Nostalgic Candy That Is Still Cool for Kids

Nostalgic candy is still cool for kids. These 7 old-fashioned candies are retro and ready for the 21st century.

Smith Brothers Cough Drops: Like most kids, I thought the two bearded guys on the box had a lot more gravitas than the average cartoon character you see on most nostalgic candy. Then again, I'm not sure if people should really be consuming medicated cough drops like they're candy. Still, I'd give them to my kids in moderation for sore throats.

NECCO Wafers: I loved these old-fashioned candies for their pretty muted colors. Plus, everything sounds zippier when it ends in "o." The same company even makes those Sweethearts Conversation Hearts for Valentine's Day. I'd give both to my kids to discourage them from wearing clothing in ghastly colors and learn to express sentiments concisely.

Pop Rocks: I played with Pop Rocks when I was young but never learned the science behind their fizz. Now, I might want to give them to younger children with a discussion of how they're manufactured with carbon dioxide gas. These retro candies are also good for showing you not to believe everything you read online. Pop Rocks did not kill Mikey.

Atomic Fireballs: With their mild exterior and spicy insides, this nostalgic candy was great training for eating hot foods. Young kids can use them to prepare for ordering Bul Go Ki when they grow up.

Candy Necklaces: I'm all for safety but sometimes it goes too far. Thinking back, I remember wearing these things on hot summer days and sharing them with friends so just think of all the germs, dirt and perspiration and no one had ever heard of a hand sanitizer. Still, exposure to germs builds up your immune system so I'd give them to my kids.

Cinnamon Toothpicks: These retro toothpicks would actually be my top choice for candy to give to older children or to anybody. I never paid attention to the ingredients when I was little, but there are now brands with no sugar or chemicals.

Bazooka Bubble Gum: I'm a little conflicted about this nostalgic candy. As a kid, I loved the chunky rectangular shape and the Bazooka Joe comics which you could collect and exchange for kitschy merchandise. I'd gladly give my kids the sugar-free version but the color and smell seem different now and there are no more X-ray glasses.

All this nostalgic candy is great for kids.