You've probably heard about recent discoveries of lead paint in some children’s toys. There has been quite a bit of concern surrounding toys imported into the United States from China in particular, as their regulations for lead content in paint aren’t as strict. While the toys recently being blamed for high lead content are brand new and made overseas, they aren't the only possibilities when it comes to lead paint. Other toys that pose this risk are those produced several generations ago, such as something a grandparent or great-grandparent once played with, that's now been passed down as an heirloom.

Lead is a heavy metal that is often added to paint as an inexpensive way to make it dry quicker, resist corrosion, and retain a fresh appearance for a longer period of time. While lead paint is much cheaper to use, it is toxic when ingested and can result in serious health problems, especially when ingested.

Lead poisoning occurs when lead somehow finds its ways into the body. This usually happens through eating or breathing in lead particles. While this may seem easy to avoid, many people are unaware that lead paint is particularly susceptible to chipping or cracking away. Young children, especially those who are prone to chewing or sucking on toys, may encourage the paint to chip away into their mouths. For a small child, even the smallest paint chip could cause lead poisoning. The trouble isn’t only in metal or wooden toys like one might be lead to believe. Lead paint is often added to plastics that are used to create toys. In fact, this is likely to be the greatest source of lead poisoning in small children. 

As a parent, it is important to understand the signs of lead poisoning so that it can be treated as soon as possible. Some children who have ingested lead may appear to be hyperactive or much more energetic than usual. This may lead to excessive defiance or trouble remembering things. If the toy that contains lead is not identified and disposed of or if the child exhibiting symptoms of lead poisoning is not treated immediately, serious long term effects could result. For instance, lead poisoning can cause physical and mental disabilities such as learning problems, speech trouble, diminutive growth, coordination issues, and even damaged organs.

As important as it is to know the signs and symptoms of lead poisoning, you should also know how to avoid it. If possible, try to buy toys made by a manufacturer who you can trust. Typically this means sticking to a well-known or well-respected brand name. It is also a good idea to stick to toys that state “non-toxic” on the packaging or description, as this is a good indicator that the manufacturer is aware of the elements that can be poisonous to small children and has taken measures to avoid these materials. By shopping with those who have your child's health and well-being at heart, you can avoid some of these recent well-publicized toy safety issues.

When searching for a stimulating and creative pedal car, you really can’t go wrong with the fire truck model. The glossy, candy apple red paint, working siren, and pedal powered maneuverability can easily whisk a child off onto hundreds of pretend rescue operations. 

The fire truck pedal car first rose to popularity in the 1950’s, when pedal cars became a popular and more affordable kid’s toy. This unique, retro-imitation car comes with all of the bells and whistles necessary to set your child’s imagination into drive.  Although the fire truck pedal car has retained a place among children’s toys since the 1950’s, there is no denying the fact that these simple yet fantastic cars are experiencing a resurgence in popularity with the current generation. 

One of the major differences with today’s fire truck pedal car is that you won’t only see boys playing with it. Girls also love to seek adventure by braving through imaginary missions and playing the hero. Not only can these toys break the gender barrier, in fact, pedal cars also break the age barrier too, as many collectors and fans of pedal cars seek to expand their collection or simply reminisce about the good old days. Fire truck pedal toys are simply loved by children and adults alike.

You may be able to see the fun and entertaining aspects of this toy, but have you given thought to the developmental advantages that a pedal truck can provide? Take for instance the way this vehicle is powered—that is, your child’s feet. As your child pedals, the major muscles in their legs, arms, and the lower abdomen are working to both move the car and to steer it in the right direction. This encourages coordination and strengthens these muscle groups. While it won’t seem this way to your child, you can relax knowing that your kid is willingly getting out into the fresh air and stretching his or her legs. 

This fire truck is designed to look just like the volunteer fire trucks from the 40’s. It has the sturdy reliability of a steel construction, red powder coat paint that is free of lead, and a striking finish, with realistic graphics that accurately mimic the actual 1940’s style fire trucks upon which this pedal car was based. The steering wheel, bell, hub caps, and ladder racks are all chrome which means that your little one can pedal around in true style. Also, the rubber ball bearing wheels and fully functional bell can meet the demands of your energetic child without sacrificing quality or safety. 

The realistic yet safe and sturdy design of these fire truck pedal cars makes it a perfect addition to any small child’s toy collection. The activity and creativity that pedal cars inspire means that parents can also feel good about encouraging play time. Perhaps one of the best features about a pedal car, however, is that while your toddler will certainly enjoy it during their own childhood, it can also be preserved and passed on to later generations. 

Selecting toys for children require more thought than wandering the aisles of the toy department, thinking “Wow, what cool lights,” or “Hey, this one makes sounds!” We must also ask ourselves, “What can this toy teach a child?” Children not only reap tons of entertainment from their toys, but they also learn valuable developmental skills such as coordination, imagination, interaction, and even speech. Toys provide a child with the opportunity to grasp new concepts while exploring new territories. The toys a child plays with today could very well pave the way to the type of career they pursue in the future.

What about children who have special needs? A child in a wheelchair needs just as much mental stimulation as any other “normal” child, as does a child who may not be able to see or hear. Essentially, choosing toys for a handicapped or disabled child really isn’t too different from choosing a toy for an average child. The initial thought of “What do I buy a handicapped child?” can sometimes put up a mental block, making the task of selecting a toy much harder than it really is. You may feel that additional time and effort needs to be put into the selection, but that isn’t necessarily true.

If you do not have much experience with special needs children, then you may feel like you simply don’t know where to start when it comes to toy selection. The National Lekotek Center is a group who has put in a great deal of effort into researching how disabled children learn and play. Understanding that some people may need guidance in choosing toys for special needs children, they have created a few tips to make the task a little easier.

Tip #1: Consider the Child’s Senses

This may seem a bit obvious, but they key is to find a toy that will appeal to the child’s senses. Consider a deaf child—their most prominent senses will be sight and touch. A toy that features colorful lights or has an emphasis on texture would be very suitable. There are plenty of popular toys that can meet these needs.

Tip #2: Keep it Simple

Today’s society has produced some fairly advanced toys. When shopping for a special needs child you should consider whether a certain toy would be interesting for them or too complicated. Bear in mind that a toy which requires a complex set of steps could be more frustrating than fun. This is especially true when dealing with a child who has a short attention span.

Tip #3: Is it Inspiring?

The sign of a good toy—for any child—is one that inspires them to show their creativity and express themselves.

Tip #4: How Long Will it Last?

The ideal toy would be one with the potential to change as the child learns and grows. Not only will this ensure that the child will be able to play with it for a long time, but it also lessens the chances of the child becoming bored with the toy soon after receiving it. Keep an eye out for features such as height and weight adjustments or difficulty levels. Pay attention to the suggested age range to determine if the toy might offer long-term use.

Tip #5: Consider Safety

Safety is a major guideline when choosing a toy for any type of child, with or without a disability. The toy should be sturdy enough to handle repetitive use by the child, which means you should also consider how tall, strong, and heavy the child is. If there are small pieces or moving parts, consider whether the child has the capability to use the pieces appropriately. Also ask yourself if the toy is waterproof and easy to clean.

Tip #6: Physical vs. Mental Age

When dealing with a mental disability, it is always important that you consider whether a toy is suitable for the child’s age, both mentally and physically.

Tip #7: Is the Toy Interactive?

