I don’t know exactly how long I’ve loved Slinkys. I never truly appreciated them as a child, but when I reached my second childhood, I saw the light…shimmering off of its coils…

A Slinky is not just a toy, its a physics project, stress-reliever, radio antenna, weapon…it can be anything that you want it to be!

The Slinky is also a famous Hollywood and TV star! It has shown up in movies like: Ace Ventura 2, Hairspray, Toy Story, Demolition Man, and Other People’s Money! (as well as many other movies) And not only is the Slinky TV jingle one of the most recognized in America, MTV’s The State has even did a skit on the Slinky.

Why has the Slinky endured so long in a world where toys come and go in the flash of one Christmas season?

Its a simple toy in the world of lights and buzzers and complicated technology. It is a toy that brings back memories. Grandparents and parents remember the fun they had as children with Slinkys and buy their children or grandchildren one.

The Slinky is a tool for the imagination, and so will outlive the Barbies and GI Joes. And when the adult is cringing at the thought of once succumbing to the Mighty Morphin Power Rangers, they will fondly remember the Slinky (if nothing else how they destroyed theirs).

Looks like this guy may even love Slinkys more than me: