Furby fad may fade, but there are some things people will always need. For instance, JumpinJammerz.com sells adult-sized footed pajamas in over 220 styles,
including Superman, Batman, Captain America, Wonder Woman, Barbie, and Garfield. They come in more subtle but still attractive colors and patterns as well. These pajamas would provide warmth and comfort to your loved ones for much longer than the few days after Christmas when new toys are still
shiny and fascinating.

Source:

abcnews.go.com/Lifestyle/popular-gifts-1913-2013/story?id=21148651

abcnews.go.com/Lifestyle/popular-gifts-1913-2013/story?id=21148651