December 15th 2024.
As I walked through the bustling department store, the sound of Christmas music filled the air. I was on a mission to find the perfect toy for my daughter. The shelves were lined with various options - soft and cuddly Squishmallows, plastic dinosaurs, and sparkly Barbie dolls. But then I saw it, perched on the top shelf - a bright orange and blue Lego McLaren Formula 1 car, just what I had been searching for. With over 1,400 pieces and a hefty price tag of £169.99, some might think it's a bit much for a five-year-old, and they would be right. But the truth is, this gift was not for my daughter, but for my "big kid" of a husband, Tristan, who is 40 years old. Yes, he is part of the growing trend of "kidults" - adults who still enjoy buying and playing with kids' toys.
It's no surprise that my husband has always had a fascination with toys. He had a wonderful childhood, filled with happy memories of playing with his younger brother, Nathan. One Christmas, their grandad surprised them with a Hornby Railway set, complete with papier mache models, houses, trees, and a motorized train carrying tiny presents. It was a magical moment that my husband still remembers fondly as the best Christmas ever. His love for toys has stayed with him into adulthood, and I completely understand why. It's not just about nostalgia, but also about finding a way to unwind and escape from the stresses of adult life.
When we first started dating in our late twenties, I quickly learned about Tristan's love for toys. His Lego Tower Bridge was proudly displayed in his living room, and when we moved in together, a Lego House of Parliament and a crane joined the collection. By the time our daughter Charlotte was born in 2019, we had a spare room filled with shelves of all of Tristan's Lego creations. As long as he kept them clean and tidy, I had no problem with him enjoying his hobby. In fact, his love for toys has had a positive impact on our family. A trip to the toy store is just as exciting for him as it is for our daughter, and his enthusiasm is contagious. Thanks to him, Charlotte has developed an interest in retro board games like Snakes and Ladders and Frustration, and it's become a fun way for us to bond as a family.
I'll admit, when other people talk about the sophisticated presents they are buying for their husbands, like monogrammed luggage or fancy watches, I sometimes cringe as I tell them about Tristan's Santa list. But in reality, no one judges. In fact, his love for toys often sparks conversations and brings back happy memories for others. It's a reminder that society is becoming more accepting of childlike fun and whimsy, with millennials embracing activities like adult ball pits and immersive experiences. Buying toys at Christmas is just an extension of this trend.
According to recent research, kidults have contributed over £1bn in toy sales in the UK in the last 12 months alone, accounting for nearly one-third of all toy purchases. Unlike children, who mainly receive toys during the holiday season, adults buy toys year-round and have the financial means to do so. Toy manufacturers have caught on to this market and are now creating specific lines for adults, such as Lego's 18+ range. It's not just construction sets that are popular, but also toys based on popular shows like Harry Potter and retro favorites like South Park. This year, top choices for adults include Stranger Things squishmallows, a power sabre, and a Pacman board game.
As for me, I've jumped on the toys-at-Christmas bandwagon as well. Tristan has given me coloring books, a spirograph set, and even Twister. And what am I getting him this year? Well, just like when he was six, a Hornby Railway set is at the top of his Christmas list, and I can't wait to see his face light up when he opens the enormous box and starts creating his own magical world. It's moments like these that make Christmas special, regardless of age. After all, Christmas is about spreading joy, and who says there should be an age limit on that? Do you have a story about being a kidult or know someone who is? Share your views in the comments below.
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