13 Best Toys That Encourage Independent Play

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Best toys for independent play

Independent play, also called solitary play, is a form of play in which children play independently without the direct involvement of an adult. It encourages self-discovery, creativity and problem-solving skills.

Good toys for independent play should be safe so that children can play freely without risk of injury. It should also be open-ended, meaning it allows for multiple ways to play. Toys that stimulate the imagination, such as dolls, building sets or musical instruments, are ideal for independent play.

Not every toy is the same, so in this article I will help you choose with extensive comparisons. Choose below which information you are specifically looking for.

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In the table below you will find the best products based on price.
ImageNamePrice eurosPrice dollarPrice/quality
Melissa & Doug Scratch Art€11.38$16.598.5
Ooly Chunkies Paint Sticks€15.99$9.999.7
Thinkfun Gravity Maze€22.49$29.769.2
Desire Deluxe Magnet Tiles Construction Set€32.99$29.998.6
Learning Resources Tumble Trax€38.95$24.999.1
LEGO City Fire Station 60320€41.99$55.999.1
Melissa & Doug Fold and Go Dollhouse€51.38$48.996.9
Tiny Land Kids Teepee Tent€69.99$39.998.5
10948 LEGO DUPLO Town Parking Garage and Car Wash€84.99$97.79.5
BigJigs Mountain train set (BJT016)€100.95$123.998.2
New Classic Toys Bon Appetit Play Kitchen€105.99$114.998
Ancheer Trampoline for 2 Children€109.19$119.007.9
Starting with the cheapest option, the Melissa & Doug Scratch Art set a bargain at €11,38 ($16,59). It's cheaper because it's just a small cardboard book, but it's a lot of fun to do and keep them busy.

The Ooly Chunkies Paint Sticks are a step up in price, at €15,99 ($9,99). You will receive 12 paint markers with which your children can make their own creations. An excellent price-quality ratio of 9,7.

Then we have the Thinkfun Gravity Maze for €22,49 ($29,76). With 14 parts and the many awards the brand has won, it is more than worth the price. It's a really challenging puzzle.

The Desire Deluxe Magnet Tiles Construction Set is slightly more expensive, at €32,99 ($29,99). You get 57 parts made of ABS plastic, which is more expensive than regular plastic. Nowadays, every toddler and preschooler should have a set of magnetic tiles.

The Learning Resources Tumble Trax costs €38,95 ($24,99). The higher price is due to the 28 parts and the use of foam instead of plastic. An educational marble track that you can stick to the refrigerator.

The LEGO City Fire Station 60320 is even more expensive, at €41,99 ($55,99). The higher price is due to the 540 parts and the many awards that the LEGO brand has won. It is a complete playset.

Finally, we have the most expensive option, the 10948 LEGO DUPLO Town Parking Garage and Car Wash for €84,99 ($97,7). The high price is due to the 112 parts, the water resistance for outdoor use and also the many awards that the LEGO brand has won.
In the table below you will find the best products based on age.
ImageNameFromBest ageEverything
10948 LEGO DUPLO Town Parking Garage and Car Wash1 years2 years4 years
New Classic Toys Bon Appetit Play Kitchen2 years2 years6 years
Tiny Land Kids Teepee Tent2 years3 years7 years
Desire Deluxe Magnet Tiles Construction Set3 years3 years7 years
Melissa & Doug Scratch Art3 years4 years6 years
Ooly Chunkies Paint Sticks3 years4 years6 years
Melissa & Doug Fold and Go Dollhouse3 years4 years6 years
BigJigs Mountain train set (BJT016)3 years4 years7 years
Ancheer Trampoline for 2 Children3 years4 years14 years
Learning Resources Tumble Trax4 years5 years8 years
LEGO City Fire Station 603205 years5 years9 years
Thinkfun Gravity Maze7 years8 years12 years
The 10948 LEGO DUPLO Town Parking Garage and Car Wash is ideal for the little ones, from 1 year. With its simple design and lack of small parts, it is perfect for children aged 2 to 4 years. The block theme stimulates creativity and fine motor skills.

The. is for children from 2 years old New Classic Toys Bon Appetit Play Kitchen a great choice. This play kitchen, even without small parts, is best for children aged 2 to 5 years. The kitchen theme helps develop role-play skills and stimulates the imagination.

