The best toys are the ones that inspire kids to do cool things in the future. You could argue that every toy is a tool for learning, but this Hot Wheels Car Maker from Mattel teaches in a unique way. Kids get to build toy cars from the ground up (well, assemble them), adding another layer of fun and learning to the otherwise mindless exercise of pushing one around the floor for hours. We think building a toy would give the child a better appreciation for it since they are actively involved with creating it. Granted, these aren't model cars we're talking about and the kids aren't using screwdrivers and soldering irons, but we all have to start somewhere.
[via Uncrate]