Toys That Develop Critical Thinking

Kanoodle Extreme Puzzle Game is the ultimate brain teaser that will have your kids (and you! ) entertained for hours. With over 300 mind-bending 2-D and 3-D challenges, it’s perfect for firing up problem-solving skills and spatial reasoning. 8+ years

The BePuzzled Disney Dumbo Original 3D Crystal Puzzle is the ultimate challenge for puzzle enthusiasts ages 12 and up. This engaging toy not only enhances spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills but also encourages perseverance as builders piece together colorful, interlocking, 3-dimensional designs. Perfect for boosting critical thinking and creativity, the finished puzzle serves as a stunning display piece that families will love showcasing together. 12+ years

Estes 1921 Mercury Redstone Flying Model Rocket Kit is a thrilling way to inspire young minds! As parents and educators, we know that engaging in hands-on activities fosters creativity and critical thinking. This kit not only allows kids to build their own model rocket using laser-cut fins and historical plastic parts but also teaches them about aerodynamics and physics in a fun, interactive manner. 10+ years

The Yahtzee Game is a thrilling blend of chance and strategy that engages players aged 8 and up in a dynamic dice-rolling experience. This classic game helps sharpen critical thinking, decision-making, and math skills as players strategize to achieve the highest score. Perfect for family game nights, Yahtzee fosters social skills and friendly competition while ensuring a fun learning environment for kids, teens, and adults alike. 8 years and up

Math Splash War Addition & Subtraction Challenge Cards transforms the learning of math facts into an enjoyable and engaging game! As fellow parents and educators, we know how crucial it is for our little learners to grasp concepts like greater-than, less-than, and equal. This set of 56 durable, self-checking cards not only helps kids solidify their understanding of addition and subtraction from 0-10, but they also work beautifully in both classroom and home settings, making learning fun wherever you are. 6+ years

Didax Educational Resources Unifix Cubes Set (100 Pack) is the perfect tool for sparking a love of math in our little learners! As parents and educators, we know the importance of making math concepts tangible and engaging, and these colorful cubes do just that. Ideal for teaching essential skills such as counting, addition, and even fractions, this set turns abstract ideas into playful activities. 4+ years

The BePuzzled Key Hanayama Metal Brainteaser Puzzle is not just a toy; it’s an invitation to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills for ages 12 and up. This elegantly designed puzzle engages both teenagers and adults alike, making it an ideal choice for family game nights or educational activities. We love how it fosters patience and persistence while providing hours of stimulating entertainment, all wrapped in a sophisticated package perfect for display. 12+ years

USAOPOLY JENGA National Parks transforms the classic Jenga game into a delightful journey through America's stunning national parks. Each block is not only a test of balance and strategy but also a gateway to learning—featuring over 100 fascinating facts and trivia that engage players and spark curiosity about our natural wonders. This game is perfect for family gatherings or travel, nurturing critical thinking, teamwork, and an appreciation for the great outdoors while supporting the National Park Foundation. 6+ years

The 4M Hover Racer Science Kit is an exciting hands-on experience that encourages children aged 8 and up to dive into the world of mechanical engineering and physics. This engaging DIY airboat project promotes critical thinking and problem-solving skills as kids learn the science behind hovercrafts and witness the thrill of their creation gliding effortlessly across surfaces. Perfect for inspiring curiosity and offering a glimpse into the wonders of STEM, this kit not only fuels imagination but also sets the stage for future science fair projects and explorations. 8+ years

Outfoxed is the perfect game to introduce our little ones to cooperative play while having a blast! In this engaging whodunit adventure, preschoolers work together to gather clues and solve the mystery of who stole Mrs. Plumpert’s prized pot pie. 4+ years

USAOPOLY Risk Themed Game of Thrones Strategy Board Game invites players to step into the epic world of Westeros. As we navigate the complexities of alliances and rivalries, we enhance critical thinking, strategic planning, and teamwork. With three different ways to play and an astonishing array of over 600 unique pieces, this game sparks engaging conversations and fosters problem-solving skills among participants. 17+ years

Lanterns: The Harvest Festival is a delightful and engaging card game that not only captivates the imagination but also fosters critical thinking and strategic planning skills in children. As players adorn the Palace Lake with beautiful floating lanterns, they develop important cognitive abilities such as problem-solving and spatial reasoning—all while having fun! This game is perfect for family game nights or educational gatherings, encouraging friendly competition and teamwork among 2 to 4 players. 8+ years

