Affordable Educational Toys Under $40 for Kids

As parents and educators, we know that finding engaging and affordable resources for our children's development can be a challenge. This page highlights a curated selection of exceptional educational toys, all priced under $40, that inspire creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking. From hands-on building sets to interactive games, we've gathered options that make learning fun and accessible, ensuring that every child can enjoy enriching play experiences without breaking the bank.

Balsa-Wood Glider Fun for All

Our Rank:
S&S Worldwide Balsa-Wood Top Gun Glider Model Planes offer a unique and hands-on way for kids to explore the principles of aerodynamics while unleashing their creativity! With easy assembly and options for decorating with paints or markers, these gliders are perfect for encouraging STEM learning in a fun and playful environment. Ideal for summer camps, field days, or birthday party favors, each plane inspires imagination and fine motor skills as kids build and personalize their own flying creations. Plus, at an affordable price and made in the USA, they make a fantastic choice for educators and parents alike! 5-12 years
Develops skills:
creativity, fine motor skills, problem solving, understanding aerodynamics, spatial reasoning, teamwork
Why we love it:
Balsa-Wood Glider Fun for All includes easy assembly and personalization options, making it a delightful way for kids to explore flight while flexing their creative muscles.

Ignite Creativity with Handy Art Tempera!

Our Rank:
Handy Art Little Masters Tempera Paint is an exciting gateway to creativity for our young artists! With its vibrant 12 hue collection, this paint encourages self-expression and imaginative play while developing fine motor skills. As parents and educators, we appreciate its AP Non-Toxic and Gluten-Free certification, ensuring safe art time for our kids. Plus, being budget-friendly means we can stock up for countless art adventures! 3+ years
Develops skills:
fine motor skills, creativity, color recognition, self-expression, imaginative play
Why we love it:
Ignite Creativity with Handy Art Tempera! offers a vibrant 12 hue collection that turns every blank canvas into a world of imaginative possibilities, sparking joy-filled art adventures.

Fun with Money: Learning Made Playful

Our Rank:
The LEARNING ADVANTAGE Play Money Set is a fantastic resource for teaching young learners about money management and math skills. With its realistic bills and coins, children can practically engage in real-world scenarios, promoting hands-on learning while mastering addition, subtraction, and budgeting. This versatile set not only enhances their understanding of currency but also empowers them with the essential skills to manage finances wisely in the future. 3+ years
Develops skills:
money management, addition, subtraction, budgeting, problem solving, critical thinking
Why we love it:
Fun with Money features realistic bills and coins, allowing kids to dive into hands-on learning about currency while secretly honing their math skills for a financially savvy future.

Colorful Creativity with Prang Markers

Our Rank:
Prang Classic Art Markers inspire creativity in young artists and learners alike. With 12 vibrant colors and a durable, break-resistant tip, these markers allow children to explore their imagination while developing fine motor skills and color recognition. Perfect for schools and homes, their non-toxic formula and long cap-off life make them a safe, budget-friendly choice for parents and educators nurturing budding Picassos. 3+ years
Develops skills:
fine motor skills, color recognition, creativity, imaginative play, critical thinking, artistic expression
Why we love it:
Colorful Creativity with Prang Markers includes 12 vibrant colors that inspire young artists to unleash their imagination safely, making art time a brilliant blend of fun and learning.

Tropical Snake Swirls for Creative Fun

Our Rank:
Fun Express 25" Tropical Snake Hanging Swirl Decorations are the perfect addition to any classroom or home party setup! Not only do they burst with vibrancy and excitement, but they also offer a fantastic opportunity for children to engage in creative projects. Imagine using these colorful decorations to inspire art and science discussions about patterns, colors, and even the wildlife of the tropics! These budget-friendly decorations are not just for parties; they can ignite an enthusiasm for learning that transforms any gathering into an educational adventure. 3+ years
Develops skills:
creative expression, pattern recognition, color theory, spatial awareness, imaginative play, conversational skills
Why we love it:
Tropical Snake Swirls for Creative Fun are vibrant decorations that spark creativity and can easily turn any gathering into a lively learning experience about colors and nature!

