There are a handful of toys we tried (and are still Enjoying) in 2020!
From birthdays to holidays, these are the toys we tried in 2020.
As a mom of three, I couldn’t put out a holiday toy list without putting some new toys to the test. These are kid picked and approved; our best toys for 2020.
With this in mind, let’s get ready to find some fun new toys for your holiday gift-giving!
What are the most popular toys in 2020?
Keeping up with the latest toy trends can become overwhelming. Every year new toys come out and existing toys get upgraded.
Additionally, caregivers want to find toys that last longer than five minutes of play.
Whether it was a new toy or an existing one, we picked toys that inspire learning through play throughout 2020. These are the toys that are well-loved by my three, five, and seven-year-old.
First, what kind of toys do kids need?
- Hands-on
- Open-ended, meaning you can play with the same toy in many ways
- Engages problem-solving
- Encourages collaboration
- Inserts play into every day
Above all, toys for kids should help make connections with existing play schema to build upon ideas.
Let’s dive in! Here are the toys we tried and enjoyed in 2020.
Toys Timber Tots Tree House
Up first is this adorable treehouse! I remember this toy from my childhood and still gush over it today. This was originally gifted to my three-year-old, but everyone swooped right in! This Timber Toys Tree House is a hit all the way around!
Architectural Unit Blocks
We love unit blocks! This new collection of architectural blocks are a great addition to our everyday play. The blocks include arches, stairs, and doors that bring block play to the next level. These unit blocks also come with a large canvas bag for storage.
Kinderfeets Wobble Board
My middle guy was given the wobble board for his fifth birthday. The boys use the wobble board flipped upside down in between tracks. It makes a great bridge and ramp! Pair this with your Way to Play Roads, or use it for its intended purpose to increase body awareness and balance.
BRIO Firefighter Set
BRIO does not disappoint. We added this Firefighter set to our existing track set, and it is a great addition to imaginary play. I’ve overheard this firefighter saving the day many times over the past few months!
Hollow Block Set
These hollow blocks are FANTASTIC! Highly recommended to use with unit blocks or on their own. Set includes ramps and other three dimensional shapes to race cars, build structures, and much more. See those hollow spaces inside the blocks? They are the perfect spot for all of those mini people and animals to “live”. Unlimited play for all ages!
Way to Play Roads
These flexible roads are used indoors and outside, but the favorite place to play is in the bathtub. Let your transportation play soar with Way to Play Roads! Use these roads just about anywhere you play.
Mega Crystals Growing Lab
Wow, this was super exciting for my boys to make and observe. Begin by mixing the solution in hot water, then wait and watch your crystals grow. Such a thrilling STEM activity for home!
Scratch and Sketch
This scratch and sketch is an amusing way to practice pencil grip! The sketch pad comes with a wooden pencil. As your child scrapes away the black layer, a rainbow line appears from underneath.
Geometric Shapes
We use these translucent shapes to play with how shapes come together to make a larger picture—a fun way to integrate learning through play and art. You’ll be surprised by what your child can create with these wonderful shapes!
Plus Plus Go
It is important to mention that my five and seven-year-old dove right into Plus Plus Go. As an avid fan of Plus Plus BIG, we decided to try out the smaller size for some STEM play. If your child enjoys LEGOS, they will love this new toy.
Wooden Hundred Board
Ramping up the math play with a wooden hundred board. Although not a traditional “toy,” this math board is a hit with my two older sons.
STEM Robot
The older two kids tinker and discuss how to put the robot together. My seven-year-old reads the directions, and my five-year-old helps to assemble the parts and pieces. My boys play with this for hours! This is a great STEM activity for big kids.
Super Mario LEGO Expansion Set
This Mario LEGO Expansion Set was found by my seven-year-old, and it is a huge hit. We later purchased the Super Mario Adventure LEGO Kit. Just like the Super Mario Expansion set, this LEGO set can be used with an app or not. We do not have an iPad, and the boys play with it just as much.