Four-year-olds love to play, but moms want toys that will teach them and keep them entertained. So what are the best toys for preschool children? Fantastic toys that are fun, engaging, and innovative for bright little minds.
We have found the best toys and gifts for 4-year-old boys. This kid-approved list will save you hours and hours as all the research has been done and you just need to pick the best off the list for your child. Heck, pick as many as you want!
| The Best Gifts for 4-Year-Old Boys | Why It's Best | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Hape Quadrilla Wooden Marble Run | Made from wood so it lasts longer; create a marble maze that's different each time | ♥♥♥♥♥ |
| Shifu Orboot Interactive Globe | Educational toy; interactive way to learn about places and cultures | ♥♥♥♥♥ |
| Educational Insights Design & Drill Activity Center | Teaches STEM and fine motor skills; fun drill and colors/patterns | ♥♥♥♥♥ |
| Jasonwell 108pcs Magnetic Tile Building Blocks Set | Colorful and fun; lots of building possibilities; sneaky STEM learning | ♥♥♥♥♥ |
| Monster Jam Official Mega Grave Digger All-Terrain Remote Control Monster Truck | Huge RC truck; easy to operate; great for all vehicle lovers | ♥♥♥♥♥ |
Best Toys and Gifts That Every 4-Year-Old Boy Needs
Hape Quadrilla Wooden Marble Run
Summary
The Hape Quadrilla Wooden Marble Run is the best most fun wooden toy ever. Even full grown adults will want to invent fun patterns and roll the marbles down the shoot. The construction is solid. When your kid is done, put this toy in the attic for grandkids.
In addition to a fun construction toy, this marble run will teach cause and effect along with patience and a little work. A great toy for 4 year old boys, especially when friends are over. However, you may want to make sure to be in the room as some four-year-old still think marbles are fun and look like candy. As a rule, make sure a parent is around for supervision.
Up Side
- 134 pieces
- Solid wood building set
- Educational – teaches shapes, colors, focus, logic, and spatial thinking
- Solid Wood – not the marbles
Down Side
- The German name boosts the price
- Keeping the construction together can be a chore
Why You Should Buy
Lastly, buy this toy because of its unique nature. Most toys are filled with buttons, screens, and cartoon characters but not this toy. A good battery-free toy for everyone in the house.
Need more marble run ideas? We’ve got the ultimate list here.
Shifu Orboot: Augmented Reality Based Globe
Summary
The Shifu Orboot: Augmented Reality Based Globe will teach your boy about the world in a fun and interactive way with lots of colors and app play. Of course, This globe requires a device to scan the globe and learn new and interesting facts all for a decent price.
Beyond the app, this globe will show your children the world without stepping out of the house. Furthermore, they will learn interesting facts about other cultures and their countries. Finally, interest in countries now will encourage a well-rounded world traveler in the future.
Up Side
- Fun app that integrates with the globe
- Education STEM toy teaches about the world and other cultures
- Also teaches about monuments, weather, animals, and inventions
- Fun pictures
Down Side
- Does require an app which can be frustrating for parents
- The map has no words – not even country names
Why You Should Buy
To summarize, some day you are going to want to take a trip outside of America. Maybe you will want to go to Asia or Australia. With this globe, your boy will know about the difference and be excited to explore different cultures. Bring on the world!
Educational Insights Design & Drill Activity Center
Summary
Educational Insights Design & Drill Activity Center looks a toy for a Montessori classroom, which is exactly why your son will love this toy in his playroom (maybe the kitchen is a better spot as this toy requires supervision and has lots of pieces). Every classroom has that one beloved toy every kid fights over and this maybe the fought over toy. No more fighting when the toy for 4-year-olds is at home!
Besides being a fun toy, this drill kit is a STEM toy, which means your little guy will be learning while play. He will enjoy building with endless possibilities but also some guided cards to prevent the toy and many pieces from overwhelming his developing mind.
Up Side
- Great building toy with many options
- STEM toy teaches beginning engineer concepts
- Comes with a reversible drill, 120 chunky plastic bolts, a wrench, drill bits, and activity cards
- Promotes hand-eye coordination, patterns, and problem-solving along with creativity
Down Side
- The drill requires 3 AA batteries which are not included
- Some people had problems with the drill being defective
Why You Should Buy
Buy this toy for your 4-year-old boy because it’s the fun toy from the classroom your kid can play with any time he wants.
Jasonwell Magnetic Tile Building Blocks Set
Summary
The Jasonwell Magnetic Tile Building Blocks Set provide hours of fun with these fantastic blocks held together by the power of magnets. The best part of this toy is children will love them past the age of four and will be the most fought-over toy when friends come over.
Similarly, a great toy for siblings and maybe, just maybe, they will get along for a few minutes out of the day. Even parents may enjoy building castles or cars with magnetic blocks. Did we have toys for 4-year-old boys that were this cool when we were kids? Finally, STEM toys are always options to advocate education.
Up Side
- Fun toy with endless imaginative options
- 98 Piece set
- Stem Toy
- Bright colors and multiple shapes
- Teaches patterns, focus, logic, and building
Down Side
- More filler pieces than a stand-alone set
Why You Should Buy
Four-year-olds love building and turning the images in their head into reality. Magnetic blocks are an amusing way to implement designs.