Weed Fund Piggy Bank: Save with Style

Our Rank:
Weed Fund 6.5-inch Unique Ceramic Piggy Bank is more than just a stylish savings jar; it’s a fantastic tool for teaching our kids the value of money and saving! With its charming ombre design and snug cork lid, children can understand budgeting and the rewards of saving up for something special. The removable $ icon keychain encourages fun goal-setting, making it an engaging way for little ones to track their saving journey. Let’s inspire our kids to cultivate smart financial habits that will last a lifetime! 3+ years
Develops skills:
financial literacy, goal setting, budgeting, responsibility, creativity, problem solving
Why we love it:
Weed Fund Piggy Bank features a charming ombre design and encourages kids to track their savings journey, making financial learning fun and stylish.

Celebrate 40th with Rose Gold Elegance

Our Rank:
Happy 40th Birthday' Rose Gold Glitz Foil Banner is the perfect way to celebrate this significant milestone in style! As parents, we know how important it is to create memorable moments, and this banner does just that with its eye-catching design. It encourages children to recognize milestones and celebrate achievements, while also sparking conversations about age and personal growth. Plus, its durable materials mean we can save it for future celebrations, making it a lovely addition to our decor arsenal that’s both sustainable and budget-friendly! All ages
Develops skills:
celebration, recognition, conversation, creativity, personal growth
Why we love it:
Celebrate 40th with Rose Gold Elegance features an eye-catching design that creates memorable moments while sparking meaningful conversations about achievements and growing up.

Vibrant On The Road 1st Birthday Banner

Our Rank:
On The Road 1st Birthday Foil Banner is the perfect way to elevate your little one's special day! This colorful, vehicle-themed decoration not only creates a festive atmosphere but also sparks curiosity and joy in your child and their friends. The vibrant design encourages imaginative play as they spot the fun vehicles, while the easy setup means you can focus on creating unforgettable memories. Plus, it’s eco-conscious and budget-friendly, making it a wonderful choice for years of birthday celebrations ahead! 0-2 years
Develops skills:
imaginative play, visual recognition, memory, social skills, festive environment, connection building
Why we love it:
Vibrant On The Road 1st Birthday Banner is a colorful, vehicle-themed decoration that not only brightens the party but also sparks joy and imaginative interactions among little guests.

Celebrate Milestones with Rose Gold Elegance

Our Rank:
Happy 60th Birthday' Rose Gold Glitz Foil Banner makes any milestone celebration truly unforgettable! This stunning banner not only adds a touch of glamour to the event, but it also encourages wonderful family gatherings and sparks conversations about cherished memories. As we come together to honor our loved ones, we create lasting bonds and share wisdom across generations – all while igniting a sense of joy and appreciation. Plus, its durable materials mean we can celebrate many more birthdays in style while being environmentally conscious and budget-friendly. All Ages
Develops skills:
social connection, conversation starters, memory sharing, creative expression, event planning
Why we love it:
Celebrate Milestones with Rose Gold Elegance features stunning rose gold glitz that transforms any gathering into a sparkle-filled memory lane, fostering connections as we share stories and laughter.

Adorable Balloon Decor for 1st Birthdays

Our Rank:
Unique Stars 1st Birthday Party Latex Balloons - 12' bring a delightful touch to your little one's first birthday celebration! Featuring charming designs with '1st Birthday' and whimsical white stars, these balloons not only light up the party but can also spark imaginative play and creative expression as your child interacts with them. Plus, the excitement of seeing these colorful balloons can help with their visual recognition and understanding of special occasions. Made from sturdy quality latex, these balloons can be easily inflated and reused, making them a wise choice for budget-conscious parents looking to combine fun and education in every celebration. 0-2 years
Develops skills:
visual recognition, imaginative play, creative expression, fine motor skills, social interaction, event recognition
Why we love it:
Adorable Balloon Decor for 1st Birthdays features charming designs with '1st Birthday' and whimsical stars, making each celebration a vibrant opportunity for interactive play and memory-making.