The Tiny Land Kids Teepee Tent is suitable for children from 2 years. This play tent, made of soft material, is best for children aged 3 to 5 years. The play tent theme promotes role play and imagination, similar to the play kitchen, but offers a different play environment.

The Ooly Chunkies Paint Sticks are suitable for children from 3 years. Made from non-toxic material, these paint sticks are best for ages 4 to 5. The art theme promotes creative expression and motor skills.

For children from 4 years old, the Learning Resources Tumble Trax a fun and educational experience. Also made of non-toxic material, this marble track is ideal for children aged 5 to 7. It helps develop problem-solving skills and understanding of gravity.

The LEGO City Fire Station 60320 is an excellent option for children aged 5 and over. Also made of non-toxic material, this LEGO set is best for ages 5 to 7. The block theme stimulates creativity and fine motor skills, similar to the LEGO DUPLO set, but with higher complexity.

The Thinkfun Gravity Maze is ideal for older children, from 7 years. This puzzle, even without small parts, is best for children aged 8 to 10 years. The puzzle theme promotes logical thinking and problem-solving skills.
In the table below you will find the best products based on playing time.
ImageNamePlaytimeThemePlay value
New Classic Toys Bon Appetit Play KitchenExtended (30+ min)Kitchen9.2
BigJigs Mountain train set (BJT016)Extended (30+ min)Train9.0
LEGO City Fire Station 60320Extended (30+ min)Blocks9.0
Thinkfun Gravity MazeExtended (30+ min)Puzzle8.1
Desire Deluxe Magnet Tiles Construction SetLonger (10-30 min)Tiles9.2
10948 LEGO DUPLO Town Parking Garage and Car WashLonger (10-30 min)Blocks9.3
Melissa & Doug Scratch ArtLonger (10-30 min)Art7.8
Ooly Chunkies Paint SticksLonger (10-30 min)Art9.3
Learning Resources Tumble TraxLonger (10-30 min)marble track8.2
Melissa & Doug Fold and Go DollhouseLonger (10-30 min)Players8.7
Ancheer Trampoline for 2 ChildrenLonger (10-30 min)Trampoline8.5
Tiny Land Kids Teepee TentLonger (10-30 min)Play tent8.8
The New Classic Toys Bon Appetit Play Kitchen, BigJigs Alps train set, LEGO City Fire Station 60320 en Thinkfun Gravity Maze all offer extended playtime of over 30 minutes. The play kitchen and the train set score high on social interaction, making them ideal for playing alone together if you have several children. The Fire Station has a lot of parts and is perfect for long-term pretend play. The Gravity Maze offers a lot of brain teasers for older children that will keep them busy for a while.

With a playing time between 10 and 30 minutes, the Desire Deluxe Magnet Tiles Construction Set a slightly shorter playing time. There are a lot of tiles included, but it lacks some imagination play like with the LEGO set. The 10948 LEGO DUPLO Town Parking Garage and Car Wash also offers building and pretend play, but at this age this can keep them occupied independently for a slightly shorter period of time. The Melissa & Doug Scratch Art en Ooly Chunkies Paint Sticks offer a nice quiet playtime where they can be creative. The Learning Resources Tumble Trax is a marble track that can stick to the refrigerator so they have something to do while you cook. It Melissa & Doug Fold and Go Dollhouse is simply a fun fantasy game that you can take anywhere. The Ancheer Trampoline for 2 Children let them bounce and burn off their energy and... Tiny Land Kids Teepee Tent gives them their own corner to retreat to.

Below are the detailed reviews of the 13 best toys for independent play where we rank according to our “Toy score”. This is based on the play value, price/quality, replayability, safety, durability and the materials used.

The play value, together with the price-quality ratio, is the most important thing. After all, the toy must be fun to play with and when it's too expensive, no one can afford it.

It's important to show children how to play with toys themselves. This doesn't mean telling them specific steps or routines, but giving them space and time to explore the toys in their own way. Stay nearby to answer questions or offer help if they encounter problems, but encourage them to find their own solutions.

From toddler to toddler activity book collection

Educational games and coloring pages for 3 to 6 years

Your toddler and preschooler will love this e-book, along with the accompanying printables. He or she can play with it at every stage of development, together with mom and dad.

