12 Things That Were Meant For Kids But Adults Hijacked and Ruined Them

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Imagine a time when everything was just for kids. Toys, games, and activities were all created with young minds in mind. But as the years went by, something changed. Grown-ups began to take over these things meant for kids, and some say they’ve spoiled the fun.

1. Comic Books

Comic books were once a beloved form of entertainment designed to captivate the imaginations of children. However, in recent years, adults have swooped in and taken over this cherished medium. What was once a realm of colorful superheroes and whimsical adventures has transformed into a gritty, complex world of graphic novels and mature themes. While adults may argue that comics have evolved with them, some can’t help but feel nostalgic for the simpler, kid-friendly stories of yesteryears.

2. Video Games

Video games were initially created as an enjoyable pastime for kids. Yet, they have undergone a dramatic transformation, catering more to adults’ tastes in recent years. With the advent of realistic graphics and mature themes, many video games now feature violence, gore, and complex storytelling that’s far from the innocent fun they once were. The industry’s shift towards microtransactions and competitive esports has also made gaming a serious and sometimes stressful endeavor for adults, leaving little room for the carefree enjoyment it once provided to children.

3. Theme Parks

Theme parks have long been associated with childhood wonder and joy. However, adults have not been immune to the allure of these magical places. The rise of “adult nights” at theme parks, complete with alcohol and exclusive events, has blurred the line between child and adult enjoyment. This shift has sometimes resulted in rowdy behavior, disrupting the family-friendly atmosphere that these parks were originally designed to provide.

4. Animated TV Shows

Animated TV shows were initially crafted to entertain kids with colorful characters and simple life lessons. However, adults have taken a keen interest in this genre, leading to the creation of animated series that cater to a more mature audience. Shows like “Rick and Morty” and “BoJack Horseman” tackle complex themes like depression, addiction, and existential crises. While these series offer thought-provoking content, they have shifted the focus away from the lighthearted innocence of traditional children’s animation.

5. Toys and Collectibles

Toys have always been a beloved part of childhood, but adults have eagerly jumped into the world of collectibles and action figures. What started as a childhood fascination with action heroes has turned into a full-blown hobby for many adults. These collectors spend large sums on rare toys, leaving less availability for children to enjoy. In some cases, these adult collectors have driven up prices, making it even harder for parents to afford toys for their kids.

6. Coloring Books

Coloring books have traditionally been a cherished activity for kids, fostering creativity and fine motor skills. However, in recent years, adults have embraced the trend of adult coloring books. These intricate designs, often marketed as stress relief tools, have taken the joy out of coloring for children. With adults vying for the best colored pencils and elaborate shading techniques, the simple pleasure of filling in outlines with crayons has been overshadowed.

7. Amusement Parks

Amusement parks have long been a haven of joy and imagination for children. Yet, adults have muscled in on the fun by commandeering thrill rides and roller coasters. The rise of extreme theme park enthusiasts has resulted in longer lines for once-kid-friendly attractions. It seems that adults are no longer content to let kids have all the theme park excitement to themselves.

8. Board Games

Board games have been a staple of family fun for generations, but adults have brought their competitive spirit to the table, hijacking the experience. What was once a casual, enjoyable activity has turned into a high-stakes affair, with adult game nights becoming a serious social event. Games like Monopoly and Scrabble, originally designed for kids, are now battlegrounds for grown-ups seeking intellectual dominance.

9. Playground Equipment

Playgrounds, with their swings, slides, and jungle gyms, were once designed with children’s safety and enjoyment in mind. However, adults have turned these spaces into their own personal fitness centers. Calisthenics enthusiasts and outdoor gym-goers have taken over playgrounds, leaving little room for kids to play. The innocence of swinging on a swing set or climbing on a jungle gym has been compromised by adults seeking to sculpt their bodies.

10. Cartoons

Cartoons were a Saturday morning ritual for kids, offering colorful characters and fantastical adventures. However, adults have infiltrated this realm by obsessively dissecting the hidden meanings and themes in animated shows. Adult fans of cartoons like “Adventure Time” and “Steven Universe” have transformed these series into objects of deep analysis and discussion, stripping away some of the simplicity and wonder that made them appealing to children.

11. LEGO Sets

LEGO sets, those iconic interlocking plastic bricks, have been a cornerstone of childhood creativity for decades. Yet, adults have infiltrated the world of LEGO, turning it into a serious hobby. What used to be simple structures and imaginative playtime has evolved into intricate architectural projects and complex engineering marvels. Some adults have even pushed the boundaries of LEGO artistry to a point where it feels like they’ve taken the fun out of it for kids.

12. Toy Collecting

Toy collecting was once an innocent hobby for kids, as they gathered action figures, dolls, and playsets. However, adults have taken over this realm, turning it into a lucrative market. Collectors eagerly hunt for rare and vintage toys, often driving up prices and making it challenging for children to afford their favorite playthings. The joy of discovering a new toy on the shelf has become a treasure hunt for adults.