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Best STEM and developmental Toys for 3-5 year olds
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items Some days it can be really tough to keep the kids occupied. I put together some of my favorite developmental toys that I use to keep the kids busy. These are perfect for those cold and rainy winter days, super hot days when inside play is a must, or...
Sections
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Deals
Sensory play for 3-5 year olds
The best STEM toys for 3-5 year olds
My favorite Pretend play toys for 3-5 year olds
Playroom necessities and storage
Travel Toys and Games for 3-5 year olds
Deals
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Sensory play for 3-5 year olds
Sensory play toys are a must for development and these are some of our favorites. We love crafts, painting, and sand box play year round.
How cute are these? The foam flowers are so playful and fun, perfect for imaginative play or paired with the foam pit for hours of giggles!
SMOL Foam Shapes Flower Daisy - 30pc
I love the purple flower pattern on this foam pit filler. I love that there is finally some creativity with these foam shapes. I suggest adding another set of foam to help it overflow and really get the experience of sinking into these.
SMOL Foam Pit with Daisy Foam - 30pc
These foam space shapes are so cute for sensory play! Pair with the coordinating foam pit for extra fun. I love the unique shapes and soft texture.
SMOL Foam Shapes Space - 30 pc
This foam pit gets good reviews and already includes 250 balls for indoor fun! These are always a hit even for my bigger kid. Who doesn’t love jumping into a ball pit? Our kids love jumping into ball or foam pits for hours of fun.
Playtopia 36'' Foam Ball Pit with 250 ct Ball: Develops Gross Motor Skills
Kids love playing ice cream! I like that the kinetic sand isn’t messy. It clumps together for easy cleanup and the bright colors help me find any rogue sand on the ground.
Kinetic Sand Soft Serve Station Sand Art
Note: contains small parts.You know how kids love to play in the dirt? This is the next best thing on a rainy day! My kids love digging and building and because we store these away for special days, they hold their focus.
Creativity for Kids Sensory Bin: Construction Zone Playset - Preschool Learning Activities, Excavator Toys for Boys Ages 3-5+, Outdoor Toys and Gifts for Kids
This is a fun mermaid themed sensory play which keeps my kids occupied on rainy days. The blue foam on this one is fun to touch and squish! My kids call it the Frozen sensory bin because of the blue color. They like to take their Frozen figurines an...
Creativity for Kids Sensory Bin: Mermaid, Girl Toys - Sensory Toys and Crafts for Toddlers Ages 3-5+
We got this kinetic sand castle kit for a birthday and it has been non-stop fun! The kids love making the castle shapes and the kinetic sand is perfect because it doesn’t stick to hands or get everywhere (at least, not like the beach sand does!)
Kinetic Sand Beach Castle Playset
Mess-free part-free drawing to keep your kids occupied for hours! They love the sensory feel of the magnet popping into place as they use their imagination to come up with new images. Great for travel!
Magnetic Drawing Board - Gigglescape™: Creative Thinking, Fine Motor Skills, Ages 3+, Plastic, 11" Height, Doodle Mats
These are such a simple toy but work so well! They are great for calming kids down, occupying them during travel, and keeping them busy while making a meal.
Learning Resources Sensory Trio Fidget Tubes, Sensory Toys For Children, Ages 3 +
Play-Doh is an essential for rainy day play! Let the kids imagination go wild and see what silly things they create. I’ve had to let my worry about mixing the colors go!
Assorted Play-Doh® Starter Pack
I’m always trying to come up with crafts for the kids (in all my spare time) and I love the pre-made craft kits. Pro tip: buy the seasonal ones as they go on sale. Kids don’t care if it’s a Halloween craft kit or a Christmas one, they just care they ...
Halloween Craft Box by Creatology™
These washable paints are the kids favorite craft. We use garbage bags as smocks, cover the table with a plastic table cloth, and find blank canvas packs or paint paper so the kids can create as much as they want!
Crayola® Washable Kid's Paint Pot Set
We stock up on these canvas panels for paint days. I usually buy two sets of 5 since they are such a great deal and the kids always want to paint more than one.
5 Pack 8" x 8" Canvas Panel by Creatology™
This 10-pack of black canvas is great to have on hand for impromptu paint days. I love the 8x10 size on these. The kids always want to paint multiples. Save your favorite creations and hang on a wall!
10 Pack 8" x 10" Super Value Canvas by Artist's Loft®
I love these washable crayons because they don’t always end up on the page! These are easy to clean and I’ve even got these off the walls before.
