The Importance of Gender Neutral Toys for Kids

The term “gender neutral” toy is a misnomer. It doesn’t make a great deal of sense as toys cannot have a gender and we’re of course referring to the gender of the child who the toy is marketed at. Research from Michigan State University found that it is the toy manufacturers, advertisers, and society itself that have, over the decades, designated certain toys as being for boys and others for girls. It has become the norm for us to associate blue with boys and pink with girls, but this has been the work of the toy industry itself, quickly supported by society enforcing these stereotypes.

The same MSU study mentioned above also suggests that society has used toys as a means for positioning children for their “correct” gender roles. Both subtly and not so subtly girls are pushed to play with dolls, makeup sets and purses. Their focus should be on making themselves and their homes look beautiful whilst “playing house” and “playing mom” in a traditional nurturing role. On the other hand, young boys are taught that they should be interested in cars, building, weapons, and other aggressive subjects, positioning themselves as heads of families, communities, and the workplace.

While many children are happy in their gender identity, plenty are not, and with strict gender stereotypes at play, there is not an inclusive and safe environment for children who may not currently be confident in either of the “set” gender roles. Gender-designated toys teach children that there is a right and wrong way to be and as research has shown more than once, gender is not fixed, so children shouldn’t feel limited in their play.

Where do Gender Stereotypes Come From?

Gender stereotypes have some basis in survival and historical necessity. The first civilizations required everyone to contribute for their communities to survive. As men tend to be naturally larger and more physically strong they took on the role of hunters and protectors of the communities. The high risk involved in hunting meant it did not make sense for women, who naturally produced and provided nutrition for the young, to be involved in hunting. Instead they took on the role of gatherers as well as caring for the young.

There are examples of women hunters in history but they tend to be the exception not the rule. Therefore, the stereotype that men protect and lead was born. The idea that men were aggressive and women were gentle also comes from this same idea, as men would kill for food while women nurtured the young and cared for the home. These are the first examples of a patriarchal society becoming the norm, with men taking all positions of power and women’s opportunities were limited.

As the world became more mechanised, industrial revolutions took place and the physical strength necessary at the beginning of civilization was no longer necessary to survive and thrive, gender stereotypes still prevailed. Clubs and spears gave way to swords and guns that did not take great strength to use. Farm machinery made it possible for anyone to plough, regardless of their physical strength, yet the original stereotype of men’s and women’s roles did not change. Women were largely out of the world of work until the 19th century, when they began becoming more regularly seen working in factories and other businesses. To this day, we still have a clear and shameful pay gap between men and women.

The most obvious gender stereotypes we encounter today come from advertisement and manufacturers. Particularly in the toys market and they are once again supported by comments from family, from school and from society as a whole. Girls are pushed into the idea of caring about their looks, a clean and tidy home and nurturing children when playing.  Boys should be aggressive, passionately into sports and find vehicles fascinating.

These gender stereotypes have been reinforced for generations by toys that have been targeted by gender. Manufacturers have used pink and blue to ensure that parents and children know which toys are supposed to interest which gender. However, try as they might, not all toys can be designated as one gender or another.

The Problem with Gender Designated Toys

Gender designated toys do have their supporters and they suggest that biology dictates the kind of toy a child will gravitate towards. Girls will prefer to play with dolls, princesses, makeup and beauty toys and domestic toys. However, boys will opt for construction vehicles, guns and even math-related toys. This may be true for some children but it is hard to see whether children are actively choosing their “correct” gendered toy or are simply driven by society and the need to conform.

History has shown that individual children are indeed individual, and may have interests that flout gender expectations. Many girls excel in math and science, and have little or no interest in playing with dolls or play kitchens. Or they may enjoy both playing with cars and racing sets and their dolls. There are also many boys who prefer imaginative and role play games, may love to bake and create alongside their other toys. The pressure to be gentle for girls or aggressive for boys can be damaging and have an impact on them, not allowing their natural and innate characteristics and personalities to form.

By sending the message that little girls who prefer “boy toys” are tomboys, and little boys who prefer “girl toys” are sissies, we are telling our children that there is something unnatural about their interests, and they are less feminine or masculine than they “should” be.

The problem with forcing children into playing with only neutral toys, however, is that we are preventing them from reaching their full potential. As parents and educators, we should want to do everything we can to allow and help our children reach their potential. This means letting go of the idea of gender designated toys, and allowing children to play with all toys, and not just those that are specifically marketed as neutral.

Gender Neutral Toys have Always Existed

Gender neutral has become somewhat of a buzzword when in reality, these kinds of toys have always been available. There have always been toys such as Lincoln logs and natural colored building blocks, wagons, art supplies, puzzles, puppets, stuffed animals, plastic farm or zoo animals, shape sorters, sand toys, sleds, and so much more. Unfortunately, many toys that should be gender neutral have, at least in the not too distant past, been made gender specific by manufacturers who were looking to cash in on those who believed that gender roles should be reinforced. Toys as simple as dump trucks and diggers have been manufactured in bright pink to make them “okay” for girls to play with. A good example of this is the Danish company LEGO. They have created complete ranges in pink, purple and pastel colors hoping to attract female fans.

Why Gender Neutral Toys Are Important for Girls

The idea of a patriarchal society is something we have already mentioned and it is precisely this which makes gender neutral toys and play so important for young girls. Of course, there are female doctors, even at times when it was practically unheard of, but this can still be seen as going against the grain of the stereotypical female role. Women have had to fight and work hard to overcome obstacles and achieve the same if not more than their male counterparts.

However, parents of girls no longer accept this. more parents are telling their daughters that they can (and should) do whatever they want; they are encouraging them to follow their interests rather than be stuck in clearly defined gender roles. This is why it is so important for little girls to not only be encouraged to play with gender neutral toys, but also to be encouraged to play with all toys, or those that interest them, even if they’re seen as “for boys”. All children should be encouraged to follow their natural interests and play in a way which keeps them engaged and happy, finding their own talents in whatever field that might be.

Similarly, boys should have access to the same range of toys and find their own path. Research shows people who find it hard to define their gender in later life or are different to the gender they were assigned at birth often had difficulties at a young age with play. The opportunity to play with all toys is essential for children’s wellbeing and finding out who they are in many ways. That doesn’t mean that little girls should be discouraged from playing with “girly toys” if that is truly what they want. However, alongside those toys, girls should be given gender neutral and some “boyish” toys to give them the full range of toys to play with. After all, there is nothing wrong with Barbie driving a dump truck or a bulldozer instead of a pink convertible.

Common Gender Neutral Toys

Anyone looking to increase the range of gender neutral toys for their children could consider any of the following:

  • Wheeled toys, including cars, wagons, walkers, bikes, trikes, scooters, skateboards and skates
  • Shape sorters (mainly for young toddlers)
  • Assorted building materials, including Lincoln logs, magnetic blocks, Duplo and Lego blocks, building sticks and K’Nex
  • Tossing games, such as corn hole, ring toss, darts and Frisbee
  • Puzzles (great for children of all ages)
  • Puppets
  • Art supplies, including clay, crayons, coloring pencils, paint and drawing paper
  • Balls of various sizes
  • Playground equipment, including swings, slides, merry go rounds, teeter totters, climbing ropes, ladders and walls
  • Microscopes, telescopes, chemistry sets, magnifying glasses, bug catching kits
  • Fort building sets
  • Board games of all different types
  • Stamp sets 

This list is not exhaustive and also shouldn’t be used counter intuitively. We should be trying to change the narrative that there are gender designated toys and in fact, all toys are gender neutral.

Better Understanding is Leading to Progress

Many parents are exasperated when they see the rows of boys and girls’ toys in stores up and down the country, but there really is progress being made. Parents are demanding that stores drop the gendered toy sections, so children can feel less self-conscious when exploring and finding the toys they like. Boys shouldn’t feel uncomfortable in the “pink aisle” of the store or girls in the “blue aisle”. There is a push to stock similar toys together rather than gendered toys together, so dolls would be alongside action figures for example.

Some companies are now rising to meet the demand. Mattel, for example, has come up with a gender neutral doll that allows kids to create a doll with the look that they want it to have. Wonder Crew, meanwhile, is a company that makes dolls who are just like real boys, labeling them as “crewmates” to take away the stigma that is associated with boys playing with dolls.

While progress continues, if we want to raise children who are free to explore and reach their full potential, then we, as parents and the first educators of our children, need to strive to offer our children toys of different types. This will give them the opportunity to discover their own interests without worry about gender, and enable them to explore their identity without feeling forced into stereotypes.

15 Best Fake Press On Nails Your Daughter Will Absolutely Love

Little girls love playing dress up including experimenting with makeup, nail polish and even fake nails. Press on nails for young girls are fun to use and makes girls feel glamorous when dressing up for picture day or just for playing dress up.

To help you when shopping for fake nails set we have put together a list of the best fake nails for kids just below.

Tips for Finding the Best Fake Nails for Kids

If you are looking to purchase some cute fake nails for the little girl in your life then here are some tips that will help you to find the best nails available.

Our List of the Best Press-On Fake Nails for Kids

1

240-Piece Nail Art Set

Summary

This large fake nail set for kids comes with 10 boxes of short faux nails with each box containing 24 nails. These nails come in a number of different patterns and are pre-glued and press on nails that are easy to put on.

