Simeshine has just released a new version of their Smart Baby Monitor, and it’s absolutely packed with features to make it worthy of any new parent’s attention. Not only that, but the $190 price tag is currently down to $160.65 thanks to a 15% clip coupon. A launch discount is always a nice thing, and it just makes the monitor that little bit more enticing.

Along with the discount, there’s no hidden subscription with this monitor, and we all love a security camera with no subscription. It just means you know how much you’ll spend upfront, which is nice. However, the Smart Baby Monitor also has a lot of special features that could push it into the best baby monitors around.

This baby monitor has 2K video, which means you’ll be able to clearly see everything you want to see, but it can also check to make sure your little one is breathing, and even analyze their sleep thanks to the SimHome app. It means that you can time going to bed or going in to check on them when they’re in deep sleep and not risk waking them up. It also has full 360-degree rotation, and can even alert you when the kid accidentally covers their face or rolls over. It can even automatically play soothing music if it detects crying, which should help them get through the night.

Simshine Smart Baby Monitor

Buy Now On Amazon

$160.65 $189.00

Buy Now

The Simshine Smart Baby Monitor is full of features that’ll help new parents feel safer leaving their kids in their cots. It can tell you when they roll over, if their faces are covered, and even track the temperature too. The best part is that there are no hidden fees.

---

Excellent news for LEGO fans and LEGO fans-to-be, the classic big box of Lego is on sale with 30% off today, putting it at $42. This is the box a lot of people will have fond memories of when thinking about Lego in basically any capacity, and it’s a very good discount on such a large number of blocks.

This box not only comes in a convenient container, but includes 790 pieces of LEGO in a variety of forms and colors, making it the perfect start to any collection, or a wonderful addition for those who just want more to build with. Seriously, there’s not a LEGO builder out there who wouldn’t be glad to get another one of these boxes, because more pieces means larger creations, and that’s what it’s all about.

While LEGO used to be thought of as just for kids, a lot of people have been embracing it as a great way to unwind as an adult. That’s why there are so many good sets for grown-ups, and this box still ranks as one of the best LEGO sets for adults. We love it so much that it’s also worth thinking about as one of the best gifts in general, no matter the occasion.

LEGO Classic Large Creative Brick Box

Buy Now On Amazon

$41.99 $59.99

Buy Now

This is the box many of us had in our childhoods, but it actually still has all of the pieces. It comes with a whopping 790 different pieces and is designed to inspire creativity and cure boredom. Whether it’s for an adult who likes to tinker to unwind, or for a youngster who’s about to experience the joy of LEGO for the first time, it makes for an excellent gift.

---

It’s Random Acts of Kindness week, which always happens around Valentine’s Day, which you can still get some good last-minute gifts for if you’re lucky. To celebrate the wonders of being kind to one another, we’ve decided to grab some of the best kids’ books for kindness around.

Naturally, we’ve gone ahead and included a Bluey book, because we love it. If you need more from the best dogs in the business, you can grab some of the best Bluey toys around, because why wouldn’t you?

Anyway, good dogs aside, here are our picks for the best books for kids for Random Acts of Kindness Week. Go ahead and grab some and share them with your kids, cousins, or niblings, and enjoy the best things in life.

Sesame Street Board Books Ultimate Bundle

Buy Now On Amazon

$24.95 $28.95

Buy Now

Sesame Steet is wholesome. It’s the kind of wholesome that everything else aspires to hit. This collection of books distils some of the lessons into 12 books ideal for younger readers, and it’ll help them learn to love books too.

---

Kindness is my Superpower

Buy Now On Amazon

$10.94 $11.98

Buy Now

If you want a book about kindness, then this one is basically it. Kindness is my Superpower is one of a series espousing the importance of good qualities. It has loads of cool things you can do together, conversation starters, and examples of how to be kind and what it means.

---

A Boy Like You

Buy Now On Amazon

$13.49 $16.99

Buy Now

A Boy Like You focuses on why it’s important to be kind, and how good qualities can help change the world and improve everyone’s lives. Kids can be told to toughen up a lot, especially from a lot of grandparents, but kindness is its own strength, and that’s what sits at the core of this book.

---

A Girl Like You

Buy Now On Amazon

$13.89 $16.99

Buy Now

You can’t have one without the other. A Girl Like You has the same wonderful heart-filling eye-wateringly-sweet messages, but for girls. These two books are genuinely some of the nicest out there, and we’d challenge any parent to get through them without welling up a little bit.

---

Bluey 5-Minute Stories: 6 Stories in 1 Book? Hooray!

Buy Now On Amazon

$13.48 $14.99

Buy Now

Bluey is the ultimate children’s show. It has lessons for the kiddos, lessons for adults, plenty of entertainment, and a heart of the purest gold. There’s no show out there that does it better, and the books capture a lot of that same magic. So, here’s a collection of multiple stories.

---

Stride Rite has just released some incredibly cool new kids’ shoes that don’t just look good, but are also eco-friendly as well. The Stride Rite Fern Sneaker and Sprout Sneaker both come in blue and pink and an array of different sizes, but we’re just stoked to see them made from materials that don’t harm the planet.

Eco-friendly clothing is seeing a huge surge of interest, largely because more of us are trying to do whatever we can to help the planet stay in balance. It’s why shoes like these exist, but also why you can grab incredible eco-conscious jackets now too. We’re happy to see more options for kids though, because they’re often left out of these movements.

Stride Rite Sprout Sneaker

Buy Now ON STRIDE RITE

$50

Buy Now

---

Stride Rite Releases New Eco-Friendly Kid Shoes

Both of these new shoes are made with a twill upper of 30% seaweed fiber and 70% organic cotton. These resources are recycled and renewable materials, and the shoes themselves are created using energy-saving methods too, but none of this means you’re not getting a sturdy and comfortable fit for your little ones.

The Sprout Sneaker is made for younger children, ones who might have only just started walking. They’re easy to get on and off thanks to a larger-than-normal opening, and are APMA approved for first-time walkers. It just means there’s no worrying about your kids feet, even if they’re only just toddling.