Monster Jam Mega Grave Digger RC
Summary
Forget socks or blankets or boring gifts. Get the Monster Jam Mega Grave Digger RC that’s as big and tough as your 4-year-old boy! This RC car is easy to operate, so it won’t overwhelm your preschooler. Plus, the 1:6 scale means that it’s 2 feet long, which is HUGE! Ask any little boy- bigger is definitely better when it comes to monster trucks!
Up Side
- 2.4Ghz remote has an easy-to-use joystick
- Works from up to 250 feet away
- USB charging cable
- Massive size
- Realistic details on a real Monster Jam toy
Down Side
- Goes super fast, which means it can really get away from little ones
- Learning curve for handling this monster truck
- 2 AA batteries not included
Why You Should Buy
If you want a big, impressive gift, then this is totally it! This big monster truck is fun to drive around and it is guaranteed to have your little guy shouting things like “YESSSSS!!!” and “AWESOME!!!” and “LOOOOK OUUUUT!”
163 Piece STEM Toys Kit
Summary
This 163 Piece STEM Toys Kit has lots of pieces but is a great toy for parent-child bonding. One of the pros is supposed to be is this kit comes with 75% more pieces than other brands, which translates to 75% more pieces you have to pick up if you do not sit down at the table with your boy while he plays with this toy.
Do not let the mess deter you, kids can make a mess out of anything. This is a STEM toy for 4-year-olds, so it has both fun and learning. Your little guy’s brain will work overtime creating robots, cars, and helicopter with this screw-together engineer kit. Likewise, the brightly colored set will appeal to older siblings too or friends.
Up Side
- STEM building toy
- Tons of ways to play and so many things to build
- 75% more pieces than other sets
- Encourages engineering, imagination, logic, and beginning math skills
- comes with a guide with 42 designs
- Great group activity
- Comes with screws, screwdriver, all the building parts, and storage container
Down Side
- Pieces are quite small
- The storage container is flimsy
- The guide does not include step-by-step instructions
Why You Should Buy
Why do our lists include so many construction toys like this one? Because building toys promote learning in several ways. Similarly, building toys promote a strong imagination to help kids become the future with a world of possibilities.
National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Why
Summary
While still on the topic of books, here is an exceptional learning book with a four-year-olds favorite word: Why! National Geographic’s Little Kids First Big Book of Why will answer many of the bizzaro questions kids ask that most parents don’t remember or don’t know.
National Geographic is known for writing engrossing books for kids while teaching scientific facts. Now, they have a book for little kids. Not many, but some four-year-olds can read or sound out letters and why not let them practice on an educational book. Finally, the photography in this book will spark a fire for beauty and the world.
Up Side
- Written for preschoolers
- Great for bonding and learning
- Interactive book with a question-and-answer format
- Answers tons of questions parents don’t know the answer to
- Tons of engaging photographs
- 128 pages meant for preschool to second grade
- A wide range of topics
Down Side
- Information does not go into depth and is a little weak for inquisitive minds.
Why You Should Buy
You will want this book because four-year-olds ask on average 500 questions a day (serious!) and this book may be able to answer some of the questions for you.
Build Your Own Car Kit by ThinkGizmos
Summary
Still on the car theme, consider buying the Build Your Own Racing Car Kit by ThinkGizmos for the little car lover in your life. Many boys not only love spinning wheels and taking toys apart. For the boy who attempts to take apart the toaster or understand the inner workings of his scooter, this toy is a win.
A great STEM toy to encourage understanding the innards of a car without dealing with oil or other messy car bits. Your boy can take off each piece of the car before putting it back together again. Mind you, this may encourage boys to enjoy some quality father-son bonding time working on daddy’s big boy car.
Up Side
- STEM toy encourages understanding of how cars work and go together
- Includes 30 parts, engine battery, and a drill battery
- Realistic sounds and lights
- Improves fine motor skills and cognition
Down Side
- Great concept but not the best follow through. Cheaper plastic like most toys nowadays.
- Difficult for some kids to install without help
Why You Should Buy
For the boy obsessed with taking toys or other items apart, buy a toy meant to come apart. They will love the powerful feeling of putting a car together. If they love this, check out our best model car kits list. A great bonding toy for dads and sons.
Toy Truck Transporter
Summary
Some boys view cars a just a method of getting from point A to point B, other boys equate spinning wheels with happiness. If your boy is the latter then he needs this Toy Truck Transporter to store all of his vehicles. Mom, you no longer need to slip on a car in the hallway if you turn storing cars in this carrier a game for your favorite guy. Your boy can feel like Jay Leno with storage space for 28 cars.
Beyond storage space, the carrier looks a like a truck ready to carry all the cars to the racetrack for the next big race. The cab detaches for easy turn or so your son can play with the giant truck too. Not to mention, this truck is fierce with a black body and bright red flames to appeal to all car lovers.