Pros

  • Kids love how these nails look when they are on
  • The designs in this set are extremely cute and colorful
  • Great variety of patterns that appeal to kids of different ages

Cons

  • Some people have difficulty getting these nails to sticks

What age is this recommended for?

These press on nails are best suited for children ages 5 years and up

2

120-Piece Children’s Press on Nails

Summary

This 120-piece nail set is made from toxic free high quality ABS material. The nails come in 12 different sizes. If the glue on your set isn’t activated then heat the nails with a hair dryer to reactivate the glue.

Pros

  • These nails are easy to put on and take off
  • The nails come in a variety of cute designs
  • You can mix and match the nails from the different packs

Cons

  • These fake nails fall off some children’s nails quite easily.

What age is this recommended for?

This nail set is recommended for children ages 5 years and up

3

Maity’s 120-Piece Press On Nails Set

Summary

This press on nail set comes in 5 separate boxes of nails with 24 nails per box. These nails come in 12 different sizes and are made from ABS plastic.

Pros

  • These nails come in cute designs
  • The variety of sizes makes it possible for these nails to fit different age children
  • These nails are easy to put on

Cons

  • The glue on these nails do not stick on well

What age is this recommended for?

These nails are made for children 4 years and up

4

144-Piece False Nail Set For Kids

Summary

This press on nail set for girls comes with 6 boxes of nails containing 24 pre-glued nails in each box. These nails are made from ABS material that is not easy to break. These nails come in bright colors and graphics.

Pros

  • These nails have bright and cute designs
  • Easy enough for young girls to apply themselves
  • Makes great party favors for girls

Cons

  • These nails do come off easily

What age is this recommended for?

These nails will work for many children ages 3 years old and up

5

Vivace 4-Pack Junior Sticker Nails

Summary

This sticker nail set comes with a total of 48 pre glued nails in a variety of colors and graphics. Just press on these nails and shape.

Pros

  • There is a good variety of nails
  • The nails in this set are really cute
  • These nails are good quality and can be worn more than once

Cons

  • You really need 2 sets of nails to do both hands

What age is this recommended for?

These nails are best suited for children ages 7 years old and up

6

Melliex 96-Piece Nail Set

Summary

These cute fake nails are made from lightweight ABS material. These are colorful press on nails that come in 4 patterns including colorful ice cream, hearts, fish and polka dots.

Pros

  • Easy to apply these nails
  • The quality of these nails is good

Cons

  • Nails come off too easily

What age is this recommended for?

These press on kid’s nail are best suited for children ages 5 years old and up

7

Cute Animals Designs Press On Nail Kit

Summary

These little girls press on nails come in a set of 10 boxes with 24 nails in each box. This set has cute animal designs such as cats, rabbits, foxes and bears. Made of ABS material.

Pros

  • These press on nails are bright colors and graphics
  • These nails fit children of different ages
  • Nails are easy for children to put on

Cons

  • These nails are not very sticky

What age is this recommended for?

These fake nails for girls are suitable for children ages 5 years old and up

8

Juniors Artificial Nails Kit

Summary

This 7-pack set of fake nails for girls come with a total of 84 nail tips in a variety of bright colors and fun designs. These are press on nails that are pre-glued with an adhesive.

Pros

  • These nails don’t bend or break easily
  • The designs are very cute and bright
  • The nails are easy to apply

Cons

  • There are not enough of each nail design for both hands

What age is this recommended for?

These nails are suitable for most children ages 4 years old and up

9

Beautia 3-Pack Kids Glue On Nails

Summary

This set of acrylic nails for tweens comes in 3 packs of french tip nails for a total of 72 nails in various sizes so that they will fit several different age children.

Pros

  • These nails are good quality for kids nails
  • The French tips with glitter are really cute and well done
  • These nails are easy to apply

Cons

  • Many of these nails don’t hold for an extended period of time

What age is this recommended for?

These nails are best suited for children ages 9 years old and up to 13 years old

10

120-Piece Pretty Glitter Press On Fake Nail Set

Summary

This 120-piece Glitter Nails Set is made from ABS material and comes in 24 different sizes and 5 different colorful designs. This set of nails are easy to trim and file making a perfect fit for young girls fingers.

Pros

  • These nails are well shaped
  • Cute colorful designs for young children
  • Can be reused

Cons

  • Some people feel that the adhesive on these nails don’t stick well

What age is this recommended for?

These nails are recommended for kids ages 5 years and up

11

Pink Flamingo Nail Set

Summary

This set of Flamingo nails for young girls are short and come in 9 small sizes. Made of ABS material these nails won’t break easily. These nails come in 3 different themes Flamingo, Unicorn, and Hamster.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • These fake nails won’t damage your natural nails
  • Bright colors and cute designs

Cons

  • Some people have problems getting these nails to stick

What age is this recommended for?

These nails are recommended for children 5 years and up.

12

Townley Girl Disney Princess Nails for Girls

Summary

This set of Disney press on nails is great for little girls since they are easy to apply and you get your choice of 4 great themes including Frozen 11, Disney Princess, Minnie Mouse, or My Little Pony.

Pros

  • These nails are easy to apply and take off
  • Kids can mix and match designs
  • Great graphics that kids love

Cons

  • The adhesive does not hold well

What age is this recommended for?

These fake Disney nails for girls are recommended for kids age 6 and up

13

96-Piece Cute Designs Kids Fake Nails

Product Currently Out Of Stock!

Summary

This false nails set comes in 4 boxes of 24 nails each. The nails are extremely durable and flexible and come in bright colors with clear clean lines.

Pros

  • Easy to apply no mess
  • These nails have cute designs
  • The nails have wonderful clear colors kids love

Cons

  • The adhesive on these nails don’t stick well

What age is this recommended for?

These nails are best suited for children 7 years and up to 10 years old

14

60-Piece Mermaid & Glitter Nails

Summary

This Mermaid and glitter nails set for kids consists of 60 short disposable nails for children. The nails come in 4 cute designs and contain adhesive right on the nail.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Bright colors
  • Clear graphics on the nails

Cons

  • These nails don’t remain on the nails well

What age is this recommended for?

These nails are recommended for children ages 3 and up to 12 years old

15

Gradient Color Rainbow Children’s Fake Nails

Summary

These rainbow colored acrylic infused nails are designed to be long lasting and are perfect for little girls who enjoy playing dress up.

Pros

  • These nails come in great colors
  • Easy to apply because of self adhesive
  • These fake nails stay on the natural nails well

Cons

  • These nails are a poor fit for many young kids

What age is this recommended for?

This set of nails is best suited for children ages 6 years and up

Conclusion to Finding The Best Fake Nails for Kids

If you are looking for a great stocking stuffer, Small gift for a Valentine’s basket, or party favors for young girls who love fake nails then one of these nail sets may be just what you are looking for.

Best Earbuds for Kids in 2024

Are you looking for the best earbuds for kids to listen to their favorite music or take part in online classes? If so you’re in luck because we’ve rounded up some of the best options in our list below.

This guide will show some of the features of the very best earbud style kids headphones on the market today. You’ll also find out everything you need to know about choosing between the many different models on offer, so you can find a great pair of headphones for your little one.

Our List of the Best Kids headphones and Earbuds

If you’re after a pair of headphones for your boy or girl simply have a look at our list below, by using our reviews you’re sure to save time when shopping!

1

Devil Horn Earphones (Best Overall)

Product Currently Out Of Stock!

The first of our earbuds for kids are these fun and quirky devil true wireless earbuds. These won’t break the bank, yet they offer some pretty impressive features that your kids are sure to love.

These earbuds have active noise cancellation, so kids will be able to block out any unwanted noise – don’t blame us if they start to ignore you! They are also waterproof with an IPX5 rating, so they are splash-proof at any angle.

The buds are super light and comfortable, with three pairs of ear tips to ensure a snug fit for everyone. The battery life is very good – six hours on a single charge, and they can be recharged several times using the case.

Pros
  • Splash-proof
  • Very lightweight
Cons
  • Could easily be lost by children
  • More expensive than some other options
What makes this stand out?

The lightweight, true wireless design and active noise cancellation are impressive features usually found on more expensive models.

2

Cat Emoji Kids Earbuds (Close 2nd)

Another excellent pair of kids earbuds are these cute kitty-themed headphones. Coming with a choice of several different colors and styles, these are simply perfect for any young cat lover.

The in-ear headphones even come with a carry case to keep them protected when not in use. While the audio performance might not be the same as a $200 pair, these are more than worth it for the price.

You can control the volume output from the cable, so you don’t even have to reach for your device. Cat lovers are sure to be delighted with this cute, fun gift.

Pros
  • Excellent value for money
  • Adorable design
Cons
  • No volume limitation
  • Only compatible with 3.5mm headphone jack
What makes this stand out?

The cute and colorful designs are perfect for kids to express their personality – they’re great for children who love to stand out!

3

Unicorn Earbuds for kids

Another great pair of in-ear headphones with animal designs, this gift set is perfect for any little unicorn lover.

Not only do you get the earbuds, but the set also comes with a keychain and a small purse, as well as a gift box and gift card to make this easy to give as a gift to the special child in your life.

