đźš— Is That Toy for Your Kid... or for You? Let's Be Honest.

Author

BK
February 09, 2025

Sponsored by

If you use a smartwatch and seek to get fit by running. Check out our sponsors. Click on the logo above to learn more about the 2025 RunDot Project.

Our basement is filled with boxes and boxes of toys. Each boy contains a series, like Paw Patrol, Paw Patro the Might Movie (yes, it’s different), PJ Mask, Mickey & his Amazing Friends, Super Wings, etc. While I’m pro-toys for kids, there are two things I noticed the last time I arranged the basement. First, we(parents) are obsessed with completing any toy series we start. Second, my his HotWheels set is missing a few cars.

Some of My Son’s Toys …. Are Really For Me

I’d like to say I buy toys for my kids purely out of selfless love. That, I walk into a store or shop online with only their joy in mind. But let’s be honest, I didn’t buy those Hot Wheels or LEGOs for for any child.

Remote-controlled cars, action figures, and magnetic tiles all bring a moment of childhood nostalgia flooding back. Parenting isn’t just about raising kids. It’s about rediscovering joy in things we might have outgrown too soon.

And it's not just nostalgia. It's fun. Plain and simple. I get to build, create, and race just like they do. Maybe even a little better. Okay, definitely a little better. These toys are a shared experience, a way to connect with my kids on their level and revisit the joy of childhood through their eyes. So, yeah, some of my son’s toys are really for me. And I'm not even a little bit sorry.

I’ve learned to embrace it. If I’m buying a toy, I’m making sure it’s something we can both enjoy. And if that means getting a little too competitive with a Hot Wheels track or spending an extra 30 minutes perfecting a LEGO spaceship, so be it.

What’s a toy you bought “for your kids” that you secretly (or not so secretly) love playing with?

From the Community

My 5-year-old wants a pet, but we’re not ready for that level of commitment. Any good alternatives that won’t turn into my responsibility?

Anonymous, dad of two, Calgary

Participate in running research with RunDot and get two free months of run training

It is an annual research initiative that uses optimized run training to help runners reach their true potential.

Why should you join?

RunDot athletes improve their running abilities, on average, 3.2x more than non-users, and experience performance improvements in 30% less training time.

Qualified participants also receive 2 free months of run training.

Do you qualify?

You are a good fit if you check these boxes:

  • You train with a GPS-enabled device

  • You have not used RunDot or TriDot in the last 12 months

  • You are not a professional runner

  • You are enthusiastic and motivated to accomplish your running goals

Do you meet these criteria?

Reply

or to participate.