Up Side
- The carrier includes 6 racing cars, construction signs, cones, and roadblocks
- Slots for 28 cars – 14 on each side of the truck with a clear plastic cover for visibility
- 20 inches long and 7 inches wide
- Fun design with flames
- Great storage to keep toys off the floor
Down Side
- Expensive price for limited quality – on the flimsy side – better for storage and decor than to play with.
- The flames are stickers which of course boys will peel off
Why You Should Buy
Boys own so many toy cars why not display them in style with a fun carrier truck? This best gift for boys is a great way to encourage organization and the benefits of organization.
Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Talking Microscope
Summary
Your 4-year-old probably asks you a lot of questions like “mom, do bees eat flowers?” or “hey mom, why do I have teeth that are flat and not sharp like a dinosaur’s?” The Educational Insights GeoSafari Jr. Talking Microscope can help ward off some of these questions by answering them before your preschooler can think them up! With a classic microscope design, the slides are narrated by Bindi Irwin and go over 100 different facts and questions about all things nature.
Up Side
- Preschooler-sized microscope with durable and safe parts
- 20 different slides with 3 images each
- Can play in fact mode or quiz mode
- Audio available in different languages
- Built-in storage for slides
- Adjustable volume
Down Side
- Can’t use real microscope slides to view other things
- 3 AAA batteries not included
Why You Should Buy
If your kiddo loves learning and nature, this is a great starter science set. Think of it as an image viewer more than an actual microscope, and it’s a lot of fun. This is great for independent STEM play.
Toy Rocket Launcher
Summary
Notice how the majority of toys on this list do not make noise? Moms do not like noisy toys and as a result, our list has only the best noisy toys. The rest can stay on the shelf while you purchase the Toy Rocket Launcher. A great outside toy with no noise except the cheers and whoops from your son and all of his friends.
While the price is certainly a plus, this toy for 4-year-olds will make everyone in the house happy as they stomp on a paddle to shoot a foam rocket high into the sky. Dads will fight your four-year-old for a chance to shoot a rocket. For that reason, you may want to wait for a weekend to pull the rockets out and line up the family to see who can launch the rocket the highest.
Up Side
- No batteries
- includes a launcher and base along with six colorful rockets
- Made of lightweight foam for more distance
- Easy to assemble
- Great group activity for outside play
- BPA and lead-free
- Great launch power up to 100 feet high!
- Learning toy teaches cause and effect
Down Side
- The toy needs a lot of adjustments
- Not the sturdiest toy – but foam rarely is sturdy
Why You Should Buy
Toys that take boys outside are the best kind. Consequently, this toy will get grown-up boys outside too for a taste of power as most boys dream of launching rockets into space.
Tiny Captain Dinosaur Socks 4-7 Year Old Boys
Summary
Most boys have little interest in socks but add a few dinosaurs and he may just but these Tiny Captain Dinosaur Socks on without help. Encourage your son to dress himself with adorable socks. These easy to pull on socks will have him growling as he covers his foot.
Up Side
- A five pack of dinosaur themed socks
- Multiple patterns and colors
- Crew cut
- Will fit for a couple of years or at least until the left sock disappears in the dryer
Down Side
- Maybe on the large size for smaller boys
Why You Should Buy
Cute socks will prompt your little guy to dress himself. Not to mention, adorable socks ready to spur on his imagination and help him stomp through the prehistoric age. Overall, a reliable gift for 4-year-old boys.
Paw Patrol My Size Lookout Tower
Summary
Nothing will make his eyes grow big quite like a toy as big as he is. The Paw Patrol My Size Lookout Tower is seriously cool. There’s a place or each of the beloved pups, plus lights, sounds, and a rotating periscope.
His imaginative play is about to be kicked up a notch, because the Paw Patrol adventures are gonna get bigger and better!
Up Side
- Just over 2.5 feet tall
- Lights and sounds on the top
- Spot for each of the 6 original Paw Patrol pups
- Comes with exclusive Chase vehicle, figurine, and 2 pup packs
- Also comes with a Marshall figure with 2 pup packs
- Periscope on the top actually rotates
- Storage spot in tower for pup packs
Down Side
- Assembly required
- Expensive
- Original pups, not the fancy newer ones
Why You Should Buy
Paw Patrol has remained a favorite or preschoolers everywhere. This giant toy is sure to become the center of his adventures. And we know your kiddo is probably a pup fanatic, so check out the best Paw Patrol toys if you need some vehicles or figurines to go with this!
Little Dove Wooden Balance Board
Summary
Find a pair of grip socks for your little man and prepare him to learn to balance with the Little Dove Wooden Balance Board. Balance is a fabulous skill but going outside to practice on the bike can be a difficult feat to maneuver every day, so now he can practice inside.
Subsequently, balancing helps to improve gross motor skills along with concentration. Secondly, a balance board is a great group activity. Pull out the balance board as a party game to encourage spending energy!
Up Side
- Teaches balancing, coordination, and gross motor skills
- Kids will love attempting to keep the monkey from touching the floor.
- Great group play toy for lots of laughs and healthy competition
- Wood Construction
- No assembly required
- Large size
Down Side
- Expensive
- Can scratch floors – use on carpet recommended
Why You Should Buy
Balance is a necessary skill for children to learn but above all, this balance board will encourage concentration and determination two skills kids have issues with. Try and make it a game. If your son can keep the monkey from touching the floor he gets a treat. Can I get in on this deal? I like Snickers.
