The Best Light-Up Toys For Kids

Buying Guide

No matter how big kids get, there is something alluring about playing with light-up toys. Whether it’s something simple like a car with light-up wheels or a complex drawing board using light, these types of toys are visually stimulating and engaging — and they’re often preferred over toys that don’t light up.

There are many different types of light-up toys to choose from. In some toys, the lights serve a functional purpose and add to the essence of the toy. For example, in a magic light-up ball  on a wand, the lights are an integral part of the toy. Without the lights, the toy just wouldn’t work. In other types of toys, the lights play a secondary role. For example, with monster truck toys that have light-up wheels, the toy still functions well without the lights, but the lights add an element of excitement to the toy.

One of the most important things parents consider when buying light-up toys for kids is whether the toy is educational, for entertainment or a bit of both — and how it fits in with the interests of the child. For example, light-up drawing boards have an educational component, as kids can work on their art skills, though they still provide entertainment as well. Some toys, like light-up wands, are more entertainment-focused than educational.

It’s not about whether educational toys are better than toys for entertainment, it’s about what is right for your child. After all, kids can make almost anything educational or entertaining — even a cardboard box. Consider what kinds of interests your child has and how the toy can further them.

• When deciding on a light-up toy for kids, consider their age group and whether the toy is appropriately interesting for them. In addition to considering the child’s age at the moment, also think about whether the toy will still interest them a year from now, or even further in the future. If the toy can grow with your child, they will be able to play with it in different ways for years. For example, a light-up doodle board would be a great toy for kids in preschool and it will continue to hold the interest of kids in grade school.
• Light-up toys that are versatile are a good idea, especially if you are short on toy storage space or prefer to live a more minimalist lifestyle. Some toys, such as a light-up tablet or a light-up peg board game, can be used in numerous ways. Kids can use the tablet for drawing or for practicing their letters, and the peg board can be used to create images or patterns. With this kind of versatility, kids will rarely get tired of playing with these types of toys.
• One of the most important features to look for in any toy is whether it can be enjoyed by kids and grown-ups together. These types of toys provide an opportunity to bond with family and friends, work on social skills and communication skills and get to know one another better. For example, light-up cars can be fun for people of any age to race in a dark hallway.