Best Building Blocks For Kids
Are you struggling to find a toy that is both educational and entertaining for your toddler?
Toddlers love the hands-on engagement toy blocks give them. Not only can they help keep your little one busy, but they can also have many developmental benefits.
Toddlers tend to get bored with certain toys quickly, but blocks seem to have endless possibilities for fun.
We've rounded up the best blocks for babies and toddlers that promote both education and entertainment.
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Model
Product Comparison Table
Features
Best Jumbo Blocks
Mega Bloks
- 80 pieces of blocks with stickers
- Compatible with all mega bloks sets
- Encourages hands-on exploration
Best Wooden Blocks
Melissa & Doug Wooden
- Classic, creative and educational activity
- Includes 100 blocks
- Exceptional quality and value
Best Stacking Blocks
Melissa & Doug Nesting
- Multiple colors and sizes
- Durable cardboard construction
- Fun and educational toy
Best for Young Babies
Infantino Squeeze and Stack
- Soft and squeezable
- BPA free
- Includes reusable grab-and-go tote
Best Foam Blocks
ECR4Kids Softzone
- Easy to clean
- 12 large blocks included
- Constructed for durability
Best Pattern Blocks
Melissa & Doug Pattern
- Includes 120 shapes and 5 boards
- Great for problem-solving
- Improves hand-eye coordination
Best Alphabet Blocks
Melissa & Doug Classic ABC
- Will last for years
- Includes 30 blocks and rolling cart
- Perfect size for little hands
Best STEM Construction
DreambuilderToy STEM Blocks
- 100% non-toxic plastic
- Smooth tile edges
- Helps fine motor development
Best Magnetic Blocks
Intock Magnetic Blocks
- Comes in multiple different shapes
- Made of high-quality, non toxic plastic
- Durable
Best Translucent Blocks
Constructive Playthings Translucent
- Colorful
- Perfect for light tables
- 147 pieces with various shapes
- Our Top Picks
- Why Are Blocks An Effective Toy?
- The Different Types of Blocks
- How to Choose the Best Blocks
- The Best Blocks for Toddlers of 2021
- The Bottom Line
Why Are Blocks An Effective Toy?
Toddlers need a stimulating environment to keep them interested and sometimes other toys can't offer that stimulation.
The flashing lights and funny noises of other toys only last so long until your little one realizes that all this fun stuff can happen by the push of a button.
Blocks are a game-changer because there are so many different things toddlers can do with them. Toddlers need toys that can be used in a variety of different ways (1).
Toddlers are gradually becoming more and more independent. They want toys they can figure out on their own, and then be proud of their accomplishments.
When toddlers are stacking their blocks, they have visual confirmation of the progress they are making. They get to explore different options and let their creativity take the lead. There is no right or wrong way to play with them, so all toddlers will succeed.
The Different Types of Blocks
The market for toy blocks is definitely a big one, and it seems that almost any type of block exists.
They come in a variety of different materials including:
- Cloth.
- Wood.
- Cardboard.
- Plastic.
- Foam.
- Magnetic.
Many different objectives can be accomplished when using blocks. They can be used for the following purposes:
- Stacking.
- Building.
- Spelling.
The best part about this new toy is that your child's imagination gets to shine. They can create anything they want and use them in ways that you or I may have never thought about.
How to Choose the Best Blocks
The Best Blocks for Toddlers of 2021
Here are our favorite blocks for babies and toddlers.
1. Mega Bloks Toddler Building Blocks
Best Jumbo Building Blocks
Mega Bloks are the holy grail of blocks for toddlers. It is almost as if this set of blocks is necessary for your child to be inaugurated into toddlerhood.
Parents rave over this product and rightfully so. The blocks are not only colorful, but they are easy for little hands to use.
The blocks are essentially large and interlocking, and they are extremely entertaining for children and even parents.
A major perk of these blocks is that once they are snapped together, they aren't stuck forever. Little hands can undo them and put them back together. As a parent, you won't constantly be asked to undo blocks that you think The Incredible Hulk couldn't even manage to separate.
The toys utilize oversized prongs to be stacked together. Since the product was designed with toddlers in mind, the features can be mastered by most toddlers.
Pros
- 80 pieces, which is plenty of blocks to keep toddlers entertained.
