Category: Toy Guides

If your child is the type who asks “why?” about everything, who collects rocks, watches nature documentaries, or mixes things together in the kitchen to see what happens, then science toys are the perfect way to channel that curiosity. The best science toys turn learning into an adventure, and there has never been a better selection available. Here are our top picks for young scientists of every age.

Clementoni Science & Play Range

Clementoni is one of the leading brands in children’s science toys, and their Science and Play range is outstanding. Kits cover everything from chemistry and biology to robotics and geology. The Chemistry Lab set lets children perform safe experiments with real lab equipment, learning about reactions, solutions, and compounds. The Anatomy Lab includes a detailed human body model that teaches children about organs, bones, and muscles. Each kit comes with a detailed instruction manual that explains the science behind every experiment in language children can understand.

Crystal Growing and Geology Kits

There is something magical about growing your own crystals, and these kits never fail to fascinate children. Crystal growing sets teach patience and observation — children set up their experiments and watch crystals form over several days. Rock and mineral collections introduce geology, giving children labelled specimens to examine and compare. Excavation kits where children chip away at a block to reveal hidden fossils or gemstones combine the thrill of discovery with genuine geological learning.

Telescopes and Stargazing

Malta’s clear night skies make it a wonderful place for amateur astronomy. A beginner’s telescope opens up the moon’s craters, Jupiter’s moons, and Saturn’s rings to young eyes. Look for a telescope with at least 50mm aperture and a sturdy tripod — wobbly mounts frustrate children quickly. Pair a telescope with a star chart or planisphere to help children identify constellations. Summer evenings on a Maltese rooftop with a telescope can spark a lifelong love of science.

Microscopes for Budding Biologists

A quality children’s microscope reveals an invisible world that fascinates children endlessly. Prepared slides showing plant cells, insect wings, and fabric fibres provide instant wonder. Kits that include blank slides and a specimen collection guide encourage children to prepare their own samples — pond water, flower petals, and sand grains all look incredible under magnification. For younger children aged six and up, a simpler handheld microscope or magnifying viewer is a great starting point.

Experiment Kits by Age

For children aged four to six, look for simple sensory science kits — volcano models, colour mixing experiments, and magnet sets introduce basic concepts through play. Ages seven to nine can handle more structured experiments with chemical reactions, electrical circuits, and plant growing kits. Children aged ten and above are ready for advanced chemistry sets, electronics projects, and robotics kits that introduce real engineering principles. The key is matching the complexity to the child’s ability so they feel challenged but not overwhelmed.

The Benefits of Science Play

Science toys do more than teach facts. They develop critical thinking, patience, observation skills, and the ability to form and test hypotheses. Children who engage with science through play tend to approach problems more creatively and are more comfortable with trial and error — skills that benefit them far beyond the science classroom.

Explore the full range of science toys and experiment kits at Juniors. Visit our stores across Malta and Gozo or browse online at juniorsmalta.com to find the perfect gift for your young scientist.

As a parent, toy safety is one of the most important factors when choosing gifts and playthings for your children. While toys sold in Malta and the EU must meet strict safety standards, it helps to understand what to look for and what to avoid. This guide covers everything you need to know to buy toys with confidence.

The CE Marking Explained

Every toy sold in the European Union must carry the CE marking. This is not just a sticker — it is a declaration by the manufacturer that the product meets all applicable EU safety directives. The CE mark covers mechanical and physical properties, flammability, chemical composition, and electrical safety. When shopping for toys, always look for the CE marking on the packaging. Buying from reputable retailers like Juniors ensures that every product on the shelves has been properly certified and sourced from trusted suppliers.

Age Warnings and Recommendations

The age recommendation on a toy is not just a suggestion — it reflects safety testing for that developmental stage. The most common warning you will see is the “not suitable for children under 36 months” symbol, which indicates the toy contains small parts that could pose a choking risk. Always respect these warnings, even if your child seems advanced for their age. A three-year-old may be intellectually ready for a complex toy but could still put small pieces in their mouth. When buying gifts for other people’s children, always check the age recommendation first.

Choking Hazards

Small parts are the biggest safety risk for young children. As a general rule, if a piece can fit inside a toilet paper tube, it is a choking hazard for children under three. This applies to toy accessories, detachable parts, batteries, magnets, and even packaging materials. When buying for households with children of mixed ages, be mindful that a toy suitable for a seven-year-old could be dangerous if a toddler sibling gets hold of it. Store older children’s toys with small parts separately and out of reach of younger children.

Battery Safety

Many modern toys use batteries, and button cell batteries in particular pose a serious risk if swallowed. Look for toys where the battery compartment is secured with a screw — this prevents children from accessing the batteries. Check batteries regularly for leaks or corrosion, and replace them promptly when they run low. Never let children handle batteries unsupervised, and dispose of used batteries properly at designated collection points around Malta.

Chemical Safety

EU toy safety standards strictly limit the chemicals that can be present in toys. This covers paints, dyes, plasticisers, and coatings. Toys meeting EU standards will be free from harmful levels of lead, phthalates, and other dangerous substances. Be cautious with toys purchased from unregulated online marketplaces or markets — they may not meet EU chemical safety requirements. Stick to established brands and trusted retailers to ensure the toys your children handle are chemically safe.

Ongoing Safety at Home

Safety does not end at the point of purchase. Regularly inspect toys for damage — broken plastic can create sharp edges, and worn fabric toys may release stuffing that poses a choking risk. Follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for cleaning soft toys. Check that outdoor toys like trampolines and climbing frames remain structurally sound throughout the season. Teach children to tidy away small toys after play to keep them away from younger siblings and pets.

At Juniors, we take toy safety seriously. Every product in our stores meets EU safety standards, and our knowledgeable staff are happy to help you choose age-appropriate, safe toys for your children. Shop with confidence at any Juniors store across Malta and Gozo.

When the Maltese summer heat arrives, there is nothing better than cooling off with water play. Whether your family spends weekends at the beach, by the pool, or playing in the garden, the right water toys turn an ordinary afternoon into an adventure. Here is our guide to the best water toys and pool games for a Maltese summer.

Inflatable Pools for Home

Not every family in Malta has access to a swimming pool, but an inflatable pool can transform even a small backyard or rooftop into a splash zone. For toddlers, a small paddling pool with a sunshade canopy provides safe, shaded water play. Larger family-sized inflatable pools give older children room to splash and play games. Look for pools with drain plugs for easy emptying and quick-inflate valves to save your lungs. Always empty inflatable pools after use to prevent mosquito breeding — an important consideration in the Maltese climate.

Water Guns and Blasters

Water gun battles are a summer tradition for Maltese kids. Simple pistol-style water guns are perfect for younger children aged three and up. For older kids, pump-action blasters with larger water tanks provide more firepower and longer play sessions. Nerf Super Soakers offer the best range and capacity for serious water warfare. Water balloon fillers that attach to a garden hose let you fill dozens of balloons in minutes, setting the stage for an epic backyard battle.

Pool Games and Toys

If your family uses a pool regularly, investing in pool-specific toys adds huge value to swimming time. Diving sticks and rings sink to the bottom and give children goals to swim towards, building confidence and ability. Inflatable beach balls and volleyball nets turn the pool into a sports arena. Floating basketball hoops provide competitive fun for the whole family. Pool noodles are endlessly versatile — used as flotation aids, swords, obstacles, and building materials by creative children.

Beach Toys for Sandy Days

Malta’s sandy beaches are perfect playgrounds for children. A robust bucket and spade set is the foundation of any beach trip. Castle moulds, sand sifters, and dump trucks extend sandcastle building into serious engineering projects. For children who prefer the water’s edge, mesh bags with shell-collecting tools and magnifying glasses encourage nature exploration. Bodyboards and inflatable rings are great for children who are confident in the sea, always under adult supervision.

Sprinklers and Garden Water Play

Garden sprinkler toys are an affordable way to create instant water fun. Sprinkler mats with multiple jets let toddlers stomp and splash safely. Spinning sprinkler toys that attach to a hose create unpredictable spray patterns that have children laughing and dodging. Water tables combine sensory play with water fun and are ideal for younger children who are not yet ready for a pool. These toys work brilliantly on Maltese rooftops and terraces where space is limited.

