Toys That Develop Problem Solving
Our Top 5 Picks
Treasure Trove Adventure Awaits!
Melissa & Doug Wooden Pirate Chest Pretend Play Set is the ultimate gateway to imaginative play for our little adventurers. As they don their pirate bandana and eye patch, children dive into a world of creativity, storytelling, and problem-solving. The excitement doesn't stop at pretending; this set encourages sharing, cooperation, and fine motor skills as they explore the secrets hidden within the treasure chest's compartments. 6+ years
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Why we love it:
Treasure Trove Adventure Awaits! features a wooden pirate chest that opens up a world of creativity while encouraging children to work together and develop their storytelling skills.
My First Railway Adventure
BRIO World 33710 - My First Railway Battery Operated Train Set sparks creativity and imagination in toddlers aged 18 months and up. This delightful 25-piece set not only brings hours of fun but also enhances spatial awareness and fine motor skills, laying the groundwork for early problem-solving. As little engineers build their world, they embark on a journey of exploration, fitting perfectly into our desire for educational play that grows with them. 18 months and up
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Why we love it:
My First Railway Adventure includes 25 pieces that invite little engineers to build and explore, making learning feel like a fun train ride through creativity.
Papo Pirate with Axe: Adventure Awaits!
Papo Pirate with Axe Figure is a delightful invitation to adventure for our little explorers! As parents and educators, we know how crucial imaginative play is for developing creativity and problem-solving skills. Each hand-painted figure is a testament to quality and attention to detail, prompting kids to craft stories, roles, and scenarios that enhance their communication abilities. 3+ years
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Why we love it:
Papo Pirate with Axe features hand-painted detail that sparks kids' imaginations, encouraging them to create adventurous stories while learning about history in the most fun way possible.
Melissa & Doug Safari Puzzle Adventure
The Melissa & Doug Safari Wooden Chunky Puzzle invites young explorers aged 3 and up to embark on a wild adventure with vibrant animals from the jungle! This beautifully crafted puzzle features eight extra-thick pieces that are not only easy for little hands to grasp but can also stand upright for imaginative play. As our children engage with the safari theme, they'll enhance their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills while nurturing their creativity. 3+ years
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Why we love it:
Melissa & Doug Safari Puzzle Adventure features eight extra-thick pieces that stand upright, transforming puzzle time into a playful safari expedition for our young explorers!
Unleash Creativity with Thunder Valley Train Set
Bachmann Trains - Thunder Valley Ready To Run Electric Train Set is an exciting way to introduce young minds to the world of engineering and creativity! Designed with both fun and education in mind, this ready-to-run freight train set encourages imaginative play while promoting fine motor skills and problem-solving abilities. As parents and educators, we can appreciate how this N Scale set fosters an understanding of how trains operate and introduces concepts of physics through interactive experience. 14 years and up
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Why we love it:
Thunder Valley Train Set introduces the joy of engineering with its ready-to-run electric design, making every play session an adventure in creativity and learning.
Jacquard Pearl Ex Pigment Set
The Jacquard Pearl Ex Pigment Series offers a spectrum of shimmering creativity that will ignite your child's imagination from the very first use. This 12 color set, perfect for ages 8 and up, allows budding artists to experiment with various surfaces such as wood, fabric, and paper while exploring the magical world of color mixing. By using these stunning metallic mica powders, children can enhance their fine motor skills, learn color theory, and express their unique artistic vision—all while having an absolute blast! 8+ years
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Why we love it:
Jacquard Pearl Ex Pigment Set includes 12 colors of shimmering mica powders that turn any project into a dazzling masterpiece, inspiring creativity and self-expression in every sprinkle.
Elevate Learning with Bachmann E-Z Track Set
Bachmann Trains 8 PC. E-Z TRACK TALL PIER SET is a fantastic addition to any HO scale train layout! As parents and educators, we know how engaging train sets can ignite a love for engineering and problem-solving in children. 8+ years
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Why we love it:
Elevate Learning with Bachmann E-Z Track Set includes 8 pieces that inspire kids to create customizable layouts, blending engineering skills with imaginative play for hours of fun.
Elevate Learning with E-flite Park 370 Motor
E-flite Park 370 Brushless Outrunner Motor 1360Kv is an incredible gateway into the world of flight for our budding engineers! With its lightweight design and high-torque capabilities, this motor empowers our kids to create and pilot their own small 3D airplanes, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. It's more than just a thrilling upgrade for model airplanes; it's a hands-on opportunity for our children to understand aerodynamics and mechanics in a fun, engaging way. 8+ years
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Why we love it:
E-flite Park 370 Motor's high-torque capabilities empower kids to build and fly their own small 3D airplanes, turning engineering dreams into airborne realities while learning fun physics.
