Some of the most popular toys in the world inspire kids to make things. Early toys consisted of wooden blocks. But of course, technology has changed the way children play. Here are some of the most popular toys that encourage kids to build!
Lego is a popular toy that many children, and even adults, have spent long hours playing with. Kids construct buildings, vehicles, and all kinds of things from the resilient plastic bricks. All pieces fit firmly, but they can be easily disassembled. Lego bricks can be used to make many things, and all pieces, new and old, are compatible with each other. Take a look at some of the amazing things that have been created.
Photographer Carl-Frederic Salicath designed and built a Lego camera. It was built to look like the big cameras from the past. It is simple to build and simple to use! It can even be used to take pictures. Salicath used a mirror, a lens, and a lot of Lego to make it.
Engineering student Max Shepard created an amazing, functioning robotic arm. Though it can only hold up to a couple of pounds, it can hold cups and water bottles without breaking them. It can also move, grip and twist, just like your own hand!
Lego is not just limited to bricks. It is also famous for its simple yet limitless minifigures. Some characters are from famous movies or television shows. Others are designed to fit a theme, such as police officers or pirates. Since 1978, over 4 billion minifigures have been produced!
Lego is known as one of the most adaptable toys in the world. The brand remains popular around the world. Any company that stays in business for over 70 years by making plastic bricks must be doing something right!
Meccano has been at the forefront of the toy scene since 1898. Sets consist of reusable metal strips, angle girders, axles, and gears. Pieces are connected using nuts and bolts .
The kits have changed a lot since the 1800s. Early kits allowed you to make bridges and cranes. Now, you can make anything from a car to a large, mechanical spider. Despite the changes, the consensus is the same: these kits are educational as well as fun.
Building your own cabin is a challenge. Well, maybe not if you played with Lincoln Logs as a kid. Lincoln Logs are notched logs that can be placed together to create a building. The interlocking pieces come together to create a realistic cabin complete with a roof, windows, and a chimney. With practice, you can make cabins of different shapes and sizes!
K'Nex hit the shelves in 1992 and became a favourite toy of kids around the world. Sets include plastic rods, connectors, and bricks. With a "click," pieces connect to build massive, moving structures! The company claims that K'Nex teaches kids many valuable skills. They learn about STEM subjects, practice fine motor skills, and develop spatial awareness.
All of these toys have a few things in common. They make children want to build things. They teach children about STEM. They encourage children to be creative. Who knew toys could be so beneficial to kids?