The Fern Sneaker is for kids who are a little older, and are still made with loads of great materials and are sturdy, but have a slightly cooler design. They’re also APMA-approved, but aside from being good for the planet, we like the design of these ones a lot. In fact, we’re confident that they’d go really well with some of the best kids’ sunglasses, just in case you’re looking forward to the warmer months.

Stride Rite Sprout Sneaker

Buy Now on stride rite

$50

Buy Now

---

Stride Rite Fern Sneaker

Buy Now on stride rite

$50

Buy Now

---

When searching for the best toys for kids, an item that they can use indoors or outdoors, works for solo or group play, doesn’t require batteries or screens and gets them moving seems like a unicorn. But don’t forget – there are fort-building kits for kids!

Many of us grew up building forts, but these makeshift constructions often caved in pretty quickly. A fort-building kit builds on this childhood tradition (see what we did there) and improves it, adding safety, security, and even some STEM learning properties.

Building forts is a timeless element of the childhood experience. And let’s be honest: plenty of giant kids (known as adults) still love to play with toys and construct a good hideout when the chance comes around. That’s why investing in one of the best fort-building kits for kids is a decision everyone can get behind.

What to Consider Before Buying a Fort-Building Kit

Creative play is time well spent for kids of all ages. Building a fort fosters this creativity and inspires critical thinking and problem-solving skills, not to mention teamwork and imaginative play. Fort-building kits take those concepts to the next level. With the stick-and-ball fort-building kits, children unknowingly develop STEM skills (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), while other kits offer a sturdier base that will keep the fun going for hours.

Another big reason to choose a fort-building kit is the absence of technology. Too much screen time can have a negative impact on children, so any activity that encourages practical skill development while spending time away from smartphones, TVs, and computers is far more valuable than the price of the kit alone.

What Is The Best Fort Building Kit?

We were spoiled for choice when it came to finding the best fort-building kits. The good news is that many types and styles of fort-building kits are available, several of which are well-reviewed and friendly to conservative budgets. However, consider the following questions before deciding which one is best for you.

How many children are going to be playing with the kit? Most kits can accommodate one or two children without any problems. If you have more children to entertain, it may be necessary to purchase multiple kits to increase the available pieces and play area, turning your fort-building kit into a fortress-building kit.

How durable do you need the kit to be? As previously mentioned, fort-building kits come in various shapes and sizes. This also means different sets are better suited to different ages, especially regarding their ability to destroy things. Be sure to check the age advisory on any fort-building kit to ensure it’s suitable for all the ages in your group.

Do you want a kit for indoor or outdoor play? Most fort-building kits are for indoor play, but some can be constructed outdoors as well. Make sure you think about where your fort will be erected and ensure the space and surroundings are suitable for the purpose.

Many of the kits included on our list are suitable for a wide range of ages. This includes several forts that require no hands-on construction, making them well-suited to parents who want to unwind while watching their children (especially the younger ones) play independently.

Whichever fort-building kit you choose, you’ll be grateful you found an easy, technology-free way to expound some of that endless kid energy while creating lasting memories for the whole family.

1. The Original TOTE-A-FORT

BEST OVERALL

Looking for that perfect kit for your kid to take to their next sleepover or playdate? The Tote-A-Fort is a pretty nifty pick. It comes with three lightweight polyester blankets and bean-bag-inspired weights that stop a fort from collapsing in the center. Plus, the blankets come with Velcro fasteners so that they easily adhere to one another, making it easier for little kids to build. The best part is that you can throw it all into the cinch sack and easily tuck it away or take it on the go.

Buy: The Original TOTE-A-FORT $39.98

2. Easy Playhouse Fairy Tale Castle

BEST FOR YOUNGER KIDS

Smaller hands may have a harder time piecing together extravagant forts, which is where this playhouse castle comes in handy. Kids can still customize the fort and make it their own with markers, crayons, stickers, and other crafting supplies, while tired parents can watch all the action go down from the comfort of their seats with a hot beverage in hand.

Buy: Easy Playhouse Fairy Tale Castle $31.06 (orig. $34.99) 11% OFF

3. Tiny Land Kids-Teepee-Tent with Lights & Campfire

MOST ATTRACTIVE

We have the fort for you if you can barely remember the days your home looked organized, put together, and not filled with plastic toys in every corner. The non-eyesore Tiny Land Kids-Teepee-Tent with Lights & Campfire is a beautiful tent and fort hybrid that will look whimsical in your child’s room and like a Pinterest-worthy display in your living room. Great for playtime, quiet time, and even bedtime (kids love sleeping in forts), the Tiny Land tent comes with a toy campfire and 13-foot starlights. It also includes a carrying bag for easy storage.

4. RAINBOW TOYFROG Straw Constructor STEM Building Toy

BEST FOR STEM

Who says a fort has to be larger-than-life, especially when you’re a little kid? If you’re looking for something fun to build with the kids that will spark their creativity and develop their STEM skills, this RAINBOW TOYFROG Straw Constructor STEM Building Toy set is a great addition to the toy room. There are 300 pieces to help build various forts and other fun creations, plus the BPA-free material cleans up easily with soapy water or wipes. The set is designed for ages 3 and up, but parents should be aware that the connectors are on the smaller side, so definitely keep an eye out if you’ve got a kid who likes to put things in their mouth.

Buy: RAINBOW TOYFROG Straw Constructor STEM Building Toy $17.99 (orig. $39.99) 55% OFF

5. Bankers Box at Play Cardboard Building Blocks

BEST BLOCKS

If you’re looking to encourage building skills in your children, choosing the Bankers Box at Play Cardboard Building Blocks could be a smart move. Instead of a predefined fort to assemble, this kit comprises 40 individual blocks in six different shapes and sizes. This gives your kids plenty of freedom to construct whatever they desire, whether it be a tower, a box, or a fort. In addition, thanks to their strong corrugated construction, these blocks can each hold up to 150 pounds. We’ve seen these blocks in multiple preschool rooms and any toy that can survive that many 2-year-olds gets our seal of approval.

