Contemporary Toys

Here's our current selection of recommended toys that don't readily fit into any of our other categories, yet are worth highlighting because they offer children lucky enough to get hold of them some quality fun. Each of our entries provides an overview of the particular item chosen from a mass of possibilities together with a link to where they can be acquired. As with all pages on our site the content on this one will be refreshed & amended as inspiringyourkids.com develops and grows.

Indoor Animal Croquet Set

This indoor wooden children's croquet set features animal shaped free standing hoops, in either farm animals or jungle animals design, and a tree shaped finishing post. Accompanies by a pair of wooden mallets and four wooden balls, the game is for up to four players. All the playing pieces can be stored between games in the accompanying net draw-string bag. Available from Toyday

Hippychick Wheely Bug

Designed for one to five year olds to push, pull and ride, these toys are covered with tough but soft vinyl so that they can be easily wiped clean for the next play session. They are able to go forwards, backwards or simply round and round and come in a choice of two sizes. Available from babyworld

Ride-On Fire Engine

Little ones from six to thirty-six months are guaranteed hours of pleasure from this sturdy plastic Fireman Sam themed fire engine. They can use the handle to push it or sit astride and propel it with their feet. The seat lifts to reveal a handy storage area while the steering wheel produces satisfying horn and siren sounds. Available from Woolworths Group plc

Children's Accordion Musical Toy

This mini version of the real thing is great to look at while kids can produce a lovely tune by pushing on the keys. Available from The Gifted Goat

Star Wars Force FX Lightsaber

For kids, thanks to the six star wars films, lightsabers are without question the coolest imaginary weapons of all time. Our featured version of these Jedi 'swords' are highly realistic replica items licensed by the movies makers Lucasfilm and made from gleaming metal and durable poly carbonate. As well as having a glowing blade, thanks to digitally recorded sound effects taken from the film, these items make a series of realistic sounds associated with lightsaber movements. A range of models replicating those used by Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader and other characters are available from Firebox

Fireman Set

For children of 3 and over this is a five piece fireman themed dressing up set comprising helmet, gloves, tools and a fire hydrant water sprayer. Available from Mini Marvellous

Glow in the Dark Magic Set

Including a demonstration DVD providing instructions on how to perform 40 tricks, this set includes all the props required for budding magicians of five and up to pull them off in front of an audience using light, and its absence, as an added dimension to the show. Available from Prezzy Box

Balloon Modelling Set

Our featured item allows the beginner to learn and master the craft of modelling a wide range of objects and shapes from balloons. Together with an excellent book explaining the techniques, mechanics and steps involved in balloon sculpture, this kit provides 100 balloons made from the right material to model with, a pump designed to inflate them and a specific style of marker pen. Available from Balloon Modeller

Sylvanian Country Bus

A traditional double decker bus with room to carry up to 20 Sylvanians. Includes a canopy, picnic basket with food, benches and a trestle table. Ideal for Sylvanian family summer outings and trips. Available from Hamleys

Large (Four Feet Plus) Doll's House

Huge doll’s house, over four feet tall! Open front with loft storage space and detailed decorated interior with five rooms. Comes complete with furniture for sitting room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and a working lift! Big enough for several Barbie dolls to live in! Available from Mini Marvellous