Buy at Bol.com

1. Ooly Chunkies Paint Sticks (9.3)

Best paint they can use themselves
Ooly Chunkies Paint Sticks
Product image
9.3
Toy score
Play value
4.7
Price/quality
4.9
Replayability
4.5
Best for
  • No hassle with paint, brushes or water
  • Quick-drying and smudge-free, but you can mix
Less good
  • Thick barreled casing makes fine lines and accurate details difficult
  • From: 3 years
  • Best: 4 – 5 years
  • Up to: 6 years
  • Material: Plastic
  • Number of parts: 12
  • Dimensions: 21,59 x 3,18 x 14,61 cm (8.5 x 1.25 x 5.75 inches)
  • Price at time of writing: €15,99 – $9,99
  • Durability: None
  • Theme: Art and crafts, art
  • Learning objective: Cognitive development, expression: creative play
  • Safety Components: Non-toxic material
  • Playing Time: Longer (10 – 30 min)
  • Gender inclusivity: Gender neutral

Fortunately, the paint sticks work very intuitively because they glide gently over the paper. It's like painting with a crayon and it's a completely different experience than chalking or drawing.

What I particularly noticed is that the Paint Sticks are easy to hold. Their thick barreled casing is perfect for small hands. That is why they are also suitable from 3 years.

I was a little concerned that you wouldn't be able to draw precisely with it because the paint surface is so large, but you paint with a small portion of the tip so you can still make precise drawings.

The degree of open-ended play and imagination is huge with these sticks because they can draw anything with them.

The portable design of the Ooly Paint Sticks is great, as it comes in a sturdy cardboard box with rubber bands on either side to secure the lid. So you can take it with you everywhere.

2 kids play with Ooly Chunkies Paint Sticks

You can also easily combine it with other toys because it is a new way of drawing. My son has already combined it with markers, pencils, but also stickers and cardboard boxes.

2. LEGO DUPLO Town Parking Garage and Car Wash 10948 (9.1)

Best building toys for toddlers
LEGO 10948 DUPLO Town Parking Garage and Car Wash
Product image
9.1
Toy score
Play value
4.7
Price/quality
4.8
Replayability
4.4
Best for
  • Construction set and car wash in one
  • Car wash has a cleaning cloth and barrier
  • Lots of accessories and cars
Less good
  • Not so much fun after toddler
  • No working car wash
  • From: 1 years
  • Best: 2 – 4 years
  • Up to: 4 years
  • Material: Plastic
  • Number of parts: 112
  • Dimensions: 58,22 x 48,01 x 12,4 cm (22.91 x 18.9 x 4.88 inches)
  • Price at time of writing: €84,99 – $97.70
  • Durability: None
  • Theme: Building and construction, Blocks
  • Learning objective: Physical development, Fine motor skills
  • Safety parts: No small parts
  • Playing Time: Longer (10 – 30 min)
  • Gender inclusivity: Gender neutral

Duplo is always super fun to play with for toddlers and they can even build something with it. So is this Town Car Wash.

There are 4 DUPLO figures that can perform the work or drive through the car wash in the car.

The car wash doesn't really work, but I really liked the fabric cleaning curtain, and what toddler can resist a movable barrier?

It is quite a complete set because there are 3 cars, one of which is even a Push&Go car.

There are 112 pieces in total and it says suitable from 2 years old, but my son could already play with it at 1 year old. Then you might hold back the very smallest parts for a while.

3. Desire Deluxe Magnet Tiles Construction Set (8.9)

Easiest building toys for independent play
Desire Deluxe Magnet Tiles Construction Set
Product image
8.9
Toy score
Play value
4.6
Price/quality
4.3
Replayability
4.6
Best for
  • Sturdy and safe
  • Made for building houses and castles
Less good
  • Colors are not as bright as advertised
  • Scratches fast
  • From: 3 years
  • Best: 3 – 5 years
  • Up to: 7 years
  • Material: Plastic, ABS
  • Number of parts: 57
  • Dimensions: 10,16 x 18,54 x 22,35 cm (4 x 7.3 x 8.8 inches)
  • Price at time of writing: €32,99 – $29,99
  • Durability: None
  • Theme: Building and construction, Blocks
  • Learning objective: STEM/ STEAM/ Engineering
  • Safety Components: Non-toxic material
  • Playing Time: Longer (10 – 30 min)
  • Gender inclusivity: Gender neutral

These types of tiles may look a bit cheap, but they are safe. I tried to break the case by throwing it and hitting it with a rock, but the magnets wouldn't come out. The toy score could have been slightly higher if the material used and the lifespan had been slightly higher, but in the end this only has a small impact on the fun.

