Classic Christmas Gifts to Build On!

I know I'm not alone when I say my kids have too many toys that they don't even appreciate. This year, we're letting go of the toys they don't play with, and adding only what will last and I know they will love.

Here are some Christmas gift toy ideas that my children love and learn with - and they spend hours of time playing with them too!

Tinkertoys or Fiddlestix

I found a canister of these at my local Goodwill last year for $8. I knew it was a good deal, and boy do my kids LOVE these! We get them out about once per week and they'll spend all day creating. I think we actually need another set. With 3 kids, it's hard for each of them to build something of their own when the others are using half the sticks... sometimes there are fights.

LEGO®'s

Of course, LEGO's are a classic toy that I've never found a child not to like. If you have little ones in the house, you might want to consider Mega Bloks or LEGO Duplo Bricks. But if your kids are past putting every little thing in their mouth, graduate up to LEGO's. This is a toy you can build on and buy more LEGO's and kits to keep making bigger and greater creations!

Wooden Train Set

This one is on the pricier side, but still priced under $100. I personally think train sets appeal to boys and girls. My daughters love our hand-me-down wooden train set just as much as our son does. It's a hit every time we pull it out. Before we received our set as a gift, we looked into the different types out there. Melissa & Doug always came up as the most cost-efficient and recommended set. It can also fit just about any train cars including Thomas the Train. Melissa & Doug stand behind each of their toys and create them with high quality and craftsmanship. I highly recommend this classic toy if your budget allows. If you have the space, you can add the Wooden Train/Activiy Table as well and keep it set up all the time!

I realize not all children are the same, and your kids may not like these toys at all. If you've found toys that your kids love and appreciate, please leave a comment. I'd love to get even more toy ideas!