Safety First

Water play should always be supervised, regardless of the child’s age or swimming ability. Ensure inflatable toys are properly inflated and check for punctures regularly. Apply waterproof sunscreen before water play begins, and reapply every two hours. Stay hydrated — it is easy to forget to drink water when you are already wet and having fun.

Shop the full range of water toys, pool games, and beach accessories at Juniors. Available in all our Malta and Gozo stores and online with delivery across the islands.

September in Malta means one thing for families: back to school. After a long summer of sunshine and play, it is time to stock up on stationery, school bags, and supplies. Getting organised early takes the stress out of the first week and gives children something to look forward to. Here is your complete guide to back-to-school shopping at Juniors.

School Bags and Backpacks

A good school bag needs to be sturdy, comfortable, and big enough to carry books, a lunch box, and a water bottle. Look for padded shoulder straps and a reinforced base that can handle daily wear and tear. For younger primary school children, character-themed bags featuring popular brands add excitement to the school run. Older students often prefer sleek, plain designs or trendy patterns. Trolley bags are popular in Malta, especially for children who carry heavy textbooks — they save young backs from unnecessary strain.

Pencil Cases and Writing Supplies

A well-stocked pencil case is essential. At minimum, children need HB pencils, an eraser, a sharpener, a ruler, and colouring pencils. Older students will also need pens in blue, black, and red, plus a geometry set. Legami stationery has become a favourite among Maltese students thanks to its colourful, fun designs — their erasable pens, themed notebooks, and quirky pencil cases make schoolwork feel less like a chore. Investing in quality supplies that last the full scholastic year is always more economical than replacing cheap items every few weeks.

Notebooks, Folders, and Organisation

Maltese schools typically require specific notebook sizes for different subjects. Check with the school before buying in bulk. Lined notebooks, squared notebooks for maths, and blank sketchbooks for art are the basics. Ring binders and plastic folders help older students keep worksheets and handouts organised. Labels are a small but important purchase — label everything from notebooks to lunch boxes to avoid the lost property pile growing.

Art Supplies and Craft Materials

Art lessons are a highlight of the school week for many children. A set of watercolour paints, brushes, and a mixing palette covers most primary school art needs. Crayons, markers, and oil pastels are also commonly requested. A plastic art apron protects school uniforms from paint stains — a practical item that many parents forget until the first colourful disaster comes home. Glue sticks, safety scissors, and coloured paper round out the craft supplies list.

Lunch Boxes and Water Bottles

With Maltese schools encouraging healthy eating, a good lunch box is important. Look for insulated models that keep food fresh in the warm September heat. Compartmentalised lunch boxes make packing varied meals easier. A reusable water bottle is essential — children need to stay hydrated, especially during the still-warm early weeks of the scholastic year. Stainless steel bottles keep water cool for longer than plastic alternatives.

Malta School Year Timing

The Maltese scholastic year typically begins in the last week of September and runs through to late June. This means back-to-school shopping usually happens in early to mid-September. Shopping early gives you the best selection, while leaving it to the last week means busy stores and potentially sold-out items. At Juniors, our back-to-school range is fully stocked from late August, so you can get ahead of the rush.

Visit Juniors for a complete range of school supplies, stationery, bags, and lunch accessories. Our friendly team can help you tick off every item on the school supply list.

Planning a children’s birthday party in Malta is an exciting adventure. From choosing the perfect venue to filling party bags, there are lots of ways to make the day unforgettable. Whether you prefer an outdoor celebration or an indoor play space, Malta offers plenty of options for every budget and age group. Here is our guide to throwing a brilliant birthday party.

Venue Ideas Around Malta

Malta has a wonderful variety of party venues suited to different ages. For younger children, soft play centres like Fun Factory and Playmobil FunPark offer ready-made party packages that take the stress out of organising. Older kids might enjoy bowling at Eden Superbowl or a trip to Splash and Fun water park during summer. For something more relaxed, many families book a room at a local restaurant or band club — a very Maltese tradition that keeps costs down while providing space for games and cake.

