The design process of multifunctional magnetic building blocks
Versatile Magnetic Blocks: Designed for Toddlers’ Creative Fun
Before creating “Tong Le Hui Toys Versatile Magnetic Blocks,” the team noticed a gap: many blocks are too small (risky for toddlers) or use tricky snaps (frustrating kids). Parents wanted safe, educational toys that let 1-6-year-olds enjoy building. So, a toddler-focused block design began.
1. Built Around Kids’ Needs
Watching 1-4-year-olds play and surveying parents revealed:
- Babies prefer large, soft items (easier to grip, safer).
- Traditional blocks fall apart easily, upsetting kids.
- Parents prioritized safety and learning value.
This set the focus: large pieces + safe materials + magnetic snap + skill-building.
2. Why EVA Foam?
After testing materials, eco-friendly EVA foam stood out:
- Safe: Non-toxic, soft (no scratches), even if chewed.
- Light: Easy for little hands to hold and move.
- Tough: Washable, durable enough for drops and repeated play.
3. Magnetic Magic: Simple & Secure
The magnet system was tweaked to work for toddlers:
- No polar matching—any two blocks “click” together (no confusion).
- Balanced strength: Stays built (e.g., a car won’t fall apart when pushed) but easy for kids to pull apart and rebuild.
4. Shapes That Grow with Creativity
- Large, rounded pieces: No choking risk; fit tiny hands.
- Diverse shapes (cubes, spheres, pipes, wheels): Start with simple outlines, move to 3D builds (cars, towers)—boosting spatial skills.
5. More Than a Toy
- Parent-child fun: Build together (castles, parks) to bond.
- Easy storage: Included bucket teaches kids to tidy up (no messy floors!).
6. Made Better with Feedback
Families tested early versions:
- Parents praised EVA safety (“no worry if they chew”).
- Kids found new uses (e.g., pipe slides for balls), inspiring extra parts.
- Feedback refined magnet strength and shapes—resulting in today’s kid-loved design.
From fixing toddler block struggles to nailing materials and magnets, Wanhui blocks let little ones explore creativity safely. A perfect childhood companion.