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10 Best Tool Sets & Workbench for Kids Reviewed in 2024

last updated Jun 21, 2019

Got a little handyperson on your hands? Kids love to be active, to touch, to play, and to try to fix. They’re especially likely to want to tinker if they’ve seen mom, dad, or another loved adult demonstrate handy skills. Get them started early with their very own kid-friendly toolkit. Does it ever hurt to have an extra pair of hands around the house? (Even if they’re just armed with plastic.) We’ve gathered ten of our favorite kits, sets, and workbenches below. Grab your favorite and get to work!

In a Hurry? The test winner after 37 hrs of research

icon
ToyVelt 68 Piece Kit
89.3/100 our score
Educational Value
95
Age Range
94
Design
85
Entertainment Value
83
ToyVelt 68 Piece Kit
Why is it better?

68 pieces total

Twelve plastic, working tools

Lots of functional screws that are compatible with the tools

Easy to transport

Lightweight and quick setup

Electric drill actually spins

In a Hurry? Editors choice:
ToyVelt 68 Piece Kit
Test Winner: ToyVelt 68 Piece Kit
Amazon Link
Researched Sources
26
Researched Sources
Hours Researching
37
Hours Researching
Products Evaluated
13
Products Evaluated
Last Updated:
By Jessica Mentzer:

Tools are one of those classic toys that everyone loves. From babies to kids it is a gift that keeps on giving. We want to make sure that you know where to find the best toolsets and workbenches so we created this list. It has also recently been updated with eight new criteria sections and added content.

Sorting Options
Educational Value Age Range Design Entertainment Value By Default
Rank
PictureProduct
Name
Rating
Shops
#1
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
89.3
Educational Value
95 %
Age Range
94 %
Design
85 %
Entertainment Value
83 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (14.11.24)
Amazon Link
$35.98
#2
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.5
Educational Value
95 %
Age Range
92 %
Design
85 %
Entertainment Value
82 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (14.11.24)
Amazon Link
$22.99
#3
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.5
Educational Value
95 %
Age Range
90 %
Design
85 %
Entertainment Value
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (14.11.24)
Amazon Link
$22.99
#4
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.5
Educational Value
91 %
Age Range
90 %
Design
86 %
Entertainment Value
83 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (14.11.24)
Amazon Link
$53.99
#5
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
86.3
Educational Value
92 %
Age Range
90 %
Design
83 %
Entertainment Value
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (14.11.24)
Amazon Link
$31.12
#6
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
Educational Value
90 %
Age Range
85 %
Design
80 %
Entertainment Value
80 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (14.11.24)
Amazon Link
$12.99
#7
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.5
Educational Value
90 %
Age Range
85 %
Design
80 %
Entertainment Value
75 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (14.11.24)
Amazon Link
#8
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.5
Educational Value
90 %
Age Range
85 %
Design
80 %
Entertainment Value
75 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (14.11.24)
Amazon Link
#9
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
81.5
Educational Value
90 %
Age Range
82 %
Design
80 %
Entertainment Value
74 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (14.11.24)
Amazon Link
$22.39
#10
The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
81.3
Educational Value
88 %
Age Range
82 %
Design
83 %
Entertainment Value
72 %
Price Comparison Last Updated (14.11.24)
Amazon Link

10 Best Tool Sets & Workbenches Reviewed

1. ToyVelt 68 Piece Kit

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
89.3
ToyVelt 68 Piece Kit
Amazon Link
Educational Value
95
Age Range
94
Design
85
Entertainment Value
83
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$35.98

68 pieces total

Twelve plastic, working tools

Lots of functional screws that are compatible with the tools

Easy to transport

Lightweight and quick setup

Electric drill actually spins

Hangers fall consistently

Plastic is flimsy

Pack and play with this incredible 68 piece workbench! Included in this set, you’ll find twelve play tools and an assortment of nuts, bolts, and hangers with which to organize your tools. The stand-up tool bench is compact, lightweight, and easy to move. It stands at 16”x29”x14” and packs easily.

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Entertainment Value

An all-inclusive set with over 68 pieces to play with the little ones with have hours of endless playtime with this workbench. The set includes the basic tools that would be needed to complete any handyman repair or construction build. The idea of the workbench it to supply the kids with the same tools as the parents allowing them to explore their imaginations promotes their creativity to blossom with this wide range of different items.

