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Writer's picture: MelMel


Mel here! This is my favorite age to shop for because it really is so much fun! Kids are past the toddler stage of life and really leaning into their interests. I also feel like this age is so easy to please. They simply love to play! We had no problem coming up with our largest guide this season!






1. Stapelstein Grow: Staplestein just got bigger and better! The Grow Elements are twice the size of the original. I was actually shocked when I unboxed them! They are meant for the whole family to enjoy, inside or out! Our inaugural activity was using them for the floor is lava in our backyard, and it was a blast! We brought out the originals and the minis, and made the most colorful obstacle course I’ve ever seen. Ideas are endless with this staple toy, but some favorite ways my kids use them are drums, seat spinners, stepping stones, and magnetic tiles storage!


2. Light Table: This educational Light Box Playset is a dream for your kiddos who are learning their geometry, colors, and who want to shine some light on their education! My 7 year old is obsessed with changing out the light hues depending on what kind of scene she wants to create. The transparency sheets help guide her to match the colorful shapes to what's on the picture, and if she is running low on ideas, the play guide helps her think of new and exciting sensory activities to do!


3. Marble Tree: Imagine the most satisfying “plink” sound paired with the mesmerizing visual of a marble spiraling down a wooden tower. Are you sold? How about I tell you that the tower is made of beautiful rainbow colored wood leaves to resemble a floral aesthetic to brighten and beautify your playroom? Now I gotcha. This relaxing toy can put your kids into a peaceful trance after a long day of play, or they can take advantage of its open-ended nature to use it in all kinds of ways!

Code: TOYTESTINGSISTERS will save you 10% at checkout.


4. Nail Kit: We take nail care very seriously in this household. Getting my nails done is part of my self-care routine, and my 7 year old is following in my footsteps. I wanted her to feel like mommy while still being a kid, so I got her the HappyChoi Nail Arts Kit so she could get her own nails done whenever she wants! Sometimes I help her, but more often than not she is inviting friends over to do it all together. The kit comes with 3 different nail polishes, a nail dryer, and glitter/sticker accessories to add glam to the nails.


5. InfiniBook: We were introduced recently to the Infinibook Family books, and all I can say is WOW. Kids love to read the same books over and over, but sometimes we parents need a break. The Infinibook Family comes with 3 interactive smart books, with a pre-recorded narration that allows you to take a seat and just enjoy the story with your little. But my favorite feature is the ability to record yourself reading the book, or use the app to record a loved one from afar reading the book! Your kids will love hearing their favorite books read by their favorite people at any time.


6. Sword: The bar for foam swords has been dramatically raised! Formidable Toys makes one of the most durable and realistic-looking sword for imaginary play. Their mix-and-match system is perfect for future swordsmiths who want to employ their creativity to craft the sword of their dreams. My 9 year old has already begun quite the sword collection. Get a unique sword for each member of the family and battle it out!


7. Noriter Board: We are honored to have a Toy Testing Sisters special bundle reserved for our TTS family only! This art bundle has everything your littles could need, including a double sided chalk/magnetic board, fruit felts, magnetic letters, cute animal erasers, and more! My 7 year old is into pretend playing school with her friends and toddler sister, and this set has provided them the perfect pretend learning and creative space to let their imagination run wild!

Code: TTSBUNDLE gives $50 off the bundle linked.


8. Doh Kit: It is so not fair that kids these days have the most creative toys available to them! We stumbled upon Happy Life Magic’s doh kits on Etsy and we died at how cute they are. There are countless choices for every occasion: Halloween, birthday parties, girls’ nights, and world exploration! The doh literally comes to life in every kit, and I love watching my kids go wild with their creations. 


9. World Map Puzzle: I have seen far too many videos of people having no knowledge of geography of their own country, let alone the world, and I intend to put an end to that one World Map Puzzle at a time. Your kids can learn about and, hopefully, find a fascination for different countries around the world with this incredible puzzle. It isn’t just a puzzle, it is a full on educational experience, with 100 country cards that include fun facts about each place!


10. Pop Style Bracelet Maker: There is something about making jewelry that just screams GIRL. My 7 year old is at that age where making jewelry is everything right now, and finding new ways to make it is such a joy for her! This PopStyle Bracelet Maker uses a unique way to craft bracelets, by simply “popping” on square beads onto the bands. It is the perfect introduction to jewelry-making for smaller hands due to its ease and simplicity. It is also so easy to remake the bracelets, changing the look to match whatever you are wearing that day!


11. CLiCQUES Dolls: Mix and match different wood body parts and clothing with the CLiCQUES dolls from Sarah’s Silks! There are both a boy and girl set, each coming with 6 dolls of various skin tones, hair colors, and each outfit is a color of the rainbow! The pieces are all magnetic, so switching up the dolls’ appearance is too fun and easy. As always, the dolls are made with the highest quality materials and are a fantastic heirloom gift.

Code: TOYTESTINGSISTERS will save you at checkout.


12. Schleich Figurines: Farm animals are so interesting to our small kids, and our older kids want their animal figurines to look as realistic as possible. I love the Schleich animal figurines because they are so incredibly detailed and sturdy, perfect for animal lovers who have outgrown more cartoonish animals. My 7 year old frequently uses them in her pretend play and is demanding more!


13. Train Set: The train set of your child’s dream is here and ready to be explored! This 87 piece Brio World Deluxe Railway Set is a highly interactive set that gives a glimpse into real world travel. It includes multiple types of trains, a metro and harbor scene, stations, cranes, bridges and people! It is compatible with any other Brio set, so the creative options are endless as your kids set it up around the Christmas tree this year!


14. TinkerTar Guitar: Introducing music to kids early is so important and valuable to their development! The TinkerTar Guitar is an incredible way to do that. This flashy guitar has only one string and different colors on the neck, making learning music simple, but effective. It comes with a guide book of 12 songs for your child to learn,  and replacement strings in case one breaks! Your little musician will have such a blast strumming their guitar, that they’ll be asking for a real guitar in no time.



