I am no expert toy reviewer but I am going to try and occasionally list some of the toys or kits that my small son has benefited from. Gradually, I hope this list can grow and be helpful to other parents. If you have even better suggestions, please let me know as I look forward to feedback!
First up, is this wooden catapult kit from a Leonardo da Vinci drawing:
Under $20, all wood construction and it really works. Not only is putting it together fun but so is target practice with it. Excellent kit for parents and children everywhere.
Best place for small children to start with computer programming (a great deal of competition here); Code.org :
https://code.org/student/elementary
Best robotics kit for small kids; LEGO Boost:
Stay tuned, … more to come.