Whilst these don’t have noise isolation or hearing protection features, they do offer excellent audio quality. Kids can experience deep bass notes as well as clear, crisp trebles to ensure their favorite music always sounds amazing. The cable is designed to be tangle-free, which is a feature moms and kids alike are sure to love!

Pros
  • Cute gift set
  • All-round good quality sound
Cons
  • Lack of color options
  • Not volume limiting
What makes this stand out?

The set contains everything you need to make an excellent gift for any youngster who loves unicorns, and the sound quality is great, too.

4

LilGadgets Best Buds Headphones

Our next pair of kids headphones have a maximum volume limit to protect your child’s hearing. This means the volume level is lower than on adult earbuds, but the earbuds also have noise reduction so you can hear more detail in the music.

There are other kid-friendly features on these headphones, too. They have a tangle-free cable and are made from durable materials to withstand some rough handling from kids. And, they come with a splitter so another child can connect their earbuds, so both can listen to one device. They won’t need to have one bud each anymore!

Pros
  • Volume limited
  • Tangle-free design
Cons
  • Might not fit younger children
  • Some customers report they break easily, however, the company provides a replacement
What makes this stand out?

These volume-limited earbuds are safe for kids to use, and they come with useful accessories, including a carry case and a splitter.

5

JVC Memory Fom Earbuds

These are perhaps the most comfortable and best-fitting headphones a person can buy! The tips are made from soft memory foam – nicknamed ‘marshmallow’. This means they can be shaped to fit any sized ear.

They might not be volume limiting to protect against hearing loss, as they are designed to be enjoyed by the whole family.

These make great kids headphones because they come in a huge choice of colors – there is sure to be something here your child will love. And, the cord is designed to be tangle-free.

Pros
  • Loads of great color options
  • Very comfortable and fit just about any ears
Cons
  • Not volume limited
  • Slightly cheap plastic construction
What makes this stand out?

These earbuds are very comfortable thanks to the ‘marshmallow’ memory foam tips, which fit almost everyone.

6

L.O.L. Surprise! Earphones

Our next pair of headphones are sure to go down a treat with kids who love LOL dolls. Parents are sure to be popular after buying their kids these!

They might not have a volume limit or decibel limitation to protect little ones against hearing loss or hearing damage, but they do offer impressive 3D stereo sound.

These headphones are incredibly comfortable, and there are different sizes of rubber tips to ensure the perfect fit no matter what size your kids’ ears are. The wireless headphones are compatible with a wide range of devices, and your kids won’t be limited by the length of a cable.

Pros
  • Can be recharged five times with the case for 25 hours total playback
  • LOL Surprise theme is sure to be popular with youngsters
Cons
  • Can’t limit the volume levels
  • More expensive than some other models
What makes this stand out?

Kids are sure to be thrilled with the LOL Surprise design, and the sound quality is incredible, too. These would make a great gift for kids who love collecting LOL dolls and merchandise.

7

Voguish Headphones

Our final pick is a pair of wireless headphones that allow you to limit the volume levels to help prevent damage to your child’s hearing.

They have a comfortable, ergonomic design with a ‘hook’ to keep them securely in place. There are many controls on the cable, so kids can adjust the volume or pause their music so they can talk to someone.

The headphones are equipped with a microphone so kids can keep in touch with their friends, game online, or take part in online lessons. The back of the buds have magnets on, so they can stick together and not fall off when worn around the neck.

Pros
  • Designed to stay securely in the ear
  • Magnets help prevent the headphones from slipping off the neck and getting lost
Cons
  • Battery doesn’t last too long
  • Bluetooth range isn’t huge
What makes this stand out?

These ergonomic earbuds are sure to stay in place for as long as you need them to, and the overall sound quality is great for the price.

Considerations for Choosing the Best Headphones for Kids

Just like when choosing adult headphones, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind to ensure you get the best pair for your childs needs.

Choose the Right Earbuds for You

While we have picked out what we feel are the best kids headphones above, they might not be suitable for your child for some reason. So, do some research and think about the features that are important to you and your child along with safety considerations.

True Wireless Earbuds vs Wireless

You’ve probably heard these terms when describing earbuds, but what exactly do they mean? Here are the key differences between the two types of earbuds.

Wireless

These earbuds don’t use a wire to connect to the device where the music comes from, but they are connected to each another with a cable.

True Wireless

On the other hand, true wireless earbuds are not connected to one another – Apple AirPods are an example of a true wireless design.

What’s the Difference?

True wireless buds have no wires meaning they can be more convenient. However, for children, they can be easier to lose, so they might not be ideal.

How to Pick the Best Earbuds for Kids?

There are loads of factors you can use to decide which are going to be the best headphones for your children. Here are some things you might like to look into.

Volume-Limiter

If your considering whether or not earbuds for kids with volume control is important – The World Health Organization recommends that children don’t listen to music at over 85dB, which is why many kids headphones come with a volume-limiting function and is very important to limit.

Size & Material of Ear Tip

The ear tips should be smaller than on earbuds for adults to ensure they fit well into your child’s smaller ear canals. Make sure to choose a soft and comfortable material, such as silicone or foam.

Durability, Water Resistance & Quality

All parents know how careless children can be at times, which is why it is important to choose durable headphones for kids. If they will be used outside, it might be worth choosing water-resistant earbuds in case your kid gets caught in an unexpected downpour.

Wired vs. Wireless

If your child’s device has a Bluetooth connection, wireless headphones are probably more convenient. However, it is down to personal preference, and some feel the sound quality is slightly better when using an audio cable.

Hours of Battery Life

Bluetooth headphones need to be recharged between uses, but kids can sometimes forget to recharge their gadgets. So, it’s worth looking for headphones with a long battery life or true wireless earbuds with a charging case to quickly boost the battery on the go.

Active Noise Cancelation

If your child will be wearing their earbuds when they are studying, noise canceling headphones are the way to go. This will block out background noise and ensure your child can focus on what they are doing.

Price

You might not want to spend hundreds of dollars on the latest, top-of-the-range headphones for your child, especially if they tend to lose or break their headphones quickly.

Sound Quality

Your child might not be looking for industry-leading audio quality, but they will probably notice if you choose the cheapest headphones on the market. Look for a good mid-range option to balance sound quality and budget.

Microphone

Perhaps your child is looking for a headset to take part in online classes or for gaming with their friends. In that case, it’s worth investing in a set with a good-quality mic, so their friends can hear them clearly.

Cabled Backup

Some Bluetooth headphones come with a backup cable, so they can still be used even when the battery runs out.

Comfortable Fit

The earbuds should not cause earache or ear fatigue even after many hours of use.

Ear Tips

Look for a set of earbuds with different sizes of ear tips to ensure they fit as your child grows.

FAQs

Which are the best earbuds for kids?

Our favorite in-ear headphones for kids are the devil earbuds, which were first on our list. We love these because they offer powerful sound with noise cancellation. And, they are very lightweight and comfortable to wear. The battery life is excellent, too.

Which are Better, Wireless or Bluetooth earbuds?

Bluetooth headphones might be more convenient, as kids don’t have to have their gadgets out when they are listening, and they also won’t get tangled up as they wriggle around!

Some devices don’t have Bluetooth, whilst others don’t have a headphone jack, so check your child’s device before making a choice.

8 Best Board Games for 1 Year Olds in 2024

Most board games for 1 year olds are not what you consider to be a board game and some may not even actually be game. However, when you stop to consider that the definition of a game it is simply “a form of play or sport” there are an abundance of all types of games for one year olds and chances are that you have already been playing games with your child almost from birth without realizing it.

To help you select the very best options for your little toddler we have put together this list of some age appropriate “games” for 1 year olds.

Our List of the Top Fun & Educational 1 Year Old Games

1

Melissa & Doug Fishing Game

Summary

This cloth fishing set containing 9 fish is a great game for a 1 year old. Young children simply lower the Velcro baited hook onto one of the felt fish and pull it out of the pond. Younger children may not prefer to actually “fish” at first, but will eventually catch on. In the meantime parents can use the game to familiarize kids with colors and counting.

Pros
  • Made with non-toxic materials
  • Can use this toy for a number of learning experience, shapes, colors, counting, fishing and more
Cons
  • Small pieces that young children can choke in
What makes this stand out?

This is a fun fishing game is both fun and educational for 1 year olds.

2

Roll and Play

Summary

This roll and play game is actually a board type game for children who are slightly over 1 year old. The game consists of 48 cards and a soft die that is simply 6 different colored sides. In order to play the die is rolled and then a card of the same color that comes up on the die is selected and the child must act out what is on the card. This game does require the help and supervision of a parent

Pros
  • Teaches children to take turns (if more than one child is playing.)
  • Makes for great bonding time between parent and older sibling and younger child
Cons
  • Some people got the Spanish version
What makes this stand out?

This is a fun game that allows children to act out actions that they understand making the game fun for very young kids whose language skills are limited.

3

Wooden Puzzle Set

Summary

While puzzles are not actually considered to be a traditional board game, this set of 3 wooden puzzles is ideal for not only helping children develop their fine motor skills, but can be used to create a number of parent/child games as well. There is an animal, shape and number puzzle. Parents can have their children make animal sounds, teach them shapes, introduce numbers and colors.