Ask yourself what the child’s capabilities are regarding interaction and what skills you would like to encourage. Would a high-activity toy be better than one that requires little thought or movement? Could the toy be used with other children to encourage the development of social skills?

In most cases there is no need to order a special toy designed just for special needs children. Most toy stores offer such a wide variety of toys that there is bound to be one that meets your criteria. Just keep these seven tips in mind when hunting for a toy and you are sure to pick a winner.

“Growing old” is a term that many of us associate with dread, as it tends to emphasize misused time and the joy and adventures of a youth long forgotten. At mid-life, it becomes common to reflect upon one’s life. Unfortunately, warnings such as “Enjoy your youth while you can,” simply aren’t taken seriously, and many people find themselves realizing that they grew up too fast, and try to recapture some of the joy and playfulness that was so abundant during childhood. It is not unusual for memories of the pedal car to stand out during this time of recollection.

Some might say that a pedal car – or even an entire pedal car collection – is for children, but don’t we all harbor our childhood self somewhere inside of us? The memories we associate with a special toy can be rejuvenated later in life, and why not allow yourself to do so with an actual pedal car? A person who played with a pedal car early on in life is likely to continue the fascination with cars in some form, whether it was in the form of building model cars, attending car shows, or even restoring or building real cars. Cars are not just a form of transportation, but some consider them to be pieces of art, which explains many adults' desire to collect them.

Granted, collecting items like pedal cars is probably not something that many young adults have the time or financial ability to do at a younger age. As we grow older, we tend to have more disposable income and time on our hands. This is the perfect time to start a pedal car collection! Collecting pedal cars is not only a great way to recall those happy memories, but think of the value that the cars have the potential to build over time. If you maintain your collection well, you might just find that a pedal car can be a handy asset to have should you need to make some quick cash. Just like a stamp or baseball card collection, you can build up a collection of antique pedal cars that could actually be worth money, plus you have the added benefit of reliving the old times through the shopping process. 

Even if you aren’t into building a collection, consider searching out a pedal car that looks just like the one of your youth. Today, many adults are currently on the hunt for one of these. You might want the original thing, lovingly stored away in someone's garage or attic for several decades before coming up for sale. Or, you might look for a newly-made rendition of your own pedal car. In fact, many of the same molds used to create pedal cars in the 1950s and 1960s are now being used to make modern-day reproductions of the very same pedal toys.

If you have a real interest in pedal cars but can't find an exact match, why not search out your “dream” pedal car? Maybe even the one that you originally wanted as a kid but never had the good fortune to find under the Christmas tree? Even if you plan to start with only the ride-on toy you had as a child, you might soon find yourself with several dozen pedal toys of every imaginable color and style. These nostalgic toys have become a favorite of thousands of adult collectors already. Why not join them?

Children’s pedal cars date back to a time shortly after real automobiles hit the road. The original pedal cars were made of high quality materials such as metal and rubber and were geared towards children of wealthy families. In fact, the cost of a pedal car in the early 1900’s would be similar to paying $2,000 for one today. These toys eventually became commonplace and today they appear in a variety of styles and materials—not to mention that they are much more affordable than they were 100 years ago!

If you are considering a pedal toy for your little one, you'll soon find that there are many advantages to this style of toy, as well as many pedal toys out there from which to choose. Pedal cars not only allow a child to explore a fusion of transportation and play, but they also incorporate exercise into playtime. If your child has shown an interest in farming equipment, you might consider purchasing a pedal car in the form of a combine, tractor, or truck. There are many adventures to be had on the farm, particularly if your child has the right equipment for the job! 

If your little one dreams of being a hero, then a police, fire truck, or military plane pedal toy may be just the ticket to encouraging active playtime. These pedal cars are quite realistic and are complete with static accessories such as a spotlight or ladder. The paint and stickers that adorn the cars in this category are quite true to life and make them look strikingly like a miniature version of the real thing.

Another great type of children’s pedal car is the vintage variety. Old 1920’s and 30’s roadsters, classic 50’s cars, 60's hot rods, and even earlier styles such as the model T Ford are available to choose from. Imagine your daughter zooming around in a fin-tailed 50’s Chevrolet or your son winning an imaginary race with his all-black 1930’s speedster pedal car! These versions are what many of us consider to be the “traditional” pedal cars and are often extremely accurate in their portrayal of the originals vehicles. In fact, you might have had a pedal toy just like this as a child!

While many of these styles are meant to replicate an actual vehicle that was on the road at some point in time, others aim for a more imaginative style. For example, a “pretty in pink” pedal plane is a great choice for a little girl who wants to feel like she's Amelia Earhart. Even though it's not based on a particular airplane, she'll surely have a lot of fun with the idea of a pink plane.

Buying your child a pedal toy provides many benefits over modern battery-operated toys. Pedal cars are designed to help your child learn coordinated movements while encouraging interactive and creative play. As pedal cars are primarily intended for outdoor use, you will likely find that your child will be spending more time outside and less time watching TV or playing on the computer. Pedal cars are a great way to encourage your child’s imagination to soar and can create plenty of wonderful memories to reflect upon in the future.

Have you considered the idea of getting your child a ride-on toy? If you think your little one is ready to hit the road, then perhaps it’s time to look at your options. What type of ride-on toy should you get? Basically, there are two different types: electric and manual. Electric cars are battery operated and simply take the push of a pedal to go. The battery can be charged by plugging a power cord into an outlet. Manual cars are operated using your child’s own body to push or pedal the toy into motion.  Before you commit to a certain type of ride-on toy, there are a couple of items to consider:

-Your Child’s Age

Ride-on toys come in a variety of styles and can suit a wide range of age groups. Children of the toddler age are most suitable for kid-powered ride-on toys. Some types of ride-on toys simply require a scooting of the feet to send the child rolling while others require the movement of pedals. For children around the age of 4 to 5, the electric ride-on is always a popular option. With the simple push of a pedal your child can be zooming off, at a top speed of 5 mph. Although younger children may be able to reach the pedals of an electric car, they may not possess the reflexes needed to maneuver the vehicle. 

-Make It Last

Ideally you should look for a toy that will accommodate your child as he or she grows, especially if your child is towards the younger end of the age range. Look for toys that have adjustable pedals or seats. Also consider the materials used in the structure of the toy and how durable it will be, especially given the fact that children’s ride-on toys are often subjected to tough treatment. Metal and rubber last much longer than plastic.

-Test It Out

As tempting as it might be to surprise your child with the actual ride-on toy, it’s usually a better idea to take them along on the hunt. Let your child sit on a few different drive-on toys at the store. Even let them give it a ride around, if possible. This will give you a good idea as to whether your child is capable of maneuvering it properly. Of course, you can always head to the internet for better prices and a wider range of style options, but this is a good way of finding out if your child is the right size for a pedal car.

-Safety

After you’ve bought the toy, it’s important that you learn about its safety features and explain to your child how to use them. Let your child know where they are allowed to play with the toy and what areas are off limits. You should also purchase a helmet for your child, require them to wear it if they wish to ride, and show them how to secure it properly.

When shopping for a child’s ride-on toy, be sure to consider your child's age, coordination, physical capabilities, and interest in riding. Choose a pedal toy that is the right size, made of durable materials, and includes safety features. All of these will make your child's pedal toy riding experience as enjoyable as possible!