Age Range

There’s lots to pick up, play with, and fix with this Toyvelt set! Given the small pieces, this workbench is most suitable for children ages three and up. Give them the tools and put them to work; watch what happens!

Design

This workbench is a perfect fit for the playroom, bedroom, backyard, or even a trip to the park or the beach! Nuts and bolts can be fastened with a closed end wrench, fully adjustable crescent wrench, flat blade or Phillips screwdriver, drill and socket, socket wrench, pipe wrench, or bench vice.

Educational Value

With so many tools to choose from and screws that actually work, this workbench gives children ample opportunities to enhance their motor skills as well as their hand-eye coordination. The chance to role-play also helps them to develop expressive and creative skillsets all while having fun

2. Kidzlane Electronic Cordless

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
88.5
Kidzlane Electronic Cordless
Amazon Link
Educational Value
95
Age Range
92
Design
85
Entertainment Value
82
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$22.99

The pieces are strong and durable. It will last through generations and can be passed on to younger siblings.

Kidzlane toys are fully tested and certified for top toy safety.

Kids enjoy pretending to put their toys together with their tools.

The drill doesn’t make too loud of a noise.

The screws cannot be attached to the drill

Includes small pieces, not intended for children under the age of three years old

What do mechanics, handymen, and contractions all have in common? That’s right cool toolsets. This deluxe tool set has been put together with the idea that it would provide the little ones with the tools of the trade. It includes 19 items in the set plus an awesome case to carry and store it all in. Included in the set little ones will find; some safety goggles, working measuring tape, pretend hammer, plastic nails, bolts along with nuts, a ratchet, screwdriver, and even a pair of channel lock pliers.

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Entertainment Value

The kit is small enough that they can take their tools with them on the road, in the playground, visits, vacations and more. Most kids enjoy wearing the safety goggles that comes with this kit. This kit helps kids learn the importance of eye protection.

Age Range

Tool sets are one of the neatest gifts to give a little one. This set has been designed and it best suited for kids that are 3 years old to 6 years old. It features neutral colors making it a great gift for either a boy or girl. Be the next one to surprise the little one in your life with this toolset with the included case.

Design

Functioning tools are even better to pretend tools. These are battery powered tools that actually make noises and have buttons to push. It makes it great for the little ones that love mimicking adults performing real tasks. The drill features these functions, but what is even cooler is the working tape measure. The kids just go wild for that thing.

Educational Value

The neutral colors make it so that both girls and boys can play with this kit. Boys and girls can mimic their parents. Kids pretend to fix things around the house as they watch their parents try and make household repairs.

3. Grip 9 Piece

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.5
Grip 9 Piece
Amazon Link
Educational Value
95
Age Range
90
Design
85
Entertainment Value
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$22.99

Real steel tools have been heat-treated and drop-forged for maximum durability

Double-injected grip handles designed for small fingers to grasp and manipulate easily

Suitable for children 4 years and older

Helps develop fine-motor skills and hand-eye coordination

This toolset contains real metal tools and scissors that may not be suitable for small children

Not child-sized and may require adult assistance

This set contains everything your child needs to fix and create building and woodworking projects including a tape measure, hammer, scissors, flat and Phillips head screwdrivers and more. All of the tools fit neatly and conveniently into the included toolbag for quick and simple clean up and storage when your little carpenter is done for the day.

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Entertainment Value

This tool set is the perfect gift for your little one when he or she is ready to graduate from playing pretend to actually help fix and create small projects around the house!

Age Range

One of the coolest realistic toolsets on this list. It is a toolset created from actual forged heat treated steel and feature mold injected handle grips. This toolset because of the materials it has been constructed from is best suited for kids that are 4 years old or older.

Design

These tools have been designed to be as durable and strong as the real thing and are also moderately sized, making them just as useful for you as your child! Give your little one the gift of confidence with this real toolset!

Educational Value

Learning how to properly use tools such as hammers and screwdrivers isn’t just a rite of passage, it is an essential skill. Learning how to use them safely is a bit trickier. Real toolsets such as the Grip kit should be reserved for children who are able to follow instructions and safety protocols and should not be given to anyone under the age of 4. Manipulating tools can help build fine- and gross motor skills as well as hand-eye coordination. They can also provide a sense of personal satisfaction and accomplishment that is essential to building positive self-esteem.

4. Young Choi's 120 Piece Kit

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
87.5
Young Choi's 120 Piece Kit
Amazon Link
Educational Value
91
Age Range
90
Design
86
Entertainment Value
83
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$53.99

120 pieces total

Lots of fun tools

Electric drill makes noises

Safety accessories included

Easy storage

Smaller than expected

Fake battery falls off of drill easily

With 120 pieces, this workbench from Young Choi’s is one of the most elaborate sets out there, especially for the price point. A realistic electric drill rotates and makes noise when you push the button. A cute little cubby serves as a way to hold small pieces such as screws, bolts, and washers while children work. In addition to the usual suspects in a toolset (hammer, saw, drill, wrenches, pliers, screwdrivers), this workbench also includes less popular but still significant accessories such as a spackling tool, c-clamp, and measuring tape.

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Entertainment Value

It’s a good little kit, especially for truly little ones. There are lots of tools to choose from and play with, and all of the pieces are designed and manufactured with not just quality but also safety in mind. No sharp edges, no items that break into lots of little pieces: this kit is ready for excitable little hands to get crackin’.

Age Range

It’s meant to last and be passed between siblings, and the company has rounded edges and designed consciously to ensure it’s safe for young ones. If you’re unsatisfied, you can also fall back on their thirty-day return policy.

Design

Safety always comes first and this kit makes sure not to skimp in that area either. A pair of safety goggles and a dust mask also come ready for play. This kit is durable, sturdy, and carefully constructed.

Educational Value

Lots of tools mean lots of chances to enhance motor skills and hand-eye coordination, as well as dexterity and critical thinking. Kids can learn the functionality of different types of tools and enjoy the creative and imaginative side of role-playing as a handyman or just good ol’ mom or dad trying to fix things around the house.

5. Tomy John Deere Deluxe Talking

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
86.3
Tomy John Deere Deluxe Talking
Amazon Link
Educational Value
92
Age Range
90
Design
83
Entertainment Value
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$31.12

The kit is safe to use for kids as young as 24 months old.

Gift wrapping is available.

All 6 tools have soft grips.

3 AAA batteries are required and included in this kit.

This set comes with a hat, even though it doesn’t show it in the picture.

Sometimes parents struggle to put the green box onto the tool belt. But there is space on the back of the box for the belt to loop through

Closure system for the belt is Velcro that is not strong enough to hold it together well

Who loves John Deere products? If your little one does then this is just the toolset and belt for them. It is one of the neatest toolsets and belt available on this list. The reason being, it talks. It actually is a talking tool belt that the kids will love. In the set of tools are a talking tool belt, six working tools, and a tape measure. It is a simple set of tools that can get the job done every time.

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Entertainment Value

It is all about the talking tool belt because the tool buckle says 2 different phrases and also makes 3 tool noises. So when working and playing with the tools the little ones are able to make the tool belt talk as they play around the house or even when they are helping out a caregiver with a household project.

Age Range

The simple set is great for little ones that are 2 years old and up. The set does not include small pieces, but it does have tools with longer handles. It is best that children that are two year olds be supervised when playing with the set. Make sure to show them how to make the talking tool belt buckle talk.

Design

Simple is not always a bad thing when it comes to toys. This is a toolset that is simple with a talking tool belt, but yet it has enough features that the kids so wild for it. The eight pieces included with the set include the tool belt, six tools, and a working tape measure. The John Deere theme is one thing that also draws kids to the set.

Educational Value

John Deere makes other toys that match the toolset. They also make tractor engines, repair stations and gator horns when children are ready to expand. Although these pieces are designed to stand up to rough play, they can also be a great introduction to collecting. And the encouragement coming from their belt will help children feel engaged and confident as they learn how to use tools.

6. Melissa & Doug Take-Along Construction

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
83.8
Melissa & Doug Take-Along Construction
Amazon Link
Educational Value
90
Age Range
85
Design
80
Entertainment Value
80
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$12.99

This company can personalize children’s toolbox with just their name.

This kit causes no splinters.

It is battery-free and safe for the environment.

Kids as young as a year and a half find the most joy when using the hammer.

The wood is soft and kids teeth marks are easily made anywhere on their kit.

This is a 24-piece wooden tool set for kids. The kit comes with wooden nails, screws, nuts, bolts, hammer, wrench and screwdriver. The toolbox has holes on each side where kids take their nuts and bolts and use their tools to screw them in. They can put pieces of the same colors together or they can mix and match the colors.

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Entertainment Value

The outside of the toolbox is the highlight of the toolset here. It is really neat because there are pre drilled holes that the screws that are included in the toolset fit in. So the little ones can grab a wrench and a screw then practice their skills right there without having to find any additional toys or materials. The kids will have fun just learning how the tools and accessories work.

Age Range

The wooden construction of this toolset is best suited for kids that are aged 3 years old to 5 years old. It is great for kids this age group because of the hands on play time that need during this time in their development. Playing with this tool set is great for cognitive and motor skill development.

Design

It's so cute watching kids pretend to fix furniture with their toolbox kit. They do this by rubbing the pieces on the furniture and pretending to screw bolts into the couch.

Educational Value

While kids play with their toolkit, they will be working on their dexterity, numbers, arrangements, and colors. They can count the different colored pieces they have and they can count how many pieces they have of the same color

7. Active Kyds 9 Piece

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.5
Active Kyds 9 Piece
Amazon Link
Educational Value
90
Age Range
85
Design
80
Entertainment Value
75
best offer for today
Amazon Link

The tools look like smaller versions of good quality tools.

Parents sometimes borrow tools from their kid’s kit.

Kids can learn responsibility. If they don’t put away their tools properly then it will be hard to build and fix things later.

Kids can learn how to fix their bike’s tire too.

The flashlight requires one AA battery, and it is not included with this kit.

This kit does not include replicas of tools because it contains real tools. This 9-piece set comes with a hammer, adjustable wrench, tape measure, flashlight and carry case. The tools are strong enough to withstand the rough play children are known for. The steel is strong and the handles are made from soft and durable rubber.

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Entertainment Value

They can make tree houses or fix a small stool. Kids can model play after their parents while they are trying to make something too. And kids can even help their parents hang a frame inside their home.

Age Range

Real tools, real fun, and a real case to hold it all. This set actually includes real tools that have been constructed from metal with rubber grips. That means that covers a large age range. It is a great set for little ones as young as 6 years old and would even work up to the age of 13 years old.

Design

Let the kids get things built with this real tool set. Included with this toolset is a cool case to be able to put all the tools in and take anywhere that is needed. The case holds the eight tools that have been included with the set and has a secure closure system that works well at holding it tightly shut. Get their hands moving and their imaginations working with this real life like a toolset.

Educational Value

This toolset encourages kids to be active and to use their imagination. They can learn how to use real tools to make or fix just about any wood project.

8. Black & Decker Jr. My First

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
82.5
Black & Decker Jr. My First
Amazon Link
Educational Value
90
Age Range
85
Design
80
Entertainment Value
75
best offer for today
Amazon Link

The recommended age is for kids as young as 3 years old and above.

The tools are compatible with the Black and Decker Toy Workbenches.

This kit does a great job of keeping kids from wanting to play with parent’s tools.

Similar looking tools can be used as replacement pieces over the years as the tools become worn or lost. These extra tools are available online for purchase.

It is not recommended for kids under the age of 2 because over time the kit starts to fall apart and the pieces become smaller.

This set comes with 14 tools and accessories. After kids are done playing they can put their tools away into their convenient toolbox. When kids are done playing they can take inventory of their tools.

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Entertainment Value

This set looks just like the professional Black and Decker tools. Any parent who owns Black and Decker tools will have their hearts melt when they see their tiny kid play with Black and Decker kids tools.

Age Range

Do you have a little inspiring builder in your life that is three years old or older? Then this tool set is perfect for them. With the big company logo right on the front like the tools that you see at the store, this tool set is just the perfect amount of neat with working for anyone in that age range. The working bolts and selected plastic woods are super neat for them at this age.

Design

Included with this toolset is one of the neatest looking tool boxes on the list. It is a handy dandy toolbox that is like the older style of carrying tools. It is a tool bin with a handle that makes it easy to just toss the tools in and be on the way. This is great for cleanup and storage of the 14 pieces that have been included with the set. Kids will also love carrying this handy toolbox around the house playing ‘fix it’ time.

Educational Value

This toy is great for kids who are working on their dexterity. Holding a screw straight and at the same time use another hand to hold a screwdriver is challenging for most small children. But using these tools can help children develop their complex motor skills. They act as a low-stress way to encourage increased dexterity, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

9. Learning Resources New Sprouts Fix It!

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
81.5
Learning Resources New Sprouts Fix It!
Amazon Link
Educational Value
90
Age Range
82
Design
80
Entertainment Value
74
best offer for today
Amazon Link
$22.39

Made from toddler-safe soft plastic

Built-in realistic drill sound effects encourage pretend play

Includes saw, hammer, screwdriver, wrench, drill, and toolbox

Suitable for children ages 2 years and up

The soft plastic material is easily bendable and may become warped over time

The tools do not fit easily into the storage box

For those little ones whose dexterity may not be up to par enough to use real tools, the Sprouts Fix It! Set by Learning Resources is a fun way to encourage pretend play.

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Entertainment Value

Squeeze the drill’s trigger to hear the familiar whirring noise that everyone associates with construction. When it’s time to put the tools away, simply stick them back inside the included toolbox for quick and easy storage. Playtime has never been more constructive!

Age Range

The toddler-friendly materials also provide an excellent opportunity to teach your child the safe ways to use tools without concern that they could get hurt.

Design

This set contains five tools and a toolbox made of soft plastic that is safe for even the littlest engineer. Your child will giggle with delight as they practice sawing and hammering just like the big kids.

Educational Value

Grasping and hammering are ideal ways to help your child develop and strengthen gross- and fine-motor skills while also encouraging hand-eye coordination. Emulation is also an important factor in the age-appropriate cognitive growth and providing realistic toys can encourage pretend play.

10. WolVol Musical Learning

The rating is based on the average rating (1-100) from all the criteria in which we rated this product.
81.3
WolVol Musical Learning
Amazon Link
Educational Value
88
Age Range
82
Design
83
Entertainment Value
72
best offer for today
Amazon Link

The drill is electric, it spins.

When the ball is hammered into the game tube it makes sounds.

When shapes are put through their holes the workbench says the name of the shape out loud.

The materials in this kit are sturdy and durable.

2 AA batteries are required but they are not included

This is a great set for aspiring engineers. The workbench comes with a hammer, screwdriver and a few other items in the workbench. The bright lights and playful sounds make this set a fun and attractive toy for kids.

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Entertainment Value

The sound effect is what will get the kids to just fall in love with this toolset. The hammer and the screws feature working sounds when they are used. Plus there are also some cool sound effects that come out of the hammer and the electric drill. Kids love the sounds and it even has the lighting effects to go right there with it.

Age Range

Lights, sounds, and tools what better combination can you get? Especially for kids that are over 18 months old. At this age, little ones are looking for interaction and they love that cause and effect stuff. This tool bench helps them develop the right skills for this age range and even promotes some fun while they do it.

Design

It is a good looking toy that makes a perfect birthday or Christmas gift.

Educational Value

This is the kind of toy that can be found in preschools. It is safe for a toddler to use and older kids can join in on the fun. Siblings can learn how to play well together using this kit. And as a result, they can create stronger bonds.

Criteria Used for Evaluation

Entertainment Value

We also realize that many families have children of different ages in the house. These families need toys that can challenge older children without exposing the younger ones to dangerous choking hazards. So we made sure to include kits like #7 and #9 that are designed with multiple ages in mind. These kits are safe for families with mixed-age children to use.

Age Range

The tool sets on our list are designed for different age groups but they all keep kids engaged and actively playing. A nice feature about these sets is that they are simple toys that are incredibly educational. These toy tools are colorful and have a close resemblance to "grown-up" tools. Kids can use their tools to learn about colors, shapes and activate their imaginations.

Design

There are a few kits on our list that look so good that they can stay on display long after the kid is grown up. Some of our toy kits are more for function, like the set in #5. It is a miniature version of real tools, no plastic here. They are so well-made, many parents admit they sometimes borrow tools from their child's kit for quick fixes around the house.

Educational Value

Not every child has the same level of skill with every tool. Hammers may be a gimme but pliers and wrenches tend to be more difficult to master. So we ensured that the toolkits like #4 on our list included a large selection of different tools. These tools encourage children to explore and discover the world of crafting and that every job has a tool.

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Parents, Did You Know?

Crafty parents looking to actually build something with their kids often struggle to find real tools small enough to fit in their tiny hands. Most toys small enough are plastic or otherwise unsuited to actual crafting, instead relying on mimicry.

Parents, Did You Know?

Other kits are designed with nostalgia in mind such as #2, which is a prime example of a toolset that harkens back to a simpler time. It looks like an old-school toy that can be used as a display piece in the home. It looks like a great decoration piece in a holiday background. It can be the one toy that doesn't end up getting recycled

Other Factors to Consider

Materials

The tools on our list have many things in common. From high-quality materials to a wide range of specific tools, these sets have everything a child could want. While some sets have more pieces than others, every set comes with enough to challenge and encourage children.

Durability

These sets aren’t just packed with junk either. They are the most popular and sought-after toolsets for kids on Amazon. They are all well-made and last for a very long time. These are not disposable toys. They grow with kids and are designed to withstand their rough play.

Frequently Asked Questions

q: Why should children play with power tools?

a:

Not all parents are comfortable with their kids using grown-up tools. Most parents are comfortable with their kids playing with toy tools.

q: Which is best? The kids playing with toy tools or real tools?

a:

When kids play with tools (real or toy) they start to develop their vocabulary, new actions, cause and effect, and a sense of empowerment. When kids help their parents pick up dirty messes, they get a sense of accomplishment because they feel helpful. Children learn by imitating parents. When they play correctly with their toys (real or fake) it's important to show praise. Kids will feel included, empowered and they’ll become more responsible.

q: What educational benefits are there for kids playing with toy tools?

a:

Babies learn by playing with toys that teach them about the world around them. They are discovering new shapes, colors, textures, sounds, and tastes. Giving babies toys that are stimulating and safe will help them discover their senses. Toy tools are colorful, make simple sounds like rattling, and have different textures. Toy tools for babies are great starter toys. As babies grow older, their tastes change. They require toys that engage them about letters, numbers and language skills. Many toy tools are made for the different stages of life. They basically grow with children.

q: How are parents buying their kids the wrong toys?

a:

oys need to be fun and age appropriate. But since kids develop so quickly, it can be a challenge for parents to pick the right toy at the right time. Parent’s often base their choices off of emotion or fantasy rather than research and specific intent. But it doesn’t have to be that way.

A great toy engages kids and encourages them to use it in any way they can imagine. Kids build skills through mimicry and natural play. They see parents working with tools and naturally, they’ll want to play with tools too. But before they’re ready to build a house with dad, kids need to learn the names of tools and where they go. A good set of toy tools and a kid’s workbench can make that process almost automatic and encourage interaction with parents.

Studies show that parents don’t play with their kids often enough. Many parents buy their kids toys that completely mesmerized them when they were young. It’s ok to buy kids a toy that they absolutely love, but it’s not recommended to use toys as babysitters. Parents can’t just sit their kid down with a toy and walk away to check their emails or do chores. It’s recommended that parents get on the floor and play with their kid to encourage development.

q: Should kids use real tools in preschool?

a:

There are preschools that carry both toy tools and real tools. They believe that kids should use both types of tools to engage in a helpful learning experience. One school, in particular, has a fix-it-box. It is used for kids to fix their own toys. This helps them become independent and more responsible with their toys. But children do require supervision with real tools. Their developing brains and tiny muscles can get them into trouble if left with sharp objects. Little ones don’t understand that a hammer can cause real damage when used on someone. So it is up to parents to ensure real tools are used only in the manner they are supposed to be.

q: How do tools enhance children’s development?

a:

Toys create learning opportunities for kids. They learn the differences between good guys and bad guys when playing with action figures. And they work on their fine-motor skills and dexterity when they play with interactive toys. Tools provide the same mental and motor stimulation as other toys because of their inherent interactivity. The more kids play with toy tools, the better-equipped they are to develop the skills they need for adulthood.

q: How can kids use toys as tools?

a:

There are so many toys out there it's difficult to find the right one kids need and want. Purchasing the right toys can be tricky. The best toys are not the fanciest or the brightest but instead stimulate the imagination. Toys like blocks, balls, cardboard boxes, dress-up clothes, and crafty bits and pieces are the best toys for kids. Toy toolkits are amazing toys because they stimulate kid’s imagination, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

q: What do kids get out of using a woodworking bench?

a:

Kids as young as 3 years old spend time hammering. It’s not uncommon to see preschools and elementary schools using a tree stump, nails, and a hammer as a classroom toy. In middle school, kids get the opportunity to learn how to use a workbench in shop class. They have tools that need to be kept clean and put away after each use.

Kids learn responsibility while they are learning how useful their shared workbench is. They can use their bench as a desk to draw up their next project. It’s a place that can neatly hold tools and kids can sit in front of their bench to put together something fun. They can make their own toys at their workbench.