Pinterest Predicts — the annual report on the top trends to watch for the upcoming year — is here, and says that in 2026, childhood classics are trending again.
According to Pinterest, trends are now growing 4.4 times faster than they did seven years ago, and people are battling trend fatigue by leaning into predictions rooted in personal exploration and emotional grounding. Comfort is the top driver, with 55% of global respondents saying they prioritize it daily, gravitating toward safe havens, everyday rituals and nostalgia to feel like themselves again. And when they find trends that make them feel comfortable and grounded, they pin them.
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“From Glitchy Glam to Pen Pals, Pinterest is the perfect place for people to escape overstimulation through trends that don’t create social comparison or FOMO. Instead, these Pinterest trends preserve individualism and personal identities,” said Pinterest Global Head of Trends and Insights, Sydney Stanback. “In 2026, people will make these trends their own, put unique spins on each and ensure that what’s trending never comes at the cost of personal expression.”
In this article: Classic View-Master - Metallic Viewfinder With 2 Reels Included, Mr. Potato Head Set with 13 Parts and Pieces and Rubik's Cube, The Original 3x3 Cube
That’s why nostalgia is booming — and nowhere is that more evident than in toys. Retro childhood toys are exploding in popularity: Searches for ’70s toys are up 125%, nostalgia toys up 225%, and even 2000s classics are resurging. Vintage-inspired play, upcycled baby fashion and crochet nursery decor are all in the spotlight. Here are some of the nostalgic toys topping charts in 2026.
Classic View-Master - Metallic Viewfinder With 2 Reels Included
This updated classic includes a metallic View-Master viewer and two reels featuring 3-D photos of endangered species. Even though it's a newer model of View-Master, most older reels are compatible with it.
Mr. Potato Head Set with 13 Parts and Pieces
This Mr. Potato Head set includes a potato body and 13 mix-and-match pieces that are easy to attach — designed for toddlers and preschoolers. Kids can create silly faces and practice fine motor skills with this timeless favorite.
Rubik's Cube, The Original 3x3 Cube
The classic Rubik’s Cube features the original color-matching puzzle design that promotes problem-solving skills — one of the best-known brain teasers for ages 8 and up.
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STRETCH ARMSTRONG - Squishy, Stretchy, Fidget Toy
This retro-inspired Stretch Armstrong figure features a goo-filled body that stretches and returns to shape. Its squishy, sensory-friendly texture is great for fidgeting or stress relief.
Playskool Sit ’n Spin Activity Toy, Spinning Seat
This classic spinning seat toy allows kids to control the speed by turning the wheel. It's made for kids ages 18 months and up and helps support balance and coordination.
Lite Brite Ultimate Value Retro Toy
This set includes Lite-Brite, 12 seasonal templates and a peg pouch. Lite-Brite is more than just nostalgic — it's an educational STEM-friendly activity that blends creativity with old-school fun.
Fisher-Price Little People Toddler Toy See 'n Say The Farmer Says
This See ’n Say toy features classic farm animal sounds activated by pull lever, with music, phrases and a colorful rotating picture wheel. It’s an Amazon Exclusive that offers classic learning play for toddlers and youngsters.
Spirograph — Deluxe Set — Spiral Art Drawing Kit
This deluxe Spirograph kit includes precision gears, pens and a design pad — classic spiral drawing tools that create countless patterns. It’s perfect for creative kids ages 8 and up (and their nostalgic parents).
Transformers Toys Heroic Optimus Prime Action Figure
This Amazon Exclusive Optimus Prime figure converts between robot and truck modes, with easy transformation steps designed for kids ages 6 and up. At 11 inches tall, it's an impressive toy that will immediately send you back to simpler times.
Hasbro Gaming Simon Handheld Electronic Memory Game
This handheld Simon game features the classic pattern-repeating gameplay with lights and sounds, in a compact design that kids can take anywhere. Can you beat Simon?
Care Bears 14" Cheer Bear Plushie
This medium-sized plush version of Cheer Bear is made from soft pink fur with a rainbow belly badge — a cuddly throwback for kids, collectors and longtime Care Bears fans.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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