15. Magic Gel: I love nothing more than watching my kids’ eyes fill with wonder as they view the world through a magical lens. The Magic Water Elf Toy kits are really amazing to witness when put to work! My kids channel their creativity when designing their gel creatures in the various molds, and watching the liquid gel turn into solid in the water is pure magic. They bring their creations with them to bath time, the pool, and to school as little gifts for their friends.


16. Sink n’ Sand: Farewell, Jenga! A new “don’t fall!” game is in town, and it is a hit. Sink n’ Sand is a thrilling game for kids, combining chance and strategy to be the last man standing. The kinetic sand is so fun for kids to play with inside and easy to clean up afterwards, and it adds so much to the thrill of the game! It is such a simple game to learn and your kids or the whole family will be playing all day long.


17. Gem Sorting Board: Quiet time is shiny, glittery, and organized now that you’ve introduced the Dinosaur Sensory Board to the mix! This high-quality wood dinosaur is double sided, with a different pattern on either side. A bag of colorful gems comes with the dinosaur, ready to be sorted and displayed on the board. Your child will feel calm while enjoying the tactile and soothing experience of sorting the gems in various ways on the board.


18. Felt Sling Shot: Help cultivate your child’s hand-eye coordination with this high-quality, handmade slingshot! The 20 balls that come with the slingshot are made out of 100% sheep wool , so they are soft and harmless if one accidentally hits you. The wood is individually cut and treated with safe, non-toxic substances! You and your child will have a blast making soda cans or bottle targets in the backyard, for them to practice their aim on their own or to compete as a family!


19. Lucite Cubes: I got this toy selfishly when my now-toddler had a birthday because I knew she was a little young to play with it, but I wanted it for myself! I thought the cubes were so gorgeous, beautifully reflecting the sun, and they were so fun to stack. These cubes are fun for all ages, though, whether they are stacking them, shooting them across the hardwood floor towards a target, or turning them into a pretty window-sill art . The cubes come inside of a sturdy wooden tray for convenient storage when your kids are done.

Code: TOYTESTINGSISTERS will save you 10% at checkout.


20. Magnetic Movers Set: If your child is showing any STEM curiosity, the Magnet Movers toy is a great introduction to the world of science for them. An activity guide is there to help walk them through 10 different experiments where they can observe magnets in action, teaching them in a fun way. If they aren’t interested in the experiments, they can use their own imagination to learn how magnets work- you’ll be impressed by what they discover!


21. Sticki Rolls Jewelry: Friendship bracelets just got a rebrand! I never thought I would see the collaboration of stickers and jewelry in the way that Sticki Rolls has accomplished with the Sticki Station, but here we are! After your child has made a beautiful beaded bracelet, they can put a sticker roll on their bracelet, which they can pull stickers out of to give to their friends, or decorate their water bottle or school supplies! It is such a clever way to encourage social interaction and creativity.


22. Fat Brain Cleaning Kit: Does your kid follow you around the house while you clean? Put them to work with the Pretendables Cleaning Set by Fat Brain Toys. This child-size cleaning set includes a functional duster, a spray bottle, dust pan, and more! Your kids can pretend to clean, or they can actually clean- either way, they will learn critical skills in the process. The tools all come in a storage caddy to keep them all in one place!


23. Holo Brite Pixie Lantern: The Holobrite Pixie Lantern is the hottest toy of the season, and I will tell you why. It is designed so well, to encourage child interaction with over 200 ways to play. There are two main ways to interact with the pixie: virtually or in person! Unlock the lantern with a key, and interact with an adorable pixie displayed by holographic technology! She tells the user about her world, dances, makes herself snacks, and plays! As your child plays with her, “Friendship Magic” grows until it reaches a point that she is able to manifest in the real world. 


24. Pirate Ship: PlayMobil has created an incredible toy for the waters or dry land toy. This realistic pirate ship really floats, and has over 130 pieces for interactive pretend play. Your child will feel like a real pirate, with movable sails, rotating functional cannons, sea creatures and so much more. It is the perfect addition to any role-playing toys, bringing a sense of adventure to your kids!


25. Mini Polly Pocket: Kids in this age group tend to love mini things. What is nice about miniature toys is that they are easy to take on-the-go, especially when they come in an adorable van-shaped carrying case with a dog in the driver’s seat! This mini Polly Pocket Compact Playset comes with two dolls, a bunk bed, a pet dog, and a whole beach scene with beach accessories for the dolls to play and relax on the sand!


26. Clean Kids Makeup: Once my 7 year old was required to wear makeup for her dance recitals, I wanted to be sure that I was getting safe products for her gentle skin. I love that Klee Kids makes all their makeup with no talc, parabens, or animal testing, and the colors are subtle and age-appropriate. She started wearing a little makeup for her dance recitals and she personally loves how yummy the raspberry sugar tastes! All the ingredients can be found before you even add it to the cart, for total transparency and peace of mind.



27. Magnetic Tiles Princess Castle: Magna-Tiles continues to out-do themselves at every chance. They created an adorable 48-piece set meant for princesses. This pastel-colored magnetic tiles set comes with the classic triangular and square shapes, with the addition of a drawbridge, 2 spiral staircases, a dragon, balconies, windows and more! The tiles are not only princess-colored, but they also glitter as a princess castle should. All your child’s dolls will feel like royalty after their new castle is constructed.


28. Silent Basketball: I don’t know about you but telling my kids (and husband) to stop playing ball inside the house gets real old real fast. Eventually I had to take matters into my own hands and get the silent indoor basketball! It is the professional standard size, so it feels real without endangering my home. And it is actually silent, so I don’t have to deal with any aggravating bouncing. If you have sports enthusiasts who insist on playing ball in the home, this is for you!


