favorite construction type toys?

[denvergal]

my boys are just about sick of tinkertoys, blocks, and magnatiles. they are ages 6 & 4. what is the next thing we should move onto? they do love building things but i'm looking for something that isn't too complex but will still have longevity. how about k'nex? how is it different from legos? is it better, worse or just different? any other suggestions for this age group?

[kristac]

We have a small set of k'nex and they are definately different and not redundant with legos.

Superstructs are similar to tinkertoys but you can build trucks/cars/castles/planes etc with them. I *think* they are compatable with tinker toys so it might be a way to jazz up your tinker toy sets.
We have this one: http://www.amazon.com/Superstructs-0...9751513&sr=8-3

Kapla/ Keva blocks are starting to be a big hit here at 4.5. They can be pricey though (I got ours at a consignment sale for cheap) http://www.amazon.com/KEVA-Planks-10...ef=pd_sbs_t_11
I think this is a cheaper version http://www.amazon.com/CITIBLOCS-Orig...9751583&sr=8-3

Do you have unit blocks? Maybe adding a few accessories could spark new interest- We have added some individual ramps, roof pieces, curves, etc. Blockmates:http://www.amazon.com/GuideCraft-G76...9753171&sr=8-1
Also a set of windows and doors http://www.cptoys.com/cgi-bin/cptoys...t&page=1&qty=1
This site has alot of great block play accessories: http://www.cptoys.com/cgi-bin/cptoys...08&parent_id=0

We have an old school FP Imaginext Rescue Center that lets you build it in different configurations. http://www.amazon.com/Imaginext-Resc...54105&sr=1-165 The newer Imaginext line is all one piece but you might find some older sets on ebay or craigslist. I think the new FP Trio line may be similar but I haven't seen it in person yet.

We also LOVE LOVE LOVE the Matchbox Mega Rig line. We have the space shuttle, shark adventure, sub, artic adventure, etc. All the sets are compatable. Hoping to add the pirate ship this year: http://www.amazon.com/MATCHBOX-Mega-...754513&sr=1-12

Valtec Working Trucks- these get daily play here by my 2 and 4.5 year old
http://www.amazon.com/Magna-Tiles-98...9754221&sr=1-1

Other ideas:
gears gears gears
marble run http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/esu...roduct_id=8221
tree blocks http://www.amazon.com/piece-Barkless...9753313&sr=8-1
magnetix/ magnext/ magnetos

[kristac]

More stuff:
Connectagons: http://www.hearthsong.com/product.as...ex=&pcode=9071
Domino Race

[ett]

Zoobs
http://www.infinitoy.com/zoob/whatiszoob.shtml

[brittone2]

DS is 5 and likes Lego but he likes Knex as well. We've only scratched the surface w/ them (he's done one or two really small $5 type kits and enjoyed them).

IIRC they are also compatible w/ Lego???

[denvergal]

thank you so much everyone! you all gave me so many suggestions to look at! now i'm just having trouble deciding. i think i may start off with the k'nex just because it's easiest for me to go out and find and then progress from there.

[kaitlinsmommy]

Do they have a marble run? DS is into building things and he loves marble runs. He has a quadrilla, but also loves a cheaper one from Lakeshore Learning.

[DrSally]

Great list, Kristac!

[SnuggleBuggles]

Honestly, I would just stick with Legos and not have a bunch of toys to keep around. I'm finally embracing that simpler is better- fewer toys makes me and the kids happier.

Beth