- Compatible with all Mega Bloks sets.
- Portable bag included for easy on-the-go travel.
- Encourages hands-on exploration.
- Optional stickers for letters or numbers.
Cons
- Some users had blocks that wouldn't snap together well.
- Block set does not include a base.
2. Melissa & Doug Wooden Building Blocks
Best Wooden Blocks
There is something about wooden blocks that never go out of style. These blocks are still around because they have a lot to offer.
Wooden blocks are light enough for your little one to move around, but durable enough to be knocked down when built into the highest tower for demolition.
The durability of wooden blocks is a great asset because that means your toddler can chew or throw these things and they won't be any worse for the wear.
Wooden blocks don't rely on prongs to snap into place or be connected, so your toddler has more control over how he or she wants to build. This asset helps enhance creativity.
Pros
- Comes in four colors and nine shapes.
- Classic creative and educational activity.
- Includes 100 blocks.
- Exceptional quality and value.
Cons
- Doesn't include storage container.
- Parents believe some of the wooden blocks included are too small for toddlers.
3. Melissa & Doug Alphabet Nesting and Stacking Blocks
Best Stacking Blocks
These blocks should be a toddler and parent must have. I can say firsthand that my son has spent hours upon hours playing with this set. He loves them so much that I purchased a backup just in case the day comes that one set breaks.
The blocks can be used two different ways, stacking or nesting. Toddlers will love the freedom to interchange between the two. If one way gets boring, there is a whole other option for entertainment.
These blocks have a great educational benefit to them as well. The sides are filled with numbers, colors, shapes, and animals. Your little one will truly pick up on these and it will help him or her learn the order in which to place the blocks.
Repetition is key with toys like these and little ones will get a thrill out of stacking these up and tearing them down.
Pros
- Multiple colors and sizes.
- Durable cardboard construction.
- Educational.
- Great for hand-eye coordination and problem-solving.
Cons
- Some parents believed the cardboard was not durable enough.
- If your child drools a lot and puts these into its mouth, the cardboard will wear.
4. Infantino Squeeze and Stack Block Set
Best Blocks for Young Babies
Little hands and minds still need to be kept busy, but it can be difficult to find blocks that are age-appropriate.
These blocks are a great option because not only are they super colorful and squishy, but they can be squeezed or chewed on with no problems.
Your little one can start exploring these blocks at a young age and then eventually utilize them for numbers and letter usage.
If you are looking for a block set that can grow with your child, this one has those capabilities. They can start out as cool teethers and transition into fun stacking blocks.
A cool perk of these blocks is that they are also bath time safe. Toys always seem to be more fun once they enter that bath water.
Pros
- 6 months and older.
- Soft and squeezable.
- BPA free.
- Fun colors, numbers, and animal shapes.
- Includes reusable grab-and-go tote.
Cons
- Rubber blocks may have strong smell upon arrival.
- Buyers said the blocks stack awkwardly.
- Blocks only count to 8.
5. ECR4Kids Softzone Toddler Blocks
Best Foam Blocks
Toddlers love these foam blocks because they are large, but lightweight. The size makes little ones feel empowered because they can finally move large objects.
The large size of these foam blocks makes them fun and easy to stack. These are more fun than normal blocks because they are much larger.
The fact that these include one size — they only come in squares — makes them a little less challenging for toddlers to figure out how to build them together.
There are a variety of vibrant color options to choose from and your little one will be well stimulated by whatever color selection you choose.
One benefit of these foam blocks is that they ensure safety because of their large size, and the foam is covered with reinforced leather to combat slobber and bites.
Pros
- Easy to clean.
- 12 large blocks included.
- Foam inside makes them soft for playing.
- Constructed for durability.
Cons
- Some users noted the product began splitting at the seams.
- Some purchasers stated the product was a lot smaller than pictured.
6. Melissa & Doug Pattern Blocks
Best Pattern Blocks
Simple blocks may not be stimulating enough for your toddler and nothing is wrong with that.
Toddlers are still mesmerized by colors and different shapes. This set of blocks will not only touch on colors and shapes, but it will encourage your toddler to put them in a specific order.
Toddlers need some guidance sometimes to tap into their creativity and the wooden boards that are included have pictures that replicate the order in which your little one should place the blocks. It is virtually a block puzzle.
