The History of Toys

Kids have always loved to play. Even thousands of years ago, children had toys to have fun with. Ancient children played with dolls, balls, and spinning tops. Over time, toys have changed a lot, but the joy of playing has stayed the same.

Ancient Toys

Some of the oldest toys ever found are small dolls and animal figures. Ancient Egyptian children played with wooden toys and leather balls. Greek and Roman kids had yo-yos, hoops, and board games. In ancient China, children flew kites and played with spinning tops.

Modern Toys

In the 1800s, factories began making toys for many children to enjoy. Teddy bears, train sets, and dolls became very popular. In the 1900s, new toys like LEGO bricks and action figures were invented. Video games arrived in the 1970s and changed playtime forever.

Fun Facts

• The yo-yo is one of the oldest toys in the world and was played with in ancient Greece.
• The teddy bear was named after President Theodore 'Teddy' Roosevelt.
• LEGO bricks were invented in Denmark in 1949.

Did You Know?

Ancient Roman children played a game similar to jacks using small animal bones called knucklebones.