As a mom with two young boys

nephews, and several friends with little boys, I'm constantly surrounded by planes, trains, dinosaurs, cars, and lots of loose bits that have long since lost their buddies.  I've come to learn pretty quickly what will be a hit that can be enjoyed by many boys, and what will likely end up stuffed in the bottom of a toy box, long forgotten just weeks after the excitement of tearing open the packaging.



Wooden Fun
A great multi-purpose toy is anything WOODEN.  Blocks, puzzles, playsets, food, pretend kitchens-they ALL have staying power.

Even wonder why you see the same wooden toy at every doctor office?  Because its a HUGE hit! There are a ton of CHOICES and every one is just about as good as the next.  Multiple children can play at the same time, its educational, and relatively quiet compared to most modern toys.

Blocks are another great choice.  With each new shape the imagination grows and new adventures take shape.  Another great item for group activities, these blocks also teach shapes, colors, the alphabet, and gravity.  

Wooden play food, puzzles, pretend kitchens are also great options to fill a playroom.  These versions last much longer and are much sturdier than their paper or plastic counterparts.

Cars & Trucks
A wonderful classic toy that's really great for all ages are CARS & TRUCKS.  Just find a grown man and ask him what his favorite toys were growing up-many will say cars or trucks.  Small and portable, these toys are great for on the go, outside in the sand, easy to take a few extra for friends.  Chances are, those grown men you asked may even still have a car or two from their own childhood collection.

This is a great toy to promote movement-pushing your cars around, loading up your trucks and hauling away sand from one pile to the next, racing, and driving all over the house.  

Simple, inexpensive, available in a variety of sizes and colors, these toys are always sure to be underfoot in any boy's room-a sign that they are well loved.


Balls
Big balls, small balls, sports balls, bouncy balls, lightup balls, squishy balls, singing balls.  You name a BALL and chances are a toddler boy is going to ask for it.  Even if your toddler isn't sporting his favorite jersey next to you during the game (we all know cartoons are far more important) it doesn't mean that a collection of balls won't be a huge hit.

Great for coordination, great for socialization, great way to entertain easily and cheaply.  Boys can make up their own games, roll or toss, or stare into a clear one with fun beads inside.  

Again, its another simple toy.  No buttons, no batteries, no missing parts.  Just pure fun for the little boys that look at us with those sheepish grins and big eyes full of mischief.