Buy: Bankers Box at Play Cardboard Building Blocks $44.99

6. Foamnasium Blocksy Kids Couch

MOST VERSATILE

If you’re looking for a fort that can double as a couch, a reading nook, and a bed for sleepovers, the Foamnasium Blocksy Kids Couch is up to the task. The couch includes two large folding pieces and two triangles, which work together to let kids explore different configurations for forts, slides, playhouses and more. The durable play couch is a great multi-purpose toy and furniture combo that is safely designed for kids (no harmful chemicals here) and makes a great group gift for siblings.

7. Crazy Forts

GREAT GIFT IDEA

This award-winning sticks-and-balls set has redefined the way kids build forts, all while engaging young minds and sparking creativity. The 69-piece kit comes with everything you need to build a solid foundation indoors or out, and you can fancy it up with a bed sheet or blanket. Tunnels, domes, and several other creations are at your fingertips with the accompanying instruction manual, but if you really want to get wild, invest in two sets and try out some of the double-build suggestions, too. This fort-building kit is one of our favorites, and it’s also one of the best toys to give kids if you’re looking for a birthday or Christmas gift.

Buy: Crazy Forts $34.97 (orig. $69.95) 50% OFF

8. Power Your Fun Glow in the Dark Fort Building Set

BEST GLOW-IN-THE-DARK

How many kids build a fort in their bedroom and then ask if they can sleep in it? This is the perfect kit for sleepovers of any fort builder’s dreams. This STEM-building set is designed for ages three to 14 and is customizable to various shapes. But the most exciting part is that once you’ve constructed your fort, you can turn off the lights and watch it come to life in that neon, glow-in-the-dark kind of way.

9. EagleStone 3-in-1 Kids Play Tent

BEST FOR TODDLERS

Toddlers don’t always have the patience to build a fort (or to color one), but they definitely have the energy that they need to get out in other exploratory ways. Enter this play fort-building kit with a rocket ship main area, a tunnel for crawling through, and a ball pit with a basketball net for extra fun. It’s easy to set up and comes with a lightweight carrying bag, which means you can bring it to the grandparents’ house or easily tuck it away when not in use.

Buy: EagleStone 3-in-1 Kids Play Tent

10. USA Toyz Rocket Ship Pop Up Kids Tent

BEST BARGAIN

For a fort that won’t break the bank and folds into a convenient carrying bag, it doesn’t get much better than the USA Toyz Rocket Ship Pop Up Kids Tent. The space-themed tent has enough room to fit up to three small kids and includes a projector toy that displays spaced-themed images that little explorers will love. The water-resistant polyester can be wiped clean and we love this as a travel option thanks to the tent’s compact storage size when folded and placed inside its included carrying bag.

11. The Original Air Fort Build A Fort in 30 Seconds

BEST INFLATABLE

If you don’t want to waste any time on assembly and prefer to avoid the mess that sheets, pillows, and other furniture pieces can bring, The Original Air Fort Build A Fort in 30 Seconds may be the right choice. As the name suggests, erecting the fort in as little as 30 seconds is possible using any standard box fan. It also comes backed by over 10,000 five-star ratings from parents and children who love the play area it creates. The inflatable fort is available in more than 10 different designs, including a UFO, a farmer’s barn and a beach ball.

12. Make-A-Fort Building Kit

BEST DISTRACTION

The Make-A-Fort Building Kit prides itself on being a convincing distraction from TVs and smartphones. Designed for children over the age of four, this 108-piece, USA-made kit features a panel-and-brace joining system to provide plenty of freedom when creating a fort. It’s also constructed from cardboard that is six times stronger and more durable than the cardboard found in your average box. The kit is fully reusable and can be kept inside the provided case when it’s not being used. Plus, this is more convenient when storing the set in a cupboard or under a bed.

Buy: Make-A-Fort Building Kit $94.99

13. Fort Boards Fort Building Kit

BEST BOARD

Tunnels, castles, boats, and even submarines are possible with these award-winning fort boards, which can be tilted to all kinds of angles for endless creative play. The kit comes with 44 boards and 46 connectors that can be used indoors or out to build more than 20 square feet of surface area. Plus, the durable plastic material means that this kit should hold up quite well for any younger siblings, cousins, or friends who may want to use the boards a few years later.

Buy: Fort Boards Fort Building Kit $99.98

14. HearthSong 32-Panel Igloo Fantasy Forts Indoor Building Kit with Hook and Loop Connectors

BEST FOR FROZEN FANS

If you have Frozen devotees in your home, they will love building their own ice castle with the HearthSong 32-Panel Igloo Fantasy Forts Indoor Building Kit with Hook and Loop Connectors. HearthSong has several colorways and patterns available in their fort set and we especially like the Igloo, which allows kids to enjoy a ‘snow day’ while still indoors. The award-winning, modular cardboard pieces allow kids to continually rebuild their forts. As a bonus, six panels can be used to create a storage container to hold the pieces when playtime is over.

The Best Robot Toys of 2021

I have a 4-year-old and a 10-month-old and they both loooooove Cocomelon, so not only is it constantly on in my home, we have a collection of Cocomelon toys. There’s Cocomelon Check Up Case for fake boo boos, the Cocomelon Bus, and the Cocomelon Musical Bedtime JJ Doll, which I inadvertently dressed my son to match. Cocomelon has taken over my brain.

Now Cocomelon has gone viral on TikTok with its latest toy and you know what – I’m not mad at it. It’s actually really cool and interactive. Do I suddenly love Cocolemon? We won’t go that far.

The Spark Cocomelon 2-in-1 Spraying Bath Toy with LED Lights can be used in the bathtub where it automatically activates when it senses water and releases a fun spray and flashes lights.