How many of us have read Peanuts and laughed at Snoopy as the Red Baron?  You can just see him sitting on the roof of his doghouse with his goggles on his head and his jaunty neck scarf trailing behind him. Did you know that Snoopy's character was actually inspired by a real person? The real Red Baron was not a cartoon. He was a fighter pilot flying with the Imperial German Army Air Service during the First World War. The Red Baron’s real name was Manfred Albrecht Freiherr von Richthofen.

The Red Baron reached the pinnacle of his short career when he was awarded The Blue Max, also known as the Pour Le Mérite. This was Prussia’s highest military rank for a German soldier to achieve and he received it after his 16th kill. Shortly after receiving the rank of Blue Max in 1915, he transferred from the cavalry to the Air Service and served as one of the first members of Jasta, the specialized fighter squadrons of World War I Germany.

By that time, the Red Baron had already proven himself to be a talented fighter pilot. He soon became the leader of Jasta 11, a squadron known as the Flying Circus. After he joined the Flying Circus he painted his plane bright red, hence the nickname The Red Baron. The baron distinguished himself for making approximately 80 kills. His career as a pilot was highly publicized and during this time he was known for being the most interesting character to arrive on the scene.

He was young, dashing, and on the cutting edge of technology during his day, flying Germany's latest fighter planes in the skies of World War I. On July 6th 1917, von Richthofen received a head wound during a battle which resulted in temporary blindness. During his rehabilitation, the German army used propaganda to pump up the Red Baron’s legendary ability as a fighter pilot. As a result, he achieved nationwide fame and a nearly cult following by the German people.

As part of the efforts of the German government's wartime propaganda machine, the Red Baron was directed to write his autobiography while still convalescing from his head wound. This book was censored and edited in such a way as to portray Germany as a mighty force to be reckoned with. The Red Baron later tried to recant his portrayal of himself, as he felt that he was not the arrogant man that he was directed to describe himself as. The book was published without these later edits, so the Autobiography still stands as the German propaganda machine directed him to write it.

The Red Baron’s last battle was his most famous, and theories abound as to how it ended. What is known is that the Baron was in hot pursuit of a Canadian pilot in his Sopwith Camel. The two planes were reportedly flying at a low altitude. The Royal Air Force claimed that Captain Arthur Roy Brown was responsible for shooting down the plane of the famed Red Baron, though what truly happened will never be known. It has been said that the Australian ground forces were actually the individuals responsible for his death, with some arguing that the angle of the bullet entries would suggest that he was shot from the ground, rather than by another airborne plane in the battle. Whatever the true story, Manfred Albrecht Freiherr von Richthofen, the famed Red Baron, was shot down on April 21, 1918.

The original idea for pedal cars dates back to the turn of the twentieth century, soon after the first true automobiles began to make their mark on the world. What started out as a children’s toy directed towards wealthy families has now become an everyday product that nearly every family can afford. However, just because they are affordable doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t take your time in choosing a quality toy for your child. Here are three important tips that you should bear in mind when choosing a pedal car for your child:

Tip #1: If the car fits...

The first thing you need to do before you even start your search is measure your child. In order for your child to get the most out of this memorable toy, they need to be able to reach the pedals properly. While many newer models adjust to fit the size of many age groups, there are still plenty of types around that have limited adjustment options. Knowing your child’s measurements ahead of time will allow you to narrow down the search results from the beginning, so that you can focus your attention on the cars that you know are suitable for your child’s size.

Tip #2: Personality counts

Although you might have something more traditional in mind, perhaps even a car similar to what you might have had as a child, the reality is that there are a lot of different pedal car designs out there to choose from. As the car is first and foremost a toy for your child, and just as you wouldn’t choose a car that doesn’t suit you, you should also consider something more reflective of your child’s personality. Why not get your daughter a pink hot rod or your son a candy apple-red fire engine? There are even pedal planes and trains available. Take your time and really consider what type of pedal car would suit your child best.

Tip #3: Consider quality

Of course you need a car that your child will like, but at the end of the day their safety should be the deciding factor. Are the tires made of rubber for good traction? Are there any unfinished or sharp edges that might harm your child or bystanders? Plastic accessories are nice, but you really want the majority of the car to be made of metal, which is not only safer for your child but will last for ages. If you opt for traditional steel construction, the toy you buy your child today might even become an heirloom to be passed to their own children.

These are just three of the major factors that parents should consider when looking at children’s pedal cars. Of course your child could have fun with a cheap plastic ride-on toy, but if you really want to give them a lasting memory, why not make the most of this purchase? Give them a high quality pedal car that they can enjoy for hundreds of hours. They might even consider passing this special gift down to their own child!

The history of the taxi goes back as far as ancient Rome. In Roman society there were a variety of human-powered vehicles serving as taxis. In modern times, the industry greatly benefited from the invention of the taximeter. Designed in 1891 by Wilhelm Bruhn, this was the first device to help the taxi driver keep track of the fare. Its invention coincided with the advent of the automobile; the first versions of the taximeter were mounted to the outside of the vehicle, rather than on the dashboard as passengers have come to expect today.

The first motorized vehicles to serve as taxicabs were the Daimler Victoria built by Gottlieb Daimler. Soon these gas-powered taxis had a taxi meter installed on the inside of the car. The first taxis were chosen not for their durability (as are many taxis today) but for their turn radius. Because a cab driver often has to manuever in tight or unfamiliar areas, this was of great concern to the first taxi drivers. The first automobiles to offer a tight turn radius were the Packard and the De Soto. Next, The 'General' by General Motors had its turn as a taxicab.

A vehicle serving as a taxicab typically endures a great deal more “wear and tear” than a privately owned vehicle, which can impact the safety of both the driver and the passenger. For this reason in the US very strict guidelines were developed for taxis, including the vehicle itself, standards for mechanical upkeep, and qualifications to become a taxi driver.

Checker came on the scene in 1956, manufacturing their signature taxicabs until 1982. During this time, the bright yellow Checker cab color became synonymous with taxis everywhere. Now, this style has been relegated to nostalgia, though many people still visualize the old style Checker cabs when thinking about taxis. Among the many innovations first introduced by Checker cab was "double date" seating, with two seats facing each other in the back of the cab. This seating was mirrored in other luxury vehicles such as limos and the Rolls Royce. Checker cabs stopped being built in 1982 but the Checker cab franchise still thrives to this day.

In 1980, the old taxi meter, with a ticking sound that even today would be familiar to most frequent taxi riders, began to be replaced with electronic ones. Other major innovations in the last decades of the twentieth century included 2-way radios, enabling taxi services to serve passengers more efficiently. Soon came the use of computers, making the dispatching of taxis even more streamlined.

Today, vehicles sold as taxi cabs tend to be minivans seating as many as six passengers. Perhaps the most famous taxi on the streets in 2011 is the one on the TV game show “Cash Cab”. The taxi on the show has a ceiling that lights up like a disco with the customer climbs into the cab. Passengers are asked trivia questions to win money en route to their destination. If you are ever in New York City and are looking for an unusual taxi ride experience, call a cab and try your luck to see if you're picked up  in the Cash Cab.

Toy cars are now the rage, and car enthusiasts love to collect them. These collectibles have even achieved a broader appeal, becoming a kitsch item used in retro interior decorating. Restaurants that have racing themes use these eye-catching toy cars. Fun for children and adults alike to admire, collectors may display their vehicles on shelves, mounted on pedestals, hung from the ceiling, or just sitting on the floor. As you begin collecting, you may be surprised at the number of other car enthusiasts you meet who also have a toy car collection of their own.

