Once the baby years fade and we embark on the vast voyage of the “big kid” years, children’s unique personalities begin to show. When seeking the perfect gift for the big kids in our lives, be mindful of not only their age but also their interest.
Check out these toys if you’re shopping for kids who are:
EXPLORERS: Replogie’s Intelliglobe Deluxe
An interactive globe complete with a wireless “Intellipen” that can be used to play games and discover thousands of facts about different parts of the world. Made in USA. $129.99.
WHEELERS:
BluTrack
-152x102.jpg)
Courtesy of BluTrack
A customizable speedway complete with dips and loop-to-loops for your fastest die-cast vehicles. Basic 25 ft track with ramps available directly from the manufacturer.
Made in USA. $52.50.
Bruder Mack Granite Tip Up Truck
The realistic design of this Mack dump truck is a marvel of attention to detail. Kids will love checking out the engine under the hood, opening the doors to the cab, and, of course, filling and dumping. Made in Germany. $49.99.
Not in the market for a dump truck? Check out Bruder’s gorgeous array of options. You’ll find vehicles of every sort for children as young as 2, along with figures and buildings to design your own play set.
ARTISTS:
Illustory
A comprehensive kit with all the tools needed for a child to write and illustrate their own hardcover book. Original kit available for $29.99 directly from the manufacturer. Made in USA.
P’kolino Art Supplies
-152x102.jpg)
Well designed and non-toxic, these colorful tools will serve a budding artist well throughout any creative pursuit. Made in Europe. Starting at $2.99. Available directly from the manufacturer.
IKEA’s Mala Tabletop Paper Holder & Drawing Paper Roll
Seemingly endless supply of paper at their little fingertips; thiis simple, wooden paper holder and roll invites kids to spread out and let their imaginations come to life. Made in Indonesia. $6.99 and $4.99. Available at IKEA stores.
MAKE BELIEVERS:
Le Toy Van Mayberry Dollhouse
Three story beautifully painted dollhouse. Le Toy Van’s furniture sets and characters are also beautifully made and fit perfectly inside. Made in Indonesia. $199.99; available at Amazon and specialty toy retailers.
Plan Toys Terrace Dollhouse
A three-level house with movable partitions and simple design. Plan Toys is known for its sustainable manufacturing practices. Made in Thailand. $169.99; Amazon.
Playmobil Large Furnished Hotel
Kids can relive their favorite parts of vacation with this expansive hotel, complete with a lobby and check-in counter, a functioning elevator, a cafe, and more. Made in Germany. $164.99. Available directly from the manufacturer.
CHEFS:
Pintoy Kitchen Ensemble
A cooker stove, sink, and refrigerator made of sturdy and beautifully crafted rubber wood. Made in Thailand. $349; Amazon.
Selecta Barbeque - Grill
Everything a grill master needs: food, bag of coal, and tongs, this beautifully designed wooden barbecue will delight for sure. Made in Germany. $167. Available direct from the manufacturer. (Shipping outside the UK may involve extra costs.)
Green Toys Dining Set
-152x102.jpg)
Courtesy of Green Toys
Basic essentials for a young cook, this 27-piece set is made responsibly from recycled materials and features a stock pot, skillet and 4 place settings. Made in USA. $44.99; available direct from the manufacturer.
MOMMIES:
Petitcollin’s Baby Doll Petit Calin
A vanilla Scented, blinky-eyed, perfectly sized baby doll for little mommies to care for.Made in France. $84.95; Amazon.
Kathe Kruse Standing Doll, Sophie Emilia
This and other beautifully made standing dolls from the legendary Kathe Kruse make excellent alternatives to China-made American Girl dolls. Made in Germany. $180.
RoyToy Classic Log Cabin
-152x102.jpg)
Courtesy of Roy Toy
An endearing classic, these log style structures are limited only by the imagination. Made in USA. Sets are available direct from the manufacturer. Starting at $11.95.
Maple Landmark Train Tracks
Courtesy of Maple Landmark
Compatible with your child’s favorite trains, Maple Landmark’s vast array of wooden tracks are high quality and sure to engage your child for hours. For best results, give little ones lots of floor space. Made in USA. Starting at $2.50; available directly from the manufacturer.
