Working from home with a small child comes with many challenges. Everyday I have to come up with new ways to entertain my daughter so I can get through my work day. Sure, I could easily hand her a tablet and call it a day, but I try not to. Here are some cool and engaging toys sure to keep your child entertained.

Clixo Flexible Magnetic Play

I just recently discovered Clixo toys and they quickly became a favorite. Clixo toys are a combination of magnetic play and origami. Each piece is as flexible as paper and they effortlessly connect with each other. The magnetic tips also have a gear-like system that allows each piece to move individually. This is one of the few mess free engaging toys that can successfully keep my daughter, 4 years old, entertained for hours! And when we first got the toy we all sat around clicking pieces together until bedtime. True story.

Get Building with Magnet Tiles

Magnetic tiles are another go to STEAM toy in our home. My 4 year old loves making little houses and cars out of them. As long as she has her box of magnet tiles and a couple of dolls she’s a happy camper. She builds houses in many different shapes and makes little cars for her dolls to ride around in. Though to be honest, they look more like little coffins on wheels.

Creative & Entertaining Marble Run

A few years ago a friend gifted my daughters a marble run. I can honestly say that this STEAM toy is engaging for both kids and grown ups. We will gladly sit down with the kids to build cool marble run paths. The more windmills, jumps, and turns the marble has to go through the better!

Cute & Engaging Flower Building Toy

This flower building toy might be for slightly younger kids around 2-3 years old. However, my four year old still finds this toy to be engaging. She loves creating different color combinations of flowers and handing them to whoever is near her. This toy also come in a cute case so I don’t mind if the case stays out in the living room! #bonuspoints

Mess Free Dot Painting

Last but not least, is dot painting! I discovered these neat little paints thanks to my daughter’s lovely pre-school teacher. I love to paint and craft on my downtime, which resulted in my kids loving this activity too. Unfortunately, I don’t always have the time or energy to set up and clean up paints and paper for my youngest. Especially not now that I work a full time corporate job. These dot paints are perfect for her to get her craft on while I work. And I don’t have to worry about cleaning up after!

Since I started working having engaging toys for my daughter has become a priority. She is only four years old so helpful toys for cognitive development are super important. I don’t always have time to sit down and play with her so any alone play that is both engaging and educational is a must in a my house. I hope you find these toy rec’s helpful for your busy families! If you have any cool engaging toys for kids please let us know and share them in the comments below!

Thanks for reading <3