When our oldest started 3rd grade, she made it very clear: Nike sneakers were the shoes to have. Not just any Nikes, mind you—the Nikes. The ones every kid was wearing, talking about, comparing in class like they were rare gems passed down through generations. And honestly, I didn’t mind too much. She’s at an age where she’s starting to understand social dynamics, and we’ve always tried to find a balance between individuality and letting her enjoy the fun of fitting in. So we went with the Nikes—within budget, of course—and she walked into the school year feeling confident and connected.
But now?
It’s Labubu. Don’t ask me what a Labubu is (just kidding, I’ve now fallen down the internet rabbit hole and know more than I ever needed to about them). These little figurines have suddenly become the talk of the playground. Everyone has one—or wants one—and just like that, a new “must-have” item enters the rotation.
It always amazes me how fast these things spread among kids. One moment, it’s Pop-Its. Then Squishmallows. Then Crocs with Jibbitz. Now it’s Labubu. Blink and you’ll miss the next one.
Do they need these things? Of course not. But do they feel like they do when every friend at school is talking about it? Yep. And as parents, we walk that fine line: supporting our kids’ interests without giving in to every fleeting craze.
We're doing our best to teach our kids the value of things, to appreciate what they have, and not always chase what’s “in.” But I’ll admit it: sometimes saying yes to the trendy item is just a way to give them that little boost of belonging—because we all remember what it was like to be 8 and feel like the odd one out.
So for now, I’m just over here figuring out where to find a Labubu that doesn’t cost a small fortune and wondering how long before the next obsession rolls in.
Because if there’s one thing I’ve learned as a mom, it’s this: the trends will change, but the conversations in the car ride home from school? They’re forever priceless.
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