10 Low-Tech Toys That Will Inspire Kids’ Imagination

Tech toys might be dominating your kiddo’s playtime stash, and that’s okay: Today’s tots are growing up in a society that requires tech literacy. But even though technology is part of our lives, it’s not the only way for your child to learn. Low-fi toys give your little one the chance to get creative, problem-solve, and do so much more. So turn off those blinking lights, shut off the WiFi, and go old school with these tech-free playtime finds.

Melissa & Doug Solid-Wood Building Blocks

You can’t get more basic than blocks — but in the best way! This 60-piece set comes with all the basic shapes, and your creative kid can build a block tower, design architectural wonders, or use the shapes to make playful patterns.

View Master Boxed Set

: Ah the nostalgia! You probably spent hours enjoying this classic as a child. Your littles may be all about watching YouTube on your iPhone, so get them to slow down with this click-and-look toy.

Magna-Tiles 100-Piece Set

These magnetic tiles let your kiddo build three-dimensional shapes in great translucent colors. Your child will be building boxes, houses, and all kinds of other structures, but they’ll also be building science and math skills.

Toysery Educational Rainbow Stacking & Nesting Cups

Tots can build, stack, and play with sizes, but that’s not all. Your child can also learn about colors, letters, and numbers as they play.

Melissa & Doug Food Groups

These 21 hand-painted wooden toys will teach your tot about all the important food groups and maybe give you a little dinner inspiration as well.

Hape All Seasons Kids Wooden Dollhouse

The three-story wooden dollhouse has six rooms for your kiddo to decorate, tell stories about, and use for hours of dramatic play.

Top Bright Activity Cube

This simple cube has five different activities that help tots learn in a completely hands-on way. Your child can build fine motor skills, learn about shapes, and explore all day long with this pick.

Playskool Form Fitter Shape Sorter

This time-tested infant and toddler activity provides plenty of opportunities for your tot to learn about shapes and sorting. And bonus: it’s easy to transport — meaning you can take it on vacation, to grandma’s, or anywhere else.

Wooden Train Set

Trains plus your tyke equals hours of fun-filled imagination-based play. Your cute conductor can create their own stories, build new tracks, and let their dramatic side loose!