With so many toys on the market, how do you make sure that your child is having constructive fun? The following toys promote learning and will be sure to keep the kids busy for hours.

1. Legos. Legos and other building blocks are classic educational toys for kids. It teaches them to build structures and nurtures an interest in drafting and architecture. For older kids that are even more interested in building, try the Kinetix toys. They even come with motor powered pieces that move the structures around.

2. A Magnifying Glass. Something as simple as a magnifying glass can encourage your child to explore their surroundings. They’ll stay busy getting a new perspective on everyday objects. The best part of this toy, it’s super inexpensive! You can get one at a local dollar store.

3. Rocket Stomper. Another inexpensive toy is a rocket stomper. These foam foot powered rockets will teach the kiddos all about gravity. They’ll learn that the harder they stomp, the further the rocket soars.

4. A DIY kit from a craft store. The craft store is an underrated place to find things for the kids to do. There is an entire section of the craft store that is full of super fun DIYs for kids. Whether it’s a fossil dig kit, or a jewelry making kit, this kind of thing is great for teaching kids to create something on their own.

5. Kinetic Sand. Kinetic sand is a wonderful toy for kids of all ages; it brings the beach indoors, without the mess. They can build sandcastles for hours while you can rest easy knowing that it’s very easy to clean up.

6. Build a Terrarium. Building a terrarium is a little more suited for older children. Help your kids foster their green thumb with this very cool and scientific process of creating an ecosystem for a tiny plant.

7. Magnetic Refrigerator Letters. Refrigerator letters are such an underrated toy! Help your kids learn spelling and reading by arranging the letters into little notes for the rest of the family to see.

8. Sidewalk chalk. Another really great underused toy is sidewalk chalk! Show the neighborhood how imaginative your children are. Maybe even put on a mini sidewalk art show. This cultivates your children’s artistic side, which is a very important part of learning as well.

It’s hard to find toys that can keep your little ones busy, that you also feel comfortable letting them play for long periods. These sure-fire activities will keep them learning and away from the screens for a while.