Pros
  • Holes on the side of puzzle pieces makes it easier for small children to remove the pieces
  • Kids can really enjoy these puzzles with the aid of parents
Cons
  • Some puzzles had missing pieces
What makes this stand out?

These puzzles are colorful and simple for children to remove pieces. It may take some time before a younger child can place the pieces back in without help.

 

4

Color Sorting Ring Board Game

Summary

This color sorting board can be made into a fun game for small children. Parents can select a peg and have their child place it onto the same colored ring on the board. The rings also have flat sides so that you can play stacking games with your child. You do need to supervise your child when they play with toys.

Pros
  • Helps children develop fine motor skills and color recognition
  • Everything is made from wood so this is a solid toy
Cons
  • Small pieces can pose a choking hazard if your child is not supervised
What makes this stand out?

This is really an open ended toy making it possible to use for a number of imaginative games.

5

Pound A Ball

Summary

Pound a ball is actually a toy that young children can play on their own, but it is also easy for parents to turn this toy into a fun game for their 1 yr old toddlers. There are 4 brightly colored balls and a series of ramps and a hammer. Parents can name a color of ball for the children to hammer. Most children will love the parent/child interaction and can begin to recognize colors.

Pros
  • This toy holds up well
  • This also makes a matching game as kids match the balls to the same color holes
Cons
  • Balls are small so requires parental supervision if they put objects in their mouth
What makes this stand out?

This toy is simple and does not require batteries and it is easy to make up games to play with your child with this toy.

6

Hide and Squeak Eggs

Summary

Young kids will love Hide and Squeak eggs and will love playing find the chick under the top of the egg. When kids press down on their chicks head the chicks will chirp. There are also special shapes on the bottom of the egg that match shapes on the bottom of the egg carton for children to match up.

Pros
  • Young kids love playing hide and seek with these eggs
  • Great for counting, color matching and shape matching
  • Sturdy toys
Cons
  • The squeaking sound is very slight
What makes this stand out?

This is a fun game that small children love lifting the lid off the egg and finding the chick underneath. This is a great toy for parent/child games, color and shape recognition.

7

Hide and Seek Farm Animals

Summary

These farm animals and barns are ideal for making a number of parent/child games. There are 5 barns with lids and 5 finger puppet farm animals. You can have your child find which barn the ‘duck’ is hiding in, or have your child put the pig in a certain colored barn. Of course you can use the finger puppets and have the child make the sounds of the animal.

Pros
  • There are a lot of different ways to play with this toy as well as many different parent/child games that can be played.
  • This is a durable toy
Cons
  • The barns are difficult for small children to open
What makes this stand out?

This toy has cute finger puppet farm animals and offers children a number of different games they can play as well as being able to play with them on their own.

8

Peek-A-Boo Elephant

Product Currently Out Of Stock!

Summary

Peek-A-Boo is one of the first games infant’s learn to play with their parents. At first simply laughing when their parents cover and then uncover their eyes and say “boo.” In many cases, by the time a child is one they learn to cover their own eyes and play along. This Peek-A-Boo elephant can play peek-a- boo with your child entertaining them for endless minutes. In addition, the elephant is a fun stuffed animal that your child can cuddle and play with.

Pros
  • This elephant has some nice safety features such as embroidered eyes
  • The elephant’s voice is pleasant to a child’s ears
Cons
  • Not the best quality
What makes this stand out?

This elephant actually interacts with your child making it much more interesting that many other stuffed animals.

Buyer’s Guide Choosing Games for 1 Year Olds

If you are looking for some games for a 1 year old child here are some things you are going to want to consider.

1 Year Olds Don’t Play Games Like Older Kids Do

Little kids this age have neither the physical or language development to play traditional games. The best games for small children are those that are simple and include parental involvement. Try playing peek-a -boo, rolling a ball back and forth, games where children act out emotions, or animals.

You Can Turn a Standard Toy Into a Game

As parents you need to keep in mind that as a parent you can take a standard toy and make a game out of it or parts of it. If a parent uses their imagination then there are a number of ways that you can turn most toys into a simple game for your one year old. So look for toys that you can use to make simple games out of to play with your child.

Don’t Get Hung Up on the “Game” Aspect

Parents should not worry too much about trying to get a child of this age to play a game. Kids this age have not quite got down the entire idea of playing and should be allowed to explore toys and learn from them. At this age you should simply play with your child and enjoy this precious time with them.

Boys vs Girls Games

At most ages there is little difference between the best games for boys age 1 and the best games for girls who are 1 but this is especially true at the age of 1, so we recommend you just get the game that you think will be the most educational and fun for your little one!

Final Thoughts On the Best Games for 1 Year Olds

If you are looking for games or toys that can be used for games for 1 year olds then one of the options in this list should be a good start.

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10 Best Educational Gifts & Toys for 9 Year Olds

While almost all toys have some educational value to children those toys that are considered educational toys are ones that are specifically designed to help a child develop a particular skill or learn about a specific subject.

Educational toys make learning fun and are important to a childs growth and developement at this age, which is why we have compiled this list of some fun and exciting learning toys for 9 year olds.

Our List of the Best Educational Toys for a 9 Year Old

1

National Geographic Light Up Marble Run

Summary

This marble run comes with 10 sturdy bases, 55 action pieces and 135 smooth-run tubes to allow the child to build a number of different marble mazes. It also comes with 6 glow in the dark marbles that light up with the flashlight. There is also a mesh storage bag for keeping everything together. This marble run will teach children basic engineering principles, physics and aerodynamics.

Pros
  • This set makes a sturdy maze with a little practice
  • Easy to snap pieces together
Cons
  • Some kits come with missing pieces
What makes this stand out?

This is a large set with see through tubes and glow in the dark marbles so the child can watch the entire course as the marbles drop through it. With so many pieces kids can make different marble runs.

2

Inverted Microscope

Product Currently Out Of Stock!

Summary

This microscope is specifically made for younger users or those who have never used a microscope before. This microscope has 40X-320X magnification and 2 eyepieces. It also comes with a smartphone adapter, 10 blank slides, 5 prepared slides, Measuring cup, metal scalpel, cover glass, and tweezers.

Pros
  • Good quality imaging for the price
  • Easy to set up
Cons
  • Not the best quality
What makes this stand out?

This is a great microscope for children interested in the microscopic world. The cell phone adapter allows kids to share their discoveries with friends.

3

Kaboom Lab Kit

Summary

This science experiment kit comes with 25 interesting experiments such as a Lava lamp, rocket balloon, an explosive geyser and more. The kit comes with a lab guide to help you successfully complete the experiments.

Pros
  • Allows child to complete hands on experiments
  • Really sparks an excitement for science
Cons
  • Need to buy most of the supplies to do the experiments
What makes this stand out?

Many kids learn more from being hands on and this set of experiments allows kids to learn through doing.

4

Structures Lab + Many Other Variations

Summary

This Structures lab is a great educational toy for kids. They can build their own bridges, houses and more. Kids learn about how engineering works. There are also several other variations you can get for the 9 year old you’re buying for including a solar plane or solar helicopter kit, buyoant forces lab or even a botanic lab where you child can learn about growing plants!

Pros
  • All of these kit encourages a love for scientific learning
  • Promotes learning while offering a high entertainment value
  • Very unique gift idea
Cons
  • With some of the kits you may have to buy some of the supplies seperately
What makes this stand out?

This kit stands out because kids get to build their structures and learn about all different types of science. The kit comes with guided experiments to help make the child successful.

5

Mega Fossil Dig

Summary

This kit comes with a dig brick that is filled with 15 dinosaur fossils. It also comes with a small chisel, brush and a magnifying glass. There is a 16 page learning guide that explains how fossils are formed and helps the child to identify each fossil they find.

Pros
  • This allows the child to gain insight into what an archaeological dig is like
  • The Kit has real fossils
Cons
  • The fossils are brittle and tend to break easily
What makes this stand out?

This fossil dig stands out because there are real fossils buried in the brick. Kids actually get a small taste of what an archaeological dig is like including the fact that many of the fossils are brittle.

6

Solar Robot Kit

Product Currently Out Of Stock!

Summary

This Solar robot kit allows the child to make their choice of 12 working solar robots. This kit engages the child while teaching them a bit about Science, engineering, robotics and renewable energy. Once completed the child can play with the robot then take it apart and build another one.

Pros
  • Directions are written so they are easy for 9 year olds to read and follow
  • Teaches patience as child needs to take their time to assemble their robots correctly
Cons
  • Difficult to put together and get to work well
What makes this stand out?

The sheer number of different robots that can be built makes this a great toy for kids. In addition, kids experience the excitement of seeing something they build come to life.

7

Scrabble

Summary

This classic word game is fun and will help children build their vocabulary and spelling. The game comes with 4 tile holders, a 100 wooden tiles, A drawstring bag and a game guide. The game can be played with 2, 3 or 4 players. This game also encourages improvement of math skills since the score is kept by the number value of the letters.

This is a great option among board games that any 9 year old would love since it perfectly mixes both learning and fun!

Pros
  • Helps children increase their vocabulary by hearing new words and learning their meaning
  • Improves mental alertness
Cons
  • The board is not as durable as it should be
What makes this stand out?

This game has stood the test of time and has been a favorite of many families for generations. The rules are simple and the game is a bit different every time you play so it keeps people interested in playing again and again.

