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Recently we were sent the MagNext iCoaster - I was really impressed - as you'll see in my previous review of the iCoaster. When researching the background we saw that the iCoaster had won the Science Museum Smart Toy Award in the "SMart Play" category. On that list we also noticed the it's parent product the MagNext (winning "SMart Build" category) - so we had to give MagNext a go!

MagNext is a deceptively simple construction toy with lots of play value. The MagNext, put simply, is a series of magnetic shapes which are connected by silver ball bearings. There are four-pointed, three-pointed, and two pointed shapes which allow you to make a myriad of objects. It's that straightforward and it's simplicity is it's very attraction. With only a small range of shapes, the actual construction possibilities are endless and the kids can let their imagination loose.

Our 12 year old could hardly wait to unwrap the kit and has since played with it every day - ensuring hours of silence for us! The kit has since become a tower and a money box, a sphere and many shapes in between.

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The kit appeals to both boys and girls with sets available in suitable colour schemes for both including a special pink variant for £19.99.

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The parts are colourful and easy to connect together. To make a small shape is easily in the reach of small children, older children can attempt larger structures. You do have to be careful if you want to carry your construction around. I found to my offspring's dismay that I could easily destroy the precious creation by attempting to proudly show it off to another doting Mum (serves me right for trying to be a yummy mummy!).

I hope the pictures here do it justice - as it's simplicity leaves me with not many more words to describe this fantastic toy. Suffice it to say, that the MagNext has taken pride of place over the Lego in our house for the time being!

MagNext kits come in various sizes and range in price from currently as little as £4.99 for a basic 25 piece set on Amazon. However, I would recommend going for a larger size such as the MagNext Ultimate Solid at £19.99. I notice an even bigger 500 piece set on Amazon should appear soon.

MagNext kits come in various sizes and range in price from currently as little as $9.74 for a basic 25 piece set on Amazon. However, I would recommend going for a larger size such as the MagNext Ultimate Assortment at $29.99. I notice an even bigger 500 piece set on Amazon should appear soon.

MagNext kits come in various sizes and range in price from currently as little as €4,99 for a basic 25 piece set on Amazon. However, I would recommend going for a larger size such as the MagNext Ultimate Solid with 115 pieces. I notice an even bigger 500 piece set on Amazon should appear soon.

If you have kids that love building things - definately consider this for their Santa's Sack this year!  It should give plenty of hours play per pound spent!