Outdoor parties are popular during the warmer months. Public gardens like San Anton Gardens, Buskett, and the Kennedy Grove playground area offer free, spacious settings. If you have a rooftop or garden at home, a DIY party with decorations and a bouncy castle hire can be just as memorable and more personal.

Popular Party Themes

Themed parties add excitement and make decorating easier. Superhero and princess themes remain evergreen favourites. LEGO parties work brilliantly — set up building challenges and let the children compete in teams. Unicorn and dinosaur themes are hugely popular for pre-schoolers. For older children, consider a science experiment party, an art and craft session, or a gaming tournament. A pirate treasure hunt is perfect for outdoor venues, with clues hidden around the garden or park.

Party Bags and Fillers

No Maltese children’s party is complete without party bags. At Juniors, you will find a huge selection of small toys perfect for party bag fillers. Think mini puzzles, sticker sheets, bubbles, small figurines, bouncy balls, and novelty erasers. Colouring sets and small craft kits also make great fillers that children will actually use after the party. Budget around €2–€4 per bag and fill with three or four items plus a few sweets for the perfect balance.

Food and Cake

Keep the food simple and child-friendly. Pizza, chicken nuggets, sausage rolls, and sandwiches are always safe bets. Fruit platters add a healthy option that kids will happily snack on. For the cake, local bakeries across Malta create stunning custom cakes in any theme. Alternatively, a simple supermarket cake decorated at home with themed toppers is perfectly lovely and much kinder on the wallet.

Entertainment and Activities

Structured activities prevent party chaos. Musical chairs, pass the parcel, and pin the tail remain classics for a reason. A face painter or balloon artist adds a professional touch that children adore. For crafty parties, set up a bracelet-making or painting station. Older children enjoy scavenger hunts, karaoke, or even a mini Olympics with relay races and silly challenges.

Planning Tips

Send invitations at least two weeks in advance. In Malta, parents often confirm attendance via WhatsApp, so include your number on the invite. Plan for about two hours of party time — any longer and younger children start to tire. Have a rough schedule but stay flexible. And most importantly, remember that the birthday child’s happiness matters more than perfection.

For party supplies, decorations, and bag fillers, visit Juniors in store or online. We have everything you need to throw a party your child will remember.

Board games are one of the best ways to bring families together, and in Malta where family gatherings are a cornerstone of daily life, a great game can become a treasured tradition. But with hundreds of options available, how do you pick the right one? The key is matching the game to the player’s age and ability. Here is our guide to choosing board games that everyone will actually enjoy.

Ages 3–5: First Games

At this age, children are learning to take turns, follow simple rules, and handle winning and losing. The best games here are short, colourful, and cooperative. Orchard Toys makes some of the finest first games — Shopping List, Bus Stop, and Insey Winsey Spider teach counting, matching, and memory without any reading required. Haba’s My First Orchard is a cooperative game where everyone works together, which avoids the tears that competitive games can bring at this age. Games should last no more than ten to fifteen minutes to match short attention spans.

Ages 6–8: Introducing Strategy

Children in this age group can handle more complex rules and are ready for games that require thinking ahead. Dobble is a brilliant fast-paced matching game that sharpens observation skills. Guess Who teaches deductive reasoning through yes-or-no questions. Connect 4 introduces basic strategy in a format that is easy to learn but hard to master. Labyrinth by Ravensburger is a family favourite where players shift maze tiles to reach treasures — it combines spatial thinking with planning. Games at this stage can last twenty to thirty minutes.

Ages 9–12: Deeper Challenges

Older children are ready for games with layered strategies and longer play times. Ticket to Ride is a modern classic where players build railway routes across maps — it is accessible enough for newcomers but strategic enough to keep adults engaged. Catan Junior provides an excellent introduction to resource management and trading. For word lovers, Scrabble Junior bridges the gap to the adult version. Clue remains a fantastic deduction game that the whole family can enjoy together. Game sessions can comfortably last thirty to sixty minutes at this age.

