The Milestones & Motherhood Magnetic Tile Review
“I want to get my child some magnet tiles, but have no idea what brand is best. What do you recommend?”
ANSWER - I get this question SOO often, so I thought it would be best to get it saved in a place where people can find it easily! When it comes to magnetic tiles for kids, there are so many different brands and sets at this point, it can be overwhelming trying to pick one! There are a few of the major brands that we have accumulated over the years: Magnatiles, Picassotiles, and Connetix. I like them all for different reasons and I will share more about that below!
Let’s Compare Magnetic Tiles:
Between the Picassotiles and the Connetix, there is a difference in the size of the magnets, which can be a positive for some aspects, but a negative for others. As you can see in the comparison picture, the Picassotiles have smaller (and slightly weaker) magnets, which means they are less stable for bigger/more creative builds, but they are much easier for little fingers to manipulate on their own without any pinching. They also have plastic rivets, which make them a little easier to break.
Connetix, similar to Magnatiles, have the bigger and stronger magnets, which means they can be used for bigger more creative and stable builds, but pinched fingers are much more likely for smaller fingers. The Conntetix have metal rivets which are technically safter/harder to break. These are overall our preference for bigger builds with bigger kids.
Are the magnets enclosed?
Yes! They are enclosed, BUT they can come out if the magnatiles crack or are broken and if swallowed are extremely dangerous so I typically just check them over periodically and throw any away that have cracks in them. As with anything, it's absolutely up to your discretion and comfort level - you know your little one best!
Can one kind be used with the other?
Absolutely! They are all compatible together, though I will say the Picassotiles in general don't always hold up as well with more elaborate builds (the magnets are slightly smaller/weaker). But otherwise, they absolutely are able to be used together!
Where do you store them all?
We have a basket LINK that we throw them all in (all the different brands and sets together). The basket just stays out and the kids either grab what they want as they go or drag the whole thing over to play with!
Canadian Amazon Storefront links: Magnatiles, Connectix, Picassotiles
Hope this helps!
Want More?
For developmental questions, tips and guidance related to milestones about tummy time, rolling & sitting, crawling and walking, check out KC’s developmental Masterclasses linked here.
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KC is a pediatric doctor of physical therapy, wife and mom of three! She has spent her career working with children and young adults of all ability levels, and currently specializes in birth to three years.
