Toys that Encourage Creative Design Thinking

Disguise Ender Dragon Costume is a splendid choice for imaginative play that goes beyond just Halloween! Designed with meticulous attention to detail, this officially licensed Minecraft costume encourages kids to explore storytelling and role-playing by stepping into the shoes (or wings!) of the iconic Ender Dragon. With a comfortable fit and all the necessary accessories, children can dive into adventures that enhance critical thinking, collaboration, and creative expression. Whether it’s for trick-or-treating or a themed party, this costume cultivates a love for creative play that can last all year round. 4-6 years

PLAY-DOH Grill Fun Playset is a delightful way to spark creativity in our little ones! With the ability to shape, stack, and share their very own burgers, kids aged 3 and up can dive into imaginative role play while developing fine motor skills and artistic expression. As parents, we find it so rewarding to see our children engage in sensory play that not only keeps them occupied but also fosters their creative thinking. Perfect for home or on-the-go, this playset offers endless possibilities for fun and learning together! 3+ years

Rhode Island Novelty Child Size Plastic Yellow Construction Hat is the ultimate tool for igniting your child's imagination! This vibrant hat invites kids to step into the role of builders, architects, or daring construction workers, enhancing their creative thinking and social skills through imaginative play. It's perfect for playdates or as a delightful addition to themed birthday parties, making learning seamless and fun as they engage in collaborative projects. With 12 hats included, everyone gets to join in on the adventure, fostering teamwork and communication among young explorers! 3+ years

Tidlo Wooden Farm Animals is the perfect addition to our child's playtime! This vibrant set of 10 farm figures not only captivates little imaginations but also fosters creative thinking and roleplay skills. As our kids build their own farm setup, they explore animal relationships, gain social skills, and enhance their fine motor development. Made from sustainably sourced wood and non-toxic materials, we can rest easy knowing they’re safe while enjoying hours of fun. 3+ years

Melissa & Doug Blockables™ Farm Snap and Play is designed to spark imagination in children ages 2 and older. With colorful wooden blocks and connectors, kids can build everything from friendly farm animals to their own unique creations, enhancing fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and creative thinking. This engaging playset also encourages cooperative play and storytelling, making it a must-have for nurturing young minds. 2+ years

Sandylion STSTD4SH Minnie Mouse is a delightful way to inspire creativity in our little ones! With its unique finishes, this project kit adds instant dimension to any artistic creation, making it perfect for imaginative play. As parents and educators, we know the importance of hands-on activities in developing fine motor skills and sparking creative thinking. Whether it's crafting, decorating, or exploring design elements, this kit transforms ordinary projects into extraordinary masterpieces! 3+ years

Strike Freedom Gundam Type II Metal Robot Spirits Figure invites young minds to engage in imaginative storytelling and engineering marvels! This intricately designed figure not only sparks creativity but also enhances fine motor skills as kids assemble and pose their Gundam in various action stances. As they learn to utilize the unique railgun accessory and interchangeable parts, they'll develop critical thinking and dexterity while having a blast! It's the perfect toy for budding engineers and storytellers alike, fostering collaboration during imaginative play with friends and family. 8+ years

The VIP Girls Hair Makeover Evelyn Fashion Doll is an enchanting way for children to explore their creativity while developing fine motor skills through styling activities. With colorful long hair and five fashionable accessories, kids can engage in imaginative play, learning about self-expression and design. It's a delightful choice for parents and educators who wish to inspire artistic thinking and boost confidence in hair and fashion creativity. 5+ years

The Melissa & Doug Sweet Keepsakes Craft Kit is an exciting journey into creativity designed for kids aged 8 to 11. With two adorable decorate-your-own treasure boxes and a fun cake bank, this kit provides a canvas for kids' imaginations to flour. As they paint, stick, and glitter their unique creations, children promote fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination while enjoying engaging, screen-free play. Perfect for rainy days or vibrant party activities, this craft kit makes a thoughtful gift that encourages self-expression and creative thinking. 8-11 years

The Discovery Kids Art Projector is a magical tool that brings creativity to life! With the ability to magnify and project their own artwork onto ceilings and walls, children can explore their imaginations while developing essential fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Using reusable drawing discs and vibrant dry erase markers, kids can layer designs, creating unique art and learning about colors and composition—a perfect way to encourage collaborative play and artistic expression. This is not just an art tool; it's an inspiring vehicle for creative thinking and problem-solving. 4-10 years

