[jodi]

Ok, I know some of the best toys are empty yogurt containers, cardboard boxes, a pile of dirt, etc...but when you do buy toys, which are the best for the money? I would like to hear others thoughts on this (especially since my son's birthday is coming up...)

Some of my favorites:
Leap Frog Fridge Farm - has animal magnets that you can put together to hear the sound they make, also plays tunes that my two both loved to bounce too - about $10-15
MagnaDoodle - very reasonably priced at about $10 - has provided so much entertainment for both my boys. The youngest just discovered it this week and has not put it down.
Legos - I got all of these at thrift stores or garage sales, but again - hours of entertainment. Endless possibilities.
Shape sorters, blocks

Granted, I am geared toward the pre-school toys...but would love to hear what my boys will likely be into in a few years if anyone has older kids.