Crayola Ultra-Clean Washable Crayons, 24 Ct, School Supplies for Kids, Art Supplies, Gifts for Kids
This one is on constant rotation! The paw patrol coloring book is a favorite and I like that this one has 62 pages so we don’t run out as fast. I usually pack one in a bag with crayons wherever we go in case of boredom.
PAW Patrol Jumbo Coloring Book, 64 Pages by Bendon
This Spidey coloring book looks like our next purchase! I love that they have a girl Spidey Character (Ghost Spider) so my daughter feels included in the super hero realm! The 64 pages will also help us to not go through it so quickly.
Marvel Spidey and His Amazing Friends 64 Page Coloring Book, Paperback, Bendon Publishing
Toys under $10! I need to start a list for this category. Toys don’t have to be expensive! In fact, my kids favorite toy is a large cardboard box with pens and crayons- it keeps them busy for hours! This one is a great starter kit for creating fun sh...
Play-Doh Fun Factory Starter Set - 8pc
I bought these as birthday favors for pre-school and the teacher liked them so much I bought her a set for her classroom! They are easy to use and get the kids moving while concentrating on how to create shapes.
dervea 20 Pack Rainbow Ribbon Dancing Wands
This sensory bin is my daughter’s favorite. It includes a lot of different cat and dog characters and play figurines (almost too many) and the kinetic stand stays put.
Carolart Pet Sensory Bin Dog Cat Sandbox
Okay, run! Our friends have these misting Dino stepping stones and they are amazing! They are sturdy and include rechargeable batteries. The kids absolutely love trying to balance and step from head to head to release the mist and hear them roar!
FIIOEOY 6 Pcs Dinosaur Stepping Stones with Light & Roar
The best STEM toys for 3-5 year olds
You will see a lot of Magnetic Tile toys in my recommendations because they keep the kids occupied for hours! Kids love to build, but they also love to learn. I included some of our favorite learning toys as well, and they don’t feel like you are in ...
The #1 toy I recommend for keeping your kiddos busy and engaged. My kids love to build, destroy, and then build again! The magnetic pieces help to create structure without having to fit a piece together like a Lego. We keep buying add on packs (I’ll ...
PicassoTiles 61-Piece Magnetic Building Tiles for Kids, STEM Construction Blocks Educational Toy Set
This magnetic road set has been a perfect addition to our Magnatile building set. The kids now build roads to race their toy cars on!
Magnetic Tiles Road Expansion Pack, STEM Magnet Building Blocks for Toddler Kids Toys, Montessori Eduional Toys for 3+ Year Old Boys & Girls, Creative Toy Gifts for Kids
Are your kids as obsessed with fire as mine are? They will be so excited for this fireman Magna-Tile set for Christmas! I love the little flames.
MAGNA-TILES® Fire Rescue 27-Piece Magnetic Construction Set, The Original Magnetic Building Brand
My son loves playing with the crane on this construction magnetic tile set. He builds towers with them and then knocks them over.
Playmags City Construction Magnetic Tiles Set, Building Blocks with Crane & Road Pieces, Educational STEM Toys for Boys & Girls Ages 3+ 52-Piece
Here is a larger construction Magna-Tile set I’m considering for Christmas. Are these a little expensive? Yes…are they worth it? 100%! My kids will play with these for hours and wont even notice how much time has passed. Plus using their imagination ...
PICASSO-TILES Magnetic Tiles for Kids, 5-in-1 Construction Theme STEM Building Blocks Educational Toy, 50PCS - Walmart.com
This four piece puzzle set is great for my 5 year old who isn’t challenged by puzzles anymore. I like that these have different puzzle piece sizes (48, 72, and 100) so she can work her way up to the 100 pice puzzle.
4pk Jigsaw Puzzles 48-100pcs - Gigglescape™: Kids, Ages 3+, Fantasy Theme, Problem Solving, Paperboard Material
I just found this larger version of the firehouse Magna-Tile building set. My son is obsessed with firetrucks and firemen right now so I know he will love this! I specially love the light, fire truck, little dog, and the small flames that can attach...
MAGNA-TILES Fire Station Magnetic Building Set
I cannot recommend these enough! Our pre school teacher at Montessori had these and they are great. They are like the old “see Jane run” books. 2-4 word sentences with very short words. Easy first books!
Bob Books - Sight Words Kindergarten Box Set Decodable Phonics Books, Ages 4 and Up, Kindergarten, Flashcards (Stage 2: Emerging Reader)
On the Christmas list! These look great for practicing learning site words and practicing writing letters at the same time. I like that there are pictures to accompany the words to help reinforce memory.
