Building Toys for 4 Year Olds – Imaginative Play and Learning

Parents, you know that playtime is essential for the development of your 4 year old child. But finding the perfect toy can be tough! There are so many options out there and it’s hard to tell which ones will really provide value to your family. So we’ve made this list of our favorite building toys for 4 year olds based on what experts say about how they help build better thinkers!

In a Hurry? Here are Our Top Picks:

Preview Product Price
LEGO | Disney Pixar’s Toy Story Buzz & Bo Peep’s Playground Adventure 10768 Building Kit (139 Pieces) LEGO | Disney Pixar’s Toy Story Buzz & Bo Peep’s Playground Adventure 10768 Building Kit (139... $50.75Amazon Prime Buy on Amazon
SainSmart Jr. Wooden Train Set Log Cabin Building Blocks - 60 PCS Real Wood Logs - Lumber Mill - Buildable House Train Tracks Construction Toy for 4 5 6 Year Old Kids Toddler SainSmart Jr. Wooden Train Set Log Cabin Building Blocks - 60 PCS Real Wood Logs - Lumber Mill -... Buy on Amazon
FAO Schwarz {150 Piece Set} Wooden Castle Building Blocks Set, Toy Solid Pine Wood Block Playset Kit for Kids, Toddlers, Boys, and Girls FAO Schwarz {150 Piece Set} Wooden Castle Building Blocks Set, Toy Solid Pine Wood Block Playset Kit... Buy on Amazon
We know that 4 year olds are at a stage where they’re really starting to explore and discover the world. They want to build things, but their hands aren’t quite big enough for some of the more complicated building sets out there. That’s why we created our line of toys for kids aged 3-5 years old! Our toy kits make it easy for your child to learn how to build while still being able to complete projects with ease. The best part is that these toys are designed specifically for kids in this age range so you don’t have to worry about them getting frustrated or bored easily. We also offer free shipping on orders over $35 which means you can get all the building supplies you need for your child’s next project.

Top Rated building toys for 4 year olds (reviews)

Building toys are one of the best ways to get creative and use your imagination. This is because children like building things, especially when they can build their own creations. Building toys also allow kids to explore different types of engineering concepts while having fun at the same time. Reviews of Top Rated building toys for 4 year olds will give you an idea about what some experts think are some of the best building sets for this age group based on different features such as cost, durability, educational value and ease-of-assembly.
These reviews were written by people who have experience with these products or similar ones so that you can be sure that these ratings are accurate. You should read them before deciding which set would be right for your child’s needs.

1. LEGO | Disney Pixar’s Toy Story Buzz & Bo Peep’s Playground Adventure 10768 Building Kit (139 Pieces)

LEGO | Disney Pixar’s Toy Story Buzz & Bo Peep’s Playground Adventure 10768 Building Kit (139 Pieces)
LEGO | Disney Pixar’s Toy Story Buzz & Bo Peep’s Playground Adventure 10768 Building Kit (139 Pieces)
  • Build a fun playground set with 2-level playhouse, bubble window room, merry-go-round, skunk-mobile and a special Starter Brick base to quickly get your child building and playing in an exciting Toy Story universe
  • Includes Buzz Lightyear, Bo Peep and Gabby Gabby Toy Story minifigures
  • The simple guide to build and play will help your child understand the purpose of the building steps and grow their confidence, for the perfect start to LEGO brick building
  • Playhouse measures over 6” (17cm) high, 9” (25cm) wide and 4” (12cm) deep; Merry-go-round measures over 2” (6cm) wide and 2” (7cm) deep; Skunk-mobile measures over 5” (14cm) long and 1” (3cm) wide
  • 139 pieces – Toy Story building kit for boys and girls aged 4+ and for fans and kids of all ages; This LEGO 4+ Buzz & Bo Peep's Playground Adventure 10768 Toy Story set can be built together with all other original LEGO building toys and LEGO bricks for creative building
$50.75 Amazon Prime
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What we like: There’s a ton of exciting adventures you can have with this Toy Story building kits. The best part is, if your kids are young enough to not yet read instructions, the included guide book will help them understand how to put the set together and play with it. This Toy Story building kit is great for not just kids aged 4+, but for all ages and fans of all ages. You’ll be able to build this toy with both original LEGO and regular LEGO bricks too!