Scratches on a Desire Deluxe magnet tile

The play value is also very high, especially due to the open-ended game where children can use their imagination. In addition, a large set like this gives the opportunity to build together and seek social interaction.

The different shapes and house-like tiles that you get are a nice addition.

4. New Classic Toys Bon Appetit Play Kitchen (8.7)

Best roleplaying game
New Classic Toys Bon Appetit Play Kitchen
Product image
8.7
Toy score
Play value
4.6
Price/quality
4.0
Replayability
4.5
Best for
  • Solid wood construction, not laminate
  • Oven knobs really click and feel very solid
Less good
  • Rotary knob microwave does not click and tap is also less sturdy
  • From: 2 years
  • Best: 2 – 5 years
  • Up to: 6 years
  • Material: Wood, MDF
  • Number of parts: 15
  • Dimensions: 59,94 x 29,97 x 100,08 cm (23.6 x 11.8 x 39.4 inches)
  • Price at time of writing: €105,99 – $114.99
  • Durability: None
  • Theme: Food and dining related, Kitchen
  • Learning objective: Cognitive development, Pretend play
  • Safety parts: No small parts
  • Playtime: Extended (30+ min)
  • Gender inclusivity: Gender neutral

The best wooden children's kitchen that I found is this one from New Classic Toys, and not that expensive at all, which makes it the best price-quality ratio choice.

There is plenty to play with the included pans, ladle, spatulas, pepper pot and salt shaker and even plates. A whole lot of accessories that you don't see in every kitchen, and all of them wood (except for the removable metal sink).

That gives it even more reason to offer the best value for money because you don't necessarily have to buy extra accessories, although treating vegetables like me further below makes it extra fun.

Not too big, fits in a corner of the room like ours against the couch. This way it gives your child a lot of fun.

It also doesn't take too much space around it because everything happens at the front of the kitchen. You just need some space to open the oven, which folds down.

New Classic Toys play kitchen in the corner

Where the kitchen excels in particular is in the solid rotary knobs of the oven that actually click so that you have the feeling that you are actually setting an oven setting. 

Many kitchens, and especially the cheaper ones, have knobs that simply turn loose, with no tactile feeling, and that is less fun for fantasy play.

Furthermore, the burners on the stove can be turned on at the push of a button so that they light up and really produce a bubbling cooking sound, which is just that little bit more real when making delicious dishes.

Not too big, fits in a corner of the room like with our dad's (also retro) guitar and amplifier and still gives your child a lot of fun.

5. BigJigs Alps train set (BJT016) (8.7)

Large complete train set
BigJigs Mountain train set (BJT016)
Product image
8.7
Toy score
Play value
4.5
Price/quality
4.1
Replayability
4.5
Best for
  • The train has a steep slope to drive down
  • Very nice landscape details
  • Big set
Less good
  • Pricey
  • Higher rails on supports are not for little ones
  • From: 3 years
  • Best: 4 – 6 years
  • Up to: 7 years
  • Material: Wood, MDF
  • Number of parts: 112
  • Dimensions: 85,88 cm x 102,04 cm x 22,00 cm (33.86 x 40.16 x 8.66 inches)
  • Price at time of writing: €100,95 – $123.99
  • Sustainability: Sustainable production
  • Theme: Vehicles, Train
  • Learning objective: Cognitive development, Pretend play
  • Safety parts: Rounded corners
  • Playtime: Extended (30+ min)
  • Gender inclusiveness: Breaking stereotypes

The play value of this mountain set is extremely high. The degree of open end is enormous due to all the accessories supplied. You can build the train track, play with it, there are dolls for fantasy play and everything appeals to the imagination.

For example, there are children and a grandpa and grandma, and my son plays that the children go to visit by train. The possibilities with the set are endless, but it is also easy to combine with other train tracks. For example, I expanded it with a Brio track. In addition, a train set can also participate in almost any other fantasy game. That also makes the replayability high.

Only when the ease of use was higher could the set have an even higher play value. Building with the bridge pieces and the mountain is fun, but playing with it is difficult because the bridge often collapses. Sometimes this causes frustration, but luckily it usually becomes part of the game.

Social interaction is high. I like to play along and because it's such a big set, friends who come over can always join in without getting in each other's way. Furthermore, there are some interactive elements such as the crane that can hoist, and the figures have a nice appearance.