Oh Say Can You Say Di-no-saur?: All About Dinosaurs
Summary
Cat in the Hat books like Oh Say Can You Say Di-no-saur?: All About Dinosaurs engage children with captivating rhymes and silly stories. For generations, Dr. Seuss has enchanted the world with his winsome characters and drawings. Now you can continue sharing the joy of Dr. Seuss with the next generation.
Up Side
- Teaches about museums and dinosaurs
- Promotes reading
- Cat in the Hat book
- First reader book
- 48 pages perfect for a bedtime story
Down Side
- Not quite the original Dr. Seuss
Why You Should Buy
Rhyming books help to encourage cadence while reading, which of course makes reading more fun and promotes a lifetime love of reading. Also, this gift is great for bonding at bedtime. Here are many more book ideas for 4-year-old boys.
Fat Brain Toys Squigz
Summary
I know, I know… you are looking at this container of small-ish pieces and thinking that it’s a mess waiting to happen! But Squigz are ridiculously fun. They stick together, so at least the mess is concentrated! And if you have a little guy that likes to build, but is over regular blocks, then the STEM-friendly Squigz are sure to inspire his creativity.
Up Side
- Stick to any flat, smooth surface
- Suction pieces stick to each other
- Can combine sets
- 8 different shapes and colors
- Dishwasher safe
- Use in the tub for water fun
- Won’t leave marks on furniture
Down Side
- Silicone is safe, but can tear
- A bit expensive for fancy suction cups
Why You Should Buy
This toy is unique and fun. Build towers, spell out their name on a window, make a bridge from one side of the tub to the other… the fun is endless!
Lego Juniors Jurassic World Raptor Rescue Truck
Summary
Cool truck? Check. Dinosaur? Check. Legos? Check. The Lego Juniors Jurassic World Raptor Rescue Truck is everything little boys dream of. The raptor is fully posable and can chomp down on the chicken drumstick. The Resuce truck has a locking gate and off-road tires. And fans of the newer Jurassic World movies will love that Owen comes with, in case the raptor gets out of hand.
Up Side
- Easy-to-build Lego set
- Trucks and dinosaurs from the Jurassic World movie
- Great imagination play set
- Teaches how to follow instructions
- Compatible with all standard Legos
Down Side
- Could be too complicated for a novice builder
- A bit expensive (but then again, all Lego sets are!)
Why You Should Buy
The Jurassic World Raptor Resuce Truck from Lego Juniors has the perfect combination of awesomeness and educational value. It’s also a great bridge between Lego Duplo sets, which can be too easy for a clever 4-year-old, and regular Lego sets, which can be too challenging. With 85 pieces and an age range of 4 to 7, it should be just about right for a preschooler.
Hot Wheels City Ultimate Garage
Summary
Let me guess- your kiddo has about 100 Hot Wheels and Matchbox cars that are taking over your house. Get the Hot Wheels City Ultimate Garage and get them all corralled into one spot. This 4 level garage can hold over 90 cars. It also has a shark attack loop and an elevator. The racing lanes make it a great toy for playing with family or friends.
Up Side
- Great storage spot for cars
- Launch cars, race them, and avoid the shark’s jaws!
- Elevator doesn’t require batteries
- Places to repair and refuel cars for imaginative play
- Connects to other Hot Wheels City sets
Down Side
- Takes up a ton of space (it’s 17 x 30 x 25 inches)
- The little plastic parts can break over time
Why You Should Buy
This is a large gift with a lot to offer! Besides being convenient storage for all those little Hot Wheels and Matchbox cars, this huge set will provide a place to play for hours and hours.
Melissa & Doug Alphabet Wooden Lacing Cards
Summary
Melissa and Doug’s Alphabet Wooden Lacing Cards will teach your child how to weave lace into fun animal shapes with letters. This will help your little love-bug prepare to tie their own shoes while learning the alphabet.
Children will think they are very important as they had lace details to the animals, fruits, and cars while learning their letters with fun shapes. Lacing is a necessary skill to improve hand and eye coordination not to mention, make leaving the house easier when your kid can tie their own shoes. Last, the fun letters will help to associate with the shape.
Up Side
- Wood construction
- Storage included
- Learning toy to help with hand-eye coordination and tying shoes
- Teaches letters and animals
- Uppercase and lower case
- Great for vocabulary and fine motor skills
Down Side
- A little expensive
- No lid for the storage container
Why You Should Buy
While learning is a fabulous reason to buy this toy for 4 year olds, kids will love this beginner lacing toy to empower him to tie his own shoes.
Delta Children PAW Patrol Desk With Storage Bin
Summary
Your son may not be ready for kindergarten but with preschool well under way he will want to practice being a student and what better way than with theDelta Children PAW Patrol Desk With Storage Bin? Underneath the seat is a spot to store his crayons, pencils, papers, and coloring books while the front sports a built-in desktop to let him feel like he is at school all day long.
