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Few toys have remained as popular and timeless as LEGO. (And last week, honouring David Attenborough’s 100th birthday, they have even changed their famous age bracket, that is now suitable not up to 99 years of age but 100+) For generations, these colourful bricks have encouraged creativity, problem-solving, and hours of hands-on fun for kids of all ages. With so many themes, sizes, and age ranges available today, choosing the right set can sometimes feel confusing for parents. Not to mention Legoland parks – the one near us is one of our all time favourite theme park!
From simple builds for toddlers to detailed creations for older children, LEGO offers something to match every interest and skill level. The key is finding a set that keeps children engaged while also supporting their imagination and development. This guide highlights some of the best LEGO options by age group and interest to make shopping easier and more enjoyable.
My children always loved LEGO from early on and now, at 10 and 12 they are showing no signs of slowing down. In fact, they now moving onto sets I would enjoy too (I still love building with LEGO at the ripe age of 46 and really missing the days when thy would let me to join.. Maybe I should just get sets for myself… It’s so relaxing for a grown up to build with LEGO!)
Best LEGO Sets for Toddlers and Young Children
LEGO DUPLO for Ages 1.5 to 5
LEGO DUPLO is an obvious place to start for the youngest builders. The larger bricks are made especially for small hands, making building easier and less frustrating. Through play, DUPLO sets help children learn fundamental concepts like counting, colour recognition, and storytelling.
Animal-themed kits, train sets, and simple house builds are popular DUPLO options. These sets keep young children engaged without becoming too demanding. DUPLO sets are often a favourite activity for parents and children during quiet afternoons or indoor playtime.
Classic Sets for Ages 4 and Up
Once children move past DUPLO, LEGO Classic sets offer the perfect bridge. These open-ended kits come with hundreds of bricks in various shapes and colours, encouraging freeform creativity. There are no fixed instructions to follow, which means children can build exactly what they imagine.
If you are browsing lego sets for a child in this age range, classic brick boxes are a reliable and affordable choice that can provide hours of independent play.
Top LEGO Themes for School-Age Kids
LEGO City for Ages 6 and Up
One of the most popular themes for children aged 6 and up is LEGO City. The collection includes police stations, fire engines, construction vehicles, airports, and train sets. Each set connects to a larger world of role-playing and storytelling.
For children who enjoy aviation, the LEGO City Passenger Aeroplane is a great choice. Kids interested in large machinery may enjoy construction-themed sets that encourage imaginative play long after the building process is complete.
LEGO Friends for Ages 7 and Up
In recent years, LEGO Friends has become popular with a wide range of children. Sets such as the Dog Rescue Centre combine detailed builds with storytelling-focused play scenarios.
The Friends line is often praised for its inclusive and character-driven approach. These sets allow children to create stories, build relationships between characters, and continue expanding their imaginative worlds over time.
LEGO Ninjago for Ages 7 and Up
Ninjago appeals to children who enjoy action and adventure. Sets like Zane’s Dragon Power combine familiar characters from the animated series with exciting builds and interactive play features. Because there is a wide variety of sets available, children can continue expanding their collection over time. Ninjago sets are also well suited for shared play. Many children enjoy building together and creating action-based stories with friends or siblings.
LEGO Sets That Families Can Build Together
One of LEGO’s most rewarding features is the opportunity for parents and children to build together. Shared building activities encourage patience, communication, and collaborative problem-solving while creating memorable experiences.
The LEGO Classic 90 Years of Play set is a strong choice for families looking for a nostalgic and engaging project. Larger themed collections, including Disney and architecture-inspired sets, can also work well as multi-session family activities.
Research commissioned by LEGO has suggested that families who build together often experience improved communication and more meaningful time away from screens. For many parents, this reinforces the value of shared creative activities at home.
Why LEGO Remains a Favourite for Australian Families
LEGO is more than a toy. It is a hands-on learning tool that helps children develop fine motor skills, spatial awareness, creativity, and problem-solving abilities. Research consistently supports the value of open-ended play in child development, and LEGO fits naturally within that category.
Many parents also appreciate the durability of LEGO products. Sets can often be rebuilt, passed down between siblings, and reused for years. That long-term value makes LEGO a worthwhile investment for many households.
Tips for Choosing the Right Set
Choosing the right LEGO set often comes down to understanding your child’s age, interests, and preferred play style. A good starting point is checking the recommended age range on the box, as this helps ensure the build is both safe and appropriately challenging. Younger children generally enjoy simpler sets with larger pieces, while older kids may prefer more detailed and creative builds.
It also helps to choose a theme that matches your child’s existing interests. Children who enjoy animals, vehicles, space, or city life are more likely to remain engaged when the set reflects what they already love. Another important factor is expandability. Many LEGO collections are designed to grow over time, allowing children to combine sets and build larger imaginative worlds.
When comparing lego sets, it can also be useful to consider whether the set is intended mainly for display, imaginative play, or advanced building challenges. Matching the set to the child’s preferred style of play often leads to a more enjoyable experience.
More Than Just Bricks
The best LEGO sets do more than keep children entertained. They encourage creativity, patience, problem-solving, and quality family time that continues long after the build is complete. Choosing the right set means finding something that matches your child’s interests and imagination. Sometimes, a simple box of bricks becomes the beginning of lasting memories.