Long yom tov afternoons are the perfect time for beating up siblings – or bonding with them!! Having the right non-electronic toys (read: not muktzah) can sometimes be the key to a few moments of quiet while you sit down and read a good book, and unwind from all of your holiday prep. Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links.
26 Highly Entertaining Non-Electronic Toys for Kids of All Ages:
Granted, we all have some LEGO stashed away (and if you don’t – go get some NOW!!) But if you need to switch it up a bit, getting a couple of new non-electronic toys special for the holidays can keep things fresh and more entertaining for your littles.
I DID divide this list up by age bracket, but make sure you know what your child is up to, and check the age suggestion on the package.
This list is NOT a halachic endorsement – if you are concerned with whether or not you may play it on Yom Tov, consult with your halachic expert (not me!). I know some people are concerned with building and STEM type toys, especially for older children, so verify first if those work for you.
7 Non-Electronic Toys for Toddlers (~1-3):
At this age it’s really easy to entertain without electronics. Never underestimate the power of a set of stacking cups, a play kitchen, or anything pretend!
2. Peg puzzles
3. Dress up boxes are perfect for slightly older toddlers – and a great way to teach them to dress themselves!
4. My first ball track – spans a huge age range and is a great option for families with multiple age children.
5. Pretend food – or anything pretend really!
7. Ball Pit and balls
9 Non-electronic Toys for Little kids (~4-6):
You’ll want to transition more into highly-entertaining construction toys, and things that are a bit more involved. Of course, having a friend along makes anything more entertaining, but if you’re trying to nap and want some quiet time, here are some great options!
2. Playmobil – get a set within your child’s interest range! We have a playground and fire truck – but the fire truck is electronic. So make sure that the one you pick is NOT.
4. Magformers – we have these over magnatiles, and it’s a great change for M! He gets to play with Magnatiles at preschool and friends houses, so it’s nice to have something different at home.
5. Wood and Straw construction toy
6. Pipe Builders – M has been playing with these for ages and doesn’t tire of them. During the week, you can reuse them for water play too.
8. Hot-wheels play extension – if your child loves playing with matchbox cars, why not add to the play factor?
9. Little kid Twister – they’ll need some supervision for this one, but it provides so much fun!
10 Non-electronic Toys and games for Big Kids (~7/8+):
Older kids may be the hardest to buy for. If they still go for building toys – you’re in luck. You can refer to the list above for some great ideas, or check out a few new suggestions below.
Otherwise, games are the way to go. The games featured below were chosen for entertainment factor and age level. I also tried to choose a few that are a bit more “toy-ish” for kids who aren’t into games. You can also refer to your favorite board games for everyone else…
2. X-Bar by ClickBlock – we have this unique magnet toy and it’s so much fun!
5. Game Night in a Can – This “family game kit” has cards with different mini games on them. Some games WILL require drawing but there are so many, you’ll definitely find something to play that’s appropriate for Yom Tov or Shabbos.
6. Jenga – for higher maintenance kids, go for the Giant version.
7. Brackitz – this is labeled for younger kids, but it’s a bit hard to insert the wooden bars into the slots, making it the perfect challenge for big kids!
10. Rush Hour Shift – because how cool is this 2-player take on a favorite game?!
What are your favorite non-electronic toys that your kids can play with for hours? How do you keep kids occupied on long Yom Tov afternoons? Comment below!