Starting your own collection of vintage toy cars and displaying them is fairly easy, all you need to do is decide what model or type of car you wish to collect. Some collectors focus on a specific model, such as the 1955 Chevy. Others collect a type of toy car, such as Hot Wheels or pedal cars. Many choose a combination of these collecting techniques, such as pedal cars styled after the '55 Chevy. Once you start collecting, you'll probably find that there are way more types of toy cars out there than you had imagined.

By turning to the internet, you'll find a wide selection of vintage and new toy cars, as well as reproductions of vintage cars that may be well outside your price range. This is especially true with pedal cars; though a fully restored original can cost thousands of dollars, a reproduction using the original molds and paint scheme can be had for just a few hundred, and makes a wonderful display piece. 

When collecting pedal cars, it's important to keep in mind that the older the pedal car, the more expensive it tends to be.  The vintage and antique pedal cars are in high demand for collectors. If you're new to the world of collecting, you might want to make your first purchase a newer model to 'get your feet wet' and jump-start your collection. From 'fantasy' models like a pink pedal plane to more traditional hot rods, even new pedal cars often become treasured by collectors.

Don't be surprised if you find you can't stop after just one pedal car. Many collectors of this nostalgic toy have dozens of them on display. Some toy car collectors don't consider their collection to be complete unless they have one of every type they can find. In this case, opting for reproductions is an economical way to ensure that each model is represented in the collection without shelling out the money for the real thing.

Once you've started your collection, you'll want to plan out a method for displaying the cars. This is true whether you're collecting the tiniest miniature cars or pedal toys, which can take up a bit more space in your home. A good display case will protect the cars while still allowing them to be viewed. Other collectors prefer to have their cars out in the open, where they can be played with and enjoyed fully. Ultimately the decision is up to you, since your collection is for your enjoyment.

American Graffiti was a benchmark film for the budding filmmaker George Lucas and several superstar actors, particularly Harrison Ford. This 1973 movie was a basic coming of age story in which the culture of “cruising” is the central theme, and the '55 Chevy played almost as large of a role in the film as any actor. 

The film originated as an off-shoot of the film “Two-Lane Blacktop” – the two films shared producer Gary Kurtz For car buffs, the real story of the film was the 1955 Chevy 150 sedan that appeared in both movies. To prepare for filming cross-country for Two-Lane Blacktop in 1971, Kurtz ordered three 1955 Chevy sedans to be special-built. These would later be used for his new movie American Graffiti.

The vehicles seen in both movies were modified by Richard Ruth of Competition Engineering located in California. It is rumored that the styling of these 1955 Chevy 150 sedans was modeled after Ruth's own big-block Chevy street racer, which Kurtz had seen while preparing for Two-Lane Blacktop. All three were painted by Ruth's studio in a powder blue color that would have been at the height of popularity in the mid-1950s. If you don't remember blue cars in the movie, that's because the movie studio had them repainted in gray primer to fit the persona of the characters driving them.

The modifications on the Chevy sedans included one prepared for stunt work, which included a full roll cage and the ability to make the car skid and roll for on-screen effects during a rollover scene. In addition to the stunt car, there were two vehicles left intact for shooting the main film scenes. One was fitted with brackets to support the cameras. This is the Chevy that can be seen on-screen in scenes with dialog. The last Chevy in the film was used for exterior shots, captured on film using a second car driving alongside the Chevy.

To prepare for American Graffiti after Two-Lane Blacktop finished shooting, the cars were painted black. An additional non-running '55 Chevy was brought in from a junkyard to use as the “burn car.” It was sent back to the salvage yard after filming. After the filming of American Graffiti, the three original '55 Chevy sedans were relegated to the prop car lot at Universal Studios. Eventually, the car used for exterior shots was purchased by a studio mechanic and repainted with a candy-colored stripe, though it would again be seen on screen during Smokey and the Bandit. This later appearance further fueled the popularity of the 1955 Buick.

One of the original '55 Chevys used in American Graffiti was sent to the crusher in the 1970s. Another found its way into the hands of a collector and was featured in Street Rodder Magazine n May 1976. Collector Steve Fitch later bought the yellow '32 Ford Coupe driven by the character played by Paul LeMat. He has restored both cars to their original American Graffiti appearance.

Although many changes have been made to both vehicles since their days as a movie prop, they remain as a piece of pop culture history, not only for fans of the movie American Graffiti but also those who fell in love with the '55 Chevy two decades before the movie. These movies were hugely successful – as was the '55 Chevy they portrayed. These films were part of the beginning of the muscle car culture that remains popular with car aficionados today.

The Vought F4U Corsair was a military plane that was used heavily in both World War II and the Korean War. This fighter plane was first delivered to the United States Navy in 1940. In all, more than 12,000 F4U Corsair aircraft were produced by Vought. With 16 separate models of this plane, it had the longest production run of any piston-engined fighter in U.S. history.

As soon as it was introduced during World War II, it became known as the most capable fighter-bomber able to land on an aircraft carrier. The Corsair earned such nicknames as the “Bent Wing Bird,” “Hog,” “Ensign Eliminator,” and “Whistling Death.” The U.S. Navy attained an 11:1 kill ratio with this plane, making it the most effective aircraft in their arsenal. Over its 11-year lifespan, the Corsair was adopted by the U.S. Navy and Marines, as well as the French and New Zealand air forces, along with the air forces of smaller countries. 

The plane's development began in 1938 as a response to a request by the U.S. Navy. According to the request, the plane's single-engine design needed to offer a range of 1,000 miles and carry four guns, along with two thousand pounds of anti-aircraft bombs carried in the wing. It could climb at a rate of 3,180 feet per minute. There were several prototypes made by Vought in advance of the first F4U Corsair, the XF4U-1, which first flew in May of 1940. Vought was awarded a contract for 584 F4U planes in June of 1940.

The first single-engine U.S. fighter plane to attain speeds over 400 miles per hour, with speeds of up to 550 miles per hour achieved during dive tests. It also had the largest engine then available, a 2,000 horsepower, 18 cylinder version, accompanied by a propeller measuring 13 feet 4 inches across. The plane measured 33 feet, 4 inches long, with a wingspan of 41 feet.  Despite these massive features, the Corsair was recognized as being much more aerodynamic than other naval fighter planes of the time.

Early F4U planes ran into several difficulties, such as problems of visibility resulting from the long nose, difficulty recovering from a spin, and stalling while making slow carrier landings. These problems were uncovered during early trials, and corrected early in the plane's history. In early 1943, the first F4U planes saw combat action. It is estimated that the F4U flew more than 64,000 operational missions during World War II, taking part in many major air raids and delivering more than 15,000 tons of bombs. Production of the Corsair persisted despite the end of the War in 1945. When the last F4U was delivered to the French in December, 1952, production of the Vought Corsair came to an end.

Today, more than two dozen Corsairs are still airworthy. Most are in the United States, although they are also held by museums and private collectors across the globe. It has also been seen in movies such as Flying Leathernecks, a 1951 John Wayne title. Today, the F4U Corsair remains one of the most iconic military planes of this era.

