Toy Insider Parent and Contributing Editor Charlene DeLoach joined Western Mass News in Springfield to show off some fun educational toys that don’t require the use of screens. For more on the items featured in this segment, check out the product notes below, and for the complete rundown of the best toys of the holiday season, be sure to check our complete Toy Insider Holiday Gift Guide.


K’NEX ARCHITECTURE

Kids can discover their inner architect by snapping together rods and connectors to build designs including the Golden Gate Bridge, the Eiffel Tower, and the London Eye. Each set comes with historical information about the landmark and detailed easy-to-follow, step-by-step building instructions.

Fast Facts

  • Ages: 9+
  • Manufacturer: BASIC FUN!
  • MSRP: $49.99-$59.99

Buy It Now

The Toy Insider participates in affiliate programs that may generate revenue for the site when a purchase is made through the links below.


LEARN-A-LOT AVOCADOS

The four pop-apart avocados feature emoji-style faces that spin and change to help babies identify different emotions. Build color and matching skills with the avocados’ colorful interiors. Also includes a storage crate.

Fast Facts

Buy It Now

The Toy Insider participates in affiliate programs that may generate revenue for the site when a purchase is made through the links below.


BIG BOGGLE

The family-favorite for more than 30 years is back and bigger than ever. For the first time, a “Double Letter” cube makes it easier to form valuable words. Features more cubes and letters than the original game.

Fast Facts

Buy It Now

The Toy Insider participates in affiliate programs that may generate revenue for the site when a purchase is made through the links below.


CIRCUIT EXPLORER

This line of kid-friendly, 3D, circuit-building sets allows kids to match the conduits with simple markings to make custom builds with lights, sounds, and motion. These connectable circuit pieces are simple and durable, so kids can play independently.

Fast Facts

Buy It Now

The Toy Insider participates in affiliate programs that may generate revenue for the site when a purchase is made through the links below.


MY LITTLE HOUSE

These multi-sensory, interactive Toys are founded and owned by a Speech Pathologist. Can play flat on a table top or easily transform them into reversible 3-dimensional play sets. Can mix and match sets. Three sets available: My Little House, My Little Farm, and My Little Seasons. Soft, stickable felt pieces address all the important early language concepts. Sets can promote receptive and expressive language; to teach who, what, and where questions; to develop matching skills; and as a springboard for demonstrating storytelling skills.

Fast Facts

  • Ages: 3+
  • Manufacturer: SMART FELT TOYS
  • MSRP: $39.99 (my Little Seasons $12.99)

Buy It Now

The Toy Insider participates in affiliate programs that may generate revenue for the site when a purchase is made through the links below.