@mamabearmeals

Kids new favorite bath toy 🥰 #cocomelon #toy #toys #toddler #toddlers #foryou #foryoupage #fypシ #viral #momlife #LikeAMonarch

♬ CoComelon Theme Tune – CoComelon

The toy can also be used on hard floors and can spin and move quickly. Plus, it plays 60 seconds of music from Cocomelon, which is great for kids (not so much for parents).

Something parents will love? It is less than $10. Someone turn up the “Bath Song,” I’m suddenly feeling very positive about Cocomelon.

@blk.fairy

Don’t Walk Run to Walmart now 🤗 thank you @cocomelon my toddler loves her new toy ❤️😊😊😊#fyp #toddlersoftiktok #cocomelon #tiktok

♬ Wheels on the Bus – CoComelon

The Spark Cocomelon 2-in-1 Spraying Bath Toy with LED Lights is a huge hit with kids and has been popping up all over TikTok. Happy kids in the bath? Check. Happy kids out of the bath? Check.

@aneiryflores

Walmart has these cocomelon bath toys at Walmart for only 10$!!! My little one loves it 😍 #fyp #foryoupage #cocomelon #cocomelonbathtime #babiesoftiktok #momsoftiktok #momsof3

♬ CoComelon Theme Tune – CoComelon

Of course, a versatile and affordable toy with Cocomelon branding is nearly impossible to find. It’s currently unavailable at Walmart. We were able to find it on some second-party shopping sites like eBay, but the price shot up to almost $50.

In the meantime, here are some other bath toys that can keep kids entertained during their nightly scrub-a-dub-dub session.

CoComelon Bath Squirter Toys

Kids can splish and splash with JJ in his shark costume, JJ in his fisherman outfit, and some friendly baby shark characters.

Robo Alive Junior Baby Shark Battery-Powered Sing and Swim Bath Toy by ZURU

Speaking of Baby Shark and kids’ shows that are packed with earworms, there’s the Robo Alive Junior Baby Shark Battery-Powered Sing and Swim Bath Toy by ZURU. The water-activated toy will sing “Baby Shark” as soon as it hits the tub. Doo-doo-doo-doo-doo.

Skip Hop Baby Bath Toy, Zoo Pull & Go Submarine

There are no flashing lights or spraying water, but the Skip Hop Baby Bath Toy, Zoo Pull & Go Submarine does cruise around the tub, and toddlers will be able to pull the string on the submarine themselves.

Whale Light Up Bath Toy by Gigilli

The Whale Light Up Bath Toy by Gigilli will automatically begin spraying water and changing colors when it is placed in the water, giving little ones a fun toy to interact with during tub time.

Nuby Floating Purple Octopus

With the same bright colors as a Cocomelon toy, the Nuby Floating Purple Octopus keeps little ones engaged during bath time with its soft exterior and three rings for interactive play.

If you’re currently asking yourself ‘what is the best toys for a 12-year-old,’ wonder no more. We can’t help you with all the ‘talks’ you’re about to have with your preteen (so many talks), but we can help you with toys.

While searching for the best toys for a 12-year-old girl and the best ones for a 12-year-old boy, we found that what’s old is new again in many cases. Some of the hottest toys for 2022 are ones we played with in our youth, from LEGO to crafting sets to Lite Bright. Oh yeah, Lite Bright is back and it’s still really fun.

Need a toy that says, ‘I know you’re not a kid but you can still have fun like a kid?’ It’s a tall order that can be fulfilled with our list of the newest, coolest, and best toys for 12-year-olds.

1. Gel Blaster STARFIRE with Glow-in-the-Dark Gellet System

BEST FOR OUTDOOR PLAY

The new Gel Blaster STARFIRE with Glow-in-the-Dark Gellet System is a kid-friendly alternative to paintball, with the rechargeable blaster shooting glow-in-the-dark water Gellets that will disintegrate on impact. The biodegradable Gellets leave behind a glow-in-the-dark trace, making this a fun toy for playing with at night. We also like that the Gel Blaster uses a USB-C charging port and can provide five hours of play after only one hour of charging time.

2. Cra-Z-Art Shimmer ‘n Sparkle 8-in-1 Lite-Up Designer Nail Studio

BEST NAIL STUDIO

For kids that want to have fun with their nails, help them create their own aesthetician studio with the Cra-Z-Art Shimmer ‘n Sparkle 8-in-1 Lite-Up Designer Nail Studio. The set includes everything kids need to create over 100 unique designs, including nail polishes, stickers, glue, gems, and a dryer that will make kids feel like pros.

3. Star Wars Micro Galaxy Squadron Millennium Falcon 9″ Large Vehicle & Figures

BEST FOR STAR WARS FANS

Read More: The Best Gifts For Star Wars Fans

Star Wars fans will enjoy playing with the new Star Wars Micro Galaxy Squadron Millennium Falcon. At 9” wide, the Millenium Falcon has several cool features worthy of a galaxy far, far away, including rotating cannons, a cockpit that opens, retractable landing gear and more. There are even sound and light effects that are motion activated. The force is strong with this toy.

4. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Stranger Things Upside Down Remix

BEST FIGURINES

Pop culture fans who love Stranger Things and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles will flip upside down for this remix collaboration that features Eleven and Leonardo. Both figures have multiple points of articulation and come with their own accessories. Cowabunga up that hill.

Read More: The Best Retro Toys To Buy Now

5. LEGO Avatar Toruk Makto & Tree of Souls

BEST LEGO SET

It can be difficult to find an age-appropriate toy for a 12-year-old, which is why we are always grateful to LEGO. The toy company has sets for every age, including this preteen-friendly LEGO Avatar Toruk Makto & Tree of Souls. The newly released set includes 1212 pieces to help Avatar fans create their own mini Pandora.

6. Woobles Penguin Crochet Kit

BEST FOR CRAFTERS

The hugely popular Woobles Crochet Set made a big impression on the sharks on Shark Tank and continues to be a favorite among new and experienced crafters. This beginner set is great for kids ages 12 and up and includes all the tools and instructions necessary for creating tiny, cute crochet animals. SPY received a sample of the kit and we loved the user-friendly instructions and how relaxing it was to enjoy a fun and stress-free crafting activity.