8

3D Dinosaur Puzzle

Summary

These dinosaur themed puzzles not only help the child develop some STEM skills, they also give the child some idea of what actual dinosaur skeletons look like. These 3D puzzles also encourage a child’s interest in paleontology and learning more about the prehistoric world.

Pros
  • Helps child learn patience and attention to detail
  • Encourages an interest in science
Cons
  • Some of the pieces don’t fit together well
What makes this stand out?

This kit comes with 6 different dinosaur skeletons, which will allow the child not only the pleasure of putting the puzzles together, but will allow them to compare one dinosaur to another.

9

Clue Master

Summary

This is a fun logic game in which the player uses logic and deduction based on clues. Developing deductive reasons will aid the child in math, science and a number of other fields.

Pros
  • Single player game so child can play at any time
  • Compact so makes a great travel game
Cons
  • Once the child has gone through all the challenges they lose interest
What makes this stand out?

This game stands out because it requires players to think and come to logical conclusions by making deductions based on the information they have.

10

Rory’s Cubes Complete Set

Summary

This set of Rory’s cubes is a fun way for children to increase their communication skills as well as open up their imagination. There are a variety of different ways to play and the results are often hilarious.

Pros
  • Helps children express ideas
  • Helps children develop better verbal skills
Cons
  • Some people don’t think these cubes come with enough directions
What makes this stand out?

This story cube set is great because kids make up their own stories and adventures. The more they play the more their verbal skills will improve.

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Buyer’s Guide: How To Choose The Best Learning Toys for a 9 Year Old

What Skill Do You Want the Child to Acquire or Improve?

When choosing educational toys for a 9 year old decide what specific skill or skills you want the child to acquire or improve and look for toys that will help them develop that skill. Educational toys are designed to help the child develop a specific skill so find the toy that will aid in that development.

Make Sure the Toy is Appealing to The Child

No matter how educational a toy or game may be if the toy doesn’t appeal to the child you give it to then the toy will have no educational value because the child will never use it or play with it. The toy needs to have a certain “fun factor” that will appeal to a child this age. It’s also important not to obesses about boy toys and girl toys but rather let the childs interest guide you in choosing a toy for them

Choose a Toy or Game Appropriate to the Child’s Learning Level

If you are looking for an educational toy for a child keep in mind that you need to find one that is appropriate for your child’s learning or skill level. You want the child to be challenged, but you don’t eat the toy to be so challenging that the child becomes frustrated rather than engaged.

Final Thoughts on the Best Educational Gifts for 9 Year Olds

When learning is fun for kids, they not only learn faster, but retain more of what they learn. Educational toys can be a real asset in helping a child succeed and even excel in certain subjects.

10 Best Educational Toys for 10 Year Olds

Most parents are always looking for ways to help their child do well in school. Finding educational toys that are fun and encourage an excitement for learning is one of the best ways that parents can help their child succeed or excel in school.

To help you parents with shopping for these we have come up with this list of great educational toys for kids who are 10 years of age that can help them develop a love of learning that can become a part of their life.

Our List of the Best Learning Toys for 10 Year Olds

Below you can check our list. We were always careful to only pick highly rated and age appropriate toys that will help you child can experience learning while also having fun!

1

Sillbird Building Blocks Robot

Summary

The robot moves in all different directions on smooth flat surfaces. The head, shoulders, elbows and eyebrows of the robot can be rotated and will run 40 minutes on a 120 minute charge. This robot kit will help a child develop critical thinking skills and learn a bit about robotics.

Pros
  • Robot is easy and fun to build
  • Arms and facial expressions of the robot can be changed
Cons
  • Some of the units cam missing pieces
What makes this stand out?

This robot is fun to build and fun to operate. It allows kids to get some idea of what it’s like to build a robot and to encourage an interest in robotics and engineering.

2

3D Globe Puzzle

Summary

This 3D puzzle allows children to build their own globe using the 180 pieces of the puzzle. Once put together the puzzle can be set on it’s own stand and the globe can then actually be used.

[Related: Best Kids World Maps]

Pros
The globe is durable when completed
  • Useful tool once it is completed
Cons
  • The writing on the globe is extremely small
What makes this stand out?

The numbers on the back of the puzzle pieces helps kids put this globe together correctly. Once completed it makes a great decoration for their room and can actually be used.

3

Word Play For Kids

Summary

This is a fast paced word game where players are given a category and two letters and they have to come up with a word using those letters. They move around spaces on the board based on the number of letters in the word, so the longer the word the more spaces they move.

Pros
  • Improves vocabulary and spelling
  • Improves kids quick thinking skills
Cons
  • The spinner for the game is poor quality
What makes this stand out?

This word game is fun for family game night and can really help children improve their vocabulary and spelling skills without them really noticing what is happening.

4

Gravity Maze

Summary

Gravity Maze is a combination of a logic puzzle and marble run. The game comes with a game grid, 9 towers, 1 target piece and 3 marbles as well as an instruction manual. There are 60 challenges for players to complete running from easy to somewhat difficult.

Pros
  • Helps children develop problem solving skills
  • Challenges go from easy to hard
Cons
  • Some of the games came with some of the pieces missing
What makes this stand out?

Gravity Maze is an ideal game for a child who is aged 10 and looking for a challenging game to play on their own. You can even find other solutions than the ones given for getting the marble through making the game even more fun.

5

K’NEX 70 Model Building

Summary

With over 700 pieces kids can create as many as 70 unique models of animals, vehicles, amusement park rides or whatever else they wish limited only by their imagination. Once completed the models can be played with. This kit comes with an instruction book that will give users a number of ideas.

Pros
  • Helps children build engineering and creative thinking skills
  • Made in the USA
Cons
  • There are many tiny pieces to this set
What makes this stand out?

This building kit helps children use and channel their creativity to build working models of all types.

6

Green Science Solar Rover Kit

Summary

This science kit is educational and fun for child of this age. They will love turning an empty soda can (or plastic bottle) into a working solar powered rover. A great way to teach kids about solar energy.

Pros
  • Easy for ten year olds to build on their own
  • Can actually play with the rover once it is built
Cons
  • Some units don’t work
What makes this stand out?

This solar rover runs around powered by the sun. Kids love to watch it run and learn something about alternative energy.

7

Professors Noggins History of the United States

Summary

This card game helps kids learn interesting facts about the history of the US. With 2 levels of play this game keeps kids interested and learning.

Pros
  • This game fills in gaps that classroom history studies don’t cover
  • Compact game that can be played anywhere
Cons
  • Not enough cards for long term play
What makes this stand out?

This game is unique in that there are few games that cover the history of the United States so thoroughly.

8

Lego Gadgets

Summary

This Lego gadget kit is great for teaching kids some basic engineering skills as they build 11 different machines such as a catapult, robo boxer, and flywheel cruiser.

Pros
  • Kids can make their own gadgets as well as the ones in the instructions
  • Step by step instructions for completing each project
Cons
  • Some kits come with missing pieces
What makes this stand out?

This kit stands out because kids can actually make working gadgets that are as much fun to use as they are to make. They can also use their own creativity to make their own gadgets as well.

9

Crystal Growing Kit

Summary

This kit has everything needed for children to perform 7 different crystal growing experiments. It even comes with a special display case so you can display the crystals once they have grown. Great for anyone who is interested in geology.

Pros
  • Fun watching the crystals grow and they grow fast
  • The number of crystals you make will depend on the size you want
Cons
  • Some got kits with expired ingredients
What makes this stand out?

The fast growth of these crystals makes this a great kit for children who won’t lose patience since they can see the crystals grow practically from day one.

10

Smart Circuits

Summary

This Smart Circuit kit teaches a child the basics of electricity. The kit comes with an illustrated manual and everything needed to complete the projects with the exception of the 3-1.5AAA batteries. The projects start with simple builds so the child learns basic electronics and then gets more complex.

Pros
  • Teaches electronic principles in a way children understand
  • Projects are fun to build
Cons
  • It’s often difficult to get the wires into the circuit boards
What makes this stand out?

This kit has 50 projects of increasing difficulty so kids can build upon successfully completed projects and their increasing understanding of electronics.

Toys by Age
Toys for a 1 Yr Old
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Toys for a 9 Yr Old
Toys for a 10 Yr Old
Toys for a 11 Yr Old

Buyer’s Guide To Finding Great Learning Toys for a 10 Year Old

Know the subject or Skill You Want Your Child to Acquire

All toys have some educational value, but educational toys according to the definition are those toys that aid the child in acquiring a specific skill or improving in a specific subject. Therefore, you should choose a toy that speaks directly to the subject or skill you want your child to acquire whether that is improved vocabulary skills, or developing an interest in science or engineering.

Choose A Toy or Game That is Appealing to The Child Regardless of Gender

Just because the toy or game targets a specific gender and is made for the age of the child you are buying for doesn’t mean that you will appeal to th. If the toy or game doesn’t appeal to the child they won’t play with it, so it won’t serve the purpose it is meant to serve. Consider your boy or girls interests rather than forcing them into gender roles that are re-enforced by toys.

Consider Those Toys That Are Hands On

Kids of this age find toys that require hands on participation to build or put together more fun and exciting than those toys that are already to play with. So consider buying a toy that requires some hands on effort before the toy can be played with.

