Learning Can Be Fun with Educational Toys!

The concept of "educational" or "instructive" or "creative" toys is not new. Indeed, it can be traced back at least as far as 1693 when philosopher John Locke put forth the idea of "alphabet blocks" and other means of enhancing children's enjoyment of learning. And in 1766, British cartographer John Spilsbury invented the "dissected map" (first jigsaw puzzle) as a tool for teaching geography. But at no time in history has there been more playthings specifically designed for a child's education and development than we find today. Which is good news for you! There are still blocks and puzzles, but there's a lot more to choose from now from companies such as Fisher-Price, Melissa & Doug, and DK Publishing. Take a look at our selection below and give the gifts of knowledge and competence to some little person you know. It doesn't get any better than that!