29. Foam Swords: Any decent costume bin needs a sword collection, and fortunately for you, you can get 5 unique swords at once from Liontouch. These foam swords are all different from each other, with unique handles, blade shapes, and overall design. Your kids and their friends can become a knight, a dragon slayer, a viking, a king, or whatever their imagination allows! Their imaginary play just became so much more fun.


30. Design and Drill Flowers: Introduce the excitement of using power tools in a safe and adorable way! This set is too cute and colorful, with various flower and bug-shaped plates to screw or bolt into the flower-shaped stand. They can drill freely using their own imagination, or they can use the activity guide to help them create specific patterns! This toy will help build their confidence, fine motor skills, and introduce them to the world of STEM.


31. Pixel Piano: Another way to bring music into your kid’s life is the Pixel Piano by Hape! This colorful and interactive piano has a faux wood screen that lights up and displays different pixel patterns while your little one plays. There are different modes they can switch through, whether they want to simply play the piano or learn through lights. This dynamic toy could make a huge difference in your child’s development, and they will have a blast doing it!


32. Calico Critters Burger Stand: Pretend food play is extra fun the smaller the pretend food is! The Calico Critters Burger Stand is so stinking cute I can’t even handle it. This 30+ piece set includes an adorable burger stand with a table and chairs for all your kids’ small critters, and yummy burger meals for them to enjoy. The stand comes with a cash register, a griddle to cook the burgers, and a deep fryer for the fries! Your kids will be in burger heaven with this one.


33. Cosmetics Vending Machine: Grab your daughter and her friends to try out the Fruity Beauty Cosmetics Vending Machine! This functional vending machine contains 5 different lip glosses disguised as drinks that you can release by pulling the tabs at the bottom. Two surprises are included with the set, adding mystery and thrill to the toy! It is a great gift or party activity for single use fun.


34. Calico Critter Family: Calico Critters makes some of the cutest plushies I have ever seen, and this family of kangaroos is no exception. This mini figures are only about 3 inches tall, fitting easily in any dollhouse or purse for bringing out and about. It comes with two adults, a kid and a baby, and will be a precious addition to your Calico Critter collection. They also make great and inexpensive collectables.


35. Princess Sword and Shield: There will be no damsel in distress in your family thanks to the Liontouch Princess Sword and Shield. She can defend herself, thank you very much, and she will do so in glittery style! This foam sword is sparkly, with a long, thin blade for defeating all her foes. It is a necessity for your costume closet, helping build confidence and encourage adventurous imaginary play.


36. Magnetic Tiles Space: Magna-Tiles released a set for all space lovers. It combines all the magic of their magnetic tiles with the adventure of space travel. Included is an astronaut, a spaceship, a space rover, and more! Your kids can create their own magnetic space station, defying gravity in its own right, or they can include it with any other magnetic tiles set to create whatever they have in mind that day! I love the space-themed colors and how they really immerse your child into the intergalactic world.


37. Perler Beads: I get so excited when classic toys that I had growing up are reimagined for kids today. Perler Beads designed the cutest Squishmallow bead toy. If you haven’t made these before, you are in for a treat! Use the pattern sheet to help you design the squishmallow on the peg board, then iron the beads to form them together! The result is a flat squishmallow that your kids can use in their pretend play, bring to school, or display in their room!


38. Horse Ranch Playmobil: Your horse lover will go nuts for this Horses of Waterfall horse ranch. This dollhouse comes with a horse stable and fence for horse training, grooming, and feeding! There are over 250 pieces in total, fully immersing your kids into the world of raising horses. This is one of the most interactive dollhouses I have seen on the market, and with how much is included, it is well worth every penny.


39. Dino Railway Set: If your child loves dinosaurs as much as my kids do, they will go crazy for this dinosaur themed train set by Hape! They will be in their own Jurassic World after building a railway that twists and turns through a dinosaur habitat. The skull and bones tunnels glow in the dark, and every feature was so meticulously designed for ultimate dino play.



40. Yoto Player: We love the Yoto Player in our home, and use it almost every single day. My kids have made it a part of their wind-down routine to listen to stories or guided meditations. This mini version is perfect for road trips, with its small and compact design! It has headphone or bluetooth capabilities and a lanyard so it isn’t easily lost!


41. Yoto Cards: Collecting Yoto Cards is a must when you have a Yoto player. I am so impressed with the variety of cards they offer, from adventure stories to music to meditation. The meditation cards have been implemented into our daily routine, and I employ the story cards to help my kids enjoy screen-free entertainment!


42. Large Doll House Playmobil: This Playmobil dollhouse is no joke. It has almost 600 pieces- I repeat- six HUNDRED pieces! Your child will go crazy customizing their 3-story dollhouse exactly how they like it. The doorbell is fully functional, and additional accessories like a mailbox, flower boxes, kitchen tools and furniture really help your kid’s dolls feel at home. The dollhouse is just over two feet tall and is full of endless fun.


43. Large Silk: We have been singing Sarah’s Silks since the founding of Toy Testing Sisters! We haven’t had to worry about our kiddos outgrowing their silks, since the silks have grown with them! The giant silk is large enough to use as a fort covering, a canopy, or a cape. The options are limitless, especially in the eyes of our children. Don’t forget all Sarah’s Silks are made of 100% pure silk!'

Code: TOYTESTINGSISTERS will save you 10% at checkout.


44. Origami Kit: Origami is a skill I’ve always wished I had but haven’t put in the effort to learn! Now I have an excuse, and so do you! This adorable animal themed origami kit introduces you to the beautiful craft of origami in a fun way. It has a booklet to guide you through every design, and stickers are included to bring your animal to life! It is easy to understand, and so fun for the kids to do together at home, in the classroom, or at a party.


45. 3D Play Rug: Play mats add so much to a playroom, and this 3D playmat adds even more! It is 32x44 inches, the perfect size for playing with toy cars and miniature dolls. I love the various settings on the mat that you don’t usually see, like the parking lot, and basketball and tennis courts. Everything but the roads are raised, enhancing the pretend play. Your kids can add whatever buildings and accessories that they want to customize their town for ultimate fun!