2. SainSmart Jr. Wooden Train Set Log Cabin Building Blocks - 60 PCS Real Wood Logs - Lumber Mill - Buildable House Train Tracks Construction Toy for 4 5 6 Year Old Kids Toddler

SainSmart Jr. Wooden Train Set Log Cabin Building Blocks - 60 PCS Real Wood Logs - Lumber Mill - Buildable House Train Tracks Construction Toy for 4 5 6 Year Old Kids Toddler
SainSmart Jr. Wooden Train Set Log Cabin Building Blocks - 60 PCS Real Wood Logs - Lumber Mill - Buildable House Train Tracks Construction Toy for 4 5 6 Year Old Kids Toddler
  • 2-in-1 LOG CABIN TRAIN SET: Toddler wooden train set and building house logs combined. What can be better than that to motivate kids hand-on skill.
  • CREATIVE TRACKS DESIGN: Double sided wooden train track design, kids can build and play by himself, perfect wooden tinker toy to stimulate toddlers’ creativity and fine motor skill.
  • FUN LOG CABIN FIGURINES: Including horse fence, pig, chicken, dog, tree, sawmill workmen accessories and the buildable log house, the wooden train track set vividly provides a scene of lumber mill daily life.
  • EXTENSIVE BRAND COMPATIBILITY: Perfectly compatible with lincoln log, thomas, melissa and doug, ikea, brio and so on. A fun addition to other train set or log set as well.
  • A GREAT GIFT CHOICE: Premium wood craftsmanship, a great birthday or Christmas gift for age 3 4 5 6 years old kids who love train and logs house building!
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What we like: A Great Toy Choice. Wooden Train Set Log Cabin Building Blocks is a stunning and fun toy with benefits! 60 colorful and durable wood blocks in the set allow kids to create their own train tracks and log cabin scenes with the included accessories. The double sided track design also offers two different options for children’s play. Included in the set are accessories that add to the creativity and fine motor skills such as sawmill workmen, horse fence, pig, chicken, dog, and tree. This is a perfect addition to other toy train sets or wooden houses! It is also compatible with other brands such as lincoln logs, thomas and friends, melissa and doug, ikea and brio. The 60 colorful and durable wood blocks in the set allow kids to create their own train tracks and log cabin scenes with the included accessories.

3. FAO Schwarz {150 Piece Set} Wooden Castle Building Blocks Set, Toy Solid Pine Wood Block Playset Kit for Kids, Toddlers, Boys, and Girls

FAO Schwarz {150 Piece Set} Wooden Castle Building Blocks Set, Toy Solid Pine Wood Block Playset Kit for Kids, Toddlers, Boys, and Girls
FAO Schwarz {150 Piece Set} Wooden Castle Building Blocks Set, Toy Solid Pine Wood Block Playset Kit for Kids, Toddlers, Boys, and Girls
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What we like: The fun toy building blocks set for kids! The wooden castle building blocks set will help your preschooler build their own castles and bridges, arches and towers. Help your child develop fine-motor and problem-solving skills with the different pieces of the fantastic wooden castle blocks. A unique and exciting gift for any person!

4. LINCOLN LOGS – Oak Creek Lodge – 137 Pieces - Real Wood Logs-Ages 3+ - Best Retro Building Gift Set for Boys/Girls – Creative Construction Engineering – Top Blocks Game Kit - Preschool Education Toy

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LINCOLN LOGS – Oak Creek Lodge – 137 Pieces - Real Wood Logs-Ages 3+ - Best Retro Building Gift Set for Boys/Girls – Creative Construction Engineering – Top Blocks Game Kit - Preschool Education Toy
LINCOLN LOGS – Oak Creek Lodge – 137 Pieces - Real Wood Logs-Ages 3+ - Best Retro Building Gift Set for Boys/Girls – Creative Construction Engineering – Top Blocks Game Kit - Preschool Education Toy
  • 137 AUTHENTIC WOODEN PIECES – LINCOLN LOGS Oak Creek Lodge contains 137 parts and pieces made in the U.S. from real maple wood logs. Each log has indentations that can be used to connect it with the others. The package also includes a door, roof eaves and slates, windows, and two plastic figures — a cowboy and a horse.
  • 3 BUILDING IDEAS – Youngsters will enjoy creating three different models with this colorful set. Kids can easily follow the step-by-step instruction sheet that shows them how to build three cabins and two stables. Let your little builders discover the joy of construction with LINCOLN LOGS Oak Creek Lodge.
  • ADVANCED PRESCHOOL LEARNING – LINCOLN LOGS help children develop their analytical and motor skills. Children as young as three years old can easily hold and stack the wooden logs. Their creation of different models introduces them to STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) subjects.
  • TIMELESS CLASSIC – Grandparents and parents will enjoy sharing fond memories as they build new ones with their children or grandchildren. Together, they can construct a variety of horse stables and cabins that allow kids to experience the fun of construction.
  • AMERICA’S NATIONAL TOY: Invented by John Lloyd Wright, son of famous American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, in 1916, LINCOLN LOGS has become America’s National Toy. Beloved by 4 generations of builders, LINCOLN LOGS provides hours of fun while building a solid foundation of STEAM/STEM subjects.
$32.29 Amazon Prime
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What we like: To start your child on the right path, get them Lincoln Logs Oak Creek Lodge. They are building toys that are perfect for children of 4 years and up. Made in America responsibly for safety, they offer three different models to choose from. These sets will help develop your child’s analytical and motor skills while introducing them to STEM subjects. With benefits like these how can you not buy this product?

