Bilibo

There seems to be a lot of gadget gifts and techno toys around this year. Well, I fancied getting back to basics and finding a present that didn’t need batteries, a remote control or a science degree to work it. I have instead found the Bilibo.

Yes I know it sounds like a character from Lord of the Rings but I love the idea of this kiddies toy. This simple toy has nothing to charge up or plug in, nor flashing lights or sound effects. In fact it has no rules at all.

A shell shaped piece of plastic that comes in a variety of bright colours. It is hard-wearing, which is handy because it will get a lot of use. The idea is for kids to use their imagination. This toy can be whatever they want it to be, and after seeing a video clip of young children using it, I can see the possibilities being endless. They are interlocking so you can even get a few and make puzzles and shapes out of them.

Watch them at play here

It became a bucket, a boat, a car, a helmet, a dolls bed, a turtle shell, a mountain, a water scoop …. instead of telling the kids what they should be doing with a certain toy, the Bilibo allows them to invent their own games, good old fashioned role-playing and make believe.

Hey and if they decide to just play with the box it came in (as most kids do) you can always use it as a plant pot holder.

And you don’t have to spend a fortune. It’s only £14.99 from Amazon so you won’t break the bank.

£14.99

at Amazon