46. Slime Station: Making slime has never been easier. All you need is your Slime’Licious Slime Station and water and you are good to go! The kit makes up to 16 scented slimes for your kids to enjoy. The slimes are totally customizable, with different color/scent options, and toppings to add texture and body to the slime. The slime is all food-inspired and is ready within 5 minutes! Just pour the slime mixture into the shaker cup, add a few drops of color, add water, and shake for 30 seconds, and bam! Your slime is ready to play with.


47. Twister Track: What so many race tracks are missing is a 360° loop! The Twister Track not only gives your kids the thrill of watching a car flip upside down in the loop, but glows in the dark! The neon colors are so bright and engaging, and the emergency-styled vehicle that comes with the track lights up in 4 different colors. Your kids will have a blast building the track themselves, using their imagination to shape the track however they want.


48. Large Puppet: I think it is necessary for every playroom to have a puppet or 10. This yellow bird puppet is so freaking cute and charming, and is pretty big, too! It is almost 2 ft tall, which adds to the charm. Add it to your puppet show cast, bring it to the classroom, or incorporate it into story time. I have seen so many older kids use it to entertain their baby siblings, and the giggles make my day every time!


49. Balance Cobra: There aren’t a ton of toys like this one, so I am so excited to introduce it to you! The TrueBalance Balance Cobra is an incredible tool and toy for strengthening hand-eye coordination, critical thinking skills, and balance! The disks are all connected with magnets, and the goal is to allow the disks to separate and then try to align them back using your fine motor skills and focus. Once the disks are all stacked on top of each other again, you have won! It is so fun for the whole family to do together and make a friendly competition of it.


50. Loose Parts Bones: Introduce the wonder and intrigue of paleontology into your child’s lives with the Tabletop Loose Parts Bones! The 105 bones come in a big pile, ready to be arranged and built into a dinosaur, alien, or insect, whatever your child can imagine! The pieces range in size, expanding the possibilities of creation. There is no instruction manual, so your child has complete freedom to use trial and error and teach themselves the craft of bone building!


51. Blossom Pets: Kids are great caretakers, and are always finding something to nurture and grow! Blossom Pets are an adorable and simple way to help children feel like they are taking care of something special. These pets are covered in fabric flowers that need a little TLC to stay vibrant and healthy. Included with the pets is a spray bottle to mist the flowers when they dry out. Once the flowers are misted, their petals become bright and flourishing again! Your little will find joy and satisfaction from feeling like they are really making a difference in their pet’s health.


52. Gem Surprise Learning Toy: When I was younger, my favorite museum exhibit was the gems and minerals exhibit. I couldn’t believe that such beautiful things were under the earth’s surface. If this sounds like your child, you need to get them Learning Resource’s Rock n’ Gem Surprise. Included are play geodes and tools to open them. All your kids have to do is crack open the gems to reveal a surprise! After they have opened them all, they can practice their color sorting, mix and match, and then do it all over again.


53. Card Racers: You guys, I found the best pocket-sized car toy out there. The Flat 2 Fast Card Racers are exactly what they sound like- a flat car that sits inside of a small box until you press a button to release the car and watch it zoom! Send it with you child in their backpack for recess play, give as party favors, or keep them in the house! All you need is a flat surface, and your kids have everything they need to race their card racers. 

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Writer's picture: MandyMandy

Updated: Oct 16, 2024




Mandy here! This age is so important because they really do still want to PLAY! Play is so important at this age so we've rounded up toys that will keep them engaged and creating. You'll be surprised how many of these toys fit your kiddos interests even up to age 10.




1. STEM Coding: My 9 year old is such an engineer-minded kid, and immediately jumped on the opportunity to build his own video game console. I cannot believe that at his age he is already learning how to code, assemble hardware, and use his creativity in such an advanced way. 


2. Fanny Pack Patch Kit: If my daughter doesn’t become an accessory designer after using the Bum Bag Patch Kit, I will be shocked. She spent an entire afternoon customizing her bum bag, and then proceeded to wear it every day for a month. It was so easy to use and it makes such a great gift or party activity!


3. Battle Box: When my older two kids start fighting, I tell them to take their fight to the Battle Box. This super simple but competitive game is so easy to set up and figure out. It strengthens their hand-eye coordination, spatial awareness, and doesn’t make a mess! 


4. Foosbots Stadium Battle: The storage needed for this game is basically nothing, it is so small! The kids will spend hours with their Foosbots, spending more of that time trying to hit each other’s bots down than making a goal, but they are having fun so what do I care! This is a great game/toy to take on the go!


5. Hydraulic Plane Launcher: What is better than a dart gun? One you can build yourself, obviously! This wooden Hydraulic Plane and Dart Launcher was a hit with my 9 year old who loves to build his own stuff. The launcher shoots both paper airplanes and darts, and is made out of sturdy wood that will last. I love watching my little engineer become a pro at following step-by-step instructions, anticipating the next step before he even reads it!


6. Find Finley: Hide and seek is a classic game that my kids have always loved, but they soon realized that they have used and reused every hiding place my house has to offer! The Find Finley game is a more advanced version, offering crafty clues that really challenge the kiddos’ deduction and strategy skills. Sometimes my husband and I join in too, and all four of us have a blast trying to out-wit each other. This game requries a lot of focus so make sure your kid loves a challenge.


7. Flower Rings: My 7 year old daughter is at that age where making her own jewelry is like a full-time job, so I have had to find creative ways to fill that need in her life. Creating colorful rings out of self-hardening clay? Sign a girl up! Learning the art of clay-making is so fun for her, and I feel at peace knowing that the clay is safe and non-toxic.


8. Peachybbies Slime: Slime may not be crowding your “For You” page anymore, but it just as popular with the kids now as it was 4 years ago! Peachy Bbies slime is cute, colorful, and makes for a great stocking stuffer. My 7 year old goes crazy for this slime, playing with it while she watches a show, reads a book, or when she just needs to quiet her mind.


