14 Toys That Encouraged Weird Habits
This listicle looks at 14 toys that sparked unusual habits in kids, ranging from harmless quirks to strange fascinations.
- Daisy Montero
- 3 min read
This article shares 14 toys that led children to pick up odd habits. Some toys made kids squeeze them nonstop, while others encouraged collecting the strangest ones possible. Each toy had its own strange charm that kept kids hooked. It is a fun look at the unusual side of childhood playthings.
1. Fidget Spinners
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These toys became wildly popular for their spinning action and were often used to help kids focus. Instead, many children became hooked on spinning them constantly. The habit sometimes caused more distraction than concentration during class or homework time.
2. Stink Blasters
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Stink Blasters were small action figures that released a strong smell when squeezed. Kids often found it funny to sniff them over and over again. Many even traded them just to get the most unusual scents.
3. Madballs
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Madballs were foam balls with exaggerated, grotesque faces. Children enjoyed squeezing them repeatedly and showing off the weirdest designs. Collecting as many different faces as possible became a habit for many.
4. Panic Pete
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Panic Pete was a small rubber toy that popped its eyes and ears when squeezed. Kids often pressed it over and over again just to see the funny reaction. Some even copied the look on their own faces for laughs.
5. Labubu Plushes
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Labubu plushes were odd-looking stuffed toys sold in mystery boxes. Children enjoyed the surprise of opening the box and seeing which one they got. The unusual designs made some believe they looked haunted.
6. Rubber Dinosaur Figures
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These small rubber dinosaurs were simple but strangely addictive. Many kids carried them everywhere, ignoring more expensive toys. They became a favorite for make-believe games.
7. Household Items as Toys
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Sometimes children turn ordinary objects into their favorite playthings. They might use spoons, boxes, or even unused medicine syringes as pretend toys. This habit can last longer than interest in store-bought items.
8. Self-Squeezing Plushies
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These plush toys were soft enough to be squished and would bounce back into shape. Many children used them for comfort or stress relief. They often became a constant companion during the day.
9. Sit ’n Spin
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The Sit ’n Spin allowed kids to spin themselves in circles by turning a central wheel. Many children spent long stretches of time spinning without stopping. It became a favorite way to pass the afternoon indoors.
10. Chewable Toys
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These toys were made for safe chewing during play. They helped kids who liked to bite on pencils or shirt collars. Over time, some children developed a strong habit of chewing them daily.
11. Fidget Cubes
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Fidget cubes had buttons, switches, and spinners on each side. Kids often clicked and tapped them for long periods. Some enjoyed the toy so much they brought it everywhere they went.
12. Sensory Tubes
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These tubes were filled with glitter, beads, or liquid that moved when shaken. Children liked to watch the contents swirl slowly. It often became a calming habit before bedtime or during quiet time.
13. Open-Ended Blocks
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Simple building blocks gave kids the freedom to create anything they imagined. Many children spent hours stacking and rebuilding without following instructions. This habit encouraged endless creativity and experimentation.
14. Slime Kits
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Slime kits let kids create stretchy, gooey mixtures in bright colors. Many children spent hours kneading and stretching the slime, sometimes adding glitter or beads for texture. It often turned into a daily habit that left bits of slime stuck to furniture and clothing.