The crane construction is completely finished wood with a simple dial that allows you to wind up the rope. There is also a small magnet with which you can attach the accessories of the tren can pick up.

The set comes with three train carriages with freight designations such as sugar, milk and grain. These can be lifted off the wagons with the magnet and swung aside.

Bigjigs mountain train set wooden crane in action

It's not for nothing that they have already won the Independent Toy Awards, and with a versatile set like this you can't miss for hours of fun.

6. LEGO City Fire Station 60320 (8.6)

Best building toys for open-ended play
LEGO City Fire Station 60320
Product image
8.6
Toy score
Play value
4.5
Price/quality
4.6
Replayability
4.3
Best for
  • Complete set with great value
  • Both the helicopter and the fire engine can shoot real water to put out the fire
Less good
  • Some parts, such as the sliding door, can be difficult to assemble
  • Sound functions are missing
  • From: 5 years
  • Best: 5 – 7 years
  • Up to: 9 years
  • Material: Plastic
  • Number of parts: 540
  • Dimensions: 35,41 x 37,8 x 9,4 cm (13.94 x 14.88 x 3.7 inches)
  • Price at time of writing: €41,99 – $55.99
  • Durability: None
  • Theme: Building and construction toys, Blocks
  • Learning objective: Cognitive development, Pretend play
  • Safety Components: Non-toxic material
  • Playtime: Extended (30+ min)
  • Gender inclusiveness: Breaking stereotypes

This LEGO Fire station is a very complete set.

It comes with a big building, a helicopter, four characters, which is quite a lot for LEGOsets, and they have different functions.

Lego city fire station with the fire truck in my hand

Of course there is also the fire truck and even a fire you can try to put out, as both the helicopter and the fire truck can actually spray water.

LEGO fire station I shoot the water from the helicopter

On top there is a helipad with a helicopter and there is also a man in it. So there are actually five characters here, and this helicopter can actually squirt water.

The set is, according to the box, intended for children aged six years and older, which I think is reasonable. My son got this for his fifth birthday, but he was able to assemble much of it himself.

But the nice thing is that the helicopter, the car and the building are three separate booklets, so you can build one and then move on to the next one in your next build session.

That way, your child can feel like they've finished something.

Another cool feature is that you can connect it to others LEGO City sets, because there is a small road running through them and you can remove this part so that you can connect it to other parts of the road. This way you can get your whole LEGO Build a city set.

7. Tiny Land Kids Teepee Tent (8.5)

Nice own corner
Tiny Land Kids Teepee Tent
Product image
8.5
Toy score
Play value
4.4
Price/quality
4.3
Replayability
4.4
Best for
  • Easy to fold and store
  • Pretty spacious
Less good
  • bit wobbly
  • From: 2 years
  • Best: 3 – 5 years
  • Up to: 7 years
  • Material: Polyester
  • Number of parts: 3
  • Dimensions: 119,89 x 119,89 x 149,86 cm (47.2 x 47.2 x 59 inches)
  • Price at time of writing: €69,99 – $39.99
  • Durability: None
  • Theme: Play area, Play tent
  • Learning objective: Cognitive development, Pretend play
  • Safety parts: Soft material
  • Playing Time: Longer (10 – 30 min)
  • Gender inclusivity: Gender neutral

The tipi is a pointy one tent with long wooden sticks, which is easy to set up and break down again

A true tipi has been traditionally used by North American peoples with a nomadic lifestyle. So here is a piece of history and culture for your child!

Are you looking for a wigwam play tent? Then you probably mean a teepee.

A wigwam is also a traditional tent style from North America, but has a rounder top and a more permanent function.

The teepee tent theme cannot really be improved in my opinion, despite the fact that we have also found many nice other play tent variants.

And Tiny Land is a great brand for kids with safe and well-made products.

It is also a safe one tent which can be built up fairly stably.

It is the tipi that is quick to set up and therefore suited the more nomadic tribes so well.

So it's just a tent shape that is extremely practical, and it is not without reason that the two top play tents on my list are both teepee tents.

Typically something for me to pick out the most practical kind.

This fun play tent made of 60% polyester and 40% cotton has a lockable opening at the front, a fabric window at the back and divisible wooden poles.

And although the tent is easy to set up and take down, a teepee is more suitable for setting up and leaving it in one place.

So it is mainly an inner tent, and because the tent is made of cotton, it is less suitable for use on wet fields outside.

