How often as parents do we find that simple toys are often better?   Our house stuffed with Savannah’s toys, every room has been taken over  it seems.  There are so many toys that get pushed aside and rarely played with, and often they are ones that are flashy and singy (who would have thought?).  Sometimes, simple items are better and they seem to stand the test of time of any kid in any generation.  Like, doll babies and play kitchens, even good ol’ couch cushions, baby food containers, paper towel rolls, boxes, or packages. And any kid’s favorite: Blocks. The common theme of the items? Encourages imagination! I think that’s just what kids want, and need.

Savannah asks daily to build something so she can knock it down, it’s her favorite right now.  I just found Cardboardblocks.com and it reminded me of how awesome these time-tested blocks are as we consider birthday gifts for the girl (see! A whole list of why they’re awesome) .  Do you remember these big blocks from when you were little? I sure do!  Building houses and things, knocking them down. I used to play with them in elementary school, so if they can be the hit of class and stand up to tons of kids pounding on them, they can stand up to one toddler.  I’ve raved about Melissa and Doug products before, so I’m thinking about the Jumbo Castle set because Savannah is obsessed with building houses right now. She would love this (as would her kid-at-heart daddy).

And? If I had known about this birthday party idea of letting kids play, build, and crash to keep them entertained I totally would have bought some sooner (since her party is in 2 days, ah!).  Oh well, maybe next year when we have more kids at our party anyway.

Did you have these when you were little, or do your kids now?  What do you think of them, is it worth the price? I’m thinking yes.