Teens and Family Game Night

Teenagers enjoy games that challenge them intellectually or make them laugh. Codenames is a brilliant word-association party game for groups. Azul, with its beautiful tile-laying mechanic, appeals to players who enjoy visual patterns and planning. Wingspan brings nature to the table with a gorgeous bird-themed engine-building game. For pure fun, Exploding Kittens and Throw Throw Burrito add hilarity to any gathering.

Party Games for Every Age

When you have a mixed-age group — which is common at Maltese family events — party games save the day. Pictionary, Charades, and Uno work across generations. Dixit, with its gorgeous illustrated cards, sparks creativity in players aged eight and up. These games are also perfect for birthday parties and holiday gatherings.

Choosing the Right Game

Always check the recommended age on the box, but use it as a guide rather than a strict rule. Consider the number of players, the game length, and whether the child prefers competition or cooperation. If you are unsure, ask our team at Juniors — we play these games ourselves and love recommending the right fit for your family.

Summer in Malta means long sunny days, warm evenings, and plenty of time for outdoor play. Whether your family has a rooftop, a small garden, or heads to the beach regularly, the right outdoor toys can make the season unforgettable. Here are our top recommendations for keeping kids active and entertained during the Maltese summer.

Water Toys and Splash Play

With temperatures regularly climbing above 35 degrees, water play is essential. Inflatable paddling pools come in sizes to suit even the smallest Maltese balcony or yard. Water guns and blasters provide endless entertainment for kids of all ages — from simple squirt pistols for toddlers to high-powered Nerf Super Soakers for older children. Sprinkler toys that attach to a garden hose create a mini water park right at home, and water balloons remain a timeless summer favourite for backyard fun.

Pool Inflatables and Swimming Accessories

If your family has access to a pool — whether at home, at a hotel, or a public lido — pool inflatables add loads of fun. From giant flamingos to pizza slice floats, there is something for every taste. For younger swimmers, arm bands, swim vests, and kickboards help build water confidence. Diving sticks and underwater toys encourage children to practise their swimming skills while playing. Always supervise children around water, no matter their swimming ability.

Garden Games for Small Spaces

Many Maltese homes have compact outdoor areas, so space-efficient toys are a smart choice. A basketball hoop that mounts on a wall takes up no floor space. Ring toss and target games work brilliantly in small gardens or on rooftops. Bubble machines are a hit with younger children and need almost no space at all. For families with a bit more room, a swing set or small trampoline provides daily exercise and entertainment throughout the summer months.

Scooters, Bikes, and Wheeled Fun

The promenades and seafronts around Malta are perfect for scooting and cycling. A three-wheeled scooter is ideal for children aged three and up, while older kids love the speed and tricks possible on two-wheeled models. Balance bikes help toddlers develop coordination before graduating to pedal bikes. Roller skates and inline skates are making a comeback and offer great exercise. Remember to always include a helmet with any wheeled gift.

Beach Toys for Seaside Days

Malta’s beautiful sandy beaches at Golden Bay, Mellieha, and Pretty Bay are perfect for sandcastle building. A quality bucket and spade set goes a long way — look for sturdy sets that will last the whole summer rather than flimsy single-use ones. Sand moulds in castle and sea creature shapes add creative possibilities. Beach cricket and paddle ball sets are great for older children and family games on the sand.

Staying Safe in the Sun

While outdoor play is wonderful, the Maltese sun is strong. Encourage play in shaded areas during peak hours, keep children hydrated, and always apply sunscreen. A pop-up sun tent for the beach or garden provides a shady retreat for little ones. UV-protective swimwear is another worthwhile investment for the summer season.

Find everything you need for an active Maltese summer at Juniors. Visit our stores across Malta and Gozo or shop online for delivery straight to your door.

STEM toys — covering science, technology, engineering, and mathematics — have become some of the most popular gifts for children in recent years, and for good reason. They combine learning with play, helping kids develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Here is our guide to the best STEM and educational toys available at Juniors, organised by age group.