Simba Coin Bank: Save Like a King

Our Rank:
The Lion King Simba Coin Bank is a delightful addition to any child's room, standing at an impressive 9 inches tall. This charming money bank, made from high-quality PVC, not only serves as a beautiful collectible but also teaches our little ones essential lessons about saving and financial responsibility. By encouraging kids to add their coins to Simba's belly, we can help them develop budgeting skills, understand the value of money, and promote a sense of achievement as they watch their savings grow. It's more than just a toy; it's a wonderful tool for learning and growing, all while nurturing a love for the beloved Lion King character! 3+ years
Develops skills:
financial responsibility, budgeting skills, counting, delayed gratification, goal setting
Why we love it:
Simba Coin Bank is a charming 9-inch tall collectible that turns saving money into an exciting adventure, helping kids learn the value of coins while they play.

Creative Finger Painting Fun

Our Rank:
School Smart Finger Paint Paper, 60 lb, offers a spacious canvas for budding artists, allowing kids to dive into the vibrant world of colors and creativity. Measuring a generous 16 x 22 inches, this durable, rip-resistant paper is perfect for finger painting adventures that encourage sensory exploration and fine motor skills. Designed with a smooth, bleed-resistant surface, it provides a quality backdrop for creative expression without any mess to worry about! Ideal for classrooms and recreational spaces, this budget-friendly pack of 500 sheets ensures endless opportunities for artistic growth and imaginative play. 2-6 years
Develops skills:
fine motor skills, sensory exploration, creativity, color recognition, artistic expression
Why we love it:
Creative Finger Painting Fun features 500 sheets of durable, rip-resistant paper that invites kids to dive into vibrant color play, keeping the mess to a minimum and the imagination flowing.

MAGNA-TILES Cars: Build, Play, Discover!

Our Rank:
MAGNA-TILES Cars – Green & Yellow 2-Piece Magnetic Construction Set opens up a world of fun and learning for our little ones! With two wheeled chassis, children will dive into a creative adventure, building cars, trucks, and even trains, while exploring essential concepts of cause and effect. This fantastic set not only enhances their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, but also taps into their problem-solving abilities, making playtime an engaging learning experience. Plus, who wouldn’t love an unboxing surprise that transforms into a ramp? It's an affordable thoughtful gift choice for any budding car enthusiast aged 3 and up! 3+ years
Develops skills:
fine motor skills, problem solving, spatial reasoning, creativity, cause and effect
Why we love it:
MAGNA-TILES Cars features two wheeled chassis, inviting young minds to construct their own vehicles while stealthily building essential skills through creative play and discovery.

Build Your Own Dragon Adventure!

Our Rank:
Nanoblock - Fantastic Animals - Dragon Ver. 2 ignites imagination and creativity in our kids! This delightful building kit is a beautiful way for children aged 8 and up to develop fine motor skills and spatial awareness as they piece together 160 detailed blocks into a stunning dragon. The intricate design encourages patience and focus, making it not just a fun project but also a way to learn about construction principles and design. Plus, watching their creation come to life and modifying it affords a sense of accomplishment that's truly magical! 8+ years
Develops skills:
fine motor skills, spatial awareness, patience, problem solving, construction principles
Why we love it:
Build Your Own Dragon Adventure! includes 160 detailed blocks, transforming building into an enchanting journey of creation that teaches valuable skills along the way.

Explore Money Math with Play Coin Set

Our Rank:
LEARNING ADVANTAGE Play Coin Set is the perfect tool to spark your child’s interest in money and math! This comprehensive set of 94 realistic coins provides a fabulous opportunity for kids to dive into hands-on learning. By mixing play and education, children can grasp fundamental concepts like addition and subtraction, while also exploring budgeting and saving in an engaging, imaginative way. Whether it’s setting up a pretend store, rewarding good behavior, or just playing with friends, this coin set turns every adventure into a valuable lesson! 3+ years
Develops skills:
math concepts, counting, budgeting, problem solving, imaginative play, social skills, fine motor skills
Why we love it:
Explore Money Math with Play Coin Set includes 94 realistic coins that transform playtime into vital lessons on money management and math, making learning feel like an exciting adventure.