Buy this chair desk to encourage learning at school. For now, he has an interest but soon his interest will wane. Not to mention, the bright colorful design will draw his attention as he probably loves the Paw Patrol show and all the cute pups. As the desk only goes up to 50 lbs, the desk will only work to about second grade if you are lucky, but he will love furniture the right size of him!
Up Side
- Kid-sized chair with built-in desk and storage
- Bright colors and Paw Patrol design
- Holds up to 50 lbs
- Made of sturdy engineered wood to keep cost down
- Removable cup holder for crayon or other supplies
- Made specifically for 3-6-year-olds
- Meets all safety standard from CPSC
- Sits low to the ground for easy access for tiny legs
- Scratch resistant
Down Side
- Assembly required
- Engineered wood has a cheaper price tag but also a cheaper product
- Holes for assembly do not always line up well
- Could be a better price but finding a solid wood desk for this age is almost impossible.
Why You Should Buy
Child-sized furniture is encouraging for little guys to feel big and become an active part of the world. While not solid wood, this desk can help your little guy to want to be a student and learn everything the world has to offer.
Lego Duplo Town Truck and Tracked Excavator Set
Summary
The Lego Duplo Town Truck and Tracked Excavator Set fulfills your little guy’s need to build stuff up and tear it down. This is a great introductory Lego set for a boy that’s ready to build, but can’t handle all the tiny pieces just yet. With a dump truck, an excavator, 2 construction workers, and bonus blocks to move around, it’s sure to keep any little boy busy for a little while.
Up Side
- Set includes 2 vehicles and 2 workers (good for sharing!)
- Trucks and tractors actually move and work
- Great way to learn to build Lego sets
- Teaches how to follow instructions and be patient
- Great price
Down Side
- 26 pieces to keep track of
- An experienced builder might get bored with this simple set
Why You Should Buy
As with the magnetic blocks, building toys are some of the best toys for 4 year old boys to help promote imagination and encourage spatial reasoning while turning dreams into reality. These Legos will keep your little guy away from a screen and keep his imagination buzzing.
Black+Decker Powertool Workshop
![Black+Decker Kids Workbench - Power Tools Workshop - Build Your Own Toy Tool Box – 75 Realistic Toy Tools and Accessories [Amazon Exclusive] 38 x 16.25 x 21 inches](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51LLCdVcocL._SL500_.jpg)
Summary
If your son follows his dad around and tries to help “fix” doors and other household issues you may want to gift him this Black+Decker Power Tool Workshop. A great imagination toy and a wonderful bonding tool for dads and sons. Dad can take this opportunity to teach him the name of each tool and what it is used for.
Up Side
- Imaginative and learning toy
- Includes 75 pieces with realistic tools, nuts, screws, even a bonus flashlight
- Comes with a workbench
- Great for indoor, outdoor, or for the garage
- Same brand that daddy uses
- Fabulous price
Down Side
- Drill is a drill press, not a hand drill, which isn’t as fun
- Plastic pieces are flimsy and will eventually break
Why You Should Buy
If you want a boy who grows up to fix broken furniture or house fixtures, start teaching him how to use and recognize tools now. Besides, if he has a full knowledge of tools, it may not take him six months to five years to fix the squeaky hinge on the basement door or install a cat door like other men in the house (no names necessary, they know who they are).
Wooden Educational Toys Magnetic Art
Summary
This Wooden Educational Toys Magnetic Art will entertain your child even when traveling. With a dry erase board, magnets, and markers, your child can learn about animals from this fun board with built-in storage.
Beyond learning about animals and colors, this mini school desk set will make your child feel like they are already a big kid learning in school. They can sit next to older siblings doing homework and pretend to be hard at work too. The animals are just plain fun and cute and can be placed on the board in fun arrangements. Lastly, set up some math equations to begin teaching math.
Up Side
- Teaches colors and animals
- The other side has a chalkboard and comes with 100 magnets
- Magnetic board
- Dry-erase board
- Built-in storage
- Comes with a marker and eraser
- Portable
- Bright colors and fun designs
- No batteries or noise
Down Side
- The whiteboard may leave residue and the magnets are small
Why You Should Buy
A portable toy inspiring an interest in learning such as creativity, colors, imagination, and animals is a great buy for any four-year-old. Also, take this drawing board that travels is a fabulous gift to keep him off the tablet.
Dynacraft Bike
Summary
Sadly, it’s hard to find a kid’s bike for under $100 dollars these days. This is sad because they outgrow them so fast! The Dynacraft Bike solves those two problems: it’s under $100 bucks and it has removable training wheels. and12 inch wheels so that your little dude can grow into it as he learns to ride a real bike.
It’s a sturdy but lightweight option ready to encourage 3- to 5-year-olds to learn to balance, pedal, and steer an actual bike. It gives kids control and a sense of power without the danger.
Up Side
- Comes in green and back or gray and red
- Light and strong BMX frame
- Designed for preschoolers
- Seat starts low and can be raised as kids grow
- Adjustable training wheels to teach balance
- Handlebar pad
- Coaster brakes
Down Side
- Tall boys will outgrow this quickly!
