16 Toys Everyone Fought Over During Recess
These 16 toys were the most popular during recess, often leading to arguments over who got to play with them first.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
Recess was one of the best parts of the school day, but it often came with competition. Certain toys were in high demand, and everyone wanted a turn, even if it meant fighting or cutting in line. This list covers 16 of the most fought-over toys that showed up on playgrounds across the country.
1. Skip-It
Saskatoon Public Library on Wikimedia Commons
This ankle toy counted your jumps as you swung it in circles and skipped over it. Kids often waited in line to use the one or two available at school. The counter made it feel like a competition. Fights broke out over who got the highest number or longest turn.
2. Four Square Ball
Seaneffel on Wikimedia Commons
The red rubber ball used for four square often went missing or was claimed by one group. Everyone wanted to start their own game, but there were never enough balls to go around. Disputes over whose ball it was or who brought it to school were common. Losing the ball usually ended recess early for several kids.
3. Razor Scooter
丁 on Wikimedia Commons
If someone brought a scooter to school, it became the main attraction during recess. Kids lined up or chased after the person riding it, asking for a turn. Only one person could use it at a time, which made it more exclusive. It usually led to arguments about fairness and time limits.
4. Jump Ropes
cottonbro studio on Pexels
Long jump ropes were used for double dutch or group games, and controlling the rope meant controlling the game. Only a few kids ever got to turn the rope or jump consistently. Others tried to sneak in or take over. This often caused tension between friends.
5. Bouncy Balls
DaraKero_F on Wikimedia Commons
Small, colorful bouncy balls were traded, borrowed, and lost almost daily. They bounced unpredictably and were easy to steal or claim. Some kids brought fancy ones from home, which made them even more sought-after. Recess often ended with someone crying over a missing ball.
6. Tech Decks
Ukren on Wikimedia Commons
These miniature skateboards were used on benches and lunch tables. Kids practiced tricks and compared designs. Sharing wasn’t easy, especially if someone had a rare or branded deck. Fights usually started over dropped boards or broken parts.
7. Pokémon Cards
Jarek Tuszyński on Wikimedia Commons
Though not a physical toy, these cards were traded and played with constantly. Kids argued over rules, fake cards, and unfair trades. Teachers sometimes banned them due to fights. Despite that, the cards kept showing up in pockets and backpacks.
8. Tetherball
Bogdan on Wikimedia Commons
Only two players could play at once, and others had to wait in a long line. The game was fast, but kids often ignored the line or refused to give up their spot. Arguments happened when people cut or played roughly. The ball itself was sometimes taken or hidden to end a game early.
9. Bop It
Nv8200p on Wikimedia Commons
This electronic toy gave commands like “twist it” and “pull it” at fast speeds. It was fun and competitive, which made it popular during recess. Only one person could play at a time, which created long wait times. People often fought over whose turn it was or who beat the highest score.
10. Basketballs
Håkan Dahlström on Wikimedia Commons
Even if the school had a full court, there were never enough balls. Kids raced to grab one as soon as the bell rang. Disputes happened over who “called” the ball or whether it belonged to the school or a student. Games were often stopped because of ball ownership arguments.
11. Pogo Stick
Extremepogo on Wikimedia Commons
Balancing on one was difficult, so whoever mastered it got a lot of attention. There was usually only one available, which made it very popular. Others either waited or tried to knock the person off as a joke. This often ended in accidents or shouting matches.
12. Chalk
Jeremy on Wikimedia Commons
Sidewalk chalk seemed harmless, but supplies ran out quickly. Kids wanted specific colors or took over the best spots on the pavement. If someone erased another person’s drawing, it caused arguments. The limited amount made sharing difficult.
13. Kickballs
David Morris on Pexels
Kickball games required a good ball, and the best ones were always taken first. Some kids tried to start their own games, but only one or two kickballs existed. Teams fought over possession or accused others of hiding balls. Teachers were often pulled in to settle it.
14. Hula Hoops
Joe Mabel on Wikimedia Commons
These were used in solo play or group challenges. Everyone wanted the ones that spun better or looked newer. Taking someone’s hoop without asking usually caused an argument. The good ones were often hidden or claimed right away.
15. Yo-Yos
ANBARASU THIRAVIYAM on Wikimedia Commons
Kids with advanced yo-yo skills became popular fast. Others wanted to try but didn’t always know how to use them. Sharing often ended with tangled strings or broken tricks. That led to yelling, blaming, or snatching them back.
16. Game Boys (when allowed)
Luis Quintero on Pexels
Sometimes older students were allowed to bring handheld games for indoor or rainy-day recess. Game Boys were high-value items that drew crowds. People fought over turns, batteries, or game selection. These fights often ended with devices being taken away by a teacher.