Wooden toys are a classic addition to any child's collection, but we found seven contemporary, colorful options that go way beyond your everyday building blocks. From The Land of Nod's animal-tastic beanbag toss to Melissa & Doug's stackable owl — with modern blocks, puzzles, and imaginary play toys in between — these toys will inspire your little ones and make you feel a bit better about the mounds of plastic you've accumulated! Keep clicking to find your favorite.
Chunk pieces are perfect for small fingers. Some youngsters are interested in puzzles, but have a hard time putting them together. Melissa & Doug offers a line of chunky puzzles ($8) specifically designed for wee ones that feature shaped blocks instead of flat cutouts to fit the molds. The raised wooden parts are easy to grab and lay on the board. After getting frustrated with the more traditional version of wooden puzzles, my 18-month-old son received one of these as a gift and has just enough patience to put it together. Available in many colorful themes from shapes to the alphabet to an animal farm and safari, there's one for every tot.