Final Thoughts on the Best Toys for Learning for 10 Year Olds

If you are looking for an educational toy for that 10 year old in your life, then one of the toys we have presented may be just what you are looking for.

10 Best Educational Gifts & Toys for 11 Year Olds

Most 11 year olds are in middle school, which for some children can be a tough transition as the school work is more difficult and children are less likely to seek the aid of their teachers when they are having difficulty in a given subject. With that in mind it can be important to provide the child with educational toys that are fun and exciting.

This can help them to gain a better understanding of the particular subjects they are struggling with or allow them to explore other aspects of those subjects that have piqued their interests.

Below we have compiled a list of some fun and exciting educational toys for 11 year olds that make wonderful gifts!

Our List of the Best Educational Toys for 11 Year Olds

1

Bridge Construction

Summary

If you have a child that is interested in engineering, building bridges or construction this construction bridge kit makes a perfect toy. This kit comes with 9 building projects, a booklet that covers theory and facts regarding building to support massive weight. It also comes with a quiz, some experimental activities, and step-by-step instructions for the building projects.

Pros
  • Provides child with a little experience in engineering principles
  • Kids can use the building materials to create their own projects
Cons
  • Some children find the building projects boring
What Makes This Stand Out?

This building kit is good due to the additional information that comes with the kit along with the quiz that allows the child to test themselves regarding what they have learned.

2

3D Windmill Puzzle

Summary

This 3d puzzle music box is made of thick cardboard and is designed to enhance the child’s logical thinking and problem solving skills while building a music box that can be given as a gift or kept as decoration for the child’s room.

Pros
  • Finished project is beautiful and functional
  • Very detailed
Cons
  • There really isn’t enough reviews to make a determination regarding the quality of this puzzle.
What Makes This Stand Out?

This puzzle is great because it makes a wonderful decoration and is also a functioning music box. It is fun to put together although it does require a little patience.

3

Weather Science Kit

Summary

This kit will help any child learn more about weathers and how it forms. Imagine the look on the child’s face when they make a cloud in their hand or experiment with static electricity to understand lightning. This kit is a fun way for children to learn more about weather. Best of all kids can build a home weather station.

Pros
  • Kids love setting up their own weather station
  • Several fun experiments
Cons
  • The materials are cheap
What Makes This Stand Out?

The great thing about this weather science kit is that kids can build their own home weather station and learn about weather through observation as well as experiments.

4

Big Boggle

Summary

This educational game is good for an 11 yr old since it offers a great deal of fun as players race against the timer and the other plays to see who can make the most words out of adjoining boggle letters.

Pros
  • Can be played by different ages
  • Improves spelling and language skills
Cons
  • Some people don’t like the double letter cubes
What Makes This Stand Out?

One of the great things about this game is that you play with any age of person. Young children can make 3 and 4 letter words and adults and older children can make words that are 4 letters and up. Helps children improve reading, spelling and vocabulary.

5

Catapult Wars

Summary

This is a great building and play set for kids since kids get to build their own catapult (2 actually) and then play with them using the small sand bags to try and hit targets. Once bit this catapult makes for a fun toy after it is built.

Pros
  • Easy to put together
  • Hours of fun play
Cons
  • Glue doesn’t hold as well as it should
What Makes This Stand Out

Catapult Wars not only shows the child how catapults work but makes for a fun indoor toy that the child can use alone or play with a friend or sibling.

6

Lego Bird Models

These Lego bird models allow kids to build models of 3 popular birds. The Blue Jay, Robin, and hummingbird. Kids learn about nature due to the accompanying booklet that gives information on each of the birds as well as assembly instructions.

[Related: Best Lego Sets for Boys]

Pros
  • Makes a great display for any child’s room
  • Fun, but challenging build
Cons
  • Some sets come with missing pieces
What Makes This Stand Out?

This set is great because the bird models are really beautiful as well as unique. Helps children with logical thinking and problem solving as well as learning a little about each of the 3 species of birds.

7

Wind Power Turbine Kit

Summary

This wind turbine kit will allow the child to learn more about renewable energy and how wind can be used to provide electricity. Not only can the child build a wind turbine they also get information on different types of turbines and windmills, which is interesting and easy to digest.

Pros
  • This wind turbine actually makes electricity
  • The turbine is a good size
Cons
  • Some of the kits have missing pieces
What Makes This Stand Out?

This kit encourages children to get excited about science and green energy while giving them basic information on how wind turbines function and what they can do.

8

Master Detective Toolkit

Summary

This is a great detective kit that will teach a child the basics of forensic science and evidence gathering. Kids learn about securing a crime scene, gathering and documentary evidence. This kit comes with a 32 page full color experiment book.

Pros
  • Teaches Kids to pay attention to details
  • Kids learn about investigating crime scenes
Cons
  • Some of the kits came without the manual
What Makes This Stand Out?

With all of the crime scenes on television these days this kit will give kids a real look at what goes into investigating a crime scene. There are even some fun mysteries to solve.

9

Sphero Mini

Summary

With computers being so much of modern day life this mini ball robot that kids can code themselves makes a great gift for those children into computer science. There are 2 ways to use this robot. Kids can choose Sphero play to play various games with their robot or choose Sphero Edu for learning a bit about coding.

Pros
  • Small size makes it easy to transport to play anywhere
  • The mini games are tons of fun
Cons
  • Doesn’t connect to very many devices
What Makes This Stand Out?

About the size of a golf ball this miniature robot is something middle school kids will love since they can use this little ball to play games or try their hand at coding.

10

Oregon Trail Choose Your Own Adventure

This is a great set of books to encourage a reluctant reader to read more and improve their reading skills, while gaining a view on a period in history at the same time. By allowing the child to make choices along the way they gain a knowledge of how many perils the pioneers faced.

Pros
  • Helps children consider how important making good choices can be
  • Gives children a little insight into what the lives of pioneer children were like
Cons
  • Could be more character development so the reader cared more about what happens to each character.
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Toys for 11 Yr Olds

Buyer’s Guide to Choosing the Best Educational Toys for an 11 Year Old

Cater to the Child’s Interest

While most children don’t excel at every subject, finding a subject that the child enjoys and is truly interested in will help them to excel at that subject. A child gains self confidence from doing well at one or two things. By catering to your child’s interests you give them the opportunity to find something they feel truly passionate about.

Don’t worry about Gendered Toys or Colors

Get your boy or girl what they have an interest in and don’t worry about their gender as it relates to what toys (or color of toys) others think your child should be playing with!

Find A Toy That is Fun

When a child is having fun they learn faster and easier and it doesn’t really feel like they are studying. Games and toys that are interactive are more fun for kids allowing them to participate more fully in the learning process. When you take part with your child and they see you having fun they are likely to have more themselves.

Choose A Toy That Builds On Skills Your Child Already Has

When choosing an educational toy, you should choose one that builds on skills your child already possesses. Choosing a toy or game that repeats skills the child has already acquired will be boring, while choosing one that builds on the skills your child already has will make learning challenging, but far more interesting.

Final Thoughts on Educational Gifts for Kids Age Eleven Years Old

If you are looking for a great educational gift for the 11 year old in your life, this gift guide and list of gifts should help you achieve that goal.

10 Best Christmas Gifts & Toys for 8 Year Olds

By the age of 8 most kids are beginning to enjoy both being active and board games that are competitive in nature, tend to like to collect things such as matchbox cars, rocks, shells or numerous other things. Spending time with other children their age is also extremely important to children this age as is having a sense of independence.

When choosing toys for children this age you want to choose something that will meet the child’s growing interests and need to stay active.

Below we have reviewed a list of some of the best 8 year old toys!

Our List of the Very Best Toys for 8 Year Olds

Rock Painting Kit

Summary

A great gift for encouraging a child who is aged 8 creativity this rock painting kit is fun and allows a child to express themselves while making some cute objects to collect or for their room décor.

Pros
  • Great transfers that makes painting easier
  • These man made rocks are smooth 
Cons
  • Comes with less designs than expected  
What Makes This Stand Out?

Instead of using river or natural rocks this kit uses man made rocks that are smoother and have less flaws than natural rocks do. The transfers for these rocks only add to the ability to create really interesting rock paintings.

Skateboard

Summary

This skateboard is only 22 inches long and makes a great toy for any 8 year olds who enjoy cruising down the sidewalk or in the park.

Pros
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Helps young children improve their balance while getting some good exercise 
Cons
  • May feel too small for some children  

Gravitrax Starter Set

Summary

Gravitrax is the perfect gift for any child who enjoys marble runs and science. This 122 piece building set allows children to build their own tracks while learning some basic engineering, science and spatial reasoning.

Pros
  • Lots of possible building combinations will keep children occupied building and testing their marble run
  • Comes with some suggestive builds to get kids started 
Cons
  • Some of the tracks are missing from some of the units 
What Makes This Stand Out?

This marble run is great because it not only offers children hours of building fun, but it also teaches them about gravity and basic engineering and problem solving skills.