9. Needoh Gummy Bear: Gripping one of these things has such a calming effect, and they are just so fun to squeeze. I make sure the kids know exactly where their bear is so they can find it quickly when their emotions escalate. I had to get one in every color for each of us!


10. 3D Printer: This toy is for the special years. It is truly a gift that keeps on giving! My 9 year old’s favorite part is that he can make whatever he wants, whether it's an original design he made in the app or a picture of his favorite TV character he downloaded from the internet. He already has a collection of action figures going, saving me so much money in the long run! Last year he made so many toys and sold them at his class store!

CODE: TOYTESTINGSISTERS saves


11. Indoor Basketball: I don’t know about you but telling my kids (and husband) to stop playing ball inside the house gets real old real fast. Eventually I had to take matters into my own hands and get the silent indoor basketball! It is the professional standard size, so it feels real without endangering my home. And it is actually silent, so I don’t have to deal with any aggravating bouncing. If you have sports enthusiasts who insist on playing ball in the home, this is for you!



12. Play Sword: The bar for foam swords has been dramatically raised! Formidable Toys makes one of the most durable and realistic-looking sword for imaginary play. Their mix-and-match system is perfect for future swordsmiths who want to employ their creativity to craft the sword of their dreams. Get a unique sword for each member of the family and battle it out!


13. Diamond Art Jewelry: Have I mentioned enough that my 7 year old loves making jewelry? Snap bracelets are addicting enough to play with, but add some diamonds and you’ve got yourself the perfect combo of style and substance.


14. Giant Sarah's Silks: We have been singing Sarah’s Silks since the founding of Toy Testing Sisters! We haven’t had to worry about our kiddos outgrowing their silks, since the silks have grown with them! The giant silk is large enough to use as a fort covering, a canopy, or a cape. The options are limitless, especially in the eyes of our children. Don’t forget all Sarah’s Silks are made of 100% pure silk! Code: TOYTESTINGSISTERS


15. Crunch Labs: This is a subscription box that teaches kids engineering in a fun and creative way. The instrucions are easy to follow and I love that it gives them ownership over their builds.


16. 3D Pen: No 3D printer? No problem! My kids are obsessed with making their own 3D art with her 3Doodler. They want to create but don't want to have to think about it, so the stencils are great. If they don't want to follow the guide, they can free-style any creation.


17. Kids Claw Vending Machine: Stumbling upon this toy was such a fun surprise for me, especially because I always wanted to try the claw machine whenever I went to the arcade. I was told it was rigged, though, so I rarely got to use it. Not this claw machine! Use it the classic way, taking turns trying to grab something, or make it a competition by getting as many goodies as you can in 60 seconds.


18. Play Couch: Kids love having a couch their size, that they can easily manipulate in any way their imagination carries them! My older kids love to build obstacle courses for their toddler sister to practice climbing around on, or use it as a couch for movie night. Foamnasium stands apart because of their dedication to using the highest quality materials, making products that last years and don’t lose their shape. As your kids get older, they can use this as a couch in their room for reading and chilling.


19. Moon Lamp: Moon lamps went viral a few years ago, for good reason! They are beautiful and bring you closer to the greater universe. But now you can customize your own moon lamp, which is even better! Design it as a celestial body, a nature scene, or even make it a holiday decoration. The ideas are endless, and having your kids make it their own helps them enhance their living space with things they created and can be proud of.


20. Hey Clay: Sometimes guidance is needed to help a child build the perfect clay animal, and so I am obsessed with the Hey Clay animals kit! It comes with an interactive app that walks the builders step by step, helping my kids feel proud of their work. They can either leave the animals to dry and set within a day, or they can remold the clay into whatever they want!


21. Marble Run: We jump on any opportunity to save space in our playroom, and vertically designed toys are the best way to do that! This vertical marble run has special adhesive pads that can stick mess-free to glass, metal, wood, laminate, stone and ceramic. There are no support structures needed, so building is quick and easy! Watching marbles drop in a controlled way along the wall is so satisfying and ridiculously fun!


22. Blinger: Sometimes your hair just needs a little sparkle, especially if you are a 7 year old girl. Whenever we have a special event, my daughter pulls out her Blinger and puts as many diamonds in her hair as she possibly can. The best part for me is how easy they are to brush out at the end of the day. It isn’t just for hair, though- bling shoes, sunglasses, backpacks or clothes!



23. Yoto Mini: We love the Yoto Player in our home, and use it almost every single day. My kids have made it a part of their wind-down routine to listen to stories or guided meditations. This mini version is perfect for road trips, with its small and compact design! It has headphone or bluetooth capabilities and a lanyard so it isn’t easily lost!


24. Yoto Cards: Collecting Yoto Cards is a must when you have a Yoto player. I am so impressed with the variety of cards they offer, from adventure stories to music to meditation. The Magic Tree House collection is a great set for this age group.


25. Smart Sudoku: I’ve done sudoku puzzles since I was younger, and I would’ve killed to have an interactive smart device to play it on! The 3D pieces adds a sensory experience to the toy, which I never had the chance to experience until now. I play my 9 year old at least weekly, and he probably beats me 75% of the time. 


26. Crazy Cart Shuffle: Every kid needs this toy! It is loved by everyone in my house! Even my hubby gets on it. Razor did it again with the Crazy Cart Shuffle. It is child-powered so it enhances physical activity while providing exhilarating fun! My kids always start out racing on their carts, but before they can even cross the finish line they start doing spins and can’t get enough of them. I don’t worry about them getting hurt while they do their tricks, because it is so stable, safe, and intuitive.


27. Point and Shoot Camera: If your child has shown any real interest in photography, this camera is for you. The screen-free setup helps keep your kids in the moment, enjoying and capturing the great outdoors, or whatever adventure they are on. I love how many color options they have to choose from, making it the perfect camera for boys and girls.