Bob Books - Wipe-Clean Workbook: Advancing Beginners Phonics, Ages 4 and Up, Kindergarten (Stage 2: Emerging Reader) - by Lynn Maslen Kertell
The kids love creating so many different beautiful combinations with these stackable flowers! My son likes to see who can build the tallest tower and then knock it over. Fair warning, there are a LOT of parts. Our dogs have probably eaten half of the...
52 Pcs Flower Garden Building Toys for Girls 3 4 5 6 Year Old,Build a Bouquet Floral Arrangement Stem Toy Gardening Birthday Gifts,Stacking Game Pretend Playset for Toddler Kids and Children
The kids love playing with these at grandmas house! They build forts and see how high they can stack them, endless fun!
Melissa & Doug 24-pc. Jumbo Cardboard Blocks Set
This is such a fun game while teaching site words! My 5 year old loves to race to find and swat the “fly” first while my 3 year old just likes to swat everything!!
Learning Resources Sight Word Swat a Sight Words Game, Phonics Games, Educational Games 5 and Up
This Lego Duplo base plate is a must! Great for travel or at home, it helps secure the build from moving while little hands create.
LEGO DUPLO Green Building Plate Construction Toy 10460
I love the Lego Duplo set because they have larger holes than the smaller original version. This makes it easier for little hands to navigate building. I recommend pairing with the Duplo base plate to help make building a little easier.
LEGO DUPLO Classic Brick Box Building Set 10913
Anything fire truck is a win right now with my son! This Duplo fire truck building set will be perfect for him to play with his other creations.
LEGO DUPLO Town Fire Truck 10969 Toy Set
This Spidey Dulpo set will be a favorite with my kids. They love building, pretend play, and of course Spidey! I like that you can attach a brick to the spider web so it looks like he caught it.
LEGO DUPLO Marvel Spidey Motorcycle Toy 10424
This one is a perfect travel toy. There are so many possible combinations with the felt pieces as well as the dry erase pen. I like that the magnetic aspect keeps things in place!
SaveJoy Magnetic Tangram Puzzle Learning Toys with Pen, 250PCS Montessori Pattern Blocks Set for Toddlers 4-8, Educational Stem Gift for Kids
This building block toy is a great basic for your beginner builders! My kids have had this set since they were 1 and they still like building with it. Today my daughter made a “camera” and my son built a tower to destroy.
Mega Bloks First Builders Big Building Bag, 80-Piece Set (Pink) - DCH62
Another great magnetic toy! This Magentic build-a-machine toy is perfect for my son who is currently obsessed with all things construction. His favorite is to build an excavator or be silly and create construction builds that don’t exist. I like that...
Magneti'book Build-A-Machine
My kids are little builders and these easy-to-connect wood house building toy are perfect for building little villages for their toy figurines. My daughter likes to create makes for her Paw Patrol characters to get through and solve a mission!
The Freckled Frog Little Architect Learning Tools | Wayfair
My kids love playing memory, and this one is too cute as they learn all the names of the construction trucks. I’m still trying to figure out what a backhoe is!
Montessori Wooden Construction Truck Car Memory Game | Homeschool Kindergarten Preschool Activity for Kid | Toddler Gift, Stocking Stuffer
These have been a game changer for getting ready in the morning and at bed time. Instead of me constantly reminding them what to do, they like to refer to their checklist and see who can get it done the fastest.
Magnetic Morning & Bedtime Routine Chart for Kids
The Ready to Read books are my favorite for my Kindergartener. They are a step up from the Bob books but still focus on short sentences and sight words.
Read with the PJ Masks! Boxed Set
We have had these kids flash cards since the kids were babies to help them identify objects. Now they are interested in them again as they are starting to figure out how to spell words.
ZazzyKid Flash Cards for Toddlers - 52 Cards
These are my new favorite flash cards! The words are on the back of each flash card so I try to have my 5 year old sound out the letters before flipping over to look at the words.
Star Right Flash Cards Set of 4 - Pre K
We love our Public Library! The kids love to come here and pick out 3 books a week. They also have music programs for kids 0-5 on Tuesdays, Toddler programs, and even an occasional pajama night for the kiddos. Check out your local public Library for ...
Library! at Bown Crossing
Ohhhh man! Halloween Magna-tiles? I’m waiting u til these (hopefully) go on markdown and then I’m scooping them up!
PicassoTiles Haunted Horror House Magnetic Tiles for Kids – 56PCS STEM Construction Building Blocks Educational Toy Set - Walmart.com
My favorite Pretend play toys for 3-5 year olds
My kids love to play pretend! Here are some of our tried and true pretend play toys that keep them occupied and stimulate their imagination!
My kids love pretending to play restaurant or grocery store. This helps them “go shopping” in the pantry and we set up a checkout counter with bags…and then I bag it all and put it back in the pantry!