- Needs assembly
Why You Should Buy
By this age, a balance bike is probably boring. Upgrade to a real big-kid bike with all the fun but none of the fear, thanks to training wheels on the back. Once he has his balance mastered, take off the training wheels and keep on riding for years to come!
Melissa & Doug Folding Medieval Castle
Summary
Melissa & Doug Folding Medieval Castle will make your child feel like a king or a queen with their very own castle they can build to their exact specifications. With this folding castle, they can build their imagination and enjoy hours of pretend play.
Coupled with wood construction and imaginative design, your little guy will love the four walls complete with a drawbridge and brick design. Finally, the 4-year-old toy is listed as a precursor to a STEM toy your children will learn design, logic, placement, and spatial reasoning as they slay dragons (no dragons included but easy to purchase separately).
Up Side
- Simple wood construction
- Less color for more imaginative play or your child can decorate themselves (well with supervision)
- Moving parts
- tons of attention to detail
- Easy Storage
- Folding design
- Unique toy
- No batteries or noises
Down Side
- The price will make your wallet cry but this toy will be around even for great-grandchildren
- The colors are boring and your boy may want to paint them.
Why You Should Buy
Give your son his own kingdom so he can imagine a world where he is in charge. Not to mention, he is going to love a construction toy where he is the builder. Finally, this gift for 4-year-old boys will set him up for a future of understanding design and how building fit together.
Fisher-Price Think & Learn Code-a-Piller
Summary
Fisher-Price’s Think and Learn Code-a-Pillar introduces your kids to coding by directing how the adorable caterpillar designed toy moves. Children love to be in control and this toy gives them the fun of seeing their work carried out. Not to mention the option to program the caterpillar to run into chairs, doors, or the family cat.
Beyond a lot of fun, coding is the future, with this toy your kids can get a leg up on the technology age while they learn directions and add or take away parts. Let your kids learn logic with this futuristic toy. Right now this toy will engage kids with a moving toy. Later coding will not be a new concept but one they have interacted with in the past.
Up Side
- The price is affordable for what you get.
- Developmental STEM toy teaches technology along with cause and effect, plus problem-solving
- Detachable parts for more options
- Has expansion packs
Down Side
- Loud toy
- Requires batteries
- Can be unpredictable
Why You Should Buy
Together with the cute design, this toy for 4-year-old boys will prepare your child for a future of technology and coding. Jobs are leaning heavily toward computer-based jobs and it’s never too early to teach your kids tons of valuable skills.
B Toys by Battat B. Pet Vet Toy Doctor Kit
Summary
B Toys By Battat B’s Pet Vet Toy Doctor Kit will keep kids engaged in treating sick animals while they learn spatial skills unlocking cages and learning colors. Your child will love the animals and acting like an animal doctor. Comes with a plush cat and dog, keys, scale, stethoscope, thermometer, and shot all with built-in storage on the animal cage.
Your son is the newest animal doctor on the street ready to heal cat scratches and dog bites. The storage case means they can travel with the toy on the way to grandma’s house. Not only will children learn compassion and doctor care, but they will also learn fine motor skills with the keys and locks. Imagination play can help them learn what jobs they want and don’t want in the future. In conclusion, the price is great for a learning toy for 4 year old boys that your kids will love to play with.
Check out our selection of the best doctor kit toys.
Up Side
- 8 piece set
- Fun colors
- Teaches animal care, how to use keys, coordination, and hand-eye coordination
Down Side
- The toy is a little cheap and pieces can fall apart with hard use
Why You Should Buy
For the future vet, this toy is a must. Also, the 4-year-old toy is compact and everything can store inside for easy cleanup. Finally, children can learn empathy and care for four-legged critters.
Disney Toy Story Talking Buzz Figure
Summary
There’s just something about astronauts that captures the imagination. And since we all know that Buzz Lightyear is the coolest and bravest of the bunch, the Disney Toy Story Talking Buzz Figure is sure to please. At 7 inches tall, this talking figure is just the right size to fly around in little hands. If you press the buttons on his suit, Buzz will say over 20 different phrases from the movies. He is fully articulable, which is fancy toy speak for his arms and legs can move and pose in action stances.
Up Side
- Sized right for little boys
- Says fun phrases from the movies
- Can buy Woody for more adventures
- Arms and legs are moveable/posable
- Real voice from the movies
Down Side
- Needs batteries
- Doesn’t work 100% of the time
Why You Should Buy
“To infinity, and beyond!” Buzz is a classic toy that is sure to bring a smile to any little boy’s face. This is the perfect gift for the little Toy Story fan in your life!
JOYIN Toy Foam Pogo Jumper
Summary
Did you ever want a pogo stick but mom said no and even grandma unwilling? Now you can buy theJOYIN Toy Foam Pogo Jumper for your boy and give the gift you always wanted without concerns for safety. Four-year-olds love to bounce or jump and with this toy, he may expend even more energy and maybe even take a nap!
This new foam pogo stick is made with young kids in mind. When stepped on, it lets out a bit of a squeak sure to have boys laughing in no time. The handles are attached to a bungee to increase upper body strength while still engaging your son in a fun active-activity.
