The best kind of playtime is one where the children are learning in some form, using their creative energy

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n my opinion, the best kind of playtime is one where the children are learning in some form, using their creative energy… and where the activity doesn’t get too messy. Here are some toys I’d love to get for my little ones — and my big ones too!

LEGO DOTS
Rainbow Jewelry Stand $14.99, target.com, ages 6+
Part activity, part jewelry display, this Lego set is the perfect size for a bedroom.

Paint
$11.07, amazon.com, ages 10+
Water-based and nontoxic, this paint creates a chalkboard effect on your wall — a fun activity for older kids. Once the paint is dry, use chalk or chalk markers and get creative!

HAPE
Flame Guitar $49.95, littlecanadian.ca, ages 5+
This cross between a guitar and a ukulele is the perfect size for your child to learn a new instrument or just play in an imaginary band.

LITTLE CHEF FLORENCE
Classic Play Kitchen $124.99, teamsonkids.com, ages 3+
A fully stocked play kitchen with a clean and simple look to better highlight the many fun elements, including oven, stove, microwave, sink, fridge, and clock.

THAMES & KOSMOS
Structural Engineering: Bridges & Skyscrapers, $37.46, amazon.com, ages 8+
Do your boys wonder how bridges span huge distances and how skyscrapers stay standing? With this kit, they can learn the basics of structural engineering by conducting 20 model-building experiments.

(Originally featured in Family Room, Issue 010)