Monopoly Ultimate Banking Fun

Our Rank:
The Hasbro Gaming Monopoly Ultimate Banking Edition Board Game is perfect for families and kids aged 8 and up. With its exciting tap technology and electronic banking unit, players not only enjoy fast-paced gameplay but also develop essential financial skills like budgeting, strategic thinking, and spatial awareness. This engaging game turns learning about money management into an enjoyable experience, making it an excellent choice for parents who value educational family activities. 8+ years
Develops skills:
budgeting, strategic thinking, spatial awareness, problem solving, teamwork, financial literacy
Why we love it:
Monopoly Ultimate Banking Fun features electronic banking, making money management exciting and interactive, which transforms family game night into a sneaky finance lesson everyone will enjoy.

Teach Savings with Prinz Little One Bank

Our Rank:
Prinz Little One Money Savings Piggy Bank is the perfect tool for instilling the value of saving in your young ones! This charming little shadow box invites kids to drop in coins and bills while learning important life lessons about financial responsibility. With its handpainted design and removable backer, it’s not just a bank but a delightful addition to any room that encourages meaningful conversations about money management. It's a fun way for children to develop essential skills like budgeting and goal-setting, making saving money an exciting adventure rather than a chore! 3-10 years
Develops skills:
financial literacy, budgeting, goal-setting, responsibility, imaginative play, problem solving
Why we love it:
Teach Savings with Prinz Little One Bank features a charming handpainted design that makes learning about money management feel like an exciting adventure instead of a chore.

Avengers Infinity Gauntlet Bank Fun!

Our Rank:
AVENGERS 3 INFINITY GAUNTLET PVC BANK is more than just a unique collectible; it's an amazing tool for teaching valuable financial skills to our kids! As they save their coins in this eye-catching bank, they're not just stashing away their allowance but also learning about the importance of saving and budgeting. This captivating piece can spark conversations about teamwork and heroism found in the Avengers, encouraging imaginative play while nurturing responsibility and goal-setting. It's an exciting gift that blends play with education seamlessly! 6+ years
Develops skills:
financial literacy, responsible saving, budgeting, imaginative play, goal-setting, teamwork
Why we love it:
Avengers Infinity Gauntlet Bank Fun! features a striking collectible design that turns saving coins into a heroic adventure, teaching kids financial responsibility while sparking their imagination.

Monopoly RuPaul's Drag Race Board Game

Our Rank:
Monopoly RuPaul’s Drag Race is a fabulous and educational board game that encourages strategic thinking and social skills for players aged 8 and up. As players immerse themselves in the vibrant world of drag culture, they will engage in budget management, negotiation, and critical thinking while having a blast mimicking their favorite contestants. This game not only brings family and friends together for a night of surprising twists but also serves as a fun way to explore creativity, collaboration, and confidence in a supportive environment. 8+ years
Develops skills:
strategic thinking, budget management, negotiation, creativity, collaboration, confidence, social skills
Why we love it:
Monopoly RuPaul's Drag Race Board Game encourages strategic thinking while immersing players in the vibrant world of drag culture, making learning feel as fabulous as a runway show.

UBeesize Personalized Wooden Piggy Bank

Our Rank:
The UBeesize Wooden Letter Piggy Bank is a delightful blend of fun and education, perfect for kids who are ready to learn about saving! Made from natural wood, this personalized money bank allows children to beautifully display their names while observing their savings grow through a transparent acrylic surface. With endless combinations of letters from A to Z, kids can unleash their creativity, while developing valuable skills like counting, budgeting, and personal responsibility. It’s a charming birthday gift that makes the art of saving exciting and engaging for young minds! 3+ years
Develops skills:
counting, budgeting, personal responsibility, creativity, fine motor skills
Why we love it:
UBeesize Personalized Wooden Piggy Bank features a transparent acrylic surface that allows little savers to see their coins grow, turning saving money into a fun and engaging game.