7. Bittle Robotic Dog by Petoi

BEST ROBOT

Read More: The Best Robot Toys for Kids

The Bittle is geared towards kids ages 14 and up, but for 12-year-olds with previous experience with robots, we think they would also enjoy the robotic dog. Kids will enjoy constructing their own robot dog and then using the Petoi app to complete basic coding practices to control their plastic pup. A great STEM toy, this robot dog uses AI to learn how to see, listen and sense the environment around it.

8. Lite Brite Stranger Things Special Edition

BEST RETRO TOY

Read More: The Best Retro Toys To Buy Now

If the popularity of The Office, Gilmore Girls and Friends among preteens and teens have taught us anything, it’s that older pop culture favorites are hot again. It only makes sense for the retro Lite Brite toy to team up with Stranger Things, the ultimate retro series, for a chillingly cool collaboration.

9. NERF Roblox Sharkbite: Web Launcher Rocker Blaster

COOL TOYS FOR 12-YEAR-OLDS

NERF continues to release toys that kids and preteens love to use. One of their latest models combines the company’s much-loved blaster model with the hugely popular Roblox series. Kids can pump to fire the included rocket and they’ll be excited to learn the blaster comes with a unique code for redeeming a special edition Roblox virtual item.

10. Ironheart MK1 Funko

BEST FUNKO TOY

Funko is constantly dropping new and exciting toys for the ultimate fans and we love their latest figure, which honors Black Panther: Wakanda Forever. Celebrate the highly anticipated movie with the new Ironheart MK1 figure.

11. Valor Kick Scooter Toy

BEST SCOOTER

Scooters offer an excellent alternative to bikes for venturing into the great outdoors since they are typically much less expensive and easier to store. Help your child burn off energy and get to their friend’s house faster with the Valor Kick Scooter Toy. The scooter has an impressive 220-pound weight capacity and we like that it can easily fold to fit inside a backpack.

12. Sounds Fishy: The Fast-Thinking, Bluffing Family Board Game for Kids

BEST FOR FAMILY NIGHT

Bring back family game night with the new Sounds Fishy: The Fast-Thinking, Bluffing Family Board Game for Kids. Designed for large groups of four to 10 players, the trivia game asks players to give their answers to real questions…but are the answers real or made up? Bluff your way to a win on a board game that the entire family will enjoy.

13. USPS The Great American Mail Race Board Game

BEST EDUCATIONAL TIE-IN

Another excellent game night addition is the newly released USPS The Great American Mail Race Board Game. Kids will have fun racing across the country and learning about geography while their mail truck, plane and spaceship visit real places like Ding Dong, Texas. Really!

14. Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera

AWESOME TOYS FOR 12-YEAR-OLDS

If you want to help your child express their creative side without access to social media, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera is an excellent gift. Available in several fun and funky colors, the kid-friendly design of the camera makes it great for young photographers. The small pictures are perfect for decorating lockers, trapper keepers and more.

15. Thames & Kosmos Structural Engineering Bridges & Skyscrapers Science Kit

BEST STEM TOYS FOR 12-YEAR-OLDS

Encourage aspiring engineers with the Thames & Kosmos Structural Engineering Bridges & Skyscrapers Science Kit, which includes over 320 interchangeable building pieces that allow kids to build 20 unique models of bridges and skyscrapers. The STEM-friendly, award-winning kit will help kids learn about tension, compression, load and more.

The holidays are quickly approaching, which means it’s that magical time of year when grandparents, aunts, uncles and loved ones begin texting parents for gift ideas for kids. Sure, you can ask the already stressed-out parents (if you have young kids, you’re always stressed) or let SPY help you find the best toys for five-year-olds. Look out, Santa, the SPY elves have arrived.

So, what are the best learning toys for 5-year-olds? Whether you’re searching for educational toys with STEM properties or simply the latest and best toys for five-year-olds, it’s important to keep the individual child in mind. “When we are buying toys for our children, the one question that tends to overshadow them all is ‘Is this toy age appropriate for my child?’ We must remember that age is only a number and children do not always develop at a similar rate,” says SmarterKids Play & Learning Expert, Cindy Price.

“A toy that is for a certain age is not necessarily one that fits all children at that age. One must keep in mind the interests, background, and personality of the child!”

We rounded up the top 10 toys for 5-year-olds, plus a few more because as Price says, every five-year-old is different. But they all love toys. That part is universal.

1. Miko 3: AI-Powered Smart Robot for Kids

BEST ROBOT

Read More: The Best Robot Toys for Kids

The Miko 3 uses AI technology to learn about kids with every play session, helping to provide educational and entertainment content suited to your little one. Learning Spanish? Practicing multiplication? The Miko 3 will learn the best way to aid your child while providing fun videos and games to keep little ones engaged. SPY received a sample and we like that the Miko 3 is appropriate for a wide range of ages, making it a splurge-worthy present that will last kids for years.

Buy: Miko 3: AI-Powered Smart Robot for Kids $199.00 (orig. $299.00) 33% OFF

2. Jooki Music Player for Kids

BEST MUSIC PLAYER

The Jooki is our top pick for a music player for kids because of its durable build that can handle rough and tough dance sessions and brightly colored tokens that kids will have fun collecting. Add a playlist to every token for hours of listening with the Jooki. SPY received a sample of the Jooki and we like that kids can manage the child-friendly controls on their own and pick their own music to listen to without the help of parents.

Buy: Jooki Music Player for Kids $112.99

3. STEM Robot Mouse Coding Activity

BEST INTRO TO CODING

Read More: The Best Robot Toys for Kids

Little ones can have fun with their first introduction to coding by making a maze for Colby, the robot mouse on a mission to find its cheese. The set includes everything kids will need for screen-free coding. We like that the activity set includes an endless possibility for paths and mazes for kids to make and remake again and again.