Melissa & Doug On The Go Scratch Art Hidden-Picture Pad brings adventure and learning right to your fingertips! This delightful spiral-bound pad includes 12 engaging scratch art pages that challenge children to uncover their Favorite Things while honing fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. As little ones read the fun clues and scratch away the coating, they not only reveal vibrant pictures but also spark their creativity and problem-solving abilities. 4+ years

Little Tikes 5-in-1 Deluxe Ride & Relax, Reclining Trike is a fantastic early adventure for our little explorers! This innovative trike not only offers a comfortable stroll with its reclining seat and full shade canopy, but it also nurtures essential developmental skills as our toddlers learn to navigate their surroundings. The adjustable seat grows with our child, providing opportunities for independence and motor skill development. 2-5 years

Nature Bound Big Magnifying Lens Toy transforms outdoor exploration into an unforgettable learning adventure. With 4X magnification, children can dive into the wonders of the natural world, discovering insects, plants, and those tiny details that often go unnoticed. This hands-on learning experience not only sparks curiosity but also fosters critical thinking and observational skills. 3+ years

Carrera GO 64031 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 'Sheriff' Slot Car Racing Vehicle promises more than just thrilling races—it’s a gateway to developing essential skills! As our little racers maneuver this beautifully crafted 1:43 scale car, they’ll build hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and critical thinking through problem-solving on the track. With strong downforce magnets that help control speed and quick cornering, beginners will gain confidence while mastering their racing skills. 6-12 years

Classic Chutes and Ladders is a delightful game that brings joy and learning to our littlest players! With its nostalgic 1970s artwork, this beloved indoor game captures the hearts of both children and parents alike. It's perfect for preschoolers aged 3 and up, allowing them to practice essential counting skills while navigating the ups and downs of ladders and chutes. 3+ years

Pressman Tri-Ominos - Deluxe Edition is an exciting twist on classic triangular dominoes, engaging families in strategy and friendly competition. As we gather around the table, we not only match numbers but also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills while trying to create those coveted bridges and hexagons! With its easy-to-learn rules and fast-paced gameplay, this game is perfect for kids aged 7 and up, making it an ideal choice for family game nights or playdates that stimulate both minds and laughter. 7+ years

RoseArt - Mini-Shaped - Cupcakes - 500 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle for Adults is a delightful way to engage our minds while indulging in the fun of puzzles. This beautifully crafted puzzle is not only a fantastic activity for relaxation, but it also nurtures critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and hand-eye coordination. Imagine the satisfaction and sense of accomplishment as we piece together these sweet treats, making for a perfect family bonding experience! Adults

Bigjigs Rail T-Rex Dinosaur Train Tunnel is an exciting and imaginative addition to any wooden train set! This playful tunnel sparks creativity and storytelling in our little ones while promoting fine motor skills as they maneuver their toy trains through the jaws of a dinosaur. As parents, we love how it encourages problem-solving and critical thinking; avoiding the T-Rex and Pterodactyl adds an element of thrill to their playtime. 3+ years

Snap Circuits Arcade is a fantastic way to introduce kids aged 8 and up to the exciting world of electronics! With over 200 unique projects to create, your child will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they build everything from games to illuminated messages. This kit encourages creativity and engineering fundamentals through hands-on play, making STEM concepts come alive without the need for any tools. 8+ years

The BRIO World Railway World Deluxe Set is a captivating 106-piece train set that invites children ages 3 and up to explore a world of creativity and imagination. As little hands construct intricate tracks, bridges, and cities, they're not just having fun—they're developing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and spatial awareness. This timeless keepsake encourages collaborative play, making it perfect for playdates and family game nights. 3+ years

Melissa & Doug 1,000-Piece Knock Knock Doorways Jigsaw Puzzle is a delightful challenge that transforms family time into a learning adventure! As we work together to piece together dozens of vibrant doors, we're not just having fun; we're honing essential problem-solving skills, boosting resilience, and building confidence. This puzzle isn’t just a great way to engage our curious minds; it's also a perfect gift for kids ages 12 and up, encouraging screen-free creativity while fostering teamwork. 12+ years

The Junior Learning CVC Word Builders is a fantastic resource for children ages 4 and up, designed to make phonemic awareness both fun and interactive. With 48 colorful activity cards representing different levels of difficulty, these cards help young learners recognize and understand basic sounds in words, crucial for their reading journey. The self-checking feature empowers kids to verify their answers independently, boosting their confidence and reinforcing their learning. 4-5 years