As an uncle, is there an opposite version of this list?
Pokemon cards.
Even kids who can't read yet will somewhat play with them outside of the rules. Except they're fragile, easy to lose, will bring fights and other troubles as they grow up, and cost a ton more money if they really get hooked.
If in doubt, buy a musical instrument.
Or paint. Or glitter.
Anything that makes noise; squeaky toys, fart sound generators, lazer guns, etc
Any sort of goo or slime.
Yes. It's starts and ends with Perfection.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perfection_(board_game)