Toys to Talk About: Construction

By Justina Huddleston
June 2013

Construction toys are a perennial favorite with kids and parents alike. Take a look at the new, exciting construction toys we've learned about at TDmonthly, then decide if some of them might be a good fit for your store.

Pouch 54 (vivid) by ARTEC EDUCATIONAL

Foster children’s imaginations and creative expression with our revolutionary new block design. A cube with square holes on each face, and a single, connecting stud located off-center. Unlike traditional building blocks which can only be stacked, an Artec Block can be connected in all directions. Horizontal, vertical, and even diagonal connections are possible for unparalleled ease and freedom. The possibilities are endless in the structures, animals, and shapes you can make. 5/16/2013 (MSRP: $9.99; Age: 3 and Up)

ZOOB Jr Scooter by INFINITOY

The ZOOB JR. Scooter features 18 ZOOB JR. pieces, 4 wheels, and instructions for 17 creations, such as a scooter, a mini go-cart, a skateboarder, and a spinning robot (but kids can make up lots more). The instructions require no reading, and are printed on sturdy cards. ZOOB JR. is our fastest-growing product category. 5/21/2013 (Age: 3 to 6)

Snapo "Build & Go" – 35 Big Blocks by SNAPO

These high quality Snapo building blocks are made in the USA. They SNAP together in all directions for fun, fast, creative building. Snapo blocks stimulate development of spatial and fine motor skills, connecting sideways, and you can slide and rotate them too for extra fun. 5/29/2013 (MSRP: $23.98; Age: 1 and Up)

Creature Blocks by CITIBLOCS LLC

Creature Blocks by CITIBLOCS LLC Fangs and Tentacles and Eyeballs Oh My! Create your own Creature Feature with these playfully designed blocks. Let your imagination run wild with blocks featuring wings, eyeballs, teeth and more. 100 pc set available Summer 2013. 4/30/2013

MyVeryOwnHouse® - Pirate Ship by PHARMTEC CORP.

Aarr! Aspiring buccaneers will board this pirate-themed boat to sail through unchartered waters on a search for hidden treasure. Drop anchor and take part in a treasure hunt on the seven seas. Battle the enemy in a sword fight and make ‘em walk the plank, matey! Decorate the pirate ship with markers, paints or crayons, construction paper, gems and jewels. Once inside, children can embark on their very own search for buried treasure at sea as they steer the ship and follow treasure maps. Shiver me timbers! And, because we care about your child’s real world as much as their imaginary world, our products are made from bio-degradable, eco-friendly materials that are formaldehyde-free and completely recyclable. 5/10/2013 (MSRP: $29.99; Age: 3 and Up)

Modular High Way Construction Kit by MODULAR TOYS USA

The Modular™ HighWay Construction Kit construction toy takes a unique approach, allowing true three-dimensional highways and levels to be constructed . The toy develops abstract thinking, three-dimensional perception, creativity and offers multiple construction options.
Compatible with other “Modular™ Toy Construction kits”. 4/19/2013 (MSRP: $64.99; Age: 5 and Up)

SmartMax Build & Light by SMART TOYS AND GAMES INC

SmartMax Build & Light by SMART TOYS AND GAMES INC Includes two LED-lit bars for building houses, towers, and other structures that light up and blink. The accompanying instruction guides help model construction ideas so children can learn how to create designs of varying shapes and heights.
— Lisa Shinn, manager and buyer for Dancing Bear Toys in Frederick, Md., told TDmonthly in a May 2015 survey that this was a best-selling construction toy at their store.

Where to buy:
NORTH EAST 5/30/2013 (MSRP: $99.99)

Doll House Blocks by CITIBLOCS LLC

Doll House Blocks by CITIBLOCS LLC Pretty in Pink Blocks! Bright and colorful pink pattern blocks to create your own dream house- No Boys Allowed! 100 and 200 pc sets available Summer 2013. 4/30/2013

Modular Dream Palace Construction Kit by MODULAR TOYS USA

The Modular™ Dream Palace Construction Kit takes a unique approach, allowing true three-dimensional architecture to be constructed. The game develops abstract thinking, three dimensional perception, and creativity. Compatible with other “Modular™ Toy Construction kits”. Watch and participate with your children while they’re thinking, planning, and building in all three dimensions. Age 5 and up. 4/19/2013 (MSRP: $69.99; Age: 5 and Up)

Pretend & Play: Toolbox by SILVER DOLPHIN BOOKS

Birdy needs help building a new house--time to get the toolbox out! With a "zee-zaw," the saw cuts wood and with a "tap, tap" the hammer pounds nails. Children ages 3 and up will learn about tools as they play with the shaped foil puzzle pieces all the way to the end where they'll find a fun pop-up surprise -- a beautiful birdhouse! Unleash the builder in your child with this charming $12.95 board book. 4/4/2013 (MSRP: $12.95; Age: 3 and Up)