Kids love to play make believe games. Pretend play toys are a lot of fun for toddlers, and are also a great tool to help your child's development. These toys encourage creativity and imagination, providing a great combination of learning and fun. Many kids will come up with their own games, but the right toys can encourage this type of play. Here are some of the most popular types of pretend play toys that you can introduce to your little one:

Dress up

Costumes – whether store-bought, homemade, or improvised – are a great way to encourage your child to role play, a crucial activity to help them learn. Your child can use these costumes to pretend to be a certain person or occupation, or even to stage a play for you. Similarly, puppet theaters enable your child to act out a scene with a few friends. You'll be surprised at the dialogue that your toddler comes up with once they have the right pretend-play props.

Tea Parties and Kitchens

Toy kitchens and tea parties have long been a staple in any little girl's playroom. A dining set with child-size chairs, along with appropriately sized teacups and saucers, enables her to host a tea party, inviting dolls and stuffed animals as guests. Your little one may even invite you to her party, where she “makes tea.” Likewise, toy kitchens enable children to emulate the behaviors of the grown-ups in the household, which is an important aspect of pretend play.

Wooden Dollhouses

Another way to enable your child to act-out scenes of typical home life, these pretend play toys range from simple and sturdy to complex and delicate. These houses and dolls enable your child to pretend they are each member of the household, acting out a wide array of situations that may arise in day-to-day life. Dolls and accessories enable your child to pretend that they are all grown up.

Pedal Cars

For generations, toddlers have cruised the sidewalks in their very own pedal cars. The first pedal toys were created to enable children to pretend to drive just like their fathers, who owned some of the first automobiles. Many of these toys – whether a pedal plane or a pretend fire truck – also help your children dream of their possible future. With pedal cars, you could even be paving the way for their future.

Playing make-believe is not just about having fun, though that's certainly a big part of it. Such toys act as great confidence boosters because they simulate real-life situations, preparing your child to deal with them when they really happen. They are also a great chance for your child to develop his or her social skills, since many of these games are played with others. Unlike many of today's battery-operated toys, these come with no script, instead relying on your child's imagination and thinking skills. Children learn and grow through creative play – and you can stimulate this growth by providing the right pretend play toys, from a toy kitchen to a pedal car.

When you look at your kids' wishlists for holidays or birthdays, do you feel overwhelmed by the presence of complicated, electronic toys? Though these toys are much of what you'll see walking down the aisle of the toy store, this does not mean your child cannot enjoy the simplicity of retro toys. You may even find that your child enjoys many of the same toys that you enjoyed when you were young. And you'll even get the added enjoyment of watching them play with something you had as a child

Indoor Toys

An indoor toy doesn’t have to involve electronics to be fun. Children can still enjoy bath time with a rubber duck. They can still hold on to a soft stuffed animal, even a sock monkey, at bedtime. A slinky dog is retro but children can still relate to it, especially if they like the Toy Story films, which have led to a resurgence in the popularity of many retro toys. If your kid is interested in science, an ant farm is a great way for him or her to interact with nature. For children who like to play with dolls and figurines, Troll dolls and Polly Pockets are retro alternatives to some of the popular options sold in stores today.

Board Games

Plenty of board games have stood the test of time. Your family may not even realize that many of the games you play have existed for decades. Retro board games include plenty of modern family favorites, like Monopoly, Candy Land, The Game of Life, Battleship, and Clue. 

Creative Play

The benefits of creative toys are tremendous, and many of these toys are ones you might remember from your own childhood. Lincoln Logs are a prime example. The Etch A Sketch is another creative toy that you and your child can enjoy together. Play-doh, though it might be messy, is an excellent toy for a child because it encourages imaginative thinking. A Lego kit is another toy from the past that encourages creativity. A child with an imagination can create virtually anything with just a few simple pieces. 

Playing Pretend

Kids love to pretend to be like the people they admire; they often try to emulate doctors, police officers, teachers, and even their parents. Children enjoy mimicking some of the everyday activities that adults do, like cooking and driving. Play kitchens have been a favorite plaything for generations. There are plenty of retro ride-on toys for children who want to cruise the sidewalks. One of the more popular styles in ride-on toys is the classic fire truck, which allows your child to pretend to be a firefighter. You can't go wrong with a pedal car, no matter the style you choose!

Choosing the Right Retro Toy

When choosing the perfect retro toy for your child, don't get caught up in whether or not the toy is retro or modern. Many toys make the leap from past to present smoothly, remaining popular for generations. Children everywhere enjoy retro toys despite all of the modern technology they're used to.

It's pretty obvious which kids are into cars – they're the one racing toys around saying “vrooom, vroooommm!” to simulate the sounds of an engine. Often, the fascination with automobiles begins as a toddler playing with toy cars, continuing right on into adulthood, when they're chasing after the real thing.

As an adult, you might daydream about driving the latest luxury car or hot-rod, if you only had the money. Kids, though, don't have to settle for affordable or modest vehicles. They can play with the hot rods and custom machines that they see in movie car chases or classic car shows. Of course, many toddlers are just as fascinated by the plain old cars driving down the road that adults take for granted – it's the idea of cruising down the street that captures their imagination.

If your child is nuts about engines and knows more about cars then you do, encourage their interests! Whenever you're working on your own vehicle, let them tag along and explain what you're doing. This can encourage their infatuation with toys – as well as giving practical skills that will serve your son or daughter well once they reach driving age. Secondly, get the right car toys to allow your child to explore his or her interest in automobiles.

Some of the coolest car toys come from Lego. These building sets come in a wide array of styles to encourage any of your child's interests. For those who love cars, check out Lego Racers, which allow your child to build their very own racecar from a kit. Lego is always a great option for children who like to build, making Lego racers a great choice for car-obsessed kids.

Looking for a car toy that's already put together? You can't go wrong with remote control cars. RC vehicles are a great option for today's kids who are accustomed to battery-operated toys and video games. Though they do have a battery, remote control cars offer a level of imaginative play that's tough to get when racing within a video game. Help your kids set up soda cans and other household goods into a racetrack and experience the thrill of racing an RC car around the track.

If your child is still too young for complex Lego sets or remote-controlled cars, or wants to be a part of the action by actually being inside the vehicle, look into pedal cars. These offer plenty of options for the young, car-loving child. Your toddler can cruise the sidewalks in their own metal pedal car – whether it's a bright red hot rod, a black and yellow pedal plane, or even a pedal fire truck. No matter your child's favorite kind of car, you're bound to find one in pedal-toy form.

These cool toys are sure to fulfill your child's need for speed while encouraging their love of automobiles. Whether you opt for a Lego set, a remote-controlled car, or a pedal toy, your child is sure to look back on these toys as the ones that sparked their imagination and began their lifelong interest in vehicles.

Are you looking for a ride-on toy for a child who's obsessed with flying? Toy planes are hard to resist for any child who has watched a real plane take off or gotten to fly across the country. This experience is sure to capture your child's imagination, making them wish they could fly the skies. For these children – enchanted by the idea of being able to fly one themselves – a regular pedal car simply won't do. No, it must be a pedal plane!

Pedal planes are a great way to encourage your child's interest in flight. There is a plane out there to match your child's style and interests, whatever there may be. From classic to modern, imaginative to realistic, pedal planes run the gamut. For those who dream of becoming a fighter pilot, consider a plane modeled after the U.S. Army patrol planes or a Navy F4U Corsair to let them really feel as if they're cruising the skies in a fighter plane. Looking for something with a tough and rugged look? Take a look at yellow jacket pedal planes or 'shark attack' planes with a sharp row of teeth painted near the propeller. Your toddler will roam the sidewalks fearlessly in this fighter plane with attitude. For a gentler look, look for 'pretty in pink' styles or classic red and blue planes sure to delight any preschooler.