Wise Owl Teaching Bank: Smart Savings Fun

Our Rank:
Wise Owl Teaching Bank is the perfect tool for introducing our little ones to the world of money management. With its charming design and three clear compartments—spend, save, and share—it's like having a mini ATM right at home! This engaging toy not only promotes financial literacy but also encourages kids to think about budgeting, saving for goals, and the joy of giving. We love how it comes with a helpful money guide, making it easy for parents and educators to reinforce important financial concepts during playtime. Watch as our toddlers eagerly dive into learning skills that will last a lifetime! 3+ years
Develops skills:
financial literacy, budgeting, goal setting, critical thinking, responsibility
Why we love it:
Wise Owl Teaching Bank features three clear compartments that make money management feel like an exciting game, turning saving, spending, and sharing into a fun family adventure!

Ignite Imagination with Pretend Play Cards!

Our Rank:
Casdon Pretend Play Cards Set is the perfect way to spark your child's creativity while introducing them to basic financial concepts. Each card mimics real credit and gift cards, making playtime feel authentic and engaging. Through scenarios like shopping sprees or cafe adventures, kids can role-play while developing essential skills such as counting, exchanging, and budgeting. It’s a fun way to set them on a path to financial literacy from a young age! 3+ years
Develops skills:
imaginative play, financial literacy, counting, budgeting, role-playing, social skills
Why we love it:
Ignite Imagination with Pretend Play Cards! includes realistic pretend credit and gift cards, making financial concepts approachable and fun while keeping kids engaged in creative role-play.

Organic Supermarket Shopping Adventure

Our Rank:
Playmobil Organic Supermarket Shopping Fun is a delightful way for children to explore the world of grocery shopping! This engaging playset encourages imaginative role-play, allowing kids to practice essential life skills like decision-making, budgeting, and teamwork as they shop for healthy foods. With realistic accessories, including a well-stocked shelf and a variety of shopping tools, little ones can truly immerse themselves in the experience. Plus, the durable design means this toy will withstand the countless adventures your child will create! 4+ years
Develops skills:
imaginative play, decision-making, budgeting, teamwork, communication
Why we love it:
Organic Supermarket Shopping Adventure includes realistic accessories that turn grocery shopping into a fun role-play experience, helping kids learn essential life skills while they shop for healthy foods.

Brew-Opoly: A Fun Twist on Monopoly

Our Rank:
Late for the Sky Brew-Opoly Monopoly Game is not just your average board game; it's an engaging way for players aged 21 and up to learn about budgeting, strategy, and social interaction. Whether you choose the traditional version or the one-hour playstyle, this game encourages critical thinking and teamwork as players navigate the world of brewing and business challenges. Perfect for fans of craft beer, it sparks conversations and collaborative learning while providing a playful, lighthearted atmosphere for game night! 21+ years
Develops skills:
budgeting, strategic thinking, teamwork, critical thinking, social interaction, collaboration
Why we love it:
Brew-Opoly features engaging gameplay that transforms budgeting and strategy into a friendly competition, making it an entertaining way for adults to sharpen their life skills while enjoying craft beer.

Mermaid Tail Coin Bank for Kids

Our Rank:
Baby Aspen Reversible Sequin Mermaid Tail Porcelain Piggy Bank is more than just a charming decoration for your little one’s nursery or room; it's an enchanting tool for financial literacy! With its shimmering sea-foam ombre and magical reversible sequins, this coin bank not only captures the imagination but also teaches valuable money-saving skills. It’s the perfect way for little hands to learn about saving and budgeting while adding a playful touch to their space. Whether for a baby shower gift or your own child, this bank makes saving fun and stylish! 0-5 years
Develops skills:
financial literacy, saving skills, counting, fine motor skills, imaginative play
Why we love it:
Mermaid Tail Coin Bank for Kids features enchanting reversible sequins that transform saving money into a magical experience, making learning about finances fun and stylish!