Up Side
- Foam Pogo stick
- Bright colors and simple design
- Bungee for strength building
- Squeaks when jumped on
- Active toy
- Teaches balance and coordination
- Great group toy and friendly competition
Down Side
- Has a low “jump” life – boys may manage to wear this toy out quickly -thankfully the price is extremely affordable.
Why You Should Buy
Not many toys for 4-year-old boys create resistance for strength but this Pogo stick does. A lot of fun while still great for body management. That’s a win-win folks. Just do not be surprised if the toy cannot take a constant beating for months and stay alive.
B. toys – Rockestra
Summary
B Toys By Battat B.’s Rockestra makes the list of best toys for 4-year-olds as well with a great way to introduce multiple instruments to your tot.
With millions of combinations, your child will become a conductor with a lead guitar, bass, acoustic, drums, violins, vocals, and keyboard. They can put up to six instruments into the pit to learn all about music. This colorful toy will help your children to understand sound and learn about different instruments with songs and symphonies. As a result, your son can find the instrument that makes their heart beat faster and you have a road to follow in the future.
Up Side
- Educational and fun
- Teaches a love of music
- Colorful
- Play instruments together or individual
Down Side
- Expensive for a tiny plastic toy
- A noisy toy that requires batteries
- Many customers received a toy that came with fewer instruments than listed
Why You Should Buy
Give the gift of music and let your boy explore 13 different instruments all in a compact toy. It’s the best gift for 4-year-olds to figure out what instrument they have an interest in. Sorry though, the toy is noise and may drive you batty if they play the same sound over and over again.
There is also an “orchestra” version of this toy with instruments you would find playing a symphony.
Tonka Classic Steel Mighty Dump Truck
Summary
Remember the old saying, “Don’t fix what isn’t broke?” The Tonka Classic Steel Mighty Dump Truck isn’t broke and is still a beloved toy decades later. Made of steel, this superhero toy will take any beating your son can dish. While a bit pricey, it is one of the best toys for 4-year-old boys that only drives and dumps sand or dirt, this toy will still be around for your great-grandchildren.
Up Side
- Guaranteed for life
- Freewheeling and moving truck
- Realistic look
- Made of steel
- Dump truck bed tilts for actual dumping
- Classic toy
Down Side
- Not full steel – some parts are made of plastic
- A bit expensive for a one function toy
Why You Should Buy
Dads may suggest getting this toy for their sons while remembering the fond moments of youth. A great bonding toy for older generation and the youth of today.
BRIO World Safari Railway Set
Summary
Boys love trains and animals. Combine both with the BRIO World – 33720 Safari Railway Set! The high-quality set includes 17 pieces all made of wood or durable plastic.
Moreover, you can use the set with other Brio sets for more options. It’s a great STEM toy to encourage skills development in a fun and interesting way. Also, the toy goes through rigorous testing to ensure complete safety for children ages 3 and up.
Up Side
- Includes 17 pieces
- Easy to assemble and connects tightly
- Adorable animal theme
- Expandable with more sets
- Learning toy encourages construction and imagination
Down Side
- Name brand is more expensive
Why You Should Buy
All railway fans should have a playset where they can command a train. This set comes with fantastic reviews and tons of pieces and it’s expandable too!. Hour of fun for your son and his friends.
Also, see our list of the best race car track toys here.
Gifts for Similar Ages
- Best Toys and Gifts for 2-Year-Old Boys
- Best Toys and Gifts for 3-Year-Old Boys
- Best Toys and Gifts for 5-Year-Old Boys
- Best Toys and Gifts for 6-Year-Old Boys
How the Gifts Were Chosen
Toys are meant to be fun but look for toys that teach skill while also being fun. Let’s face it, your little one is not going to play with a boring toy. Find a toy for 4-year-old boys with bright colors and multiple ways to play to keep them engaged.
Mom-Approved
Toys with lots of pieces will make your kid happy but will make moms a panicked mess searching for yet another missing piece, and it’s always the piece that is necessary to play. Also, small pieces can also be a choking hazard if your 4-year-old still likes to put small things in their mouth. Loud toys drive mom’s nuts but make kids happy, as a result, mom is happy as long as the noise toy is at least two rooms away.
Learning & Quality Toys
Subsequently, children should have toys that are fun but teach too. Even one skill set for a toy is a step in the right direction in teaching them all the skills they need to learn in life. Pick learning toys for 4-year-olds that focus on the alphabet, numbers, and shapes to help learn for preschool and kindergarten. In addition, cheap plastic toys may have the right price tag but can break and be a waste of money or fall apart and hurt a child with small cuts or bruises. Look for solid toys meant to last the test of tiny hands.
Puzzles are great learning toys that help develop cognitive milestones.
Physical Milestones
Your 4-year-old boy is currently improving his gross motor skills and agility. Likewise, his fine motor skills are advancing. For instance, he can probably dress himself, brush his own teeth (you may still want to watch chances are strong his standards are much lower than yours), and is – fingers crossed -using the potty all the time now.
During this age, you should continue to limit screen time and encourage outside play. Likewise, encourage your boy to practice balance and exploring the world around him.