Aspiring pilots will be thrilled by the realistic look of many of these toy planes. While some are pure fantasy, others recreate the look of real Army and Navy planes in miniature form. Heavy-gauge steel with real propellers, your child will feel as if they're actually in the cockpit of an airplane while riding around in their new toy. The propeller is even spring-loaded to spin when your child's feet hit the pedals, giving them the most realistic “flying” experience possible.

Toy pedal planes come in a variety of colors and styles to suit any child's tastes. Many of these styles are based on original pedal planes first created in the 1930s and 1940s. One of the most popular is a Red Baron pedal plane based on an original design first created in 1941. In fact, you may have even ridden around in a similar airplane as a child! Generation after generation, kids fall in love with these imaginative toys, and it's easy to see why.

Kids have powerful imaginations, which comes out in many of the pretend games they play. With a pedal plane, your child can pretend to be a pilot as he or she zooms down the driveway. This type of imaginative play has been slowly disappearing thanks to the proliferation of battery-operated toys. Bring it back by giving your child their very own pedal plane. Your little one will surely be thrilled by the possibility of playing the role of pilot, whether they imagine that they're flying to a faraway vacation, shooting into the skies as a World War II ace, or navigating as Amelia Earhart. These ride-on toys encourage active, imaginative learning in ways that few toys can.

The name Bugatti may not be a household name, but among car enthusiasts the brand is something of an icon, though only a few thousand Bugattis have ever been produced. Founded in France by Ettore Bugatti, an Italian immigrant, the company is legendary for producing some of the fastest and most exclusive cars in the world. Starting in 1909 - making the company one of the earliest automobile manufacturers still in existence – the Bugatti brand has experienced quite the renaissance in the last fifteen years or so.

At the dawn of World War II, it looked as though Bugatti was going to be one of the prime contenders for racing domination. The Bugatti team won the first ever Monaco Grand Prix of 1929. This race has gone on to become one of the most important, and prestigious, auto races in the world. Not long after, the company’s driver Jean-Pierre Wimille won the 24 hours of Le Mans twice, in 1937 and again in 1939.

The company early on became known for its artistic and high-level engineering. Of the many hallmarks Bugatti was known for were engine blocks that had been hand scraped, so that they did not require gaskets, as well as an exposed engine compartment.  At the time, Bugatti’s main competitor was Bentley. This British company seemed to be directly competing for the same high-end automobile market. Many of the models produced in those early days by both Bentley and Bugatti were made only in limited numbers, and most were created by hand. Only a few examples of each Bugatti model were ever produced because of their exclusivity.

Like many automobile brands, however, the original company failed during the materials shortages of World War II, though it did produce one model in the 1950s. The company was eventually purchased for its airplane parts division. Having fallen into the shadows of other brands, Bugatti rose to the surface of the racing world again in the late 1990s when Volkswagen bought the brand and started working on a series of three experimental cars. Today Bugatti has rejoined the ranks of some of the more famous and infamous racers, after releasing the Veyron 16.4 in the US and debuting in Sicily a few years later. 

The modern history of Bugatti includes Lamborghini designers and the acquisition of the Lotus car company – testament to the brand's high-end following. In 1998, under Volkswagen, Bugatti began working on the EB118 concept. The EB118 was a touring sedan with an 18 cylinder W-configuration engine. The two-door coupe boasted 555 horsepower.  A year later the EB218, a four-door limousine, surfaced at the Geneva Auto Show. Following close on the heels of the EB118 and EB218 were the Veyron 16.4 and the Chiron.

Bugatti touts their racecars as aesthetically appealing, high-performance machines – showing, once again, that the Bugatti brand may have changed hands, but has not changed its commitment to quality automobiles. Today, the Bugatti remains a favorite – though often unattainable – brand for many a racing enthusiast.

Old fashioned toys are making a comeback! At a time when kids have every kind of computerized game and battery-operated toy imaginable, parents are re-introducing the toys that they played with in their youth, and the kids are loving it. Both kids and their parents are finding that these old toys are worth remembering. If you don't have a child yet, you just might find that having a toddler in the house reminds you of your own preschool years, prompting you to relive the past by giving your child the same toys you had growing up.

Jacks and marbles are just a few such examples that have never gone away throughout the years. These inexpensive and small toys can today be found in dollar stores and as stocking stuffers. Many of today's parents remember playing these sidewalk games. Super Balls, yo-yos, tops, and Tiddly Winks are just a few of the other classic toys making a comeback as adults seek a sense of nostalgia and a return to simpler playthings.

Speaking of simpler playthings, how about a sock monkey? A stuffed animal made out of brown socks, this classic toy for children actually dates back to the Victorian era, when the toy was a way to reuse worn-out socks. The red heel of the socks gave the monkey its distinctive red lips. In the 1950s, sock monkey patterns were included with pairs of socks, allowing that era's homemakers to make the toy, by then already a classic, for their children. This homemade toy is still popular today, both among toddlers and with adult collectors.

Like the sock monkey, rocking horses are another children's plaything from the Victorian era that has continued to be popular to the present day. The toy in its current form first made an appearance during the nineteenth century. These wooden toys have long been made by hobbyists; today there are a number of companies producing this classic, ranging from simple, unfinished wood horses to finely detailed or carved rocking horses.

Perhaps the most popular of these classic toys for toddlers is the ever-present pedal car. Even youngsters with their eyes glued to the screen of a computer or video game are enchanted by this classic toy, climbing in to pedal around the room. With its retro 1950s hot-rod feel, this is a timeless toy that is sure to please generation after generation. In fact, you probably remember racing down the driveway in the pedal toy you had as a child. Like the other toys on this list, pedal cars instantly remind people of the carefree feeling of the 1950s.

As you might notice in this list, many of the most popular old-fashioned toys for toddlers are aimed at getting your kids outside and exercising instead of sitting in front of a screen all day. Whether you're taking a look at classic toys because you remember them from your own youth, or because you want to give your child endless hours of outdoor enjoyment, you can't go wrong with these toys!

Although there are collectors of many vintage cars, from the earliest models onwards, the 1950s stands out as the most popular car era. Many cars from that era remain popular with collectors more than fifty years later, but perhaps none as much as the 1955 Chevy Bel Air, one of the most iconic cars of an era. In fact, many collectors – and even others who grew up during this era – consider the '55 Chevy to be the car that defines the era.

When the 1955 Chevy was made, people were fixing up cars from a generation ago, such as the Model T, as a hot rod or track car. To compete with these improved retro cars, the major car companies had to come up with equally impressive automobiles. Thus, the 1955 Chevy was born.

Though technically the 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air, today this iconic vehicle is often referred to simply as the '55 Chevy. The most popular vehicle by Chevrolet at that time, today it is still the most sought after Chevy car for car collectors. While many of the Chevy Bel Air model years remain popular with collectors, the 1955 model was by far the most popular of this line.

The 1955 version was, perhaps surprisingly, not the first model year of the Bel Air. Often, it is the first year's model that becomes remembered by a generation, but this is not the case with this vehicle. In fact, the Bel Air was first produced by Chevrolet in 1950. This earlier version has a much smaller following today, and did not sell as many models even when it was new.