Original Colorforms Creative Design Set
The Original Classic Colorforms is a timeless toy that has sparked creativity in kids for over 60 years! This amazing set encourages imaginative play and artistic expression as children design geometric pictures, scenes, and unique creations using vibrant re-stickable vinyl pieces. Without the mess of glue or scissors, kids can develop fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and problem-solving abilities while exploring their creativity. 5+ years
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Why we love it:
Original Colorforms Creative Design Set includes vibrant re-stickable vinyl pieces, allowing kids to explore their creativity without any messy aftermath. Perfect for sparking imaginations during solo play or playdates!
Engaging Cosom Scooter Boards for Fun Learning
Cosom Scooter Board is an incredible tool for promoting active play and essential motor skills in our kids. With its sturdy design and non-marring casters, this board makes sliding games safe and enjoyable while helping our little ones develop strength, coordination, and teamwork. Perfect for physical education classes and recess, it opens the door to countless indoor games like scooter hockey and creative relays that keep children engaged and moving. 3+ years
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Why we love it:
Engaging Cosom Scooter Boards for Fun Learning feature sturdy non-marring casters, making sliding games safe and promoting active play that helps kids build strength while having a blast.
Swing-N-Slide Shade Tarp Adventure
The Swing-N-Slide WS 4403 52" x 90" Swing Set Replacement Tarp brings a world of comfort and creativity to outdoor play. This vibrant tarp not only provides essential shade, allowing children to play safely beneath the sun, but also inspires imaginative play scenarios, from pirate ships to secret hideouts. With reinforced durability and easy installation, parents can feel confident that their kids are not just having fun, but also developing social skills through cooperative play in a vibrant, protected environment. 2-10 years
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Why we love it:
Swing-N-Slide Shade Tarp Adventure provides essential shade, transforming any swing set into a magical play space where imaginations soar and friendships bloom.
Discover the Joy of Flight with Guillow's Gliders
Guillow's Paul Glider Plane Balsa Wood Assortment is the perfect introduction to the exhilarating world of flight for young, curious minds! With engaging designs like the Starfire Glider and Jetfire Glider, children can explore basic principles of aerodynamics while having a blast outdoors. As they launch and watch their planes soar, they develop fine motor skills, critical thinking, and a sense of accomplishment. 6+ years
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Why we love it:
Discover the Joy of Flight with Guillow's Gliders includes engaging designs that let kids watch their planes soar, turning outdoor time into a fun science experiment.
Explosive Science Fun for Young Minds
The Scientific Explorer My First Mind Blowing Science Experiment Kit offers 11 exciting activities that will spark curiosity in young scientists aged 6 and up. This engaging kit not only makes learning fun but also helps develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a foundational understanding of scientific concepts like chemical reactions and the states of matter. Parents and educators will love how these hands-on experiments create unforgettable learning experiences that inspire a love for science! 6+ years
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Why we love it:
Explosive Science Fun for Young Minds includes 11 exciting activities that transform kitchen tables into mini science labs, fostering a love for discovery in young explorers.
Launch into Learning with Big Daddy Rocket
Estes 2162 Big Daddy Rocket-Building Kit offers an exhilarating opportunity for our older kids to dive into engineering and physics like never before! This advanced kit not only encourages creativity as they design their very own rocket, but also sharpens critical thinking and problem-solving skills during the assembly process. With a thrilling projected altitude of 900 feet, kids can experience the tangible results of their hard work and enjoy the excitement of watching their creation soar high into the sky. 10+ years
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Why we love it:
Launch into Learning with Big Daddy Rocket features a DIY rocket-building kit that not only fuels creativity but also turns STEM concepts into exhilarating outdoor adventures.
Purdueopoly: Fun Learning at Purdue!
Purdueopoly is a delightful way to explore the spirit of Purdue University while honing essential skills! Designed for 2-6 players, this game offers both traditional and rapid-play versions, making it perfect for family game nights or friendly gatherings. As players navigate board spaces specific to the university, they’ll develop strategic thinking, negotiation skills, and team collaboration—all while celebrating alumni pride. 8+ years
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Why we love it:
Purdueopoly features both traditional and rapid-play versions, making it the ultimate way to bond over friendly competition while celebrating university pride and enhancing essential life skills.
Portland Head Lighthouse Puzzle Adventure
Springbok's 1000 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle Portland Head Lighthouse is not just a puzzle; it's an engaging journey into the world of marine beauty and problem-solving! This intricately designed puzzle provides an excellent opportunity for adults to enhance cognitive skills, improve focus, and foster patience. Working together, families can create lasting memories while developing teamwork and communication skills. Adults
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Why we love it:
Portland Head Lighthouse Puzzle Adventure features 1000 pieces that transform family time into a delightful blend of challenge and togetherness, creating lasting memories while honing essential skills.