8.Learning Resources Tumble Trax (8.4)

Best educational toys for when you have to cook
Learning Resources Tumble Trax
Product image
8.4
Toy score
Play value
4.1
Price/quality
4.6
Replayability
3.8
Best for
  • great educational and learning about gravity
  • Multiple assignments make it challenging
Less good
  • You must have a plate or refrigerator to hang them on
  • From: 4 years
  • Best: 5 – 7 years
  • Up to: 8 years
  • Material: Foam
  • Number of parts: 28
  • Dimensions: 32,39 x 26,04 x 6,99 cm (12.75 x 10.25 x 2.75 inches)
  • Price at time of writing: €38,95 – $24,99
  • Durability: None
  • Theme: Building and construction, Marble track
  • Learning objective: VOICE/ STEAM, Science
  • Safety Components: Non-toxic material
  • Playing Time: Longer (10 – 30 min)
  • Gender inclusivity: Gender neutral

In terms of play value and replayability, this Tumble Trax set scores above average, but not great. The ease of use is ok, but it is difficult to get started. And the fact that you can almost only stick it on the refrigerator where the balls can easily roll under the refrigerator or other equipment is also not ideal. It is not particularly versatile or easy to combine and does not encourage social interaction very much.

Where the set does excel is in educational value. Many children enjoy learning about physics and how the world works. With these Learning Resources kits they can pick this up in a playful way.

It is of course also fun to build a good marble track, but hanging it up with the help of magnets and the challenging assignment booklet also means learning about gravity. And the assignment booklet is very good. It is not without reason that it has won several awards, including the Toy Industry Association 2016 Specialty Toy of the Year Award.

9. Thinkfun Gravity Maze (8.4)

Best brainteaser for self-starters
Thinkfun Gravity Maze
Product image
8.4
Toy score
Educational
4.7
Replayability
3.9
Sustainability
4.1
Best for
  • Promotes spatial reasoning, planning and problem solving
  • Made of high quality materials that last a long time
Less good
  • Can become repetitive over time
  • From: 7 years
  • Best: 8 – 10 years
  • Up to: 12 years
  • Material: Plastic
  • Number of parts: 14
  • Dimensions: 23,83 x 7,62 x 26,67 cm (9.38 x 3 x 10.5 inches)
  • Price at time of writing: €22,49 – $29.76
  • Durability: None
  • Theme: Games and puzzles, Puzzle
  • Learning objective: Cognitive development, Problem solving
  • Safety parts: None
  • Playtime: Extended (30+ min)
  • Gender inclusivity: Gender neutral

As a world leader in producing mind games and challenging puzzles, ThinkFun has once again proven why they are such a trusted brand with their game Gravity Maze. I recently bought this game and my experience with it was nothing short of fantastic. Not only is it a source of fun, but it also develops important skills and provides a great learning opportunity for young players.

Gravity Maze combines logic, a marble run and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) in one game. It comes with 60 challenges from beginner to expert level, a playing grid, 9 towers, 1 target piece and 3 marbles. The game is suitable for boys and girls from 8 years old.

The instructions are clear and of high quality, so you can start playing and solving immediately. The game challenges players to develop their spatial reasoning and planning skills. It's disguised as a construction and engineering toy, making it secretly educational. It's great to see children challenge themselves and come up with solutions as they make the challenges more and more difficult.

What I especially appreciate about Gravity Maze is that it remains captivating for a long time. Although the game has 60 challenges, adults have reported that even the higher levels are quite tricky. However, for a 10-year-old, interest depends on how much they like mazes. Some children may be entertained for hours while others may show less interest over time.

I also read some reviews from other users to get a broader picture. In general, the opinions were very positive. Parents and children enjoyed the challenge and the educational aspect of the game. Many people liked that it stimulates problem-solving thinking and is fun to play at the same time. Some parents commented that the game could also be of interest to older adults who enjoy puzzles.

