SMART toys

As a chic mama, I like to keep things simple and to the point. Turn toys into a learning experience and make the most out of your children's playtime. Here are some toys that exercise the brain:

Brick By Brick

Brick By Brick by ThinkFun: These brick-shaped pieces offer hours of fun as kids - as well as parents! - piece them together to create the patterns in the included booklet. Each piece is comprised of different numbers of bricks, making it a challenge to complete all the patterns. There are five pieces total, with 60 brick wall challenges to build. Also includes a travel bag so it's great to take on the road! Get their brains stimulated! GET THEM HERE!

Unifix Cubes

Unifix Cubes by Didax: Interlocking, colored cubes encourage number and math concepts. Even though the packaging says this toy is intended for ages 4+, it is great for young toddlers to learn counting and colors (just be sure to supervise as they can still be a choking hazard for little ones). Buy the pack of 100 cubes in 10 colors for under $13, and you've got a great starter set. Also includes a booklet with patterns to follow by color and number. GET THEM HERE!

Geofix

Geofix by Didax: Learn three-dimensional shapes and geometry with simple shapes. Great for the bigger kids, and they also make mini Geofix sets for the smaller hands. GET THEM HERE!