23 pieces. $19.99. www.lego.com

This toddler-friendly space toy has got it all. Little astronauts launch into a universe of open-ended play with parents and playtime partners as they build the space shuttle, blast astronauts into space, and act out endless stories of exploration and discovery. And, as kids’ imaginations take them out of this world, their cognitive thinking, spatial reasoning, and fine motor skills will soar. This set includes male and female astronaut figures, a buildable space shuttle with an opening body and wheels that turn, a movable ladder, and a buggy with wheels and a turning radar on top. Building instructions include a fun picture story involving models from the set to add an extra element of enjoyment to the creative construction and imaginative play. For ages 2 and up.