The roba Play-Doh Ice Cream Stand Creative Playset is an exciting way for kids aged 3 and up to express their creativity while developing essential social skills. With vibrant colors and specially designed tools, children can learn to collaborate, share, and communicate their ideas as they craft delicious-looking ice cream treats. This interactive playset doesn’t just provide hours of fun; it also nurtures fine motor skills and imaginative thinking in a delightful hands-on environment. 3+ years

Pearhead Letterboard Journal opens a world of creativity for our kids! This unique fidget notebook encourages self-expression through personalized messages and fun design. As they play with the hexagon-shaped silicone letters and symbols, they're not just arranging words; they're building skills in literacy, fine motor development, and creative thinking. Plus, with the soothing pop-it feature, children can find focus and relaxation while journaling their thoughts or brainstorming new ideas. It’s more than just a journal; it’s a gateway to exploration and personalized learning! 6-12 years

The Play-Doh My Little Pony Make 'N Style Ponies Playset is a fantastic way for our little ones to engage in imaginative play while developing essential motor skills. With a delightful assortment of colors and unique molds to create Earth ponies, Pegasi, unicorns, and princesses, children can explore their creativity and storytelling abilities. This playset not only enhances artistic skills through shaping and molding, but it also encourages collaborative play, as kids can share ideas and designs with friends or siblings. It's a wonderful blend of fun and learning that we can enthusiastically recommend to fellow parents and educators nurturing the creative spirit of young minds! 2 and up

The Rainbow High Ultimate Jewelry Designer kit is an exciting way for kids ages 8 and up to unleash their creativity! This DIY jewelry-making experience not only encourages artistic expression but also promotes critical thinking and fine motor skills as they mix, match, and design over 20 unique pieces. Perfect for weekends or sleepovers, this engaging activity allows girls to explore fashion design while building confidence and collaboration skills as they share their creations with friends. 8-11 years

BRIO World 33342 - Large Curved Wooden Tracks is an exciting addition to any BRIO railway collection! As parents and educators, we understand the power of imaginative play, and this set inspires kids to build dynamic train routes that spark their creativity. Beyond just fun, these tracks support skill development by helping children problem-solve and understand spatial awareness. Plus, the safety-tested design ensures peace of mind while they explore their creative worlds! 3+ years

Make It Real: Salon Style Fashion Studio is an exciting way for kids 6 and up to unleash their inner designer! This engaging toy not only sparks creativity through hands-on styling and customization but also promotes critical thinking and fine motor skills as children mix and match hairstyles, accessories, and stickers. Perfect for young fashionistas, it encourages self-expression and imaginative play while learning about color combinations and fashion trends. 6+ years

Mega Man 4" Mega Man Action Figure is not just a toy; it’s a gateway to imaginative adventures and creative storytelling! This dynamic action figure comes with over 15 points of articulation, allowing kids and adults alike to pose Mega Man in countless ways, which can enhance their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. With exciting accessories like alternative hands, a blaster effect, and a stand, your child can immerse themselves in action-packed play that encourages creativity and critical thinking. As parents and educators, we can appreciate how this engaging figure promotes imaginative play and can even spark discussions about teamwork and bravery, essential life skills for our budding heroes. 13+ years

California Costumes, 100 And Still Golden, Child X-Small Costume invites little ones to step into the spotlight of imagination! We know that dress-up play isn't just fun; it's a fantastic way for kids to develop creativity, social skills, and self-expression. This charming costume, complete with a dress, hat on a headband, wig, and novelty glasses, allows kids to explore different roles and scenarios while enhancing their critical thinking skills. Perfect for parties, classroom plays, or just a day of creative fun at home, this costume serves as a delightful tool for learning through play. 4-6 years

The Horizon Group USA Rainbow High Scratch ‘n Style Fashion Sketchbook is an inspiring toolkit for young artists eager to explore their creative talents. This engaging set not only fosters fine motor skills and artistic expression through scratch art and coloring but also encourages imaginative play as children design outfits for their favorite characters. Parents and educators will appreciate how this activity promotes color recognition, critical thinking, and the joy of self-expression through fashionable art. 6+ years

Creative Art Kit Chalkboard Easel Accessory Set is a delightful way to spark imagination in your child's playtime! We love how this set encourages creativity and artistic expression through hands-on activities, letting kids create mini masterpieces with the chalkboard easel. With tiny paints, brushes, and even real chalk, children will not only develop fine motor skills but also explore critical thinking and problem-solving as they mix colors and design spaces for their dolls. Plus, it seamlessly integrates with other sets, offering endless opportunities for imaginative play and collaboration with friends! 3+ years