4. LEGO City Farmers Market Van

BEST FOR LEGO FANS

The new LEGO City Farmers Market Van empowers boys and girls to display their building skills while improving their dexterity and ability to read and follow instructions. The set includes 310 pieces, making it a fun challenge for LEGO enthusiasts and those new to the tiny blocks.

Buy: LEGO City Farmers Market Van $29.89 (orig. $44.99) 34% OFF

5. Skillmatics Card Game: Found It! Indoor Edition

BEST FOR INDOOR PLAY

Need a toy that will keep kids busy on long days indoors? Try the Skillmatics Card Game: Found It! Indoor Edition. Each card has brightly colored, kid-friendly graphics that help little ones play along even if they can’t read. The award-winning game encourages kids to look for commonly found objects in the home. The first one to collect seven cards/items wins!

Buy: Skillmatics Card Game: Found It! Indoor Edition $14.97

6. Ookkie Skateboard

BEST FOR OUTDOOR PLAY

Read Our Full Review of the Ookkie Skateboard

The Ookkie skateboard can be used by kids ages 2 and up, but depending on the child and their balance abilities, waiting until they are a bit older may be more appropriate. SPY received a sample of the Ookkie and we like that it came with three modes to help little skateboarders progress while being easy on parents (no bending over while holding kids on a skateboard!).

7. Slumberkins Hero Camp Play Kit

BEST FOR LEARNING EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

We are longtime fans of Slumberkins at SPY, so we were excited to try out the new Slumberkins Hero Camp Play Kit. Like all Slumberkins stuffy and book combos, this kit helps kids learn how to process and positively communicate their feelings. The kit includes four weeks of activities, as well as a storybook and of course, a super soft stuffy kids will treasure.

Buy: Slumberkins Hero Camp Play Kit

8. New 2022 Care Bears 14″ Plush 40th Anniversary Care-a-Lot Bear

BEST CLASSIC TOY

Speaking of super soft stuffies, it doesn’t get much softer or more timeless than a Care Bear. Gift your little one the 40th Anniversary Care-a-Lot Bear, which has a certificate of authenticity and a colorful fur coat that kids will love to snuggle with.

Buy: New 2022 Care Bears 14 $27.71

9. Bedtime Defenderz

BEST FOR NIGHTTIME NERVES

Fear of the dark can stay with kids for years and make nighttime a battle for parents. Five-year-olds are caught between feeling like a toddler and a big kid, which is why we like the new Bedtime Defenderz. It’s a soft stuffy that little kids will love to cuddle at night while also including a bedtime story and glow-in-the-dark buckle to help kids feel confident and secure when it’s time for lights out.

Buy: Bedtime Defenderz $29.99

10. Skyrocket Mega Chomp Remote Control Shark Toy

BEST REMOTE CONTROL TOY

The new Skyrocket Mega Chomp Remote Control Shark Toy is the perfect toy for any five-year-old who wants to keep shark week going year-round. The 16” shark has large teeth that automatically chomp as he ‘swims,’ with kids guiding their shark through the water/over carpet using the 2.4 GHz remote control.

Buy: Skyrocket Mega Chomp Remote Control Shark Toy $25.49

11. SkyRocket Moji the Lovable Labradoodle

BEST FOR KIDS WHO WANT A PET

Does your little one want a dog but you don’t? Gift them Moji the Lovable Labradoodle. The pup does 10 tricks, responds to your child’s voice and touch, interacts with its toys, and comes with 20 nurturing cards that kids can use to provide extra care. The best part? No poop to scoop.

12. Just Play Doorables Let’s Go Figures

BEST COLLECTABLE

For little kids who like to collect toys, the Just Play Doorables Let’s Go Figures are a budget-friendly toy that kids will enjoy. The super cute figurines arrive inside an airplane-themed box and the assortment is a mystery to the gift receiver. Great for playing with on their own or with friends, kids will enjoy collecting characters from Disney and Pixar.

Buy: Just Play Doorables Let's Go Figures $5.99 (orig. $12.99) 54% OFF

13. DC Comics Hawk Cruiser Patrol

BEST FOR DC FANS

Black Adam will likely be one of the biggest movies in 2022, so gift the young DC fan in your life the Hawk Cruiser Patrol. The set includes the impressive airplane and Black Adam and Hawkman action figures that can ride in the cruiser. This is a great toy on its own and we also like that the cruiser is compatible with other Black Adam action figures, including Cyclone, Atom Smasher and Dr. Fate.

Buy: DC Comics Hawk Cruiser Patrol $18.45

14. Sink N’ Sand Game with Kinetic Sand

BEST HANDS-ON BOARDGAME

Kinetic sand is a great gift for kids ages 3 and up, so we were excited to see the Sink N’ Sand Game with Kinetic Sand. A board game for older kids, the Sink N’ Sand Game with Kinetic Sand encourages kids to use their hands and engage in sensory play while trying to keep their players from falling. Great for five-year-olds and anyone who grew up fearing quicksand, courtesy of The Neverending Story.

15. Disney Encanto House of Charms Game

BEST FOR ENCANTO FANS

We may not talk about Bruno, but we do want to talk about the new Disney Encanto House of Charms Game. Perfect for kids who love the family Madrigal, the board game encourages kids to work together to keep the magic in the famous home. The brightly colored 3D board is engaging and will keep kids busy for up to 30 minutes per game.

Buy: Disney Encanto House of Charms Game $8.14 (orig. $14.99) 46% OFF

16. Imaginext Jurassic World Dominion Giga Dinosaur Toy

BEST FOR DINOSAUR FANS

Whether your 5-year-old loves Jurassic park or is simply digging dinosaurs right now, the new Imaginext Jurassic World Dominion Giga Dinosaur Toy provides plenty of opportunity for play. Standing 16” tall, kids can press and twist the dino’s tail to see it thrash and light up. The dino stomps, roars, and comes with an Owen Grady character to help tame it.

