Buying Guide for Toddler Tool Sets

Who this toy suits

The Learning Resources New Sprouts Fix It! My Very Own Tool Set is designed for children ages 2 years and up, as specified by the manufacturer. The minimum age of 24 months is set for safety reasons and cannot be lowered. This set is especially suitable for toddlers and preschoolers who enjoy hands-on, imaginative play centered around construction or fixing objects. The tools are sized for small hands and made from soft plastic, making them approachable for young children. Children who like to imitate real-world activities, such as using a hammer or screwdriver, may find this set engaging. While the manufacturer lists an upper age of 16 years, the design and features are best matched to the interests and abilities of toddlers and early elementary-aged children.

What children can do and learn

• Practice grasping and hand strength: Children can grip and squeeze the drill to activate sounds and handle the chunky tools, providing opportunities to practice hand muscles and simple coordination. General research recommends offering play materials that encourage gripping, squeezing, and manipulating objects to support fine motor development in young children. This is general guidance and not specific to this toy. source
• Engage in pretend play: Children can use the tools to imitate fixing or building, exploring make-believe scenarios. General research highlights that pretend play allows children to experiment with different roles and actions, supporting flexible thinking and creativity. This is general play guidance, not evidence for this specific toy. source
• Sort and organize tools: Children can place tools in the toolbox or select them by name, practicing visual discrimination and following simple routines. This activity encourages hand-eye coordination and active engagement.

Play ideas to try

1. Toolbox Organizer: Invite your child to find specific tools by name and place them in the toolbox. This supports naming and sorting skills while practicing grasp and release.
2. Sound and Pretend Fix: Encourage your child to squeeze the drill to hear its sound, then use the tools to pretend to fix toys or household items. Use prompts like “Let’s hammer this” to guide imaginative play.
3. Carry and Put Away: Suggest carrying the toolbox between rooms and putting tools away after playtime. This adds movement and helps children practice organizing their play materials.

All activities above are optional parent suggestions and not official game modes.

Before you buy

This set includes six pieces: a saw, hammer, screwdriver, wrench, drill with sound, and a toolbox. All pieces are made from soft plastic and sized for toddlers’ hands. The set requires some attention to keep the pieces organized during play.

The strict minimum age is 24 months due to safety regulations; the toy is not appropriate for younger children. While the manufacturer lists use up to age 16, the simple design is best suited for toddlers and preschoolers.

When another type may fit

If you prefer fewer pieces or your child enjoys building more than pretend repair, consider construction block sets or stacking toys. These alternatives focus on building and spatial skills with fewer parts to manage.

Sources

• https://www.naeyc.org/sites/default/files/globally-shared/downloads/PDFs/resources/pubs/preschoolers-at-play-chap-15.pdf (General research on fine motor play materials)
• https://www.healthychildren.org/English/family-life/power-of-play/Pages/3-ways-your-child-builds-important-life-skills-through-play.aspx (General research on pretend play and flexible thinking)
• https://www.amazon.com/dp/B006RQ8UNA (Product listing for the Learning Resources New Sprouts Fix It! Tool Set)

Research sources above provide general play guidance and do not specifically evaluate this product.