Magnetix
by: Amy ParsonsThe Magnetix toys are an interesting twist on creative building toys that rev up a childÂ’s imagination. Children use little metal balls to stick pieces together to create buildings, shapes, people - anything they can think of to get the fun started. The kit comes with a booklet with ideas, but the possibilities are endless.
What Parents Need to Know:
Magnetix toys are itty bitty in size and therefore they absolutely are NOT for small children. The ideal starting age, as recommended on the box, is eight. By that age, children no longer put toys in their mouths and they seem to understand the concept of choking. Parents of toddlers need to avoid this toy until their children are older.
The Bottom Line:
My 10-year-old and two 8-year-olds loved the Magnetix toys. We had a rainy summer day with a lot of time to kill, and the Magnetix kept them happy and occupied for hours. They copied examples from the booklet and created their own designs. There wasnÂ’t even any bickering between them, which is miraculous in my home. They loved the freedom of using their imagination, both to build something and then to play with it. My only complaint is what to do with the pieces once children are finished playing with it. You have to have some sort of container in which to put them, otherwise you will lose half of the pieces on the first day.
The Scoop:
The great thing about Magnetix is that you give children the toy and let them have at it. Minimal parental supervision is required until it gets time for clean-up. Because the pieces are small, parents will need to help find appropriate storage. Fortunately, because the pieces are magnetic, if you find one, you can use it to get others to stick to it. Children who like to put toys in their mouths should not come near Magnetix because this toy is one big choking hazard. If your child enjoys building and creating, Magnetix is a great toy to have.