Buy: Imaginext Jurassic World Dominion Giga Dinosaur Toy $69.30 (orig. $119.99) 42% OFF

The Best Robot Toys Can Help Your Kids Develop a Love of STEM

The holiday season is upon us, so in addition to helping kids count down the days until they open presents with their own advent calendar (adults, don’t forget your grown-up advent calendar), parents and loved ones need to figure out what to gift kids. Gift-giving can be difficult if you have a little one who is no longer a toddler but not quite a big kid. So, what are the best toys for 7-year-olds?

Whether searching for the best toys for 7-year-old-girls or the best toys for 7-year-old boys, the most important thing is the individual child. Do they like crafting bracelets or building LEGO sets? Racing cars or using dolls for role play? Are they hip to Harry Potter or more into Black Panther? Keeping the child’s surroundings in mind is also a good idea. Do they have a small sibling? Opt for a toy without anything that can easily be swallowed. Parents will thank you.

Finding the best toys for seven-year-olds can feel overwhelming, so we at SPY consulted toy experts to find the hottest new toys for 2022 that are fun, affordable, and provide more than a few minutes of entertainment. No one wants a toy that only packs five minutes of fun.

Check out our roundup of best toys for a 7-year-old and get ready to be the coolest parents/aunts/uncles/grandparents/family friend this holiday season.

1. Monster High Doll, Frankie Stein with Accessories and Pet

BEST MOVIE TIE IN

The release of the first Monster High film this fall brought with it more Monster High toys for fans to collect. New additions to the  Monster High lineup, like Frankie Stein, will let kids enjoy role-playing with the dolls at home. Frankie Stein? Oh yeah, we see what you did there Mattel. Very clever.

Buy: Monster High Doll, Frankie Stein with Accessories and Pet $15.99 (orig. $24.99) 36% OFF

2. Squishmallow New 10″ Jerome The Blue Triceratops

BEST STUFFY

Kids continue to go ga ga for Squishmallows, including the new prehistoric lineup released this year. A great comfort toy, Squishmallows don’t require batteries and double as pillows for long car rides, so they are a-okay in our parenting book.

Buy: Squishmallow New 10 $26.99

3. Beyblade Burst QuadDrive Interstellar Drop Beyblade Stadium Battle Set

FOR AGES 8 AND UP

The Beyblade Burst QuadDrive Interstellar Drop Beyblade Stadium Battle Set is designed for kids slightly older than 7, but we included it because some younger kids may be ready for it. Kids can have fun launching their Beyblade into race battles with four-in-one tops.

4. JIGGY Junior Rainbow Mandala World Map by Farah Brightart

BEST PUZZLE

Want a battery-free, screen-free toy that will keep kids entertained? Go the classic route with one of the new JIGGY Junior puzzles. We like this design by Farah Brightart, which features bright and cheerful colors that create a Mandala version of a world map.

5. STEM Success Kit: Bubbleology

BEST STEM TOY

Read More: The Best STEM Toys for Kids

Help your child become a bubbologist with the STEM Success Kit in Bubbleology. With eight experiments in the kit, kids will learn to make bubbles into shapes. The Bubbleology kit can be enjoyed during solo play or with challenges for up to four players.

6. Marvel Black Panther Wakanda Forever Shuri Fashion Doll

BEST BLACK PANTHER TOY

For kids awaiting the upcoming release of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, help them pass the time with the new Marvel Black Panther Wakanda Forever Shuri Fashion Doll. The brilliant and powerful warrior Shuri arrives with her signature suit and beautiful dreadlock hairstyle. Kids will enjoy role-playing their favorite scenes with the posable doll, which has 11 points of articulation.

7. K’NEX Thrill Rides Amazin’ 8 Coaster

BEST FOR BUDDING BUILDERS

Read More: The Best STEM Toys for Kids

The K’NEX Thrill Rides Amazin’ 8 Coaster is another great STEM toy that helps kids develop their fine motor skills and problem-solving tactics. Plus, there’s a lesson in gravity. This hands-on set makes kids the engineers and the drivers of their own rollercoasters. Plus, no waiting in line!

Buy: K'NEX Thrill Rides Amazin' 8 Coaster $39.99

8. Rubik’s Race

BEST TWO PLAYER GAME

Need a game that two kids can play at home or while traveling? Check out Rubik’s Race, a strategy sequence game that tests kids’ problem-solving skills. The first player to shift their pieces to match the center scrambler pattern wins, with the game featuring endless sequences that kids can play again and again.

Buy: Rubik’s Race

9. LEGO Marvel Iron Man Armory Building Toy Set

BEST LEGO SET

Read More: The Best LEGO Releases of 2022

LEGO remains one of the top toys for kids thanks to its open play structure and consistent new releases that tap into what is hot in pop culture. The LEGO Marvel Iron Man Armory Building Toy Set is suited for kids ages 7 and up and includes 496 pieces that help Marvel fans build their own version of Iron Man’s Armory.

Buy: LEGO Marvel Iron Man Armory Building Toy Set $57.99 (orig. $89.99) 36% OFF

10. Rainbow Loom MEGA Combo Set

BEST FOR CRAFTY KIDS

Friendship bracelets and keychains are still popular toys among kids, so gift your 7-year-old a set with enough pieces to create multiple crafts. The Rainbow Loom MEGA Combo Set comes with more than 4,000 latex-free rubber bands and all the tools kids will need, including instructions, to start their own Etsy store.

Buy: Rainbow Loom MEGA Combo Set $24.99

11. Wizarding World Harry Potter Amazon Exclusive Deluxe Diagon Alley & Hogwarts Express

BEST FOR HARRY POTTER FANS

Whether your child is just getting into the world of Potter or has already zoomed through the books, they’ll love playing with the Wizarding World Harry Potter Amazon Exclusive Deluxe Diagon Alley & Hogwarts Express. The set includes four playsets, five figures and 33 accessories to help create a world of magic and wizardry. Kids will enjoy the working lights and sound in the sets, where they can act out some of their favorite scenes with Harry, Hermione and Ron.

