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Tinker Toys: The Original Brand and the Modern Reimaginings
Have you ever made something out of the classic toy, Tinker Toys? Growing up in the age of Legos, it can be hard to imagine that there was once upon a time when Tinker Toys were all kids used (and still use). What’s interesting about Tinker Toys is how they have inspired modern toys like Lego. For example, the original idea came from Chinese block stacking games in which geometric shapes could be stacked together to make larger blocks. This form of geometric stacking is similar in concept to how modern-day’s mathematics (and science) are taught – with jigsaw puzzles and linking cubes.
For kids ages 3 to 6, there are larger sets of Tinker Toys called Fuzzy Farmyard Set which includes 107 pieces to build farm animals, barns, fences, and more. It comes with a storage bucket that is easily customizable for this age group because the holes in the lid are big enough for little fingers to reach into. Kids can learn shapes by trying to fit different-sized pieces together while making designs that look like the real thing!
Another surprising fact is that one of the few remaining American wooden toy companies called Pennsylvania Toy makes their version of Tinker Toys. Tinker Toys are classic toys that continue to live on by inspiring other modern forms of play.
Another Interesting Read: Fun in the sun top 7 beach toys for babies
Here is the list for 5 Tinker Toys: The Original Brand and the Modern Reimaginings
- MAGNETIC BUILDING TILES
- POPULAR RETRO BUILDING TOYS
- TINKER TOYS FOR 2-YEAR-OLDS
- TINKER TOYS FOR TEENS
- TINKER TOYS FOR 3-YEAR-OLDS
5 Tinker Toys: The Original Brand and the Modern Reimaginings
1. MAGNETIC BUILDING TILES
One of the most popular new toys is Magformers, a set of building tiles with magnets. The magnetic pull is variable, so kids can attach their pieces in different ways and have more control over what they are creating. Since it’s just magnetic, Magformers can also be used for art projects or for school science classes where students need to build things out of metal. Kids today use magnetism for all sorts of building projects because Tinker Toys introduced them to how cool magnets could be.
2. POPULAR RETRO BUILDING TOYS
There is also a version of Tinker Toys called Blast Blocks which look similar to Tinker Toys but with improved details like ergonomic grips on the sticks and sturdy plastic connectors that don’t break when stepped on. The sticks are made from maple wood and the connectors from rubberwood, both of which are renewable resources. Blast Blocks is part of a larger series by a company called Tree Blocks that also makes a popular toy called Plan Toys which has been around for over 30 years.
3. TINKER TOYS FOR 2-YEAR-OLDS
For younger kids, there’s Tinkertoy Little Building Set with 48 pieces that include simple rods and connectors to build sturdy wooden structures such as roosters and dogs. This version of Tinker Toys is recommended for 2-year-olds who can learn how pieces snap together after watching adults assemble them. It’s great for sharing because it comes in a reusable bucket so parents can keep all the parts together while playing with their kids.
For older kids who can handle small things safely, there’s Tinker toy Wild Animal Set with 106 pieces to build lions, giraffes, elephants, and more! The large size means there’s plenty of space to play around with different designs, which makes Tinker Toys still relevant after so many years. If you have an aspiring architect at home or kids who love building toys like Legos or Magformers then they’ll enjoy this classic toy that also teaches them how to follow instructions to make specific designs.
4. TINKER TOYS FOR TEENS
After Tinker Toys, the next iteration of building toys is called Particle Bricks which are similar but more sophisticated with magnetic pieces that connect in different ways. One version is Tie Bricks, a modern take on another classic toy – String Blocks! Using rods and connectors, there are no limits to what kids can build with this sustainable wooden toy made from organic rubberwood. Particle Bricks even have an app for kids to design their structures or follow seeing-impaired community members who created designs for others to enjoy!
5. TINKER TOYS FOR 3-YEAR-OLDS
For younger kids, there’s a Tinker toy Little Building Set with 48 pieces that include simple rods and connectors to build sturdy wooden structures such as roosters and dogs. This version of Tinker Toys is recommended for 2-year-olds who can learn how pieces snap together after watching adults assemble them. It’s great for sharing because it comes in a reusable bucket so parents can keep all the parts together while playing with their kids.
For 3-year-olds and up, there’s Tinker toy Seaside Adventure with 90 pieces that includes beach props like lighthouses and whales for kids to build. The size of the pieces makes it easier for kids to collect them from the floor compared to other versions above (although Tinker Toys’ simple design means they can be used anywhere at any time). There are also smaller versions called Micro Series with ten pieces, which is recommended for 2½ – 4-year-olds! It’s a great way to introduce toddlers and young preschoolers to Tinker Toys while practicing their counting and matching skills.
TINKER TOYS FOR ADULTS
Finally, adults are also able to enjoy Tinker Toys even as kids are growing up! With more advanced designs and stronger magnets, there’s now a Cranium-branded version for adults called Gravity Defying Bricks that comes in a sleek black case with stencils for making specific designs. You can use the stencils or make your unique creations with all the extra pieces you have at home! It’s great if you want to bond with friends who also love building blocks because this is an opportunity to show off your skills.
After decades of playtime, Tinker Toys lives on not only through its popularity but through an educational toy encouraged by teachers everywhere. This classic building toy introduced generations of children to shapes, creativity, and how to follow instructions – something that can help them excel in school for years to come. These are just some of the modern takes on this classic favorite toy that you can find at local retailers or online!