Slackline for Kids

Summary

A slackline makes a great toy for kids because it keeps them active while helping improve balance and help build core body strength. This slackline comes with an overhead guide rope to make traveling across the slackline easier while helping to build self confidences

Pros
  • Slackline is strong
  • Reasonably easy to set up and take down 
Cons
  • Some sets were missing the training line  

Wooden Puzzle Animal Set

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Summary

This wild bird set makes a great educational toy for an 8 year old. Each puzzle comes on a wood sheet ready to punch out complete with directions for assembly, which will encourage the child to both read and follow written directions. Best of all each puzzle can be displayed in natural wood or painted.

Pros
  • Fun to assemble and makes a great décor for child’s room
  • Several puzzle kits to choose from 
Cons
  • Some kits came with missing puzzles 
What Makes This Stand Out?

Getting 6 individual animal puzzles will challenge a child’s puzzle building skills, encourage their interest in the animals they put together and provide them with unique displays for their room.

Bow and Arrow Set

Summary

Archery is a great hobby for people of all ages so giving a young child a safe bow and arrow set as a gift to begin learning the fundamentals of archery and to have fun while perfecting their skills just may be a perfect gift.

Pros
  • Great for shooting at targets like cans
  • Shoots a nice distance 
Cons
  • The drawstring tends to break  
What Makes This Stand Out?

The arrows have foam tips instead of the standard suction cup tips. The arrows also fit right on the bow to keep everything together.

Labyrinth Board Game

Summary

With Kids spending so much more time at home these days a board game makes a great toy for an 8 year old and encourages him to spend time with parents and siblings. Labyrinth is a board game that is easy enough for an a child who is 8, but challenging enough that older siblings and parents won’t become easily bored.

Pros
  • Every game is new
  • The game board changes as you play requiring you to use strategy and luck 
Cons
  • Like any game some people don’t like this game 
What Makes This Stand Out

This game will help children think ahead, employee strategy and learn good sportsmanship both when winning and losing.

The Borrows Book Set

Summary

Books always make a great gift for kids as they encourage children and learn about the world or use their imagination. This Borrows book set is a combination of a little bit fantasy and a little bit adventure that will capture your child’s attention and imagination.

Pros
  • Characters in these books grab children’s attention
  • The Stories are engaging 
Cons
  • Some of the book sets come damaged 
What Makes This Stand Out?

Set of 5 books that are easy to read and keeps children interested in finding out what happens next

Weighted Blanket

Summary

If you are looking for a useful gift for an 8 year old then what could be better than a weighted blanket? One of these blankets will help a child sleep better and will allow them to feel like they are wrapped in a hug.

Pros
  • Helps children fall asleep faster
  • Not overly hot to sleep under  
Cons
  • The weight beads tend to fall out over time 
What Makes This Stand Out?

Having a weighted blanket can help children feel less anxious and fall asleep easily and sleep better throughout the night.

ArmoGear Infrared Laser Tag Set

Summary

This set provides an authentic laser tag game for children who are 8. Unlike other similar models, this particular model includes target vests, invisibility mode, night vision flashlight, voice-guided directions, a variety of shooting modes, and as much as 150 feet of shooting range. They also utilize child-safety infrared signal emission.

Pros
  • Up to 4 players can participate at the same time with each kit
  • Long shoot range means the playing field is much larger
Cons
  • Each vest uses 3 AAA batteries
  • Each blaster uses 3 AAA batteries
What Makes This Stand Out?

This is a great option since it allows for your child to engage in group play and be active burning off access energy.

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Toys for 8 Yr Old
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Toys for 10 Yr Old
Toys for 11 Yr Old

Buyer’s Guide for Choosing Gifts & Toys for 8 Year Olds

Let the Child Be Your Guide

When buying gifts for a child, why not let the child be your guide? Talk with them and find out what things they enjoy doing and what new things they would like to explore and gear your gifts to those interests.

Don’t Push A Child Into Gender Specific Toys

Despite our best efforts we all have our idea of what are a girl’s toys and what are boy’s toys and all too often we push our beliefs onto a child sending them a silence message that some toys are appropriate for them and some are not. This is a bad message to send our kids and may keep them from exploring toys that really interest them. Children will when left to their own devices and encouraged to do so let you know where their true interests lie.

Choose Open Ended Toys

Toys that can be used in more than one way not only allows children to have more fun with that specific toy, but also allows them to explore and engage in self learning.

Conclusion to Wonderful 8 Year Old Toys

Buying toys for an 8 year old doesn’t have to be stressful and it is our hope that this buying guide will help make your gift shopping easier and more fun.

Best Foam Alphabet Puzzles for Kids

Puzzles are an important part of childhood helping children to develop their fine motor skills, hand/eye coordination, and even logical thinking. ABC puzzles made of foam have the added benefit of helping toddlers and preschoolers learn and recognize the letters of the alphabet and are a texture that children love.

We are pleased to present you with this list of some of the best and most highly rated alphabet foam puzzles available.

Along with our list of the best alphabet foam puzzles we’ve also included a brief buying guide at the end to help you with your gift shopping!

Our List of the Best Alphabet Foam Puzzles

1

Tadpoles ABC Foam Floor Mat

Summary

This floor mat foam letter puzzle is large measuring 6 foot by 6 foot when completed. The mat consists of 36 -12 inch puzzle pieces (the 26 letters of the alphabet and numbers 0 through 9). Along with 24 border pieces. Each foam piece is non toxic and easy to wipe clean.

Pros
  • Easy to put together
  • Thick enough to provide good padding
Cons
  • Letters can be removed from inside the squares
Recommended Age

This can work well for children 6 months and older

What Makes this Stand Out?

This foam alphabet puzzle is great as a playmat and then as the child becomes older they can actually assemble the mat as a giant puzzle. In addition, the letters themselves can be removed so the letters can be used to practice beginning spelling.

2

Pete’s Choice Alphabet Puzzle Mat

Summary

This 26 piece foam puzzle is designed to be put together to work as a floor mat to cushion small children as they play. This puzzle is thicker than most alphabet foam letter mats providing more cushioning for younger children. As your child grows this mat can be used as a floor size puzzle or different pieces can be put together to create words or even shapes.

Pros
  • Brightly colored squares brightens up child’s room or nursery
  • Made with non toxic materials
Cons
  • Some users feel the pieces don’t go together well
Recommended Age

3 months and up

What Makes This Stand Out

The thickness of this provides more cushioning that most other foam puzzle mats and the colors are bright and cheerful.

3

Sesame Street Foam Floor Puzzle

Summary

This ABC foam puzzle comes with 27 pieces with each piece measuring 4 inches by 4 inches. Each piece also includes a letter of the alphabet and a picture. Since the pieces fit together in any order this puzzle can be used for letter recognition, beginning reading and spelling and making cubes.

Pros
  • Kids who are Sesame Street fans are drawn to this puzzle
  • The pieces fit together in any order so younger children can fit pieces together
Cons
  • Some people thought this was a playmat
Recommended Age

Best suited for children 2 years old and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

This floor puzzle is easy to put together, contains some of young children’s favorite characters, and is brightly colored making it a fun puzzle.

4

Foam Bath Toys Learning Puzzles

Summary

This foam bath toy puzzle set comes with 26 individual animal and letter puzzles. Each puzzle features an animal in a boat, with a removable letter. The entire puzzle can be dampened and will stick to the bathtub or can be played with on a table or floor.

Pros
  • Great for improving fine motor skills
  • Helps children learn the letters of the alphabet, reading and spelling
Cons
  • Some of the animals are unique
Recommended Age

These puzzles are best suited to kids ages 3 years and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

This puzzle set offers a lot of opportunities for learning for toddlers. They can learn colors, the names of animals, the letters of the alphabet, beginning reading and spelling as well as improve their fine motor skills and hand/eye coordination.

5

ABC Puzzle Play Mat

Summary

This one forms a large play mat that cushions young children at play. The mat can be assembled for play, used as a large floor puzzle, or be used as individual squares for letter and number recognition. Children can also make blocks (cubes) from these puzzle squares making for more fun play.

Pros
  • Easy to clean
  • Nice colors
Cons
  • Some users find that this has strong fumes coming off it
Recommended Age

6 months old and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

This is colorful and can be used in a variety of ways. Once that infant becomes a toddler, the mat can be used to teach the child letter recognition and help them develop their fine motor skills and hand/eye coordination.

6

Premium Educational Letter Animal Bathtub Puzzles

Summary

These ABC animal bath tub foam puzzles are an open toy that provides a child many ways to use them both inside and outside of the bathtub. These small puzzles can be used by young toddlers to learn color recognition and animal names as well as the letters of the alphabet, hand/eye coordination and fine motor skills.

Pros
  • Tons of learning opportunities
  • Makes bath time more fun
Cons
  • Some of the animals are difficult to recognize
Recommended Age

These letter animal puzzles are best suited to children 2 years and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

This is a great educational learning set that is still fun for toddlers and preschoolers. There are a number of different ways that this set of bath tub animal puzzles can be used, which keeps them interesting for a longer period of time.

7

Baby Loovi Non Toxic Puzzle Mat

Summary

This 36 piece foam mat comes with 36 pieces made up of colorful letters and numbers. The mat not only provides a cushion for crawling infants and beginner walkers, but also can be used to create words, numbers and even 3D shapes

Pros
  • The actual letters come out of the square and can be put right back in
  • Variety of uses
Cons
  • High price
Recommended Age

This mat is suited for children 2 years and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

This foam puzzle mat will brighten up any child’s play area and can be used in a number of different ways.

