Overview
The Lovevery Block Set is a thoughtfully designed wooden block collection inspired by Montessori and open-ended play philosophies. Created for children ages 18 months to 4 years, this set is more than just a box of blocks—it’s a system for building, sorting, matching, and exploring early STEM concepts. The Block Set’s core value is in its versatility. Children can stack, build, roll, link, count, and engage in creative play, making it a long-lasting addition to the playroom for both individual and collaborative play sessions.
| Recommended Age | 18 months – 4 years |
|---|---|
| Type | Wooden block set with accessories |
| Core Play Value | Construction, creative storytelling, problem-solving, patterning, fine motor practice |
What’s Inside / Build Quality
The Block Set includes 70 pieces: classic solid blocks, planks, cylinders, arches, wheels, threading beads, magnetic rods, a shape sorter lid, and a wooden storage box that doubles as a pull cart and play component. Each piece is made from sustainably sourced FSC-certified wood and finished with non-toxic, water-based paints and lacquers. The pieces are smooth, sturdy, and sized for toddler hands.
- Materials: Sustainably harvested wood, non-toxic paints and finishes
- Durability: Solid construction; withstands repeated drops and play
- Ease of Cleaning: Wipe clean with a damp cloth; avoid soaking or harsh cleaners
- Safety Notes: All pieces meet US safety standards for lead and phthalates. No sharp edges. Some pieces (beads and small cylinders) can pose a choking hazard for children under 18 months—always follow age recommendations and supervise younger siblings.
Learning & Development Benefits
The Block Set supports a wide range of developmental domains:
- Fine Motor Skills: Stacking, threading, connecting, and balancing blocks help refine hand-eye coordination and dexterity.
- STEM Concepts: Children explore cause and effect, gravity, balance, spatial reasoning, and early engineering by building bridges, towers, and vehicles.
- Language & Literacy: Use blocks for storytelling, naming shapes, colors, and making patterns. The set includes cards with play prompts for vocabulary building.
- Sensory Exploration: The smooth, weighted wood and variety of shapes invite tactile exploration.
- Problem-Solving & Creativity: Open-ended design means there’s no “right way” to play. Children invent their own structures, vehicles, and games.
Play Prompts
- “Can you build a tower as tall as your favorite stuffed animal?”
- “How many different vehicles can you make using the wheels and rods?”
- “Sort the blocks by color or shape—how many groups can you make?”
- “Thread the beads onto the laces to make a pretend necklace or caterpillar.”
Setup & Use
There is no formal assembly required—simply open the box and start playing. The storage box doubles as a cart for block transport or as part of building play. All pieces store neatly inside, making clean-up part of the activity. For homes with babies or toddlers under 18 months, keep small pieces out of reach. Supervise play with multiple children, especially if younger siblings are present.
- Assembly: None required
- Storage: Built-in wooden box (with shape sorter lid)
- Supervision: Required for children under 3; small parts can be a choking hazard
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High-quality, durable materials
- Supports a wide range of developmental skills
- Open-ended, grows with your child
- Montessori-inspired, encourages independent play
- Thoughtful storage and play integration
- Non-toxic, safety-tested finishes
Cons
- Higher price point than basic block sets
- Some small parts require close supervision
- Wooden pieces are heavier than plastic blocks (potential for accidental bumps)
- Limited to two color palettes (neutral or bright)
- Set is large—requires storage space
Alternatives & Similar Toys
- Melissa & Doug Standard Unit Blocks: Classic, solid wood blocks in a variety of shapes. No accessories but excellent for pure construction play.
- HABA Basic Building Blocks: High-quality German beechwood blocks with a smooth finish, ideal for toddlers interested in stacking and balancing.
- Tegu Magnetic Wooden Blocks: Wooden blocks with hidden magnets for easy connection and creative, gravity-defying builds (suitable for ages 1+).
- Guidecraft Grippies Builders: Soft, magnetic rods and balls designed for safe STEM exploration for toddlers (ages 18 months+).
- B. Toys Stackadoos: Colorful bristle blocks that connect easily and are simple for little hands to manipulate (ages 2+).
Verdict
Lovevery’s The Block Set is a standout choice for families seeking a Montessori-inspired, open-ended toy that will last through several stages of early childhood. The thoughtful design, safe materials, and wide range of learning benefits make it a worthwhile investment for children who love to build, create, and explore. The price is higher than some alternatives, but the versatility and durability can make it the only block set you need.
Who will love it? Parents who value open-ended play, STEM learning, and classic materials; toddlers and preschoolers ready for more complex building challenges.
Caveats: Not suitable for children under 18 months due to small parts. Always supervise young children during play. This review is not medical advice. For individual developmental or safety concerns, consult your pediatrician.
You mentioned that the storage box doubles as a pull cart—does this feature get used often by toddlers, or do you see it being more useful for parents trying to encourage kids to help with clean up?
—many parents hope features like pull carts will encourage their toddler’s independence. Most toddlers are drawn to the pull cart aspect for short bursts of play, especially during the early years (around 18 months to 3 years old), but sustained use often comes when parents turn clean up into a fun, shared activity. Try showing your child how to gently fill the box and pull it together. Offer lots of praise when they help. Always supervise, especially with younger toddlers, to ensure safety as they practice coordination. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
My child is sensitive to certain textures and sounds. Since the blocks are wooden, do they make much noise if dropped, and is the finish smooth enough for a sensory-sensitive toddler to enjoy?
It’s wonderful that you’re considering your child’s sensory sensitivities. Wooden blocks like those in the Lovevery set can make a clattering sound when dropped, but it’s usually not very loud—supervising play on a rug or carpet can help soften the impact and noise. The blocks are generally sanded smooth and finished with non-toxic materials, making them suitable for most sensory-sensitive toddlers, but you might want to touch and inspect them first yourself. Introduce the blocks gradually, allowing your child to explore at their own pace. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
My toddler is about 16 months old and still puts everything in his mouth. The article mentions small beads and cylinders could be a choking risk under 18 months. Would you recommend holding off on the set until he’s a bit older, or is it safe to let him play if I supervise closely?
It’s completely understandable to be cautious when your toddler is still exploring the world by mouthing objects. For a 16-month-old, I recommend waiting on The Block Set, as the small beads and cylinders present a genuine choking hazard at this age. If you do decide to use the set, only offer the larger blocks, remove all small pieces ahead of time, and supervise very closely during play. Keep in mind that toddlers move quickly, and even with supervision, accidents can happen. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
Does the sensory appeal of the Lovevery Block Set, like the weight and texture of the wooden pieces, suit children who are sensitive to textures or who tend to avoid certain tactile experiences? Any tips for gradual introduction?
It’s great that you’re attuned to your child’s tactile sensitivities. The Lovevery Block Set uses smooth, unfinished wood, which many children find neutral, but some sensory-sensitive toddlers may still hesitate. Try introducing one block at a time, letting your child explore at their own pace—maybe by first placing a block nearby during play. Encourage gentle touching on hands or arms, and consider using a favorite blanket as a familiar ‘safe’ surface. Always supervise closely to ensure safe handling, especially if your child mouths toys. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.
We have a toddler and a younger baby sharing the same living area. How practical is it to keep the small beads and cylinders separated so the baby doesn’t get ahold of them?
You’re wise to think about keeping small parts away from your baby. Store beads and cylinders in a high container or a locked box after playtime. Set up supervised block play for your toddler at the table or on a mat, then pack up small pieces right after. Encourage your toddler to help clean up, making it part of the routine. For now, let the baby play only with larger, safe blocks. Always supervise both children closely. This isn’t medical advice; if you’re concerned, check in with your pediatrician.