We got some kits at Christmas for DIY toys from Lowes. And although I’m not very good with the mechanical stuff we’ve built a few and still have a few to go. These kits are meant for 5 years and older.
We started with glue-based models from the dollar store. Sometimes they were put together according to the plans and other times just however he wanted to put them together. These kits though they are a little more complex.
He’s been enjoying these kits. So about once a week he’s building a new toy. We’ve done a race car, xylophone, an airplane, a front end loader, and a birdhouse.
How to Use
Each project is a little different but also a lot similar. You get the wooden pieces, nails, and usually some stickers to decorate with. There are a few pictures and a blueprint to follow with simple instructions.
The kits include everything except for the tools to do the building. You will need a hammer in a small size so your little can handle it. We have this awesome tool kit, get yours on Amazon.
Find this kit at Lowes or from your couch on Amazon here.
So the big question is: why should your kids build their toys?
Why Your Kids Should Build Their Toys? Here are 5 reasons:
DIY Toys Build Fine Motor Skill
In general, fine motor skills develop later in boys than girls (BabyCenter).
- Lining up the predrilled holes.
- Holding the nails in place.
- Hitting the nail and not the parent helping.
All hard things to learn without a little motivation. These kits require concentration that Aiden really doesn’t have all the time. He wants to build the toys so he is much more likely to be still for a short period of time.
DIY Toys Encourage Better Hand-Eye Coordination
Have you ever tried to hit a nail without hitting your thumb? My toddler can. I’ve honestly been shocked that my thumb hasn’t been smashed into a pancake. He’s really good about staying clear and that includes when he takes the parts away from me and “does it” himself.
DIY Toys Teach How to Follow Instructions
Following instructions can really make or break some of these ones. You must put it together carefully or the parts don’t move the way they should or it doesn’t quite look like what you’re supposed to be making which just means a lot of disappointment.
DIY Toys Are Better then Plastic
I know some of you moms out there avoid plastic toys. You don’t have to worry about toxins in wooden toys for the most part. They tend to be more durable too.
DIY Toys Teach Appreciation
Putting the work in makes for more appreciation than when it’s a toy mom or dad bought. There’s something about making things yourself. Aiden will play with these toys for hours.
Final Thoughts.
I’m not a super-mechanical person and I can still help my toddler make these models. If you feel like you’re not quite sure how to start Lowes hold workshops in their stores. You might be able to try out one of these kits or something similar in one of these workshops. Look for these workshops here:
Have you made models with your kids? Have you ever tried these Lowes kits? What else do you like to make with your kids? I’d love to hear about it the comments below. And if you’d like to learn more about building toys check these websites too.
10 Big Benefits of Building Toys for Your Kids
The Benefits of Toy Blocks: The Science of Construction Play
Pin it for later
Related: Spring Fun for Toddler
Such creative toy is special and unlike any other type of toy. It brings together fun and discovery and incorporates challenging activities of exploration during play.
A Creative Toy like is one of the best types of kids educational toys
That toys not only help him to play but also good for concentration and learning. I love his smile he is happy and fully into toys put together.
Oh my! I’ve been looking for DIY toys for my nephew so he will be more creative. I will definitely buy!
Your son is so adorable! what a gorgeous smile! those toys seem like a blast!
These look like great toys! I like the concept of having kids build their own toy and have fun doing it.
All the things I wasn’t fond of as a child, I enjoy doing now. I think this will include DIY toys!! Such a fantastic idea!!
I absolutely love DIYs, all fun and excitement. I bet kids will also learn a lot from this. This seems to be worthwhile.
I love building DIY toys with my friends’ kids, it is so much fun and I feel i am helping with the kids’ development. Great read.
My children always enjoy D I Y toys. These toys engage them for a long period of time and make them more creative.
These are some really cool DIY toys! It looks like he is really enjoying them and having fun!! My daughter would probably love these too!!!
These toys are good. It helps in learning and engaging kids in doing something productive piece.
You are so wise! Great wisdom here to help your child grow!!
My boys loved these kits when they were little. Their favorite one was the birdhouse kit.
I love any toys where you build and help children refine their motor skills and learn creativity! I love that it’s a joint activity you can enjoy together too!
xoxo
Annie
Buildable toys were always some of my favorites as a child. I love that it’s a collaborative pastime too, and helps teach creativity and problem solving!
xoxo
Annie
i never even dreamed of lowes having toys! and how fun to make DIY toys.
These look like amazing toys. I’m pretty sure my kids would love them. My husband is obsessed with Lowe’s, so he’d like these too 😉
Some dart in the heart.. Anything done DIY has sentimental value for me hehe
Um, love this and your son is the cutest! DIY is always a great way to spend time with the kids.
What some fun toys – there is nothing quite like bringing the imagination to the forefront of kinds minds and getting them building too!