Buy: Wizarding World Harry Potter, Amazon Exclusive Deluxe Diagon Alley & Hogwarts Express $33.50 (orig. $49.83) 33% OFF

12. Hot Wheels Action Spiral Speed Crash

FOR KIDS WHO LIKE TO CRASH

The Hot Wheels Action Spiral Speed Crash is designed for kids ages 5 and up, but we think 7-year-olds will still enjoy the fast action of the speedway. Kids can race their Hot Wheels cars around the track, which includes three crash zones. There’s even a motorized booster included in the 29” tall track.

13. Funko Disney Happiest Day Game Magic Kingdom Park

BEST FOR DISNEY FANS

Another toy geared towards kids ages 5 and up that we think 7-year-olds will love is the new Funko Disney Happiest Day Game Magic Kingdom Park. The board game is fun for families who have been or are planning to visit the happiest place on earth, with kids moving their favorite Disney characters around the beautifully illustrated board.

Buy: Funko Disney Happiest Day Game Magic Kingdom Park $20.99 (orig. $24.99) 16% OFF

The Best Robot Toys Can Help Your Kids Develop a Love of STEM

There’s a new luggage trend that we’re low-key obsessed with — ride-on suitcases for kids. The best ride-on suitcases are just plain adorable, and they can make flying with kids just a little more bearable for everyone in the family.

Traveling through the airport can be overwhelming, especially for kids. Even with the best travel plans in place, packing, extensive walking, and racing to make your flight puts so much stress on everyone, particularly parents of little ones with less patience and shorter legs.

Once your child is past the stroller stage, traveling and staying within time constraints around a large area such as an airport can prove to be quite difficult. This is where having the best ride-on suitcase can help.

Buy: Lil Flyer Ride-On Unicorn Suitcase $210.00

Ride-on suitcases not only give you a designated place for your kid’s travel needs but also double as an entertaining pull-along rider or ride-on scooter that helps you keep your kids and their belongings in tow. For youngsters, a suitcase that you can ride instantly feels fun, making it like a toy and a piece of luggage rolled into one. Many come in fun designs that also help your child get excited about their trip. In addition, to the best games and toys for trips, ride-on luggage will help keep your little one completely occupied and happy during your next vacay.

Below we’ve gathered some of the best ride-on suitcases for kids. From pull-along options to ride-on scooters, they’re sure to keep your child happy, entertained, and moving in the right direction throughout any trip.

1. Trunki Kid’s Ride-On Suitcase Bundle

The Trunki Ride-On Suitcase is the ideal travel companion for kids. This bundle comes with a Trunki ride-on kid’s suitcase, a matching saddle bag, and a drink bottle holder. Designed with lightweight yet durable hard shell plastic, it’s sturdy enough for the roughest of kids and can hold up to 110 pounds. There’s a shoulder strap for easy towing, a sculpted saddle for comfortable seating, fun hidden compartments, and front grips for stable riding. Choose your favorite from a variety of color options.

2. Kiddietotes 3-D Hardside Scooter Ride-On Suitcase 

The Kiddietotes 3-D Hardside Scooter Ride-On Suitcase takes luggage on wheels to a new level. Lightweight and easy to use, this luggage scooter is a great option for traveling toddlers and young children. It features light-up LED wheels, telescoping handle with tilt steering, and a slip-proof standing deck for safety. After scooting, it easily converts to a conventional roller travel bag that fits neatly into an airplane cabin’s overhead compartment. Choose from the car below or select a superhero robot or yeti monster design.

Surprisingly, there aren’t many Disney ride-on suitcases for sale, but this design is close enough to Lightning McQueen from Cars that most kids won’t be able to tell the difference.

Buy: Kiddietotes 3-D Hardside Scooter Ride-On Suitcase $134.99

3. Shaun the Sheep Original Kids Ride-On Suitcase 

How adorable is this ride-on suitcase in the licensed design of Shaun the Sheep? This amazing design functions as a suitcase, stroller, and entertainment device all in one. It’s made of durable materials and has a convenient carrying strap, a spacious interior, and can hold up to 110 pounds of ride-on weight when in use. This bundle comes with ride-on luggage and a matching backpack, both of which also fit well in the overhead compartment of an airplane. Choose from pink, light blue, or red.

Buy: Shaun the Sheep Original Kids Ride-on Suitcase $129.99

4. Lil Flyer by Younglingz Ride-On Suitcase

This heavy-duty ride-on suitcase can hold children up to 50 pounds and comes with 360-degree spinner wheels for easy maneuverability. The design features foldable handlebars, foot pedals, and a padded seat cushion with an adjustable safety belt. The interior offers a spacious compartment for little ones to pack their clothing, toys, and anything else needed to keep them happy throughout their travels.

These fun ride-on suitcases for kids come with the motorcycle design pictured below, but at the Amazon link you can also pick a unicorn style and other fun designs.

Buy: Lil Flyer by Younglingz Ride On Suitcase $210.00

5. Children’s Ride-On Trolley Luggage

This candy-colored option is great for children ages 6-12 years old. It comes equipped with a telescopic handle, belt, and armrests on both sides. Made of durable materials, this luggage piece is waterproof and wear-resistant. There’s also a considerable amount of storage with mesh compartments to store clothes, toys, and other items.  There are also double-row rotating wheels that make it easy to drag wherever you go. Choose from an array of brilliant colors, including blue, fuchsia, and lavender.

Buy: Children's Ride-On Trolley Luggage $179.00

6. Vrum Ride-On Toy Storage Case

Designed in the fashion of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, the VRÜM ride-on toy storage case makes it simple to take your clothing and toys with you on the go. There’s a strap that can be used for carrying or pulling and a spacious seating area for comfort. This model is compact and easy to travel with, fitting into the overhead compartment or under the seat of an aircraft.

The Best Electric Scooters for Kids in 2022