The 1955 Chevy Bel Air represents the first model year of a redesigned second generation of the line. It introduced many features that would become popular in cars from the 1950’s. One of the things that the 1955 Chevy Bel Air is known for is introducing fins to cars. The fins on the 1955 Chevy Bel Air were actually small when compared to later models. As time went, on fins on cars would get much bigger. In fact it is the huge fins of the '57 Chevy which make it the only real competition for the most popular 50's Chevy model.

Such design innovations would continue in the Bel Air line well into the third and fourth generation models. In fact, this car was so popular that it was still sold in the United States until 1975, and in Canada through the beginning of the 1980s. There is no doubt that its longstanding popularity is thanks in great part to the second generation, 1955 Chevy.

Today, the 1955 Chevy is favored among many who grew up in this era and are looking for a sense of nostalgia.  Many people also think that cars were made better back in the day, and in some ways, this is true. Many old cars, including the '55 Chevy, were bigger and had bigger engines, which is one reason people like them. Aesthetically, cars from the 1950s are visually distinctive, making them favored by collectors looking for something that stands out. The 1955 Chevy Bel Air certainly fits that bill.

Many different categories of toys have historically been viewed as gender-specific. Dolls and toy trucks are just two of the many examples of toys designed with either girls or boys in mind. However, many toys have begun crossing gender lines. Progressive parents have begun allowing their child to choose toys based on their own interests, rather than gender stereotypes. Many toys that have traditionally been designed for boys – toy trucks, for example – are now being designed with girls in mind. Take, for example, the pedal car.

The pedal car has been produced practically since the beginning of the automobile. In the 1930s, little boys drove around red or blue pedal cars designed to look like the real vehicles their fathers drove. Today, pedal car makers produce a wide array of ride-on toys, including gender neutral designs as well as ones that will specifically be of interest to girls.

Some pedal toys have been fairly gender neutral for decades. The plastic Little Tikes Cozy Coupe, for example, has always been a gender-neutral style in red and yellow. Still, even with this vehicle there have been versions throughout the years designed for boys and girls: a police car version for boys, and a pastel version for girls. Today, there is even a Princess version of the Cozy Coupe.

Other pedal toy manufacturers have focused on boy-friendly styles, from police cruisers to black and yellow pedal planes. In recent years, pedal car manufacturers who specialize in classic metal pedal cars have also begun to focus more on designs that appeal to girls. Classic 1950s style hot rods in pink and chrome are sure to please any little girl. Since pastel pink was such a hot color in the 1950s, it only makes sense to pair this traditionally girly color with the car models popular during that decade. What little girl wouldn't be delighted with a “pretty in pink” model?

In fact, pink pedal cars are some of the most favored designs by those shopping for girls. Whether you favor the 1920s jalopy style, a two-tone '55 Chevy, or even a pedal plane, pedal toy manufacturers have begun creating pink versions of many classic styles. If your daughter is a girlie-girl, and a bright green or yellow model just won't do, look towards pink pedal cars for the perfect fit. Every little girl deserves a timeless, classic pedal car.

Even many of the classic designs – some of which have been in production continuously for the past five decades – are gender neutral. Both boys and girls love retro hot rods in bright red or blue. In fact, many would say that aside from pastel pink versions, any type of pedal ride-on toy is gender neutral. For generations, girls and boys have woken up on Christmas morning to find one sitting under the tree, or received one for their birthday with a big bow on the hood. There's nothing quite like giving your child his or her own set of wheels.

There are many classic toys that generations of children have grown up with and loved. These multi-generational toys can be enjoyed by both parents and children. The children can enjoy playing with the toy like their parents did, and the parents will enjoy sharing a part of their childhood with their own children. You may even find that this sense of nostalgia reminds you of long-forgotten moments in your own childhood. 

Many toys are just fads, coming and going very quickly. On the other hand, the popularity of some toys lasts for decades. You know that these toys must we well-liked or they simply would not be around anymore. One toy that is now celebrating 30 years of service to kids is the Cozy Coupe ride-on toy.

While many classic toys are known by name, like the Slinky or Silly Putty, the Cozy Coupe is not a toy that most people actually know by name. The Cozy Coupe is the familiar red and yellow plastic car the kids can sit in and ride. While few people may know the name of the Cozy Coupe many people rode around in one as a toddler, either at their own home or while playing at a friends house or at preschool. 

Made by Little Tikes, there have been more than 6 million of these toys sold since its introduction. The design has been described as a cross between Fred Flinstone's vehicle and a Volkswagen Beetle, and was created by a Chrysler designer. Outselling both the Ford Taurus and the Honda Accord, this toy has been a favorite of thousands of children.

Although the classic version of the Cozy Coupe features a red lower body with a yellow top, there have been many versions of this toy in the years since its 1970 introduction. They have made a few variant color schemes for girls, as well as gender neutral colors as well. One of the more popular variations was the Police version of the Cozy Coupe. There have also been toy gas pumps and other accessories to go along with this ride-on toy.

Some versions are decorated with stickers, while others rely on their brightly colored, molded plastic body for visual appeal. The more modern versions of the Cozy Coupe feature a light which kids can turn on, just like in a real car. Other features include a remote control that simulates the sounds of a horn honking, a car alarm, doors unlocking, and the engine starting. There is even a special edition of the Cozy Coupe released this year for the toy's 30th anniversary. The Special 30th Anniversary edition features a face molded into the plastic on the front, and comes in the iconic red and yellow color scheme.

It does not matter if you have a police Cozy Coupe, princess Cozy Coupe, 30th anniversary edition Cozy Coupe, or the classic iconic red and yellow Cozy Coupe, ride on toys are always lots of fun for kids. The Cozy Coupe will always be a toy you will fondly remember even if you do not know its name. The anniversary of this classic toy has caused a surge in the popularity of ride-on toys – from the Cozy Coupe itself to pedal cars and bicycles – as parents recall the fond memories of their own childhood.

Disney’s Toy Story 3 was one of the most popular and top grossing movies of all time. Many families went to see the Toy Story 3 movie, with kids and parents both enjoying the film together. While watching this latest Disney-Pixar creation, parents must have seen plenty of classic toys that they recalled from their childhood. Kids, meanwhile, were introduced to the previous generation's toys, some of which they probably also had at home.  Many toys in Toy Story 3 are classics and still made today, such as Mr. Potato Head or the Chatter Telephone.

The highest-grossing Disney-Pixar movie of all time, it has sparked demand for all kinds of retro toys, both those seen in the Toy Story movies and those that today's adults remember from their childhood. Many children may have simply said they wanted a particular toy like they saw in the movie, only to have a parent tell them they had one as a child or when they were a child they had wanted one. 

Toy Story 3 reminded adults of the toys of their past, spurring parents want their children to enjoy the same experiences they had as children. Kids also saw toys that they wanted to get. The movie has sparked an interest in not only the retro toys of Toy Story 3 but in classic toys in general.

With all the kids born in the 80's now starting families and buying toys for their little ones, classic toys from this generation are coming back strongly. This generation has shown a keen interest in reliving the past. Many popular 80’s kids' icons have become popular once more such as Transformers, My Little Ponies, and Care Bears, just to name just a few. 

While these 80’s classics had already started a comeback several years ago, the Toy Story 3 movie was able to spark an interest in all retro toys. While toys that were in the movie such as army men and Barbie saw the most interest, because parents started to be nostalgic for the toys they grew up with, retro toys have all started to experience a resurgence of interest.

