FROM MAGNETIC CONSTRUCTION TOYS TO MARVELLOUS MICROSCOPES, OUR TOY BUYERS SELECT TEN OF THE BEST TOYS TO AID EDUCATION
With learning and playing now centred solely around the home, you may find yourself looking at your child’s toy box with renewed interest. Whoever you are choosing a new toy for, it makes sense for it to be educational as well as fun. To help you with your selection, we’ve come up with our top ten educational toys that will delight and inspire kids in equal measures and make you feel like you are helping with their development, too.
Lego City Rocket and Space pack
Suitable for age 7 upwards
‘Encouraging creativity, adventure and practical thinking, this particular NASA-inspired bundle is ideal for the whole family to get involved with,’ says Molly Baker, Partner and Assistant Buyer, Toys & Books. Stop hogging it dad!
Playmobil Country Farm
Suitable for age 4 upwards
Loved for its stylised figures and detailed lifestyle scenes, Playmobil has a worldwide fanbase. ‘This fun farm set encourages children to use their imagination,’ says Nicolette Kelleher, Partner and Assistant Buyer, Toys & Books.
Spirograph art set
Suitable for age 8 upwards
Combining science and art, this build-it-yourself kit has 64 spiral patterns. ‘This set teaches the values of concentration and attention, supports the development of communication and encourages problem solving,’ says Molly.
Gravitrax starter set
Suitable for age 8 upwards
Inspired by STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) subjects, this clever kit gets kids working with gravity, magnetism and kinetic energy. Budding engineers can let their imagination run wild with their inventive tracks.
Learning Resources Coding Critters Ranger & Zip
Suitable for age 3 upwards
Introducing pre-schoolers to coding, but without having to use a screen, this set lets children control the critters by following fun stories and challenges. Plus you’ll have gained some lockdown pets without any of the extra hassle.
Tonies Toniebox
Suitable for age 3 upwards
This fun audio system plays stories and music. ‘This is an easy way to get children into storytelling. Simply turn it on and pop a Tonie on the box to let the story begin,’ says Rachael Larkman, Partner and Buyer, Toys & Books.
Ravensburger Harry Potter Pictopia
Suitable for age 7 upwards
Test your knowledge of the boy wizard and his adventures as you compete against teams and as an individual. If you know your Gryffindor from your Gideon Crumb it’s time to leave all your opponents Confundo.
Magformers
Suitable for age 3 upwards
These tactile magnetic shapes are ideal for younger children, who can construct a variety of objects including 3-D shapes and vehicles. ‘This multi-award winning STEM toy encourages creativity and problem solving,’ says Nicolette.
John Lewis & Partners Microscope Set
Suitable from 8 upwards
Bring science class to the kitchen table with this nifty microscope. ‘Explore science, technology, engineering and maths, while having fun and developing creativity and imagination with this innovative STEM toy,’ says Molly.
BRIO Classic Railway Figure 8 Train Set
Suitable for age 2 upwards
Established in Sweden in 1884, the easy to assemble tracks and trains appeal to kids of all ages. ‘With hardy construction and playful colours, Brio encourages your child's hand-eye coordination and dexterity,’ says Molly.
