My son LOVES his erector sets. He's 9 1/2. Two Christmases ago we gave him a giant set, maybe it was two sets, to make numerous different machines - cranes, cars, etc. Through and through he is a builder. LOVES Legos too. He puts all these different sets together to make very interactive machines. This fall he received a set of Snap Circuits and now he has integrated the erector sets with the Snap Circuits and I have motorized things all over my house! I highly recommend the erector set. I will say - it is a zillion little screws and parts that get lost. My suggestion, at least what works for us, is to go to the Dollar Store or 5 Below or something like that and get tiny, plastic containers with lids. He separates all his screws and small pieces into these and then can put all the pieces into a giant storage box without worry that the screws are lost or thrown all over or lost. I remember his set came with a tiny set of tools - sort of non-functional for him as he's so involved. Again, from the Dollar Store or someplace like that he has a small set of tools - screwdrivers of varying sizes, little wrench, etc. It was just a little more functional for him. PERFECT!!
As for pricing, I didn't get any this year (I upgraded his Snap Circuits instead for a larger set) but I know I got his sets at Toys R Us. It was a Black Friday deal so I know it was a decent price. Like Legos, I believe these are pricey sets but also like Legos. I think they are worth it and have stood the test of time with him.
Enjoy!!
). I recommend to start out getting one of the sets that come in a case for storing all the pieces. The one we have also has all kinds of cubbies for separating out the little pieces which makes it easier for the kids to find what they want when they want them.