10. Melissa & Doug Land of Dinosaurs Floor Puzzle (8.4)

Overall best jigsaw puzzle
Melissa & Doug Land of Dinosaurs Floor Puzzle
Product image
8.4
Toy score
Play value
4.0
Price/quality
4.6
Replayability
3.8
Best for
Less good
  • From: 3 years
  • Best: 3 – 5 years
  • Up to: 6 years
  • Material: Cardboard
  • Number of parts: 48
  • Dimensions: 29,97 x 23,52 x 7,37 cm (11.8 x 9.26 x 2.9 inches)
  • Price at time of writing: €23,99 – $11.52
  • Sustainability: Sustainable production
  • Theme: Games and puzzles, Puzzle
  • Learning objective: Cognitive development, Problem solving
  • Safety parts: No small parts
  • Playtime: Extended (30+ min)
  • Gender inclusivity: Gender neutral

This puzzle from Melissa & Doug with a Dinosaur theme really appeals to the imagination. That gives great play value and replayability. Puzzles have a difficult time because they are difficult to combine, but if your child likes dinosaurs, they will certainly be taken out of the cupboard often.

The cardboard is thick and Melissa & Doug has a sustainable production where they replant trees. A great material and easy to clean.

With 48 large pieces you have one large puzzle and it is suitable for ages 3 and up.

11. Ancheer Trampoline for 2 Children (8.2)

Best active toys to do yourself
Ancheer Trampoline for 2 Children
Product image
8.2
Toy score
Play value
4.8
Price/quality
4.0
Replayability
4.1
Best for
  • Quality of the trampoline is good, especially considering the price
  • Easy to carry and place anywhere
Less good
  • Hard to jump on for smaller children
  • Not suitable to leave outside
  • From: 3 years
  • Best: 4 – 8 years
  • Up to: 14 years
  • Material: Metal, Steel
  • Number of parts: 1
  • Dimensions: 142,24 x 92 cm (56 x 36 in)
  • Price at time of writing: €169,99 – $199.99
  • Durability: None
  • Theme: Sports and outdoor toys, Trampoline
  • Learning objective: Physical development, Gross motor skills
  • Safety parts: Covered springs
  • Playing Time: Longer (10 – 30 min)
  • Gender inclusivity: Gender neutral

With a diameter of 142,24 cm (56 inches) on the longest side and 92 cm (36 inches) on the shortest side, there is enough jumping surface for 2 children, especially with the 100 kg (220lbs) carrying capacity. It stands low to the ground and due to its compact size, this trampoline fits anywhere. It is also easy to fold and store. This provides enormous ease of use.

The handle is adjustable in 5 positions so that it remains fun for all ages, and even for adults. He jumps a bit heavier, but that is nice with 2 on it at the same time. The social interaction is therefore also somewhat higher, which greatly improves the play value.

12. Melissa & Doug Fold and Go Dollhouse (8.1)

Best fantasy game
Melissa & Doug Fold and Go Dollhouse
Product image
8.1
Toy score
Play value
4.4
Price/quality
3.5
Replayability
4.3
Best for
  • Many accessories in a handy carrying format
  • Sturdy wooden construction
Less good
  • No closure on the house so that it falls open
  • From: 3 years
  • Best: 4 – 5 years
  • Up to: 6 years
  • Material: Wood, MDF
  • Number of parts: 14
  • Dimensions: 31,75 x 19,05 x 25,4 cm (12.5 x 7.5 x 10 inches)
  • Price at time of writing: €51,38 – $48,99
  • Sustainability: Sustainable production
  • Theme: Nurturing play, Dolls
  • Learning objective: Cognitive development, Pretend play
  • Safety Components: Non-toxic material
  • Playing Time: Longer (10 – 30 min)
  • Gender inclusivity: Gender neutral

There are a lot of accessories such as a sofa, easy chair, cupboard, bed and a TV furniture. Plus 2 dolls to play with. The dolls are very neutral and can be used for anything, which makes the open-ended game high and appeals to the imagination.

The folding construction and the sturdy carrying handle make it a very handy set to take with you. Only a closure is missing from the house so that it remains closed.

Now you have to wear it very hard or make a closure on it yourself.

Melissa & Doug dollhouse unfolded

The house is a bit small to play with several at once and you can only reach it from one side, one of the few reasons that the play value is a bit lower than it could have been. Furthermore, both the house and the figures can be combined with a variety of other toys for even more replayable value.

13. Melissa & Doug Scratch Art (7.9)

Best Quiet Activity
Melissa & Doug Scratch art
Product image
7.9
Toy score
Play value
3.9
Price/quality
4.3
Replayability
3.7
Best for
  • Can they be focused on it for hours
  • Without colors, it doesn't make a mess
Less good
  • Once scratched it's gone
  • From: 3 years
  • Best: 4 – 5 years
  • Up to: 6 years
  • Material: Cardboard
  • Number of parts: 2
  • Dimensions: 19,05 x 3,81 x 27,94 cm (7.5 x 1.5 x 11 inches)
  • Price at time of writing: €11,38 – $16.59
  • Sustainability: Sustainable production
  • Theme: Arts and crafts, Art
  • Learning objective: Physical development, Fine motor skills
  • Safety parts: None
  • Playing Time: Longer (10 – 30 min)
  • Gender inclusivity: Gender neutral

Sratch art is a unique pastime for children without the chance that they'll stain a chair.

