Parents everywhere have some pretty set views on screen time. Are screens a great way to get kids to take a break? Yes. Are they less messy than a box of Legos? Of course. But too much screen time isn't viewed as a positive. It can be educational, but it can kill a kid's natural sense of imagination.
Toys have evolved a lot throughout time. The standard cup-and-ball was one of the first toys around, and it required young children to use skill. Marbles were also big back in the day. Of course, Barbies have helped children use their imaginations since 1959.
These kinds of toys are still being made today. Even though Barbie's Dreamhouse is technically now an iPad app as well, toys are still being cranked out that'll remind kids that, like Barbie, they can be anything they want when they grow up. Simpler toys will help kids create better stories in their mind, and it's always important to have a variety that'll encourage your children to think outside the box.
Here are 10 simple toys that are worth picking up, especially for younger kids.
1. 100-Piece TimberBlocks
$28.95
from
Fat Brain Toys
Every kid should have a set of blocks at their home. Blocks are a great way to build and create. This specific set has blocks in plenty of vibrant colors, sizes, and shapes. It is bound to brighten up any playroom.
2. Lego Disney Frozen Elsa & Nokk Storybook Adventures
Frozen II came out in 2019, but it's still a hit with kids — especially kids who have access to Disney+ and can watch it every day. Small playsets like this are a great way to let your child's imagination soar. Whenever there are figurines and a set you can build to play with them in, you have hours of creative fun.
3. Magformers Shimmer and Shine 22-Piece Building Set
Magformers are another way to get your child to create something incredible. What are Magformers, you may ask? They're three-dimensional magnetic blocks that help your child think outside the box. This set will allow kids to create items like gondolas and genie lamps, so they're not like your standard toy.
4. BeYumi Princess Pretend Jewelry, 66 Pieces
Does your child like to play pretend? Being a princess is common for many kids. Why not spark their creativity with this set that includes everything you need to turn your child into a member of the royal family?
5. Jeowoqao Dress-Up Costumes Set
Sometimes, princess stuff won't cut it. Kids will love dressing up as a chef or construction worker in this collection of costumes. Ideal for children between the ages of 3 and 6, your kids will feel pretty mature with these fun clothes. They'll be able to imagine they're professionals, like mom and dad.
6. KidKraft Uptown Play Kitchen
Buying a play kitchen can be a huge purchase, but it's a wonderful toy to invest in. That's because they can spark a ton of creativity. If your child always likes to watch you cook, this essential set is a must, especially if they're hoping to learn more. It's never too early to teach your kids how to cook. Kohl's has it available in two great color schemes.
7. Box & Balls
$32.95
from
Fat Brain Toys
Looking for a simple game? Look no further than Box & Balls, a game that contains everything you'd imagine from the title. This game requires a bit of skill, as players need to find ways to have their ball bounce on every box in the box formation. This is also great for eye-hand coordination.
8. Chalk Alive Large Boxed Set
$12.99
from
Barnes and Noble
Chalk, by itself, is one of the simplest toys for kids to find their creativity. Normally, standard chalk is a fine gift. But this set is different from the rest. That's because when you use the stencils that are included, you can take a picture of your drawing and watch it come to life in 4D on your phone. So it's simple but with a twist.
9. Melissa & Doug Construction Set in a Box
Melissa & Doug knows what it's doing when it comes to toys. It's a name that any parent can trust. So this construction kit is a must-have and would also make for a great gift. It inspires kids to build, create, and think outside the box. Who knows what kind of creations they'll come up with?
10. Kids Paint Set
Painting is one of the best activities for kids of any age. And when you have the right equipment, it's a great thing for kids to play with. This set comes with everything you need, from smocks to easels. Twenty-four tubes of acrylic paint are also included. See what kind of masterpieces your kids come up with.
*Psst: if you choose to purchase an item from this post, LittleThings.com may receive a small cut. Each item and price is up to date at the time of publication; however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
