Five must-have toys to keep. Five toys to toss.

If you have kids, then chances are you’ve got a room full of toys, toys, toys! But there are must-have toys and then there are junk toys. Our house is full with four crazy boys. I’ve found the toys that have lasted the longest and withstand the test of time. Plus, there are some toys that simply aren’t worth you or your kids time. Check it out!

Let’s be honest, our kids are definitely over-stimulated with toys. And for some reason we just keep buying them. But I’ve been around the toy barn a time or two. I’ve learned what’s worth buying and keeping and what’s not. So, before you load up the good will box, consider keeping these must-have toys for years to come.

#1 Must-have toys: Legos

Of course, this toy definitely makes the list. Legos are simply amazing. Aside from promoting creativity and imagination, most kids love them! My boys can play Legos for hours and since they are so pricey, you don’t want to throw them out. We keep ours wrapped in a blanket so it’s easy clean up. Or you can try this Lego storage bin and play mat.

#2 Must-have: Costumes

We have a big chest full of costumes, dress ups and hats that we keep in our kids’ room. You’d be surprised how often they pull out the costumes and start playing. I usually collect my costumes at yard sales for a 1/10th of the cost brand new. I will always keep our costumes. They have a plethora of uses not only for my kids but one day for my grandkids too.

#3 Must-have: Little People

A good set of Little People will last through the years. Even if your kids outgrow them, you can always pull them out for visitors. They are adorable and spark that creativity once again. I bought a huge box of Little People at a yard sale and my kids love them. If you don’t want to store the accessories, just collect the figurines.

#4 Must-have: Wooden train sets

Wooden train sets and the trains are one of those must-have toys that increase in value through the years. You can always add to your collection. My boys arrange and re-arrange our train tracks over and over. They never seem to get tired of it. And unlike plastic train sets, wooden tracks are sturdy and last forever.

#5: Must have: Tonka Mighty Dump Truck

The Tonka Mighty Dump Truck is super durable and is worth the price tag. We have one for each of our boys. We had to paint ours red so we wouldn’t get them confused with the other dump trucks in our family. All of my kids’ cousins have them too. We take them camping and to the beach. I will always keep these dump trucks.

#1 Toys to Toss: Stuffed animals

Oh my heck! How do we accumulate so many stuffed animals? It’s crazy. Unfortunately, they are crazy germ collectors and a dime a dozen. So, with the exception of your child’s super favorite stuffed animal, I recommend going through a yearly purge of stuff animals. Otherwise, they will take over!

#2: Toys to toss: Remote-controlled cars

In all honesty, I don’t think my kids have ever owned a remote-controlled car that lasted more than a week. Most of them are junk. Ironically, that’s all my kids ever ask for. However, if your kids keep asking for a remote-controlled car, there is one exception to this rule. My son bought a Sphero Bolt that has exceeded all my expectations. It is amazing and indestructible but expensive.

#3 Toys to toss: Nerf guns

Don’t get me wrong, Nerf guns are fun. My boys love playing with them. But the bullets get scattered all around the house and then the guns start collecting dust. I would recommend slipping these babies in the Good Will box after a few months. Chances are, your kids won’t even notice.

#4 Toys to toss: Action figures

I am not a huge fan of toys that do all of the imagining for kids. There are so many action figures out there that makes tons of noises and sounds. They almost do all the thinking for your kid. I prefer a toy that requires building and more creativity.

#5 Toys to toss: Matchbox Cars

Similar to the stuffed animals, Matchbox cars start to accumulate quickly. Keep a handful of your favorites and toss the rest.

If you didn’t already notice, my top five must-have toys promote creativity, imagination and building. My toys to toss do the opposite. So, what do you think? Do you agree with my list? Leave your comments below.

Related link: 17 Board Games Perfect for Toddlers