28. Guess in 10 Countries: At a recent family reunion, my 9 year old learned that his cousin shares his same fixation on learning about the countries of the world. They were so excited talking about it that I caught the bug and found this family card game to help us all learn about the world. It is now a staple in our game night stack! It such a simple and informative game for the whole family.


29. Snap Glam: I never thought I would see the day when my daughter stopped asking me to do her hair, but sure enough, that day came the moment she received her Snap Glam set! She will do anything to get color in her hair, and this kit was a lifesaver for me. It is so easy for her and her friends  to use themselves, and it’s just as easy to remove at the end of the day. The beads are all reusable, too, so you don’t have to feel like you are wasting anything!


30. Popcorn Machine: Oh my gosh you guys, your family movie nights just got so much better. I had this popcorn machine growing up and it made me so snobby about my popcorn. There is nothing like freshly popped popcorn, and watching it work its magic is so fun for kids. We use our machine for movie theater popcorn, gooey caramel corn, and kettle corn! It takes minutes, doesn’t need oil, and is easy to store in my pantry.


31. Foil Fun: There are so many ways to make art, and I absolutely love making foil magnets with my kids. The foil makes for professional-looking and beautiful magnets that I am proud to put on the fridge! We also love making stickers to decorate their notebooks and tablets. It is such an easy and affordable way to personalize!


32. Kandoodle: When I need my kids to have quiet fun, during church or on road trips, the Kanoodle puzzle toy is what I grab. It challenges their problem solving skills and trains their spacial awareness in a way that is fun for them and quiet for me! They are always so proud when they figure out each puzzle, making sure to brag about each one they solve.




33. Instant Print Camera: This instant camera has been the talk of the town in my girl’s circle of friends. We got her one recently and they blasted through the camera roll so fast! They think the black and white photos are so “vintage" and “mysterious”.  Luckily there is an option to take digital photos, which are in color! The fact that the camera is also a panda is too cute to pass up. 


34. Space Station Lego: Have you ever shown your kids the international space station at night? I remember seeing it through binoculars when I was a kid and thinking it was so crazy that a full on space station could just float in space. Now your family can make their own space station, with a spacecraft that can dock and pods for sleeping and living! The details are intricate, and you can even use the LEGO builder app to view models from all angles as they build.


35. Drop Shot: Combine darts and connect four and you get Drop Shot! I could’ve used a toy like this growing up, because my hand-eye coordination is garbage. Drop Shot is the simplest game to improve this skill, and is also so fun and quick. No need to attach anything to the wall, just set it on the ground and it’s good to go!


36. Modern Calligraphy: I absolutely love this book because it teaches kids systematically, with warm-up and practice pages to sharpen their skills. My kids have been learning cursive in school so this beginner book has been really fun for them! You can even have your kids use their newly acquired skill to make personal invites.


37. Pinball DIY: What is even more fun than playing pinball in the arcade, in my son’s experience, is building a pinball machine himself and enjoying the fruits of his labors at home! I have loved watching my 9 year old develop engineering skills and learning about how things work as he builds them. Smartivity will replace any lost parts free of charge, which is such a nice feature with how small a lot of the parts are.


38. Speks Crags Magnetic Putty: Look no further for the most satisfying fidget toy on the market. These tiny magnets are incredibly fun to run between your fingers or stack on the desk. My kids will play with their Speks Fidget Putty while reading a book or watching a show, quieting their mind and helping them focus. With multiple color options, each person in the family got to pick their favorite color!


39. Space Lego: Space is really trending for 2024. Future astronauts or rocket ship engineers will be all over this LEGO Friends Mars Space Base kit. It comes with a research base, rocket, satellite, characters, and so many small details to make your kid’s research base their own! It can connect to other space-themed LEGO sets, so your kiddo can create an entire space empire.


40. Box Balls: We all love watching trick shot videos, and my 9 year old wants to try every one he sees. I found this all-in-one trick shot set and knew it would be a blast for him to practice! My husband will set aside everything to play with our son, switching off setting up various trick shots for the other one to try! They’ve made it a running competition.


41. Sensory Swing: Swings are fun in general, but what makes this swing special is the sensory-deprivation effect it provides. My kids can snuggle up in the soft fabric and forget the world for a time as they subtly swing. I’m not going to lie, I’ve hidden in there a few times myself when I needed some peace and quiet. This is the perfect family toy too because it can be used by so many ages.


42. Loom Bracelet Kit: Making colorful bracelets is a hallmark of being a tween, and the Loom Bracelet set is one of the best I have come across for parties or to give as a gift. There are so many colors to choose from, with all kinds of beads, tassels and charms to add to the bracelet.


43. Lite BriteTouch: Remember the classic light up pegs toy? This is the same vibe but without the pegs, so no worry about messes or stepping on any small parts. You can switch between game mode and creative mode all the time, extending their interest in the toy and giving you more bang for your buck!


44. Sticker Maker: Brand new for 2024 and it's a hit! This sticker maker allows your kids to make and create their own stickers. The app lets you select and print pre-loaded stickers or upload your own photos. My kids took photos of their stuffed anmials and printed a bunch of stickers. This set also comes with markers so you can color the stickers. The sticker maker can be used by younger kids but they will need help reading the app.

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Writer's picture: MelMel


Mel here! Your babies are growing up and they are entering that stage of wanting really expensive gifts or you have absolutely no idea what to even get them. We've come to the rescue with some really fun and unique suggestions to gift your teen this year.




1. DIY Book Insert: Your teenage bookworm probably has a bookshelf, and they are probably always looking for ways to beautify and personalize it. This Rolife DIY Book Nook kit is a magical dollhouse-like insert to put in between your books, bringing your bookshelf to life. Not only is it gorgeous to look at, but the process of putting it together yourself is so satisfying and worth the effort.