8

Creative Baby 9 Piece Interactive Play Mat Puzzle

Summary

This alphabet foam puzzle has just 9 pieces and when put together measures 16 ½ inches by 16 ½ inches and is 3 ½ inches thick. The mat also has pictures of animals as well as Xylophone graphics to introduce the child to colors.

Pros
  • Durable
  • Large pieces are easy for toddlers to put together
Cons
  • Paint may flake
Recommended Age

6 months old and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

The large puzzle piece sizes combined with the fact that once put together this play mat doesn’t pull apart easily when kids roll around or walk it makes it a great play mat.

Buyers Guide to the Best Alaphabet Foam Puzzles

Size Does Matter

Before shopping for a foam alphabet puzzle you need to realize that the largest selection of these puzzles are actually floor mat puzzles. If you are looking for a regular size puzzle made of foam to help your child learn their ABCs then your choices are going to be far more limited. However, keep in mind that larger floor puzzles can often be used to make 3D cubes and blocks that the toddler can also play with.

Put Safety First

Although many of these foam puzzles state that they are non-toxic some reviews do state that certain ones of these play mats have strong fumes that may not be good for your child to breathe in. Like with any other toy you purchase for your child, make sure that you feel comfortable that this toy is safe for your little one.

Versatility

Many of these puzzles are designed to provide your child with multiple opportunities of learning and many different ways to use or play with them. Some can be used in the bathtub, others are like having two puzzles in one because the squares can be put together and then the individual letters can be put in the proper space. They can also be used as individual flashcards or to build 3D objects. The more versatile the toy the more use your child will get out of it.

Conclusion to the Best ABC Foam Puzzles

We hope this buyers guide will help you to find the very best alaphabet foam puzzle that is not only fun but highly educational for your child.

10 Best Kids Toy Vacuum Cleaners

In this article we have included a list of the very best toy vacuum cleaners for kids!

Small children often parrot their parents behavior even when engaging in pretend play. While this behavior is seen as cute by most parents and family members it is also a way that children learn adult behavior and gain skills they will need throughout their lives. Parroting parents as they do household chores prepares toddlers for taking care of their rooms, and later their homes as they grow and mature.

Giving your toddler or young child fun mini size household cleaning equipment such a a toy vacuum clen can actually encourage them to start taking pride in their homes and enjoying chorse.

If you’re wanting to get this gift for your little one then you’ll enjoy this list and buyers guide that we’re dedicating to the best play vacuum cleaners!

Our List of the Best Vacuum Cleaner Toys

1

Fisher Price Laugh & Learn Light Up Vacuum

Summary

This smiley faced toy vacuum has an on/off switch and entertains your child with lights, songs, and phrases. The vacuum can be tilted up or down and has large buttons that are simple for the child to work all on their own.

Pros
  • Makes a real vacuum sound
  • Light enough for young toddlers to push around
Cons
  • Doesn’t stand upright
Recommended Age

This vacuum is suitable for children 12 months and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

This is an adorable little vacuum that will capture a child’s attention and they will enjoy using it to clean up with mom or an older sibling.

2

Black and Decker Toy Dustbuster

Summary

This toy dustbuster is designed off the modern version of the real dustbuster. This toy makes realistic sounds and has little beads that swirl around when the child operates this handheld vacuum.

Pros
  • Makes realistic sounds kids love
  • Pellets make the vacuum look like it really working
Cons
  • Some parents are disappointed that this vacuum does not have real suction
Recommended Age

This toy is best suited for children 2 ½ to 5 years of age

What Makes This Stand Out?

This toy dustbuster makes realistic sounds, is lightweight, and fun for toddlers who enjoy helping to clean up. This is a great play vacuum to keep kids occupied and happily cleaning.

3

Dyson Ball Vacuum

Summary

This toy Dyson vacuum has real suction that will pick up fuzz and lint, and Eva beads. This vacuum has a removable debris draw and whizzing colored balls.

Pros
  • Kids love that this vacuum is just their size
  • The real suction actually picks up small crumbs and debris
Cons
  • Suction is not great
Recommended Age

This kid’s vacuum is suitable for children age 2 years and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

The real suction on this play vacuum cleaner really captures both parents and the child’s attention. The toy is the perfect size and kids love pushing it around.

4

LeapFrog Pick Up and Count Vacuum

Summary

This cute little kids toy vacuum comes with ten pretend pieces of lint for the vacuum to pick up. As the vacuum picks up the “dust” it teaches colors, numbers, and counting. There are bouncing balls, a tiltable handle, and audio elements to make vacuuming more fun.

Pros
  • Music and sounds that hold child’s attention
  • Easy to push
Cons
  • Difficult to pick up the play dust bunnies
Recommended Age

Best suited for children ages 2 years and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

A cute vacuum perfect for toddlers who like to help clean the house. There are lights and sounds and even “dust bunnies” for the vacuum to pick up and count.

5

Melissa and Doug Play Set

Summary

This is a wooden play vacuum that comes with various wooden debris to pick up. When the vacuum rolls over the debris it picks up the debris. There is a lid you lift to remove the objects so they can be vacuumed up again.

Pros
  • Simple and cute
  • Really picks up the items that come with this toy
Cons
  • Pretty flimsy material
Recommended Age

This toy is recommended for children ages 3 and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

This pretend vacuum is made of wood instead of the standard plastic and is designed to pick up the pieces of debris that comes with the vacuum.

6

Pretend & Play My Light Up Vacuum

Summary

This toy vacuum cleaner for toddlers comes with lights, clicking buttons, and wheels. It even comes with a removable vacuum cleaner bag for more realistic play.

Pros
  • Durable
  • Vacuum sound not too loud
Cons
  • Comes in odd colors
Recommended Age

Best suited for kids age 2 and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

The vacuum cleaner bag that is removable makes this vacuum slightly different from most other vacuums. It is also easy for most children to push

7

Theo Klein Cleaning Kit

Summary

This cleaning kit comes with a play Miele vacuum and a trolley that consists of a broom, mop, mop bucket, sponge, dust pan and more. Now that little one can help mom or dad clean up all the house with tools made just his or her size.

Pros
Cons
  • Some parents not thrilled that this isn’t a real vacuum
Recommended Age

This kit is made for kids 3 years and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

This cleaning kit has everything needed for your little to clean “house.” Tons of fun for toddlers and will keep them busy helping around the house.

8

Minnie Happy Helpers Sparkle N’ Clean Vacuum

Summary

A great gift idea for toddler girls, this Minnie Mouse toy vacuum. The little bow on this toy vacuum lights up while the beads inside swirl around to make the child feel like they are really picking up debris.

Pros
  • Kids love the sound
  • Cute and fun to use
Cons
  • The vacuum sound is only hit and miss
Recommended Age

This toy is perfect for children 2 years and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

The bright pink color and the Minnie Mouse head and bow makes this vacuum fun for any little girl who loves Minnie mouse and cleaning the house.

9

Dyson Cord Free Vacuum

Summary

Although this is a toy this child’s Dyson vacuum has real suction and an accessible debris tray. It even comes with attachments. Toddlers will enjoy cleaning up around the house with this fun to use toy.

Pros
  • Will suck a small amount of dust, which makes toddlers happy
  • Lightweight
Cons
  • Some units quit working after a short amount of time
Recommended Age

Best suited for kids 4 years and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

Lightweight and easy to use this child’s vacuum has real although not functioning suction. Great for young toddlers and the attachments are fun.

10

PlayGo 2-in-1 Household Vacuum Cleaner

Summary

This toy vacuum cleaner for toddlers has realistic suction and will pick up light dirt, but nothing special. It makes real vacuum noises and is light enough for toddlers to use.

Pros
  • Works great with good batteries
  • Kids love the swirling glitter
Cons
  • Not enough reviews to make an informed decision
Recommended Age

This toddler vacuum is best suited for children 2 years and up

What Makes This Stand Out?

This is a bright colored little vacuum with real suction and vacuum sounds. Lightweight enough for toddlers to use and the swirling glitter captures their attention.

Buyers Guide to Choosing the Best Toy Vacuum Cleaners for Kids

Remember You Are Buying A Toy

For some odd reason many parents seem to be disappointed when they purchase a toy vacuum that doesn’t have enough suction to actually vacuum. They seem to forget that the main purpose of a toy is to bring a child pleasure and allow them to use their imagination. You wouldn’t expect a play kitchen and stove for toddlers to put out enough heat to burn a child, or a toy lawn mower to have sharp blades that could injure your child, so why would you expect a toy vacuum cleaner to have enough suction to really clean the carpet?

Consider the Toy’s Features

Toddler vacuum cleaners have different features: some have lights, sounds, and songs. Some are designed to pick up specific items, and some do have minor suction or handles that can be tilted. Consider the features that you are looking for in this specific toy.

Type and Longevity of Battery

Since most pretend vacuums require batteries. You are going to find those play vacuum cleaners that use easy to buy sizes of batteries and that have features that allow the batteries to last for a long period of time.

Final Thoughts on the Very Best Vacuum Toys

Toy Vacuum cleaners for kids can provide them with fun, a little bit of exercise and help prepare them for taking care of household chores in the future.