Even those who weren't children in the 1980's were reminded of their childhood while watching Toy Story 3. Those who no longer have toddlers at home were reminded of the toys they had in the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s, and many ended up buying them for their grandchildren.

The Toy Story 3 movie was all about remembering and treasuring your childhood. With so many popular toys from real life in the movie it should be no surprise that the audience picked up on the theme of remembering their childhood. While Toy Story 3 may not make us kids again, it can help us to relive those days in our memories. Those memories fuel the interest in the past including those toys that we loved. As more people see Toy Story 3 more people will be interested in retro toys. Don't be surprised if you see many more retro toys hitting the shelves in the coming months.

People are becoming more and more concerned with the environment and the impact that they have on the Earth. As a result, green products and socially responsible products are becoming more and more popular in every aspect of daily life. Though some categories of products – clothing and cleaning supplies, for example – have been at the forefront of the eco-friendly movement, other types of products use a significant amount of resources without being noticed. Those who want to maintain eco-friendly standards in their home should look at all aspects of the items they purchase to determine the extent to which they harm the environment.

One such area is the world of kids' toys. However, with the new consumer interest and desire for green, eco-friendly, and socially responsible products, toy companies are beginning to be more socially conscious. Getting green and socially responsible toys not only helps save the planet for your children but it teaches the value you place on the environment as well.

Going green with toys sounds great but what are the toy options available to your family? Eco-conscious toys can be just as fun for kids as other toys. One of the keys to selecting toys responsibly is to focus on the materials and manufacturing process. Wooden blocks are a great example of this. Blocks are a classic toy, and for good reason. Generation after generation of kids have loved wooden toy blocks. Wood is a renewable resource, making it an excellent option for toys. However, some are greener and more responsible than others, depending on how the trees are harvested and the blocks are made. Some wooden toys do not come painted, but have natural finishes. Using natural wood finishes means that the toys are safer for children and do not use any paint which may have toxins or have been made in environmentally damaging ways.

Wooden toys are a great option, but may limit the range of toy types that you can buy while still being “green.” Luckily, there are other options. In general, it's best to avoid plastic toys, which typically require plenty of harmful chemicals to produce. Instead, opt for more durable playthings, such as metal toys. These will last for generations, so you'll get plenty of use out of them and they won't end up in a landfill by the time your child is a teenager. For example, many of the metal pedal cars made in the 1950s and 1960s are still around today. In another few decades, will anyone be able to say the same about mass-produced plastic toys?

Where can you get toys that won't unduly harm the environment? First, seek out companies that have committed themselves to responsible practices. Ask local toy stores if they have green or socially responsible toys. If enough people in your area want these toys, your local store may stock them. However, for the biggest variety of green, eco-friendly, and responsible toys, shop online. Getting green and socially responsible toys is not difficult. Choosing to go green is a choice that anyone can make.

What made Ford's Model T – introduced in 1908 – so innovative? Besides the fact that this was one of Ford's first successes in the car world, the vehicle itself was quite unusual for its time, causing waves throughout the industry. Just what makes the Model T so special?

Most people who know cars know of the Model T. Kids in school even learn about how Henry Ford made mass production possible. America has more cars than any other country in the world, and it's no longer unusual for a family to own two cars. You can thank Henry Ford and his Model T for that. The first thing most people think of when they think of the Model T and innovation is the assembly line. Though Henry Ford wasn't the only one adopting assembly line production during this time, when Henry Ford was able to mass produce a high value item and reduce the cost to a reasonable price, he changed the car world forever.

This innovation went on to change the face of manufacturing as we know it.  With the introduction of the assembly line in manufacturing, goods could be mass produced. The Model T is the reason kids can have a toy in their happy meal and household can own more than one TV.

The Model T also changed transportation. Regarded as the first affordable automobile, the Model T was an inexpensive car to purchase, which allowed many families to be able to afford their first vehicle. The standard 4-seat Model T cost $850 in 1909 (equivalent to about $20,000 today). By the 1920s, increasingly efficient production techniques allowed the price to fall to just $290 (roughly $3,258 in today's dollars). This car was much easier and cheaper to drive than any other vehicle on the road at that time. Known for being easy to learn to drive, replacement parts were also easy to come by thanks to the manufacturing process. The Model T was also more fuel efficient than other cars of its time. According to Ford, the vehicle achieved 13 to 21 mpg; this would put it ahead of many modern cars.

Because of the speed and low cost of traveling from place to place, people could live farther away from work. This lead to urban sprawl and the creation of the suburbs. With the introduction of affordable automobiles like Ford's Model T, people could work in the city but commute to the suburbs. Prices for goods also dropped as transporting those items became cheaper and faster. Though it was introduced more than a century ago, to this day the Model T affects our daily lives.

What about the actual vehicle made it innovative? The Model T was an upgraded version of the models N and S. Perhaps surprisingly, the design of the vehicle itself did not offer many innovations over these earlier models. Henry Ford's approach was to get things right the first time and then keep the design the same.

Named the “world's most influential car of the twentieth century,” by 1918 half of all cars on the road in the United States were Model Ts, and the model continues to be popular with vintage auto enthusiasts.

This Christmas, farm toys are no doubt going to be a part of your holiday wish list, as they are every year. If your little farmer is interested in farms and animals, you’re no doubt curious as to what you might put on your holiday gift list. There are some classics, of course. After all, who can forget the song “The Farmer in the Dell”? There are also plenty of newcomers to the farm toy market, making each Christmas shopping season different from the last. Here are some of the most popular farm toys this year:

1)  The John Deere pedal tractor - What says farm more than John Deere? This maker of grown-up farm implements is also known for their line of tractor toys. Perhaps the most popular of these is the John Deere pedal tractor. This season, your youngest farmer may be interested in a pedal car, and what better way to kill two birds with one stone than to purchase a John Deere pedal tractor? Featuring all metal siding and a seat that allows younger children to navigate around the barnyard without needing the balancing skills that would be required of them on a regular bicycle, this is a great way to pair imaginative farm play with outdoor exercise. The John Deere tractor pedal car will no doubt provide hours of active entertainment for younger children. Because it is larger than many other John Deere toys, for your best bet of finding it in stock buy online.

2) Scale models of farm equipment - Always one of the most popular farm-related toys for kids of all ages, there are several companies making scale models, including ERTL and John Deere. These toys will allow your children to play with a fraction of the real deal. Many different varieties of farm equipment are available, and your children can mix and match to create a mini-farm that is all their own.

3) Animal Toys - If you’re looking into farm toys, you’ll no doubt be interested in some of the animal toys that are available. Many of these toys are cast from durable plastic, and can be combined to create an authentic farm that includes horses, pigs and cattle. From the simplest styles designed for toddlers to more realistic models for older children, animals are a must-have for stocking the farm.

4) Trains - Trains are another piece of Americana that doesn't seem to fade in popularity where toys are concerned. If your child has set up a pretend farm, why not have a train track to run alongside it? There are, of course, many versions of the ever-popular toy train, from Thomas the Train for the preschool set to more elaborate setups with real working engines.

Regardless of the age, ability level or interests of your child, you’ll be able to find some great toys this holiday season. Farm toys are always in vogue, and so you will have plenty to choose from. From John Deere farm implements, including the pedal tractor, to models of farm animals and equipment, your child will have hours of fun with their pretend farm.