When a Toy Costs More Than a Game Console
The designer toy market has exploded, with rare Labubu figures by Kasing Lung selling for 500−1000+ in resale markets. For kids begging for these collectibles, this presents a golden opportunity to teach financial literacy, emotional intelligence, and thoughtful consumption—if parents frame it right.
More: Labubu & Parenting: How to Turn Toy Collecting into a Learning Experience
Lesson 1: “Why Is This Little Toy So Expensive?”
Discuss Scarcity & Art Value
- “Some Labubus are rare because only 100 exist worldwide—that’s fewer than kids in your school!”
- Show how artist collaborations (like Labubu x Starbucks) increase value.
- Compare to Pokémon cards or sneakers they understand.
Play “Investigator”
- Have them research:
- Original price ($15-30 for most blind boxes)
- Why some sell for 50x more (limited editions, defects, hype)
Lesson 2: Smart Spending vs. Hype
The “3-Question Rule” Before Buying
- “Do I love it, or just want it because others do?”
- “Could I enjoy a $20 version just as much?”
- “Will I still want this in 1 month?”
Set a Collecting Philosophy
- ”Treasure Hunter”: Only buy what they truly adore (even if it’s cheap)
- ”Investor Lite”: Save for 1 special piece/year (with your guidance)
More: Do Kids Like Labubu? The Answer & Why They’re So Popular
Lesson 3: Creativity > Cash
”Make Your Own Rare Labubu”
- Customize cheaper figures with paint, clay, or LED lights
- Start a ”Labubu Fan Art” gallery at home
Track Hype Cycles
- Notice how prices spike/drop after collabs or social media trends
- Teach: “Today’s 1000toycouldbe50 next year”
Lesson 4: When Others Flaunt Expensive Toys
Scripts for Handling FOMO
- “Jamie’s dad spent $800 on that Labubu? Wow! Let’s see if we can trade for something cool instead.”
- Role-play polite responses to peer pressure about pricey items
Highlight Non-Monetary Value
- “Your friend’s rare Labubu can’t do THIS…” (showcase their custom art/stories)
Parent Cheat Sheet
✔ For young kids: Use piggy bank math (“This costs 100 weeks of allowance!”)
✔ For teens: Explore resale ethics (scalpers vs. true collectors)
✔ For all ages: Emphasize joy of the hunt over price tags
Final Thought: Luxury Toys as Life Teachers
While not every family can (or should) spend hundreds on vinyl art, the Labubu craze offers something priceless: a chance to discuss money, desire, and self-worth before consumer culture does it for you.
Try This Weekend: Pick one “ordinary” Labubu and challenge your child to make it extraordinary—no price tag required. 🎨✨
