Create Crazy Critters: The Toddler Toy Trend Every Parent Needs to See!

If there’s one thing that defines the brilliant, boundless imagination of a toddler, it’s the creation of wonderfully weird creatures. A “giraff-ephant”? A “croco-zebra”? For little ones, the fun lies in mixing things up to see what silly combinations they can create.

As parents, we’re always on the lookout for that one special toy that can capture their imagination, and with Christmas just around the corner, finding this year’s “it” toy early is a huge win. Right now, the play pattern everyone is loving is wonderfully simple but genius: magnetic mix and match animals.

The Hottest Toy on the Block: Magnetic Mix and Match Animals

The concept is pure, frustration-free fun. Chunky, brightly coloured animal pieces, a head, a body, legs, all connect with a satisfying magnetic “click.” Can a tiger have a lion’s head? Absolutely! This simple, creative process leads to endless giggles and is a fantastic way for toddlers to practise their dexterity.

The box for the Small World Learning 3D Magnetic Jumbo Safari Animals, showing the mix-and-match magnetic tiger, elephant, and giraffe pieces.

Beyond the Animals: The Wider World of Magnetic Magic

The joy of that magnetic “click” opens up a huge world of creative and educational play. As your child grows, their love for magnetic mix and match animals can evolve into a passion for construction, and there’s no better introduction to this than Geomag.

Using powerful magnetic rods, steel spheres, and colourful panels, Geomag allows children to build everything from simple 2D shapes to complex 3D architectural wonders. It’s a brilliant way to introduce core STEM principles in a way that feels like pure play.

Even better, many of our most popular Geomag sets are currently on sale! From the vibrant Geomag Classic sets to the sparkling Glitter Panels and the educational Magicube Maths Builder, it’s the perfect opportunity to find an incredible Christmas gift that will last for years.

Spotlight On: Meet the Adorable Magimals!

And for even more amazing options, we’re so excited to introduce the Magimals collection! Designed specifically for toddlers aged 1 to 5, these chunky and charming characters are the perfect first step into the world of magnetic mix and match animals. Their simple, two-part design and friendly faces make them irresistible for little hands. Whether your little one loves the jungle, the farm, or the ocean, there’s a Magimals set for them.

Magimals Safari Animals: Go on a fun safari adventure with this engaging set, which includes a friendly elephant and a cheeky monkey. Little ones can easily pull apart the magnetic halves and swap their tops and bottoms to create imaginative new jungle combinations.

Magimals Farm Animals: Bring barnyard fun to playtime with this charming pair, featuring a cheerful chicken and a friendly pig. These classic farm animals are perfect for everyday creative play, allowing toddlers to click them together or mix their halves to invent brand new farmyard friends.

Magimals Sealife Animals: Dive into imaginative play with this delightful set, featuring two friendly sea creatures – a penguin and an octopus. A brilliant feature of this set is that the chunky figures are also suitable for bath time, adding extra value and fun.

The entire adorable Magimals range is on sale now with 25% off, making it the perfect time to collect them all.

Frequently Asked Questions about Magnetic Toys

What are the benefits of magnetic mix and match animals?

These toys are fantastic for developing fine motor skills and encouraging hand-eye coordination. The mix-and-match nature sparks creativity, problem-solving, and imaginative play, all while being a fun, frustration-free experience for toddlers.

The magnetic mix and match animals from Small World are perfect for children aged 2 and up. The larger Geomag sets, like Geomag Classic, are ideal for children aged 3-5 and beyond, offering a challenge that grows with them.

Yes. Brands like Small World and Geomag design their toys with safety as the top priority. The magnets are securely sealed inside the plastic parts, making them safe for the recommended age groups. Always follow the age guidance on the box.

From the silly fun of magnetic mix and match animals to the amazing constructions of Geomag, magnetic toys are a guaranteed hit. They encourage open-ended, creative play and help build foundational STEM skills. As one of the top trending toy categories for Christmas 2025, they are the perfect gift to delight any young creator.

The box for the Small World Learning 3D Magnetic Safari Animals set, showing the mix-and-match magnetic animal pieces and the included playmat.

Why Shop Toytastic This Christmas?

Get Ahead for Christmas

With weeks to go until the big day, now is the perfect time to get those must-have gifts ticked off your list, avoiding the last-minute rush.

From the viral fun of magnetic mix and match animals to the timeless appeal of Geomag, we have the trend-led, quality toys that will be at the top of every Christmas list.

With significant discounts on top brands like Small World and Geomag, our sales offer incredible value, helping you get the best gifts without breaking the bank.

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