5. LEGO Disney Mickey and Friends Mickey Mouse’s Propeller Plane 10772 Building Kit Toy; Perfect for Creative Play; New 2021 (59 Pieces), Multicolor

LEGO Disney Mickey and Friends Mickey Mouse’s Propeller Plane 10772 Building Kit Toy; Perfect for Creative Play; New 2021 (59 Pieces), Multicolor
LEGO Disney Mickey and Friends Mickey Mouse’s Propeller Plane 10772 Building Kit Toy; Perfect for Creative Play; New 2021 (59 Pieces), Multicolor
  • The thrilling LEGO Disney Mickey Mouse’s Propeller Plane (10772) set offers youngsters a set packed with fun role-play and building skills growth as they take care of and fly in a cool plane
  • A perfect gift for kids aged 4 and up who want to set trends at the playground! Surprise a child with a creative present that teaches building skills, encourages imagination and entertains for hours
  • Portable for play on the go. The building toy has a plane with a Starter Brick chassis, to help getthe building going so there’s more time for play, plus a minifigure and an exclusive Mickey tile
  • This LEGO Disney set is full of fun details and accessories, including a maintenance tool rack with a wrench and spray bottle elements, plus a small flag build to boost role-play possibilities
  • Measuring over 2 in. (6 cm) high and 5.5 in. (14 cm) wide, this set is great for open-ended play. Since it’s compatible with other LEGO bricks, it can be expanded as kids’ building confidence grows
$33.75 Amazon Prime
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What we like: LEGOs have been a childhood favorite for many. The LEGO Disney Mickey and Friends Propeller Plane set is a great way to bring the excitement of imaginative play back to your four-year-old. One of the benefits of this product is that it offers an easy way for kids to learn building skills. This product also encourages kids to think outside of the box and use their imagination. Finally, these toys are fun and entertaining, which is always a plus for any toy!

Award Winning building toys for 4 year olds (reviews)

Want to get your kids off the couch and into a creative mode? It’s never too early to start teaching them about STEM. Award Winning Building Toys for 4 Year Olds are an excellent way of getting younger children interested in building while also getting their minds working on problem solving skills. Not only will they have a blast playing with these toys, but they’ll be learning at the same time! The set includes a variety of different materials that allow kids to learn from scratch or advance their knowledge depending on their age and skill level. If you’re looking for some educational fun, this is it! Interested in trying out Award Winning Building Toys for 4 year olds? Check out our reviews below or click here to see more details!

6. Magformers Backyard Adventure 61 Piece Set, for Children Ages 3 and Older - Building Blocks, STEM Toy, Award-Winning Educational Magnetic Tiles, Rainbow Colors

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Magformers Backyard Adventure 61 Piece Set, for Children Ages 3 and Older - Building Blocks, STEM Toy, Award-Winning Educational Magnetic Tiles, Rainbow Colors
Magformers Backyard Adventure 61 Piece Set, for Children Ages 3 and Older - Building Blocks, STEM Toy, Award-Winning Educational Magnetic Tiles, Rainbow Colors
  • 3D MAGNETIC BLOCKS: The original and authentic Magformers. 61 magnetic geometric shapes and accessories. This set includes x14 Triangles, x8 Squares, x2 Rectangles, x6 Square Inner Circle, x1 Pentagon Arch, x2 Circle, 8 Grid, x2 Wall, x1 Ladder, x4 Window, x1 Tree, x1 Swing, x2 Chair, x1 Light Up Flower, x1 Elephant Slide, x1 Minibot, x1 Maggie, x1 Max, x1 Bar, x1 Seesaw, x1 Light up Fire Place, x1 Mantle. Create in 2D and pull up into 3D. Build without limitation.
  • CREATIVITY: Step-by-step educational idea booklet with follow along ideas and instructions. Endless open-ended building possibilites. Each square has a base measurement of 2.5" / 6.35cm
  • MAGFORMERS DIFFERENCE: Patented 'rolling magnet' technology that means each shape always stick together. Frustration free building. Over 40 shapes available and 100s of accessories more than any other magnetic construction brand on the market. All Magformers are compatible with other Magformers.
  • Skill level: Beginner
$52.04 Amazon Prime
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What we like: Magformers Backyard Adventure 61pcs is a great toy for 4 year olds and has many advantages. Firstly, it is award winning and has been recognized with the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold Seal. Secondly, this set of magnetic building blocks can be used in 2D and 3D which allows the user to explore creativity without limitations. Thirdly, there are endless building possibilities with this toy and it is made from strong and high quality materials that will last long time with proper care. This toy encourages kids to think outside of the box and use their imagination while playing. It provides an opportunity for learning through exploring different shapes, numbers, colors, letters etc

