Wired Picks Brain-Boosting Toys for Kids of All Ages

Toys That Challenge Kids' Minds and Bodies

Wired has selected a range of toys designed to help children understand the boundaries of their knowledge and how to transcend them. The collection includes musical, technological, and physical challenges.

Music and Technology

The Orbita MIDI Color Sequencer is a spinning sequencer where colored magnets on four concentric rings control MIDI loops. Connect it to a smartphone or computer to create music. Price: $458.

Lego's Smart Play System with Pokémon themes combines programmable NFC tags and smart bricks that work without screens. Kits include Pikachu's Training House and Charizard-Jolteon battle set. Prices start at $70.

The Looi Robot snaps a smartphone onto a tank-like body, turning it into an interactive robot with a ChatGPT-powered face and personality. Price: $239.

Physical Skills

Stapelstein Rainbow Set—stackable and walkable 11-inch tiles for balance training. Price: $299.

KidzLane Electronic Dance Mat—a Bluetooth mat with built-in speakers that lights up to guide kids' steps. Price: $19.

Woom Wow Balance Bike—a self-centering, self-balancing bike for children as young as 9 months. Price: $199.

Creativity and Languages

Kibu Headphones require kids to snap together parts before listening, with a volume limit of 85 dB. Price: $73.

Dex Camera—takes a photo, identifies the object, and teaches the word in 16 languages. Price: $249.

Other toys include the UNO Canvas x MoMA card game, Timex Dinosaur watch, Blipblox synthesizer, and the HoverAir Aqua drone that can take off and land on water. Prices range from $19 to $1,299.

These toys encourage kids to think outside the box and learn through play.