Realistic Play Bills for Learning Fun

Our Rank:
LEARNING ADVANTAGE Play Bills Set is an incredible resource for sparking imaginations while building essential math skills! With lifelike replica bills that mirror real US currency, this set provides a fun, engaging way for our children to explore the world of money. Not only can kids dive into pretend play adventures, but they can also practice addition, subtraction, and even budgeting as they create their own economic scenarios. It's perfect for home learning, classrooms, or any playroom—teaching the value of money has never been so entertaining! 3+ years
Develops skills:
math skills, problem solving, budgeting, imaginative play, financial literacy, addition, subtraction, critical thinking
Why we love it:
Realistic Play Bills for Learning Fun includes lifelike replica bills, making financial concepts engaging and leaving kids feeling like miniature entrepreneurs in their very own economy.

Build Your Dream City with Machi Koro 2!

Our Rank:
Machi Koro 2 is not just a fun game; it’s an engaging journey into strategic thinking and creativity for our kids and us! As we roll the dice and make decisions on how to build our quirky cities, we foster skills like budgeting, planning, and adapting to change. With a fresh take on the beloved original, this fast-paced game brings surprises that will keep everyone on their toes and create endless opportunities for learning and laughter. Gather your friends and family, and let's see whose city will thrive the best! 10+ years
Develops skills:
strategic thinking, budgeting, planning, adaptability, creativity, teamwork
Why we love it:
Build Your Dream City with Machi Koro 2! encourages decision-making through dice rolls, turning family game night into a hilarious and educational exploration of city-building.

Inosuke Piggy Bank for Fun Savings

Our Rank:
The Aniplex Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba – Inosuke Piggy Bank is a vibrant and fun way to teach our kids about saving money! This charming collectible not only sparks their love for the beloved anime series but also encourages them to develop essential financial literacy skills from a young age. Watching their savings grow inside this adorable piggy bank can turn saving into an exciting adventure, fostering responsibility and money management—a vital skill they will carry throughout life. Plus, it makes a fantastic conversation starter for discussions about budgeting and the importance of saving for their dreams! 6+ years
Develops skills:
financial literacy, responsibility, goal setting, problem solving, money management
Why we love it:
Inosuke Piggy Bank features a charming design that transforms saving money into an adventurous quest, making financial literacy both fun and engaging for our little ones.

Cheshire Cat Coin Bank for Fun Savings

Our Rank:
The Alice in Wonderland Cheshire Cat Coin Bank is a delightful blend of whimsy and practicality that makes saving money an adventure! Standing at about 9 inches tall, this charming collectible not only brightens up any room but also teaches children the value of saving. As we encourage our kids to drop their coins in this magical cat's cheerful grin, we're also nurturing their financial literacy skills and instilling habits that will serve them for a lifetime. It's a fun way to introduce budgeting concepts while letting their imagination roam in the enchanting world of Wonderland! 3+ years
Develops skills:
financial literacy, creativity, responsibility, goal setting, imaginative play
Why we love it:
Cheshire Cat Coin Bank stands at 9 inches tall, turning saving money into a whimsical adventure that sparks creativity while teaching kids essential financial habits.

Under The Sea Puzzle Sticks Fun

Our Rank:
Mudpuppy Under The Sea Puzzle Sticks bring ocean adventures right to your living room! These delightful double-sided puzzle sticks encourage our little ones to sort, arrange, and connect pieces while developing essential problem-solving skills and hand-eye coordination. As we watch our children piece together beautiful underwater scenes, we can feel good knowing that this eco-friendly product is made from 100% recycled paper and printed with non-toxic inks. It’s a great way to spark creativity and promote an understanding of colors and sequencing, making playtime both fun and educational! 3-6 years
Develops skills:
problem solving, hand-eye coordination, creativity, color recognition, sequencing
Why we love it:
Under The Sea Puzzle Sticks feature double-sided pieces that make ocean-themed problem-solving a splash, turning playtime into a colorful learning adventure!