Toys continue to evolve as the toy manufacturers develop newer and more sophisticated ways to keep children interested in their product. Despite recent developments, such as video games or electronic toys, there are 7 toys that have remained a constant, throughout the years, in capturing a child's imagination and offering hours of entertainment.

1. Hula hoop

The Hula hoop has emerged again after its popularity explosion in the late 1950's. Today, hula spinners add ribbons to their hoops to enhance the visual experience with a bit of colour. Other additions include glow-in-the dark, sparkling, or even tape with patterns. The hoops themselves can be clear, filled with glitter or even water, all with the intention to catch the eye of the spectator.

2. Slinky

Everyone knows it's slinky - especially children. Slinky has been popular for over 60 years and still slides down stairs, alone or in pairs. When it was first introduced it was made of metal. Now, the slinky is plastic and can even glow in the dark. Children love to race, drop and find anything tangible to plunge the slinky down.

3. Barbie

Barbie has undergone many transformations, gathered new friends, homes, cars and a myriad of wardrobe changes. However, one thing remains constant: kids love her and continue to find new and countless ways to reinvent her world.

4. Rubixs cube

Since the 70s, the 2 1/4" 3D cube remains a puzzle to be solved. On each side of the cube, there are six faces with nine stickers on each side. Each face is covered by nine stickers and the goal consists of making each face the same solid colour. Videos, competitions and world records have been created for the coveted solution.

5. Teddy Bear

Fuzzy, cute and irresistible. The teddy bear is the perfect child's companion. He listens to secrets, is always present at tea parties and snuggles every night. Recently, the teddy bear gained a voice with Teddy Rukspin but the classic still remains close to every child's heart.

6. Yo-Yo

Even though the first recorded yo-yo was in 500 BC, they were first made trendy in the 1920s. Today, the tradition continues and is embraced by both children and adults. Simply, the yo-yo is thrown up or down into the air, while attached to a string, and then makes its way back toward the person's hand. More advanced tricks include, "walk the dog", or the "sleeper" pose. From there, competitions and speed races have immersed themselves within the yo-yo faithful followers. It's amazing how many tricks can be invented from a simple disc and string.

7. Frisbee

An enduring toy, enjoyed by children and adults of all ages, is named after a pie company. The original Frisbee was modelled after a pie pan from the Frisbee pie company. This pie cupped disc, today made of light-weight plastic, has been popular for many decades, and has even spawned a new sport: Frisbee golf. A simple toy, capable of traversing long, gliding arcs can entertain men, women, children and even dogs, for hours on end. Invented long ago, and marketed by Wham-O the Frisbee can often be seen in parks where people gather to throw it between or amongst them.