Melissa & Doug African Safari Puzzle
The Melissa & Doug African Plains Safari Jumbo Jigsaw Floor Puzzle is an exciting adventure for children aged 6 to 8! Stretching over four feet long, this vibrant puzzle not only captivates young minds with its stunning artwork but also promotes valuable skills such as hand-eye coordination and problem-solving. As we gather around to fit the extra-thick pieces together, we enjoy the thrill of a shared accomplishment, turning screen-free time into an engaging learning experience and sparking curiosity about wildlife and Africa’s diverse landscapes. 6-8 years
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Why we love it:
Melissa & Doug African Safari Puzzle stretches over four feet long, transforming puzzling into a thrilling adventure that sparks curiosity about wildlife and teamwork with every piece.
Discover States & Capitals with Flash Cards
States & Capitals Pocket Flash Cards are the perfect way to enrich our kids' understanding of geography and history! Each card not only showcases a state and its capital but also immerses them in our nation’s rich tapestry of natural wonders and historical significance. These durable, easy-to-handle cards invite families to explore while promoting memory skills and quick thinking through engaging games. 8+ years
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Why we love it:
Discover States & Capitals with Flash Cards showcases engaging visuals of each state, transforming geography lessons into exciting family games that spark curiosity and learning on every card.
Daron JetBlue Airport Play Set Adventure
The Daron JetBlue Airport Play Set invites children into an exciting world of aviation! With its durable die-cast metal and plastic parts, this play set not only entertains but also educates young minds about the fascinating world of air travel. As they mimic airport operations and explore roles like pilot or flight attendant, kids enhance their creativity, social skills, and problem-solving abilities. 3+ years
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Why we love it:
Daron JetBlue Airport Play Set Adventure features durable die-cast metal and plastic parts, fostering creative exploration of the aviation world while preparing kids for imaginative missions.
MAGNA-TILES Classic Magnetic Building Fun
The MAGNA-TILES Classic 32-Piece Magnetic Construction Set is the perfect introduction to imaginative play for your budding builder! Featuring vibrant translucent geometric shapes, this set encourages creativity while helping our little ones develop crucial skills such as fine motor coordination and cognitive abilities. As parents and educators, we can appreciate the benefits of a certified STEAM toy that inspires children to explore, create, and learn through hands-on experience. 3+ years
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Why we love it:
MAGNA-TILES Classic Magnetic Building Fun includes 32 vibrant translucent shapes that ignite imaginative creation, paving the way for hands-on learning and collaborative play adventures!
MAGNA-TILES Classic 100-Piece Set
MAGNA-TILES Classic 100-Piece Magnetic Construction Set is a wonderful way to ignite creativity in young minds! With 100 translucent geometric shapes in vibrant colors, this set promotes essential skills such as fine motor development, cognitive thinking, and spatial awareness—all while children engage in hours of imaginative play. As parents and educators, we appreciate the STEAM certification and the versatility of these magnetic tiles, which seamlessly connect with all other MAGNA-TILES sets, making them perfect for expanding our little ones’ creative horizons. 3+ years
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Why we love it:
MAGNA-TILES Classic 100-Piece Set includes 100 translucent geometric shapes that inspire endless creativity, making every play session a vibrant lesson in design and structure.
Unlocking Math Fun with Primary Calculators
Learning Resources Primary Calculator is the perfect companion for our little mathematicians! With ten calculators at their fingertips, kids can explore addition, subtraction, multiplication, and even percentages in a fun and engaging way. These solar-powered gadgets not only spark curiosity about math but also help kids build essential skills that create a strong foundation for future STEM learning. 3+ years
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Why we love it:
Unlocking Math Fun with Primary Calculators offers ten calculators that introduce kids to foundational math skills while turning learning into an engaging activity—and who doesn't love a solar-powered gadget?
John Deere Farm Adventure Set
The TOMY John Deere Toy Truck & Toy Tractor With Trailers 26-Piece Farm Toy Value Set sparks creativity and imagination in little ones aged 3 and up. With a delightful mix of durable die-cast and plastic pieces, your child can build their own farm layout, fostering spatial awareness and problem-solving skills. Not only do they engage in active, hands-on play, but they also learn about farm life and teamwork as they create stories and scenarios around their farming adventures. 3+ years
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Why we love it:
John Deere Farm Adventure Set includes 26 pieces that let kids create their own farm layouts, sparking creativity and early learning about teamwork and agricultural processes.
Melissa & Doug Construction Vehicle Puzzle
The Melissa & Doug Construction Vehicles Wooden Chunky Puzzle brings building fun right to your child's fingertips! With engaging, colorful pieces that stand up for imaginative play, this puzzle not only fosters hand-eye coordination but also encourages your little ones to explore their creativity. Made from responsibly sourced materials, parents can feel good about choosing this puzzle as a learning tool that supports environmental awareness. 2-5 years
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Why we love it:
Melissa & Doug Construction Vehicle Puzzle features colorful chunky pieces that not only boost coordination but also spark imaginative play—a perfect combo for future builders!