Target Toy Shopping Cart
My kids love to play grocery store, or restaurant, or basically anything that now requires me to “pay” for something. This cash register is fun because they can “scan” with the scanner, put cash in the cash drawer, type in the amount, and call for a ...
Cash Register Set - Gigglescape™: Educational Toy, Pretend Shopping Accessories, Play Money, Ages 3+, 31 Pieces
This is a favorite of my kids and was gifted to us as a Christmas present. They love to try to make the largest possible stack and have mom & dad “eat” them! It also helps them to count and follow instructions with the card that suggest what to ...
LeapFrog Scoop & Learn Ice Cream Cart with Accessories, Baby and Toddler Toys
This pretend Dr kit with wood and plastic pieces is a favorite of our kids for pretend play! It also helps kids to work through any fear of the Dr by role playing at home.
Tiny Land® Doctor Kit for Kids
This is a regular one in our rotation! The kids love playing dress up with this princess dress up set that includes accessories and a “trunk” to store them.
Disney Princess Dress Up Trunk Deluxe 21pc
Frozen fever finally hit us! This Little People Frozen play set is on my Christmas list for the kids. They love the Little People figurines and I like that this one has several stations for play.
Disney Frozen Arendelle Sledding Adventures Little People Toddler Playset with 2 Figures
Adding this one to the Christmas list as well! These Frozen Little People figurines will be a popular one to play with. I’m adding this to the play set (see my other link).
Disney's Frozen Carry Along Castle Playset by Fisher-Price Little People
These Paw Patrol figurines provide hours of fun. My kids like playing pretend and sending them on “missions!” They are great for the bath tub too!
PAW Patrol Figure Gift Pack
This Paw Patrol Tower has had hours of use! It is a good size and has multiple ways of playing with it including the elevator, the slide, and Paw Patrol HQ!
PAW Patrol Adventure Bay Tower
Do you have a little helper at home? Mine loves to play mommy with her dolls and I love this play station because it has a place to hang all the clothes (if you know you know), a crib, a high chair, pretend laundry, and a sink all in one!
Teamson Kids Olivia's Little World 6-in-1 Wooden Doll Pretend Play Nursery Station & Reviews | Wayfair
Well now I’m torn! This two sided baby doll changing station is great for pretend play! The storage bins caught my eye for easy cleanup, and two sides means double the fun!
Teamson Kids Olivia's Little World Two-Sided Wooden Baby Doll Changing Station & Reviews | Wayfair
This set is great for the kid that wants to be just like dad (or mom!)! Both my kids like taking turns trying to drill the screws into the top. They go in fairly easily and I like the storage bin is included so parts aren’t all over the place.
Educational Insights Design & Drill Bolt-It Bucket, Preschool STEM Toy, Ages 3+
This set is perfect for the little helper! Now if only someone could come up with a vacuum that is their size that could actually work! The broom and dust mop are the favorite for the kids because they can see actual results.
Melissa & Doug Dust! Sweep! Mop! 6pc Wooden Pretend Play Preschool Cleaning Set
Pretend s’mores!! This is on my kids Christmas list. We have been camping lately and they absolutely love it! I especially love the faux fire and that they can pretend to make s’mores without the sugar.
Melissa & Doug Let's Explore S'mores & More Campfire Play Set
Adding this one to our pre-Christmas list! This portable play car town set looks great for travel for my 3 year old. I like that it includes storage.
Melissa & Doug 18-Piece Wooden Take-Along Tabletop Town, 4 Rescue Vehicles, Play Pieces, Bridge: Toddlers Fine Motor Toy
This is my number one toy recommendation for little boys! Skip the bubble version, they break easily. This one is great with the pretend gas can and sturdy parts for endless play! My son likes to follow his dad around in this every time he mows.
Little Tikes Gas N Go Mower, for Ages 3+, Green
My son will throw on a hard hat and run to this kids excavator and start digging like his life depends on it! It takes a little getting used to, but once they get the hang of it they have so much fun!
Stargo Kids Sand Digger Excavator Ride-On Toy
I just found this garbage collector costume for kids and I am so excited! My son loves the garbage man and helping his dad clean up the yard. This costume will get used long after Halloween and I love that the garbage can is collapsible for easy stor...
Trash Collector Costume Set for Kids 2-6
Playroom necessities and storage
I’m working on putting together a playroom for our kids for Christmas. From tables and chairs to storage and crayons, here are some of my favorite playroom finds.
This is the best little chair for crafts, watching a movie night (no food ends up on the couch), and yes even camping! We bring the kids chairs on road trips, to our local food truck, to football games for tailgating, and basically anywhere they may ...
