Bests & Worsts Reviews from Amazon

ETI Toys has created a great STEAM resource for the younger set with this set of Construction Engineering Blocks. Although the toys is rated for ages 3 and up, my 2 1/2, 5, and 7-year-old have all enjoyed creating with this set. My 2 1/2-year-old cannot replicate the suggested designs without assistance, but loves manipulating the nuts and bolts and using the child-sized functional socket wrench included in this set. My 5-year-old enjoys studying the included idea sheet and trying to recreate the designs shown on it. My 7-year-old loves using the pieces to construct her own creations. Why the 4-star rating? While this is a great product, I believe it could be better with minor modifications. Pros: 1. The set consists of 85 bright, colorful, non-toxic pieces, all of which are large enough not to pose a choking hazard to young children. 2. The pieces are easy to assemble. 3. The included design sheet offers a wide array of project ideas. 4. The set comes with a sturdy storage container -- huge plus in my book! 5. The child-sized socket wrench adds a unique element that I have not seen in any other construction toy. 6. The toy is open-ended and encourages both problem-solving and creative play. Cons: 1. Although the set includes 85 pieces, there are only four blocks that kids can screw other pieces into. This makes it difficult for more than one child to play at a time. 2. All screws are the same length; some longer screws (allowing kids to connect more than two pieces) would be a good addition. 3. Bolts do not hold pieces securely in place unless they're *really* tight -- and if they're really tight, neither the included socket nor little hands can loosen them. 4. I'd love to see bolt heads redesigned to accommodate either the included socket or a screwdriver. I love the socket, but think I screwdriver would be easier for little hands to use on angular pieces. All in all, I believe this set is a good resource to encourage early science, engineering, art, and math skills. I would strongly advise purchasing more than one set, however, if you're planning to use this kit for multiple children or in a classroom setting. DISCLAIMER: I received this product at a discount in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. #ETIToys