Activity cubes are fun, multidimensional toys that are engaging for toddlers. Featuring four or more different surfaces that have buttons, levers, sliders, beads and more, activity cubes offer myriad ways to improve your child’s fine motor skills.
Because activity cubes come with such a wide variety of things to touch and try, they can provide a significant amount of entertainment for your growing child. These toys are perfect for your toy room or family room and are best for children between one and three years old. If you are looking for a fun activity cube for your toddler, you might try the beautifully designed Battat Wooden Activity Cube, which offers five sides of colorful activities.
AdvertisementSome activity cubes are large, sturdy and somewhat heavy stationary objects, while others are small and easy to move around or travel with. If you're looking for a toy to add to your toy room that can be a semi-permanent feature, you may consider a sizable activity cube that your child can enjoy in that room. However, if you are looking for a toy for a toddler that can be easily moved around the house or taken with you on vacation, you might want to purchase a smaller, lighter-weight activity cube. The smaller the activity cube, the less features it will have; however, smaller activity cubes will usually cost less money.
Not all activity cubes feature the same activities for your child. Some children may really like to slide beads around, while others may have fun flipping things, opening doors and pressing buttons. Determining which activities your child tends to prefer will help you narrow down which activity cube is right for your child.
AdvertisementActivity cubes are made primarily of two different materials: wood and plastic. Wood activity cubes give off more of a classic aesthetic and may hold up better over time. On the other hand, plastic activity cubes might have more functionality (such as lights and sounds) and be easier to wipe clean with a damp towel. Which type you choose largely comes down to your personal preference.
If your child enjoys toys that light up, you may want to invest in an activity cube with lights. Some activity cubes feature flashing lights that can be activated with buttons or levers to add a visually stimulating element to the activity cube. Just make sure to keep extra batteries on hand for your activity cube.
There are activity cubes available that come in unique, fun shapes for toddlers, such as trees or elephants. If your toddler shows a particular liking for a specific animal or object, you may search for an activity cube that is shaped like, or at least features, that animal, as this may keep your child engaged with the activity cube for longer.
Interactive sounds, although sometimes unpleasant for adults, can be fun and entertaining for toddlers. Some activity cubes feature sounds, such as songs, sayings or simply beeps or other noises, to keep your child engaged with the toy.
An activity cube can cost anywhere from $25-$100, depending on the material and features you choose.
A. Activity cubes are most engaging for older babies and toddlers. Many manufacturers suggest that their activity cubes are for children between 12 and 36 months old.
A. You can clean or disinfect your activity cube by wiping it clean with a wet towel or paper towel. You can even wipe it down with a disinfectant wipe. However, be sure to read the care instructions that come with your particular activity cube.
Battat Wooden Activity Cube: available at Amazon
Our take: This five-sided wooden activity cube features a farm theme to delight your toddler.
What we like: Featuring doors you can open, beads you can slide, boards you can flip and more, this wooden activity cube will be engaging for your toddler as it helps them improve their fine motor skills.
What we dislike: This activity cube may not be as engaging as others for older toddlers.
VTech Busy Learners Activity Cube: available at Amazon and Buy Buy Baby
Our take: Small and lightweight, this activity cube features lights and sounds to engage your child.
What we like: Available in two different color schemes, this model features five sides of engaging play for your toddler. This activity cube includes 25 different sing-along songs and melodies.
What we dislike: Because this activity cube makes so much noise, some may find it annoying or bothersome.
EverEarth Garden Activity Cube: available at Amazon and Buy Buy Baby
Our take: This environmentally friendly and sustainably made activity cube features seven play areas.
What we like: Playful graphics and quality craftsmanship make this activity cube a fun, durable toy for your toddler to engage with. The hexagonal shape makes it less likely to tip over if your child pulls on it.
What we dislike: This activity cube is significantly more expensive than other, similar products.
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Stephanie Jarrett is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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