You probably never thought your toddler would already be completing puzzles with more than 10 pieces, but you will be surprised at just how fast little ones can pick up on these boards.
If you are looking for a fun and beneficial way to entertain your toddler, these block puzzles might be a great solution.
Pros
- Includes 120 shapes and five boards.
- Great for problem-solving.
- Improves hand-eye coordination.
- Includes storage box.
Cons
- Some pieces may be too small.
- Some purchasers had issues with the colors they received in their box
7. Melissa & Doug Classic ABC Blocks
Best Alphabet Blocks
When you envision ABC blocks, these are probably what you have in mind. The primary color wooden blocks that aren't too big, yet aren't too small, are a great toy for toddlers.
Your little one will love how easy it is to pick up and move these blocks. No matter which way they decide to situate them, the colorful letters are printed on all sides.
These blocks are great because they can grow with your child. You can implement them before your toddler really understands letters, and you can keep them around once your child can start spelling.
The durability of these wooden blocks ensures they will last from toddlerhood to kindergarten if your child still shows interest.
Pros
- Classic set that will last for years to come.
- Includes 30 blocks and a rolling cart.
- Includes numbers and letters.
- Perfect size for little hands.
Cons
- Purchasers said the blocks were smaller than they thought they would be.
- Some users said they were too small for toddlers to stack.
- Users noted that there isn't a logical arrangement of letters and pictures — the X block, for instance, has a picture of a cat.
8. DreambuilderToy Magnetic STEM Blocks
Best STEM Construction Blocks
Some parents want to make sure their toddlers are taking in as much information as possible.
Toddlers absorb their surroundings like a sponge and educational toys can help them do just that.
These blocks are complex, but they help promote science, technology, engineering, and math. But to your child, it is just a fun way to stay entertained.
The vibrant colors and intriguing designs are captivating for toddlers and keep them mesmerized. There are so many options of how to put these blocks together that your toddler will learn how to take control and make decisions.
Why settle for mediocre blocks when you can buy your toddler STEM blocks that promote higher levels of learning?
Pros
- 100 percent non-toxic plastic.
- Smooth tile edges to ensure no sharp points for child.
- Helps fine motor development.
- Helps with shape and color recognition.
Cons
- May be difficult for younger children.
- Does not come with a storage box.
- Some parents said the magnets fell out.
9. Intock Magnetic Blocks
Best Magnetic Blocks
Magnetic building blocks can provide hours of fun because each piece offers its own unique challenge.
Your toddler will have the opportunity to try to problem solve with the magnetic blocks because each block has a specific way it must be turned to connect to another block.
If your child is up for a little more of a challenge than traditional blocks offer, these might be a great choice.
Pros
- Comes in multiple different shapes.
- Made of high-quality, non toxic plastic.
- Durable.
- Has a storage box.
Cons
- The pieces are small, so adult supervision will be required.
- Some parents believed these were better for older kids.
10. Constructive Playthings Translucent Blocks
Best Translucent Building Blocks
It is always refreshing to enhance your child's playtime experience. Blocks are fun, but translucent ones bring their own amazement.
Toddlers love the idea they can build an object and still be able to see through it. The translucent blocks always help your child visually see how blocks can be built together.
The assortment of colors and shapes of all sizes allow your child to have a stimulating environment conducive to learning when engaging with these blocks.
These blocks are designed with babies in mind, a fun way of introducing shapes and critical thinking skills as early as possible.
Translucent blocks are lightweight, so if you are looking for on-the-go fun these might become your new best friend. You can bring them along for fun without worrying about weighing down your mom bag any more than it already is!
Pros
- Rainbow assortment of many colors.
- Perfect for light tables.
- 147 pieces.
- Various shapes.
Cons
- More expensive than other blocks.
The Bottom Line
Our top pick is the set of Mega Bloks. These blocks were intricately designed with toddlers in mind and every aspect of the product proves that.
The blocks are not only bright and colorful, but they are also easy to stack and undo because of their large size. The large size also ensures your little one will be safe from choking hazards because the pieces are not small enough to enter the mouth.
The opportunities are endless for your little one with these blocks because the set is compatible with all other Mega Bloks sets. This is a toy your littles will go back to over and over and over again.
Source: https://momlovesbest.com/toddler-blocks