2. Smart Dog Puzzle Game: If your kid is a dog person, SmartGames has designed a fun and creative brain game for traveling, sitting in waiting rooms, or for quiet, phone-free time. Simply set up the pieces to match the challenge in the challenge booklet, and arrange the pieces one at a time to create an obstacle course for the dog to go through! Get the whole family involved and make it a competition, that’s what we did!


3. Hogwarts Castle: The Hogwarts Castle LEGO set is no secret in the Wizarding World community. Snagging one of these collectible sets is a dream for so many Potterheads, and a very special gift for the one in your family. They will feel that they’ve apparated into Hogwarts as they build the castle, and their notalgia itch will be satisfied for the year! I know families who display it as an annual Halloween or Christmas decoration, but it definitely deserves to be on display.


4. Quilling for Beginners: Looking for a craft for your teen to get excited about? The Quilling Beginner’s Kit has everything they need to dip their toes in the world of quilling, or making art by shaping paper! They can customize greeting cards, create artwork, door hangers, or even magnets. The kit is truly made for beginners, will easy-to-follow instructions on top of all the tools included.


5. Fine Line Temp Tats: I remember when I was in high school it was all the rage to draw on yourself with Sharpie or pens, which was not the safest or cleanest decision. But kids love to self expression and often find it in body art. These temporary tattoos last 5-7 days and are so easy to apply in seconds! There are over 240 tattoos to choose from, from inspirational words to flowers, wildlife and other symbols. They are so fun to do together as a group at parties, or make great party favors as well!


6. Super Slide Brain Game: Invite your kid to focus and strengthen their problem solving and planning skills with the Super Slide brain teaser game! It is about the size of a handheld console, making it a great travel companion. It is designed for fidgeters, children who struggle with focusing, or anyone who loves brain games! There are over 500 puzzles, providing endless challenging fun.


7. Gib Gab: I know you played a version of this game when you were a kid, but probably with your hands rather than a machine. It is a must-play for your next family game night, or when your kids have friends over! Choose a category, and think of words within that category faster than your opponent. If the light reaches you before you can think of a word, you lose that round! The first one to three points wins, so it is a pretty fast game that everyone can enjoy. It is just as fun watching as it is playing!


8. Face Serum: Just Ingredients has blown up in recent years, and for good reason. Their commitment to clean consumption is one that is addictive, and we are so glad that they have ventured into the beauty world! Their face serum is clean, effective, and safe for all skin types, especially youthful skin! All the ingredients are organic and recognizable, and the list doesn’t go on for miles! You can have peace of mind knowing that the best of ingredients are being soaked up by your or your child’s skin.

Code: TOYTESTINGSISTERS will save you at checkout.


9. Jumbo Scrunchie: Whether you or your child has really thick hair or you love statement accessories, the Kaxi Jumbo Scrunchie needs to be in your regular rotation. These massive scrunchies are 5 times the size of your average scrunchie and come in 15 gorgeous colors! These make the perfect finishing touch on holiday gifts.


10. Speks Putty: Look no further for the most satisfying fidget toy on the market. These tiny magnets are incredibly fun to run between your fingers or stack on the desk. My kids will play with their Speks Fidget Putty while reading a book or watching a show, quieting their mind and helping them focus. With multiple color options, each person in the family got to pick their favorite color!


11. Cats and Boxes Smart Game: I found one of the best on-the-go brain games that involves no technology whatsoever. The object of the game is super simple: set up the pieces to match the challenge in the challenge booklet, and arrange the pieces one at a time to get every cat inside of a box! It is perfect for road trips, airplanes, or when your teen needs to get off their device.


12. Roller Skates: Do you have a roller skating enthusiast in your home, or an upcoming birthday that you need to plan? If my parents had gotten me these roller skates when I was younger, I would’ve been at the skating rink on a daily basis! They are good for indoor or outdoor use, and whoever wears them will be riding in style. The holographic material is gorgeous and certainly stands out, and they even have an option for light-up wheels!


13. Lap Loom: Have you ever been asked how rugs and tapestries were made back in the day before machines? I know I have wondered about it before, but Harrisville Designs have taken away all the mystery with the introduction of their Lap Loom kit! Create a 9x15 inch piece made of 100% wool through the ancient practice of weaving. You and your kids can learn the history of weaving with the booklet provided, and create something truly beautiful and fulfilling!


14. Volleyshot: Let your kid bring the fun to the lunchroom, greenroom, or game night with Fat Brain’s Volleyshot! This super simple table-top game challenges hand-eye coordination and cognition, and is a great way to compete with friends in a short amount of time. Make it a scoring competition, or see how long you can keep a volley going!


15. Gold Chain: Gold chains are all the rage across the board for men and women, and I was shocked when my husband expressed interest in getting one! I found this 18K gold plated, sterling silver chain for such a good deal by Miabella. This chain is made in Italy, by people who value quality craftsmanship. It comes in 7 length options, so you can make sure it’ll lie right where you want it. It is a great staple piece that adds a little shine to every outfit!


16. Face Scrub: You or a young one in your family may be in need of a face scrub, but I beg you (!!!) to not run to the grocery store and buy one of their abrasive, chemical-ridden scrubs that will do more harm than good. Just Ingredients has a safe, gentle face scrub that smells amazing and will not harm your or your kid’s skin. No parabens, endocrine disruptors, or irritants, just organic and real ingredients that you can trust.

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17. Detangling and Massage Brush: Everyone with long hair and within the sound of my written word needs to invest in the Glow Beauty detangling brush. Meant for wet hair, dry hair, thick or thin hair, the brush is for everyone. It seamlessly detangles my hair, even when I have been out in the wind all day, and I do not have to worry about it breaking or pulling my hair. Unique to this brush is an intentional drainage hole to prevent water damage, water retention, or bacteria buildup.


18. Face Socks: Remind your loved one how much they love you with custom Face Socks from Etsy! These custom socks are the perfect silly gift for Mother’s or Father’s Day, Valentine’s Day, Christmas, groomsmen or even school dances. They can fit almost any occasion, are affordable, and will easily bring a laugh to the recipient. You can put up to 5 different faces on the socks, so creativity has no bounds!