Emotional Milestones
As a preschooler, your son is now a little more emotionally secure, only a tiny bit more but still, a win is a win. Less focused on his own emotions he is now beginning to understand other people have feelings too. Not that this will stop him from being a little too truthful, like “Mom, your legs are hairy like daddy’s.” This is why they are cute- so we tolerate those moments.
In addition to truth-telling and sort of understanding other peoples feelings, he has a broader range of emotions like excitement, jealousy, and fear. Finally, do not be surprised if he suddenly becomes competitive now that he understands what winning is.
Social Milestones
With a better handle on his emotions, you may find your little man is throwing fewer temper tantrums as he learns coping mechanisms. Big changes like a new sibling or movie can mess with his moods and behaviors. However, socially he is ready for real friendships and maybe even a best friend. Similarly, he may want to share with other kids now and take turns. Score! One less battle to fight on a daily basis. Don’t worry, he still needs you.
Cognitive Milestones
Four-year-olds like to talk – yeah, you knew that already. Seriously though, their speech has increased to around 3,000 words and your son wants to use every single word every day – multiple times. Over the course of this year, he will probably absorb another 2,000 words. That’s a whole lot of questions coming your way.
Thankfully, he may ask most of his questions to his friends or even an imaginary friend. He has an active imagination now and is ready to interact with the world. As well as imagination, he may begin setting goals like balancing on his bike or learning to swing. His understanding of numbers is improving also.
Summary
In conclusion, we picked the best toys for 4-year-old boys based on the desires of boys this age and also the skills they need to focus on learning.
First, we chose toys because they teach gross motor skills and begin to teach fine motor skills.
Next, we looked for high-quality toys with thought and innovation.
Finally, we looked for toys guaranteed to light up your little boy’s eye and entertain him for hours.
Go forth and prepare to find tons of toy pieces everywhere, just be thankful we didn’t add Legos to the list yet, not only are they messy but they hurt!
Toys for 4-Year-Old Boys FAQ’s
Can I buy toys and gifts that are meant for kids older than 4 years?
You can but they may not be able to understand how to play with the toy just yet. Although, some children are older mentally and may need older toys to keep them engaged and learning. Similarly, children, whether more mature or not, will need supervision with toys meant for older kids. The majority of children should use toys for their age or younger.
Should I get complicated or problem-solving toys for my 4-year-old?
Yes! Your little one is at the perfect inquisitive age and just old enough to start taxing their little brain with problem-solving, an extremely important skill to work on. Despite limited skills now, challenging toys can encourage thought and with a little help from mom and dad, he can begin to understand more complicated topics. Therefore, you should find a few toys just out of his range and work with him to play with these toys. Also, if he is playing with his in the wrong manner, you may want to try to show him how to play. For example, if he is throwing blocks then show him how to stack blocks.
Should I look for UL Approved toys?
Couldn’t hurt. Most parents are capable of telling what is safe and what is not for their individual kid. But looking for UL Approved toys gives an extra layer of protection. Either way, all parents want safe toys for their children, especially the younger the child is, like a four-year-old. Look at the packaging for safety seals and read the instructions carefully.
Where can I check for recalled toys?
Search for recalled toys at CPSC. Any toy that has been recalled should be taken from kids immediately and follow the website’s suggestions for returning or disposing of the toy. Finally, inspect the toys your son gets to make sure they look safe. If any pieces are missing, contact the company.
Do I still need to check for toxic ingredients?
Yes, if you suspect a toy or gift for a 4-year-old is unsafe, such as sharp objects or lead paint, find a new toy. Next, always open a toy before giving to a young child and check carefully to make sure the toy is safe for your child. Batteries can be the most dangerous issues for toys. For instance, the batteries could rust or leak. Any toy for a child under eight should have the batteries under a screwed in plate, but always check the plate for security.
Can younger siblings play with these toys with my 4-year-old?
Younger siblings can play with toys meant for four-year-olds or older so long as an adult is right there next to the child supervising. However, you should understand younger children may not understand the concept of a toy meant for an older kid. For example, a two-year-old may not understand the dinosaur track from above and my just want to smack the cat with the tracks while the four-year-old is trying to build a train station. As a result, you may want to wait until both siblings are a little older to let them play with the same toys.
How much exercise or outdoor play does my 4-year-old need per day?
Your little boy needs at least an hour of outside play each day. Consequently, an hour of play before nap or bed will help to tire him out, which means he will sleep better too. Maybe you could have your boy spend the morning in the park while you sip your latte and another hour in the sandbox after lunch and before nap time, and then a half hour outside with dad balancing on bikes before bedtime. This schedule would keep him off screens and spending lots of energy.
Wrap Up
Picking the best toy for your 4-year-old boy depends on the boy you are purchasing for, but also depends on your budget and what the goal of the toy is for the parent. Some parents want to focus on learning toys and gifts, and that’s okay. Other parents want to focus on fun, which is also fine. Therefore, try to pick toys that teach and will engage kids.
Finally, if you only pick one toy for 4-year-old boys off this list for the little dude in your life, pick the Hape Quadrilla Wooden Marble Run Construction. He can play with it indoors, outdoors, alone, or with several people. It’s durable, versatile, and it’s a fun way to get his little brain working!
