They were plastic, of many colors, and had slits and notches in them, so that they could be attached to each other. Graham was in awe of these sticks. Nowadays, he uses them to construct fences and cages for various small plastic animals that we have at our house. Children usually have pretty extensive video collections at their own homes. Invite them to bring a few with them when they come to visit.
Children love to watch the same tapes over and over again.
If you want to buy some videos to keep at your house, buy something that is different for them. Try some educational tapes such as the ones produced by National Geographic magazine. They are specifically geared towards children and will be a treat for them to see whenever they visit you. Coloring books and crayons are just as popular today as they were when you were little. Books are always a great idea, too.