19. Thinking Putty: Sometimes you just need something squishy, stretchy, and bouncy to play with while you read, do homework, or listen to your favorite podcast. Not only is Crazy Aaron’s Thinking Putty is a sensory dream, and so fun to play with, but it is also made out of a gorgeous color-changing silicone that never dries out. It is an incredible fidget toy for all ages over 3.


20. Mixhers HerTime: I cannot praise Mixhers enough, with their devotion to women’s health and the making of tasty drinks. HerTime is one of their most genius creations. It was thoughtfully crafted with female hormones in mind, helping to ease menstrual cramps, mood swings, and bloating. It also supports normal cycles all month long, regulating hormones when taken regularly. I have my HerTime every single day and I have felt a major difference in my cycles.

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21. Super Flying Disk: I found the ultimate outdoor toy that is easy to travel with, lightweight, and loads of fun. The Star Magic Beamo Woosh frisbee flying disk is 20 inches in diameter, making it larger than a standard frisbee, and so easy to catch. It is great for the beach, pool, & park, improving hand-eye coordination in all who play with it! Watch it glide up to 100 feet and catch it without any fear of getting hurt.


22. Boomabandz: Do teenagers still do outdoor game nights? If they do, or if you have room in your home or backyard, you need a BoomaBand! This massive band provides a thrilling, physical activity for youth and adults! Bring it to your next picnic, 4th of July party or family game night. Simply wrap the band around four people, and get an unexpected giggly workout as you all take turns running to the other side of the band. It is breathtakingly fun and exciting!


23. Tech Deck: Finger boards, or mini skateboards for your fingers, are not only a great fidget toy, but are meant for collecting and trading with friends! This exclusive Olympic Games 2024 8 pack includes mini versions of Olympians’ boards, and they each come with trading cards and stands for the boards! Your skater boys and their friends can bond over this fun hobby and learn finger tricks along the way!


24. GRWM Towel Headband: Kaxi designed the cutest and functional headband there is! Get your hair out of your face with a gorgeous, soft, microfiber headband that prevents creasing. I use mine every single day when I get ready, and so do all my beauty influencer friends! If you have a content creator in your house or they just like feeling pretty when they are getting ready, this is a must-have for your day-to-day!


25. Bow Earrings Pack: 2024 is the year of the bows, and if you haven’t got on the train yet, it is never too late! This 12-pack of gold plated bow earrings are an incredible value and come with all kinds of styles and sizes of bows: long and skinny, short and squat, sparkly and flat. They are hypoallergenic and nickel-free, and are hard to tarnish, helping them last longer!


26. Mixhers Focus: Replace your sugary caffeinated drink with something made of clean ingredients that is just as yummy! Mixhers Focus is designed to help you focus while also aiding in stress relief and supporting brain function. When I take this regularly, I feel a boost in my energy and a restored vigor so I can do everything I need to do as a busy mom of 3. Mixhers is a woman-owned, woman-owned brand that we have proudly partnered with for years and recommend them to everyone we know!

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27. Wolf Em Stick: Roasting over the campfire is not limited to marshmallows and hot dogs. In fact, some people don’t even care for these campfire staples! I introduce to you the Wolf’em Stick. The creators of Wolf’em discovered a way to roast biscuit dough over the fire, creating a crunchy bowl to be filled with whatever sweet or savory treat you want! My favorite feature is the easy-turn wooden handle, making it so easy to cook my food evenly.


28. Harry Potter Puzzle: I would honestly be shocked if the Harry Potter fan in your household didn’t already have a Harry Potter puzzle, but whether they do or not, this puzzle is a must! It is for advanced puzzlers, with 3000 pieces. It is 32x45 in when completed, and totally captures the beauty of the Hogwards Castle. Do it as a family in one day, or make it more of a long-term project for one! Either way, it will bring some magic into your home.


29. On the Go Blanket: Beddy’s On-The-Go blanket is a necessity for travelers. It is double-sided, with a plush minky side for extra cold conditions and a lighter-weight side for when you just want the comfort of a nice blanket. It comes with a water-resistant carrying case for ease of travel, and I promise it will become your best traveling buddy the moment you use it for the first time! We love ours and have it in the car with us at all times.

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30. Crystal Chakra Balls: We recently watched Inside Out 2 as a family and fell in love with the emotion characters all over again! When I found these crystal light-up chakra balls, I was so excited because they reminded me of the panel of emotions depicted in the movie! The seven colors are each so beautiful and vibrant, and when lit up become the most beautiful night light anyone could ask for! They add vibrance to whatever room they are in, and can be used as an emotional support item as well.


31. Get Out Pass: If you are a Utah local and have not tried a Get Out Pass yet, I am so sorry but you are really missing out! My husband I got the Get Out Pass in our first year of marriage when we wanted to explore what Utah has to offer and see what we enjoy doing together! It could not have been a better purchase. With each pass you get 1 visit at Lagoon, ski resorts, water parks, sports games, golf courses, trampoline parks, and way way more. The deal is truly unbeatable, and will get you and your family out of the monotonous routines and into the fun that Utah has to offer!

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32. Needoh Gum Drop: Stress balls can be retro, too! The Needoh Gumdrop brings a bright and nostalgic feel to stress balls, with its bright colors and classic Gumdrop candy-shape. It bounces back to its original shape every time it is squeezed, and the texture is so nice to feel in your hands. If your child needs to destress or simply requires a fidget toy, this affordable ball can do the trick!


33. Permanent Jewelry: Commemorate a relationship with permanent jewelry from Bonded Bracelets! We were introduced to Bonded a few years back, and immediately got ourselves matching bracelets. It was the best bonding activity for us to go to together, and the quality of the jewelry is the best of the best. We recommend going for a girl’s night, birthday parties, or hiring them for a private party! It is an act of permanence that will complete any outfit, and one you will never regret!


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