7. Intock Magnetic Blocks, Magnetic Cubes Educational Toys, Original Award Winning Magnetic Building Blocks for Kids, 100 Pieces Rainbow Color Autism Toys Magic Cube Sensory Toys for Kids

Intock Magnetic Blocks, Magnetic Cubes Educational Toys, Original Award Winning Magnetic Building Blocks for Kids, 100 Pieces Rainbow Color Autism Toys Magic Cube Sensory Toys for Kids
Intock Magnetic Blocks, Magnetic Cubes Educational Toys, Original Award Winning Magnetic Building Blocks for Kids, 100 Pieces Rainbow Color Autism Toys Magic Cube Sensory Toys for Kids
  • CREATIVITY BEYOND IMAGINATION - Our patent innovative magnetic blocks for kids toys give endless possibilities with the most fundamental shape - cubes.
  • LEARNING BY PLAYING - Intock kids learning toys allow kids to develop critical life skills at all ages, through fun playing brain-developing educational games.
  • DREAM BIG AND BUILD BIG -Compatible with other Intock magnet blocks allowing kids to dream big and make large building blocks.
  • EASY TO BUILD & STORE - Our creative magnet building blocks for kids and stress toys for adults connect with a click, and collect without mess.
  • PERFECT GIFT FOR ALL OCCASIONS - 100 pc colorful educational toys & fidgets stress relief toys. Great gifts for kids 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 years old and older all year along.
$69.99 Amazon Prime
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What we like: – Durable materials that will last during playtime – A range of shapes for building that includes cubes – Critical life skills being developed with fun playtime – Made with quality materials, durable and high quality

8. Award Winning Hape Quadrilla Wooden Marble Run Construction - The Cyclone

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Award Winning Hape Quadrilla Wooden Marble Run Construction - The Cyclone
Award Winning Hape Quadrilla Wooden Marble Run Construction - The Cyclone
  • Provides Quality Time Together - The Whole Family Playing Together is The Best Gift
  • German Engineering Design Inspired by Da Vinci circles with Endless Creative Building Possibilites for Spatial Thinking Minds
  • Each of the Seven Different Color Blocks has a different Function - Fun practice for logical and engineering thinking
  • “Spiel Gut” (Good Toy) Award and Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award Winner
  • Thousands of Happy Playing Hours - An Heirloom Toy Worth of Every Penny
$123.48 Amazon Prime
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What we like: The Hape Quadrilla Wooden Marble Run Construction – The Cyclone is an award winning toy that will provide your kids with hours of fun. This toy is designed in Germany and is wonderfully engineered. It includes seven different color blocks, each with a different function, to keep things interesting. Your child will be having so much fun laying this toy out and seeing how it all connects! What’s really cool about this toy is that it’s designed in the same way as circles by Leonardo da Vinci. The individual parts are connected to one another in such a way that children will learn to play creatively, developing spatial thinking minds. The Spiel Gut (Good Toy) Award and Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award Winner allow parents to feel confident that this is a safe and fabulous toy their children will love.

9. Shapemags 60 Piece Set Magnet Building Tiles Magnetic Blocks - Starter Building Kit, Award Winning STEM Educational 3D Construction Blocks Set