Spirograph Design Set Boxed is a delightful fusion of art and mathematics, perfect for unleashing your child's creativity! As parents, we love how this engaging kit encourages design thinking and problem-solving skills while kids create stunning spiral art. With endless possibilities for colorful designs and the ability to use various pens, our kids can express themselves artistically anywhere they go—with the added bonus of fostering fine motor skills. This creative STEAM activity makes learning fun and is a must-have for any young artist aged 8 and up! 8+ years

Design & Drill My First Workbench is the ultimate playground for little builders! This interactive workbench allows children to explore STEM concepts while honing their fine motor skills through hands-on construction. With a real working drill and colorful bolts, kids can sort, count, and create their unique designs—all while enhancing their coordination and creative thinking. Perfect for aspiring engineers, this toy transforms playtime into a fun learning adventure that parents can feel good about! 3+ years

NECA Toony Terrors - Scream - Ghostface is an amazing action figure that brings a touch of fun and creativity to playtime. Standing at 6 inches tall, this officially licensed figure encourages imaginative storytelling and role-playing, which are vital for developing critical thinking and communication skills in children. As parents and educators, we appreciate how such interactive toys spark creativity and inspire kids to explore their artistic side. Plus, with its delightful design and movable arms, it promises hours of engaging play while subtly integrating lessons in narrative skills and character development. 8+ years

Play-Doh: Creative Playset is the ultimate clay art adventure for young creators! As fellow parents and educators, we understand the joy and educational value of hands-on play. This inclusive set encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and imaginative thinking while keeping mess at bay with its water-resistant apron. With vibrant colors and essential tools, children can explore their artistic side and develop important skills that foster confidence and self-expression, all while having a blast! 3+ years

Beistle Plastic Novelty Caution Streamer is the perfect addition to any themed celebration! As fellow educators and parents, we know how important it is to make learning fun and engaging. This vibrant caution tape not only enhances the party atmosphere but also sparks imaginative play and creative thinking in kids. Whether it's for a construction birthday bash or a spooky haunted house, we can use this versatile decoration to encourage teamwork and let our children's creativity shine in both indoor and outdoor settings. 3+ years

The Popular Playthings Playstix Base Board is an essential companion for budding builders aged 3 and up, offering endless opportunities for creative construction. This green base encourages children to explore color and pattern recognition, enhance their fine motor skills, and develop critical thinking abilities as they bring their imaginative visions to life. Parents and educators will appreciate how this engaging tool transforms playful moments into valuable learning experiences. 3+ years

The Easy Playhouse Police and Fire Station is a delightful adventure waiting for your child, encouraging them to unleash their imagination as they color and personalize their very own fortress! Designed for children aged 3 and up, this playhouse isn’t just about fun—it fosters creativity, role-playing skills, and teamwork as kids pretend to be brave police officers and firefighters. With features like customizable wanted posters and role-specific tools, children develop critical thinking and storytelling skills while crafting their own exciting narratives. It's the perfect indoor and outdoor activity that turns playtime into an enriching learning experience! 3+ years

KUB Planet is the perfect gateway to imaginative play and STEM learning for our little explorers! With 30 vibrant magnetic pieces, including wheels for dynamic designs, kids ages 3 and up can unleash their creativity by constructing everything from rovers to space stations. As they engage in hands-on building, they’ll develop essential skills like problem-solving, spatial reasoning, and design thinking—all while having a blast. Plus, the safe, durable materials ensure worry-free play for both parents and children! 3+ years

Transformers Toys Studio Series Deluxe Class Transformers: The Movie Autobot Jazz is a fantastic way for kids to engage in imaginative play while enhancing their fine motor skills. With the ability to convert between robot and car modes in 20 easy steps, this toy isn’t just about fun gameplay; it encourages critical thinking and problem-solving as children figure out the transformation process. The highly articulated design invites dynamic poses, fostering creativity and storytelling as kids create their own epic adventures. As parents and educators, we love how this collectible figure inspires an appreciation for engineering and design, making it an excellent addition to any child's playtime arsenal! 8+ years

Freddy Krueger Dream Warriors Glove Replica offers a fantastic opportunity for creative storytelling and imagination! This stunningly detailed prop not only brings the iconic horror character to life but also encourages children to engage in dramatic play. As they delve into the world of fantasy and storytelling, they develop critical thinking, creativity, and expressive skills while exploring themes of character development and narrative structure. It's a perfect addition to craft projects or even Halloween costumes, igniting conversations about movies, art, and theatrical expression amongst friends and family. 14+ years