Toys

We tested electronics kits with kids ages 7 to 12 and got feedback from parents and makers to find the most engaging ways for kids to learn about electronics.

Our favorite robotics kits have a few things in common: a satisfying building experience, easy-to-understand coding instructions, and a friendly face. They also won over our discerning kid critics.

We interviewed experts and recruited more than 60 kids to play with Legos to find a range of standout sets for beginners.

Halloween won’t be the same this year, but you still have plenty of ways to honor the spirit(s), starting with this list of our favorite scary games.

We subjected 13 balance bikes to a cadre of 2- to 8-year-olds and found that the adjustable Strider 12 Sport is the best balance bike for most kids.

From superior carving tools to colorful face masks, we have some suggestions for a safer, spookier Halloween.

When you have a child with disabilities, the toy bin can become a tool box filled with items to help them grow—and bring them joy.

Sticky Lego sets are no fun to play with, but it’s not difficult to get your Lego pieces back into like-new building shape.

Adult Fans of Lego, or AFOLs, are a growing number of enthusiasts who say that playing with Lego isn’t just for kids.

Though most don’t make it past the end of the summer, inflatable pools bring fun to the comfort of your backyard. Here’s what you need to know before you buy.

If you’re in need of some reinforcements to secure your latest fort creation, these towel clips are a solid addition to any fort-building toolkit.

We had six kids test seven scooters and found that the Micro Maxi Deluxe gives kids a great ride over the widest age range.

Our staff shares a few options for keeping toys organized, a constant challenge for any parent.

After a dozen kids test-rode 12 tricycles, we’re sure the Joovy TriCyCoo 4.1 is the best for most.

These games can introduce kids to new genres, help them build skills, and offer provocative and age-appropriate challenges, engaging themes, and distinctive designs.

After testing 14 craft subscription boxes with nine kids, we recommend the Koala Crate for preschoolers and the Kiwi Crate for early elementary students.

Investing in some high-quality basics can get kids excited about camping out—and help you avoid a mid-trip detour to the nearest big-box store.

With families spending more time at home, designating a special zone where kids can get creative (and messy) can be challenging—but rewarding.

Wirecutter’s editor-in-chief on why a bounce house can be a backyard godsend for energetic kids stuck at home during coronavirus.

Our favorite gear and games for keeping kids busy outside come in handy now that your balcony, patio, or yard is a playground, beach, and outdoor living room.

We’ve found that these projects and activities can (with a little luck!) keep kids engaged, with minimal parental assistance.

Looking for fun in the sun? Whether you're headed for the beach or the pool this summer, we've picked out the best toys to keep kids (and adults) entertained.

We spent more than 30 hours trying 35 recommendations from experts, educators, and parents to pick the best learning and STEM toys. Here's what we found.

After spending 30 hours testing 13 pedal bikes, we’ve picked the fun, no-fuss, Co-op Cycles REV 16 Kids’ Bike as the best first pedal bike for most kids.

Host a remote game night with friends and family to connect and de-stress while everyone’s stuck at home. Here’s how.

Jigsaw puzzles are a great way to pass the time during the coronavirus pandemic.

For kids stuck at home right now, STEM toys and kits can offer open-ended and educational exploration. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorites.

We spent 40-plus hours testing more than 50 recommendations from educators, experts, and parents to find the best educational apps and games for kids.

After considering the needs of kids and parents, we think Apple’s iPad is the best all-around tablet for kids, though Amazon’s Fire HD 8 is a good cheap option.

A staycation can feel draining if it’s too similar to your daily grind. The items here will help you relax and have fun while vacationing at home.

We talked to gaming specialists, robotics experts, and music teachers to find the best activities to stave off boredom and keep kids entertained.