Shapemags 60 Piece Set Magnet Building Tiles Magnetic Blocks - Starter Building Kit, Award Winning STEM Educational 3D Construction Blocks Set
Shapemags 60 Piece Set Magnet Building Tiles Magnetic Blocks - Starter Building Kit, Award Winning STEM Educational 3D Construction Blocks Set
  • SHAPEMAGS 60 PIECE STARTER BUILDING SET: This set comes with 60 Assorted Shapes and Tiles. Shapemags Building Tiles are Fully Compatible with all Other Leading Magnetic Tiles Brands.
  • MADE WITH POWERFUL MAGNETS! Each Shapemags Building Tile is Constructed of Sturdy, long lasting translucent plastic and Fused with hard ferrite magnets. This means each tile Provides High Resistance to Demagnetization. Empower your child to play for hours, building spectacular vehicles and structures that stand strong and proud.
  • LEARNING IS SO MUCH FUN! Build fine motor skills, develop critical thinking skills, and sharpen math skills- while having a blast all afternoon! Magnetic Tiles Provide So Many Learning Skills Through Playing. Children and Parents will love this amazing STEM Toy which Allows for Hours of Creative Free Play.
  • WATCH THEM BUILD MASTERPIECES! Build higher and higher - and higher! Construct soaring skyscrapers and jaw dropping edifices with Foundations which stabilize your structures. The Possibilites are Endless with Magnetic Tiles! Create Steps, Ramps, and so Much More! Your Imagination is the Limit
  • GREAT GIFT IDEA! Each Shapemags Set Comes in a Beautifully Designed Color Box which makes it perfect for Gift Giving. The High Quality Design and Durability of Each Tile Ensures Shapemags will Last Through Years of Creative Play. Children will Love Receiving a Set of Shapemags, which are Super Simple in Concept yet have Endless Creative Building Options. Give your Child a Gift that Will Teach Them Many Valuble Skills Through Playing!
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What we like: A fun and educational toy for children of all ages, Shapemags will give kids hours of educational and creative play. They’re made of durable and high-quality materials that will last them for years to come. With shapes and tiles that can be combined to create buildings and structures, Shapemags will help your child develop fine motor skills, critical thinking skills, and math skills while giving them a blast. It’s the perfect STEM toy with limitless possibilities for imaginative builders.

10. Award Winning Hape Totally Amazing Under The Sea Blocks

Award Winning Hape Totally Amazing Under The Sea Blocks
Award Winning Hape Totally Amazing Under The Sea Blocks
  • 46 painted solid wood blocks develop fine motor skills and stimulate imagination
  • Uniquely shaped blocks with vibrant colors inspire new ways to build
  • Variety of ways to play encourages each child’s individual creativity and offers timeless appeal
  • Hape toy finishes are all non-toxic, child safe and of the highest quality
  • Recommended for ages 24 months to 8 years
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What we like: I’m so excited about this new toy! I am a big fan of any toys that introduce children to the world of architecture. These blocks are sure to spark your little ones imagination and help them grow in so many ways – only being the start. The Hape Totally Amazing Under The Sea Blocks are great for developing fine motor skills, getting lost in their imaginative play, and learning about shapes. The colors are vivid and captivating! Plus, they’re not just for little kids! My husband enjoyed these blocks too.

Recap: building toys for 4 year olds

Children are naturally curious and love to explore, which is why they need toys that can stimulate their developing brains. Building toys for 4 year olds help children grow in more ways than one by engaging them both physically and mentally as they learn about spatial awareness, engineering principles, how things work, math skills – the list goes on! There’s no better way to foster a lifelong interest in science or engineering early on than with building sets designed specifically for kids aged four years old. The best part? They’re so much fun even adults will want to play along! If you have any questions about our selection of building toy sets feel free to contact us anytime. We’ll be happy to help in any way we can.

Why should I Buy building toys for 4 year olds?

• Give the next generation of builders a head start with early STEM education • Keep your kids engaged, motivated, and entertained for hours • Fuel creativity by handing them the building blocks to create their own world • Develop spatial thinking skills – essential in everything from engineering to architecture • Improve fine motor skills through delicate and precise manipulation

Can 4 year olds play with Legos?

Yes, 4 year olds can play with Legos. That being said, there are some things to keep in mind if you’re buying Legos for a young child. First, certain key pieces are more advanced than others. Things like wheels and axles require fine motor skills which younger children may not have yet. Second, many Lego sets also come with smaller pieces – good news for parents who need to step in and help build. As with all our building toys for 4 year olds, we’ve done the research to make sure that everything on this list is appropriate for your child’s age and skill level.

What do 4 year olds like to do?

Children this age like to sing and dance. They like make believe play and pretend games such as “doctor”. Four year olds also enjoy physical activity such as bicycling, climbing stairs or playing on playground equipment. Building toys are great for this age as they help children develop their fine motor skills.

What is an appropriate toy for a 4 year old child?

An appropriate toy for a 4 year old child is something they can play with and enjoy. Something that will help them grow and learn about themselves. A toy that can be shared with family and friends. Building sets are perfect for this age group as they provide hours of fun while building fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, problem solving and creativity.

Further Reading: