When it comes to customizable toys for kids, there really aren't that many options. Most toys are specialty items with a single purpose in mind (think action figures, toy cars etc.) and don't really push the imagination or creativity of a child. In the list of toys that focus on imagination, creativity and most importantly all without any reference to violence is short: Erector Sets, K'nex, LEGO.
This month marks the 50th Anniversary of the LEGO brick. Originally in 1958, the brick design has changed little since. In fact, bricks purchased today will fit perfectly with bricks manufactured in 1958.
LEGOs were my favorite toy growing up, and to this day I still get a LEGO set from time to time. My most recent being the LEGO Star Destroyer, made up of over 3,000 individual pieces.
For more on the 50th Anniversary of LEGO, hit the link below.