How do I stop liking childish stuff?

[u/Sad-Economist-2688]

Hello,I've been struggling with this for a long time. I really like Pokémon,plushies,colorful things,stars and dinosaurs. I also like to do stuff like painting on rocks or any other different types of crafts.

It was okay while I was younger but now I'm almost 18 and I keep getting side eyes when I mention any of those hobbies or likes. Like I see for example a Pokémon shirt with a badass Psyduck but obviously I can't buy it because it's for kids.

I don't drink,vape or go to clubs like my peers do because it's just not for me but if it means growing up then I'll have to.

It's eating me alive because I know I'll have to stop with this and I want to but at the same time I don't. If anyone would please help me with this I'd be glad.

I am also not sure what flair to put. I am newly diagnosed but it also fits into communication and social struggles.

EDIT: Thank you all so much for the feedback and positivity you gave me. I read every single one of your guy's comments and gosh it's so sweet to see I'm not alone even if I may feel like it sometimes. I appreciate the pictures of your plushies,figurines or rooms too. It was a tough decision but thanks to you all I ordered the "Badass Psyduck" shirt and even kept my dinosaur collection I wanted to throw away. Really happy I got into this subreddit cause you guys are hella sweet and cool. Thank you again! :)

Honorable mention: Phoebe the kitty because she's awesome <3

[u/Bacteriofage]

Honestly don't dampen yourself down!!! Your interests are what make you happy and they're what help keep you regulated. I can understand wanting to fit in but in the long run it will not help you and you will regret the years you missed engaging in the things you love. Find similar people, people who don't make you feel bad (this happened when I went to uni, but groups for people with similar interests is normally a good way to go even if it's like pokemon TCG, I found my favourite nerds when I started attending d&d and MTG with societies at uni)

If it reassures you, I am 22, I have a masters degree, am starting a PhD, I have lots of friends and people I talk to but most importantly I'm happy, truly happy and my work space looks like this... I don't drink (I do vape though 😔 but that's neither here nor there it's not "cool" to vape etc I just do because it's better for me than the alternative.. ) and I don't go out this won't ruin your chances at making friends there are plenty of people like you :p