Firefly! Outdoor Gear Sparkle the Unicorn Kid's Camping Chair - Pink/Off-White Color
What I love about this chair (other than the shark!) is the two cup holders. Perfect for snacks and drink! We have used ours so much over the years for every day activities and adventures that it is time for a new one.
Firefly! Outdoor Gear Finn the Shark Kid's Camping Chair - Navy/Orange/Gray Color
This is great for storing all the puzzles we have accumulated! If we leave them out the dogs think that are great chew toys. This rack encourages the kids to put them away.
Melissa & Doug Puzzle Storage Rack - Wire Rack Holds 12 Puzzles: Educational Fine Motor Metal Organizer
I like this folding kids table for crafts and play time but I love that I can slide it into a closet when not in use. We pair our camping chairs with it for easy folding all around!
Emma and Oliver Kids Tan Folding Game and Activity Table - Toddler Table for Daycare Center
I love that this toy bin allows kits to actually see their toys. The shelf on top is also great for larger toys or books.
Humble Crew Kids Toy Storage Organizer with Shelf and 9 Plastic Storage Bins, Natural/White - Walmart.com
This one is a must! On our Christmas list for cold and dreary days when the kids need to move. They play on this indoor trampoline at grandmas and it is perfect for getting some of the wiggles out. Plus great for adults too! I like the adjustable han...
Upper Bounce Machrus Upper Bounce Mini Trampoline-Indoor/Outdoor Trampoline, w/ Adjustable Bar and Safety Padding & Reviews | Wayfair
I’m turning our spare room into a playroom for Christmas for the kids (finally) and this cute scalloped cabinet looks adorable for storing (hiding) all the kids toys.
Modway Emmeline 66" 4-Door Scalloped Sideboard Cabinet | Wayfair
The Step2 brand is great at making durable products that you actually use. I’m eyeing this all-in-one activity table for their play room.
Step2 Harmony All-in-One Toddler Activity and Train Table & Reviews | Wayfair
Book storage is key and I love that they can see their books vs going through a pile in a basket (which is our current system). I think I might get two of these book racks for our new playroom.
3 Sprouts Recycled Book Rack/checkerboard/beige | Wayfair
I love this neutral washable rug for the playroom. It gets good reviews and is soft!
Zuhur Washable Checkered Indoor Rug
I love the large size of this indoor playhouse with lights. This is a large size and big enough to put a play kitchen in or set up a napping pod. Great for a playroom!
Tiny Land® Large Space Play House with Star Lights & Reviews | Wayfair
I’m loving the scallop on this bookcase for a kids playroom. I was eyeing a fabric one but I think the wood will actually be better for easy cleaning. Plus the scallop is really selling me! I’m not so sure about the finish so I might paint it.
Montessori 5-Tier Kids Bookshelf with Scalloped Design, Front-Facing Toddler Bookcase, includes Dual Hooks for Backpacks, Ideal for Kids' Rooms, Living Rooms, Entryways, playrooms.
I love these fun and colorful prints for a playroom! The alligator on the bike is my favorite. Note- this is a digital download but a Fed Ex store can print it out if you don’t have a good printer at home.
Modern Kid's Room Wall Art Bundle Set of 50 Prints, DIGITAL Download, Eclectic Nursery Prints, Playroom Decor, Maximalist Prints
This play washing machine is a must have! The front spins with little beads to simulate a washing machine noise. I love that it is aesthetically pleasing too. I want the whole line (oven and fridge).
ROBUD Wooden Washing Machine Play Kitchen Toy for Kids | Wayfair
This is another great option for pretend kitchen that is an all-in-one and is aesthetically pleasing too!
ROBUD Wooden Play Kitchen & Accessories Set, Preschool Kitchen Set, Modern Kitchen Playset with light & Reviews | Wayfair
The only problem I have with this green wood toy fridge is that I want the whole collection! I love that it includes a spot to make coffee, store ice cream, has temperature control, and even a bottom freezer!
ROBUD Kitchen Playset Wooden Refrigerator Toy for Kids | Wayfair
This play oven is adorable! It is sturdy and makes some sounds to help with pretend play. I love that it is aesthetically pleasing too.
ROBUD Kitchen Playset, Wooden Oven Playset, Toddler Kitchen Set | Wayfair
These have been a game changer for getting ready in the morning and at bed time. Instead of me constantly reminding them what to do, they like to refer to their checklist and see who can get it done the fastest.
Magnetic Morning & Bedtime Routine Chart for Kids
These are my favorite for storage or DIY sensory bins. The see-through bin helps kids to easily identify what is inside and I like that they can stack.
Vtopmart 6 Qt Clear Plastic Storage Bins, 4 Pack
Travel Toys and Games for 3-5 year olds
Travel season is coming up which means I’ll be investing in some of these toys now! I made the mistake of flying once without any new toys…I don’t recommend it! New toys are a must for a plane ride for littles. I especially like anything magnetic to...
Adding this one to our pre-Christmas list! This portable play car town set looks great for travel and I like the storage compartment and carry handle.
Melissa & Doug 18-Piece Wooden Take-Along Tabletop Town, 4 Rescue Vehicles, Play Pieces, Bridge: Toddlers Fine Motor Toy
Contains small parts! You know how kids love to play in the dirt? This is the next best thing on a rainy day! They love digging and building and because we store these away for special days, they hold their focus.
Creativity for Kids Sensory Bin: Construction Zone Playset - Preschool Learning Activities, Excavator Toys for Boys Ages 3-5+, Outdoor Toys and Gifts for Kids
This is a fun mermaid themed sensory play which keeps my kids occupied on rainy days. The blue foam on this one is fun to touch and squish!
Creativity for Kids Sensory Bin: Mermaid, Girl Toys - Sensory Toys and Crafts for Toddlers Ages 3-5+
We got this kinetic sand travel kit for a birthday and it has been non stop fun! The kids love making the castle shapes and the sand is perfect because it doesn’t get everywhere (at least, not like the beach sand does!)
Kinetic Sand Beach Castle Playset
Mess free part free drawing to keep your kids occupied for hours! They love the sensory feel of the magnet popping into place as they use their imagination to come up with new images. Great for travel!
Magnetic Drawing Board - Gigglescape™: Creative Thinking, Fine Motor Skills, Ages 3+, Plastic, 11" Height, Doodle Mats
I love this travel size Magentic Tile! Great for keeping them busy on flights or when we get to where we are going when I can’t bring their larger sets.
MAGNA-TILES microMAGS Travel Set: Educational Magnetic Building Toys for Math and Creative Thinking, 26 Pieces
These are great for practicing learning site words and practicing writing letters at the same time. The pictures with the words help them remember.
Bob Books - Wipe-Clean Workbook: Advancing Beginners Phonics, Ages 4 and Up, Kindergarten (Stage 2: Emerging Reader) - by Lynn Maslen Kertell
I love when a toy can include learning and play! This travel letter case is great for both. I also like the flash cards where they have to assemble the letters, and the erasable pen to help them practice writing the letters.
Alphabet Travel Case - Gigglescape™: Preschool Educational Toys, Reading & Writing Kits, Fine Motor Skills Development
This Lego Duplo base plate is a must! Great for travel or at home, it helps secure the build while little hands create. I have found this results in less frustration. Also great for travel to help keep parts in place while building.
LEGO DUPLO Green Building Plate Construction Toy 10460
This one is a perfect travel toy. There are so many possible combinations and the magnetic aspect keeps things in place! I like the dry erase pen and the magnetic felt pieces for building so many shapes.
SaveJoy Magnetic Tangram Puzzle Learning Toys with Pen, 250PCS Montessori Pattern Blocks Set for Toddlers 4-8, Educational Stem Gift for Kids
Another great magnetic toy! I love anything Montessori and this Magentic build-a-machine toy is perfect for my son who is currently obsessed with all things construction. He likes to build excavators and helicopters or if he is feeling really silly, ...
Magneti'book Build-A-Machine
These are such a simple toy but work so well! They are great for calming kids down, occupying them during travel, and keeping them busy while making a meal. I keep one in my bag at all times.
Learning Resources Sensory Trio Fidget Tubes, Sensory Toys For Children, Ages 3 +
This is the #1 thing I suggest for travel. It has been amazing for our road trips, airplane trips, or even just trips to the park. It folds down for easy storage and has cup holders for water bottles. My husband likes the extending feature on the han...
Mac Sports Folding Utility Wagon, Red
What’s on my Christmas list for the 3-5 year olds
I’m keeping a list of Christmas items here for my kids so I don’t forget! I’ll be sending my Benable list to family at Christmas time because they are always asking what they can get! For Christmas this year we want to finally turn our guest room int...
Anyone else’s kids obsessed with tape measures? This one is on my stocking stuffer list, hopefully it holds up! I like the more pliable tape measure better than the metal ones which can cut little hands.
Handy Famm Retractable Mini 8ft Bird Tape Measure STEM Toy, Blue
Here is a larger construction Magnatile set I’m considering for Christmas. Are these a little expensive? Yes…are the worth it? 100%! My kids will play with these for hours and not even notice how much time has passed. Plus the imagination using these...
PICASSO-TILES Magnetic Tiles for Kids, 5-in-1 Construction Theme STEM Building Blocks Educational Toy, 50PCS - Walmart.com
My kids will love playing with this Magnatiles Fire station building kit. They love fire trucks right now and the little magnetic flames and ladder are too cute!
MAGNA-TILES Fire Station Magnetic Building Set
On the Christmas list! These look great for practicing learning site words and practicing writing letters at the same time.
Bob Books - Wipe-Clean Workbook: Advancing Beginners Phonics, Ages 4 and Up, Kindergarten (Stage 2: Emerging Reader) - by Lynn Maslen Kertell
This Spidey coloring book looks like our next purchase!
Marvel Spidey and His Amazing Friends 64 Page Coloring Book, Paperback, Bendon Publishing
Adding this one to the Christmas list as well! These Frozen Little People figurines will be a popular one to play with. I’m adding this to the play set (see my other link).
Disney's Frozen Carry Along Castle Playset by Fisher-Price Little People
Frozen fever finally hit us! This Little People Frozen play set is on my Christmas list for the kids. They love the Little People figurines!
Disney Frozen Arendelle Sledding Adventures Little People Toddler Playset with 2 Figures
Do you have a little helper at home? Mine loves to play mommy with her dolls and I love this play station because it has a place to hang all the clothes (if you know you know), a crib, a high chair, pretend laundry, and a sink all in one!
Teamson Kids Olivia's Little World 6-in-1 Wooden Doll Pretend Play Nursery Station & Reviews | Wayfair
What I love about this chair (other than the shark!) is the two cup holders. Perfect for snacks and drink!
Firefly! Outdoor Gear Finn the Shark Kid's Camping Chair - Navy/Orange/Gray Color
This is the best little chair for crafts, watching a movie night (no food ends up on the couch), and yes even camping! We bring the kids chairs on road trips too so they always have a place to sit!
Firefly! Outdoor Gear Sparkle the Unicorn Kid's Camping Chair - Pink/Off-White Color
Pretend s’mores!! This is on my kids Christmas list. We have been camping lately and they absolutely love it!
Melissa & Doug Let's Explore S'mores & More Campfire Play Set
Adding this one to our pre-Christmas list! This portable play car town set looks great for travel!
Melissa & Doug 18-Piece Wooden Take-Along Tabletop Town, 4 Rescue Vehicles, Play Pieces, Bridge: Toddlers Fine Motor Toy
My kids love pretending to play restaurant or grocery store. This helps them “go shopping” in the pantry and we set up a checkout counter with bags…and then I bag it all and put it back in the pantry!
Target Toy Shopping Cart
This Spidey Dulpo set will be a favorite with my kids. They love building, pretend play, and of course Spidey!
LEGO DUPLO Marvel Spidey Motorcycle Toy 10424
Anything fire truck is a win right now with my son! This Duplo fire truck building set will be perfect for him.
LEGO DUPLO Town Fire Truck 10969 Toy Set
The kids are obsessed with Frozen right now and they will love opening one of these each day for December!
Disney's Frozen 24 Days of Surprise Toys Advent Calendar with Anna & Elsa Dolls
After camping this summer the kids are obsessed with anything related to camping. I love that you can cook food over this pretend campfire and that it comes with a play tent.
Kids Camping Play Tent with Campfire, 39pcs BBQ Food Toys Playtent Set for Boys Girls 3-6 Indoor Outdoor Play
This one is a must! On our Christmas list for cold and dreary days when the kids need to move. They play on this indoor trampoline at grandmas and it is perfect for getting some of the wiggles out. Plus great for adults too! I like the adjustable han...
Upper Bounce Machrus Upper Bounce Mini Trampoline-Indoor/Outdoor Trampoline, w/ Adjustable Bar and Safety Padding & Reviews | Wayfair
This play washing machine is a must have! The front spins with little beads to simulate a washing machine noise. I love that it is aesthetically pleasing too. I want the whole line (oven and fridge).
ROBUD Wooden Washing Machine Play Kitchen Toy for Kids | Wayfair
This play oven is adorable! It is sturdy and makes some sounds to help with pretend play. I love that it is aesthetically pleasing too.
ROBUD Kitchen Playset, Wooden Oven Playset, Toddler Kitchen Set | Wayfair
The only problem I have with this green wood toy fridge is that I want the whole collection! I love that it includes a spot to make coffee, store ice cream, has temperature control, and even a bottom freezer!
ROBUD Kitchen Playset Wooden Refrigerator Toy for Kids | Wayfair
Okay, run! Our friends have these misting Dino stepping stones and they are amazing! They are sturdy and include rechargeable batteries. The kids absolutely love trying to balance and step from head to head to release the mist and hear them roar!
FIIOEOY 6 Pcs Dinosaur Stepping Stones with Light & Roar
Toys under $10 for my 3-5 year olds
This is for one, and that’s really all they need! My kids love to play on their Magnatile track, or take a cardboard box and make a track with a black sharpie! Play doesn’t have to be expensive!
Hot Wheels Single Pack – (Styles May Vary)
Play-Doh is an essential for rainy day play! Let the kids imagination go wild and see what silly things they create.
Assorted Play-Doh® Starter Pack
Toys under $10! I need to start a list for this category. Toys don’t have to be expensive, my kids favorite toy is a large cardboard box and pens and crayons- keeps them busy for hours! This one looks great for new Playdoh textures.
Play-Doh Fun Factory Starter Set - 8pc
I’m always trying to come up with crafts for the kids (in all my spare time) and I love the pre-made craft kits. Pro tip: buy the seasonal ones as they go on sale. Kids don’t care if it’s a Halloween craft kit or a Christmas one, they just care they ...
Halloween Craft Box by Creatology™
These washable paints are the kids favorite craft. We use garbage bags as smocks, cover the table with a plastic table cloth, and find blank canvas packs or paint paper so the kids can create as much as they want!
Crayola® Washable Kid's Paint Pot Set
We stock up on these 5 set canvas panels for paint days!
5 Pack 8" x 8" Canvas Panel by Creatology™
I love these washable crayons because they don’t always end up on the page!
Crayola Ultra-Clean Washable Crayons, 24 Ct, School Supplies for Kids, Art Supplies, Gifts for Kids
This one is on constant rotation! The paw patrol coloring book is a favorite!
PAW Patrol Jumbo Coloring Book, 64 Pages by Bendon
This Spidey coloring book looks like our next purchase!
Marvel Spidey and His Amazing Friends 64 Page Coloring Book, Paperback, Bendon Publishing
Toys under $10! I need to start a list for this category. Toys don’t have to be expensive, my kids favorite toy is a large cardboard box and pens and crayons- keeps them busy for hours! This one looks great for new Playdoh textures.
Play-Doh Fun Factory Starter Set - 8pc
On the Christmas list! These look great for practicing learning site words and practicing writing letters at the same time.
Bob Books - Wipe-Clean Workbook: Advancing Beginners Phonics, Ages 4 and Up, Kindergarten (Stage 2: Emerging Reader) - by Lynn Maslen Kertell
These wood construction toys are perfect for my son. Especially since our dogs eat anything plastic! I love that these can be personalized too for a keepsake.
Toy Construction Excavator Handmade Wooden Construction Toy Vehicles Custom Baby Gifts Birthday Boy Gifts Kids Pretend Play First Christmas
This 4-piece puzzle is great because it shows the puzzle pattern in black and white below for easy assembly.
4pk Tray Puzzles - Gigglescape™: Kids Animal Puzzle Sets, Ages 3+, 12 & 24 Pieces
My favorite places in the Treasure Valley to take kids for sensory play and learning
Our kids absolutely love the Children’s Museum of Idaho. There are so many learning activities to keep my 3 and 5 year old occupied. Once they need a break don’t forget to watch the short movie/show in the planetarium. They play it on the ceiling and...
Childrens Museum of Idaho
Note: This is a SMALL aquarium but my littles love it. It’s actually just the right size for little ones. They used to have manta ray feeding but have paused it for now. I think you can still pet them though!
Aquarium of Boise | Education. Inspiration. Conservation.
We signed up for the monthly open play for fall and winter for our kids. This is a great spot to get out some energy at their indoor gym. They also have occasional date nights for parents and aftercare for school aged kids.
Bodies in Motion
This is another great indoor playground spot. I like that they have a younger area for the littles to not get in the way of the bigger kids (Toddler Town). It can get a little crazy on weekends with birthday parties!
Planet Kid Indoor Playground — Wings Center
Our kids love Fly High Trampoline park. This location on Fairview seems cleaner than some of the others, but maybe it was the day I went? This is a great spot for a birthday party, but as a result weekends can get a bit crowded. While my 3.5 year o...
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We love our Public Library! The kids love to come here and pick out 3 books a week. They also have music programs for kids 0-5 on Tuesdays, Toddler programs, and even an occasional pajama night for the kiddos. Check out your local public Library for ...
Library! at Bown Crossing
Learning tricks
I just saw this Magnatile-meets-sight-words trick and y’all know I’m running to put this one together! Let me know if it works for you!
Learn with Kids Crafts