A perfect travel toy for pre-schoolers on airplanes that will hardly take up space in your bag!

My son takes about 25 minutes to complete 1 page, although he occasionally went back and forth to other pages to do some scratching there as well. But with 10 pages in a booklet, that's good for 250 minutes total playing time, or 4 hours.

Of course they won't do that in one session, playing alone for 20 minutes was the maximum for us. When I also started playing along, for example by asking questions or making suggestions to do something with the supplied template, I could stretch that to 35 minutes of continuous playing time.

The supplied template is also a nice addition that offers something extra. You can put these over the pages and then, for example, scratch off a flower or heart. Nice to add some extra things around the characters in the book.

The mix of dots-to-dots and template techniques on every page kept him engaged and excited.

Melissa & Doug Scratch dots to dots

What should you pay attention to when buying toys?

When ranking the toys on this list, we use our “Toy score”. It's based on the following components, each with its own weight.

  1. Play value (30%)
  2. Price/ quality (30%)
  3. Replayability (20%)
  4. Safety (10%)
  5. Sustainability (5%)
  6. Materials (5%)

The play value, together with the price-quality ratio, is the most important thing. When buying toys you should pay attention to that it's fun to play with, but if it's too expensive, no one can afford it.

The play value assesses the product on the features that make it fun to play with. These are ease of use, degree of open-endedness, imagination, social interaction, interactivity, versatility and aesthetics. When a toy is easy to use and understand, is attractive to the child and there are many opportunities to make up your own play with it with open end and imagination, it will be played longer with a higher quality of play.

The value for money is a score based on the ratio of the quality of the rated toy to the price of the item. This ratio determines how much value you get for your money, in play value and in intrinsic quality of the item such as the materials used.

Replayability rates the product on features that ensure it will be used again and again. These are ability to combine, portability, longevity, durability and versatility.

How do you show children how to play with toys independently?

To teach children to play with toys independently, follow the steps below.

  1. Offer a variety of toys: Provide a variety of toys that stimulate the child's imagination and creativity. Think of dolls, action figures, building sets and craft materials.
  2. Create a safe play environment: Make sure the play area is safe and inviting. The child should feel free to explore and experiment.
  3. Limit screen time: Encourage physical play by limiting the time the child spends in front of a screen. This encourages them to play with their toys.
  4. Let the child discover for himself: Give the child space to play with the toys themselves. Stay nearby, but don't intervene immediately. The child learns by experimenting.
  5. Ask questions: Encourage the child to think creatively by asking questions. For example, ask how they would solve a problem with their toys.
  6. Be patient: Don't expect the child to play independently right away. It may take some time before they feel comfortable playing alone.
  7. Schedule play time: Set specific times for the child to play with toys. This helps them develop a routine.
  8. Encourage independent play: Show the child that it is okay to play alone. This helps them develop independence.
  9. Use stories: Use puppets or action figures to tell stories. This stimulates the child's imagination and encourages them to create their own stories.
  10. Offer help: If the child is having trouble playing with a toy, offer help. This can encourage them to continue playing and learning new things.

What toys encourage kids to play by themselves cooperatively?

Toys that encourage children to play independently and cooperatively should provide opportunities to develop skills and work toward a goal.

Construction sets and blocks are good examples of this. They require children to imagine and build a structure, which encourages them to solve problems and communicate. In addition, they help develop social skills, because children have to negotiate and brainstorm to achieve their goals.

Interactive toys, such as cooperative board games and puzzles, also encourage independent and collaborative play. They provide opportunities for children to engage in exploration and problem solving.

Always something to do for the holidays or rainy day?

Play Choice now has the ultimate activity book collection, with over 60 pages of fun coloring pages and educational puzzles.

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Speelkeuze.nl is a content marketer, father and loves trying out new toys. As a child he came into contact with everything related to games when his mother started the Tinnen Soldaat in Ede. Now he and his team create helpful blog articles to help loyal readers with fun play ideas.