Ages 3–5: Building Foundations

Young children learn best through hands-on exploration. Magnetic building tiles like Magna-Tiles let pre-schoolers create towers, houses, and patterns while discovering geometry and balance. Counting bears and sorting sets introduce early maths concepts in a playful way. Simple coding toys like the Bee-Bot teach sequencing and directional thinking — children programme the little robot to move across a floor mat, learning basic logic without a screen in sight.

Ages 6–8: Curiosity Takes Off

This is the age when children start asking big questions about how things work. Clementoni Science and Play kits are brilliant here — they cover chemistry, biology, and physics through safe, guided experiments. Kids can grow crystals, build volcanoes, or create slime while learning real scientific principles. For budding engineers, Lego Education sets and K’NEX provide structured building challenges that develop spatial reasoning. Coding toys step up at this age too — Botley the coding robot offers screen-free programming with more complex sequences and loops.

Ages 9–12: Deeper Learning

Older children are ready for more sophisticated STEM experiences. Robotics kits that combine building and programming, such as those from LEGO Mindstorms or Makeblock, provide hours of engaging challenge. Telescope and microscope sets open up the worlds of astronomy and biology — perfect for children who love nature and the night sky. Electronics kits that teach circuit building help kids understand the technology they use every day. For maths enthusiasts, logic puzzles and strategy games like Gravity Maze combine spatial reasoning with problem-solving in an addictive format.

Top Brand Recommendations

Several brands consistently deliver quality STEM toys. Clementoni offers an outstanding range of science kits at accessible price points, making them ideal for gift-giving. Learning Resources produces durable, classroom-quality toys that work just as well at home. National Geographic branded kits bring real-world science into children’s hands with impressive experiments and specimens. For coding and robotics, Sphero and Botley offer age-appropriate entry points that genuinely teach programming concepts.

Why STEM Toys Matter

Educational toys are not about replacing play with study — quite the opposite. The best STEM toys feel like pure fun while quietly building skills that will serve children throughout their education and beyond. In a world increasingly shaped by technology and innovation, giving children the tools to think scientifically and solve problems creatively is one of the most valuable gifts you can offer.

Browse the full range of STEM and educational toys at Juniors, available in all our Malta and Gozo stores and online at juniorsmalta.com. Our staff are always happy to recommend the right educational toy for your child’s age and interests.

A first birthday is a milestone worth celebrating, and choosing the right gift can feel like a big decision. At one year old, children are discovering the world through touch, sound, and movement. The best gifts at this stage support their natural curiosity while being safe and durable. Here is our guide to first birthday presents that parents and babies will love.

Developmental Toys That Grow With Them

At twelve months, babies are learning cause and effect, improving their grip, and starting to stand or walk. Shape sorters are a timeless choice — they teach problem-solving and hand-eye coordination. Stacking cups and nesting toys are similarly brilliant, as children can enjoy them in different ways as they grow. Wooden activity cubes with bead mazes, spinning gears, and sliding elements offer multiple activities in one toy and can keep a toddler engaged well into their second year.

Sensory Toys for Curious Minds

Sensory play is incredibly important at this age. Textured balls, squishy toys, and water mats provide tactile stimulation that supports brain development. Musical instruments like baby drums, xylophones, and maracas are wonderful for introducing rhythm and sound. Light-up toys that respond to touch encourage interaction and help babies understand that their actions create results.

Ride-Ons and Push Toys

If the birthday child is starting to walk or cruise along furniture, a push-along walker can give them confidence on their feet. Look for sturdy models with rubber wheels that will not scratch tile floors — an important consideration in Maltese homes. Ride-on toys that they can sit on and push with their feet are another excellent choice. These toys encourage gross motor skills and provide plenty of active fun, especially during Malta’s mild winter months when toddlers can play outdoors.

Books: A Gift That Lasts

You can never go wrong with books. Board books with thick pages are perfect for little hands. Look for books with flaps to lift, textures to feel, or buttons that play sounds. Classics like “Dear Zoo” and “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” remain popular for good reason. Reading together from an early age builds language skills and creates a lovely bonding routine at bedtime.

Tips for Choosing the Right Gift

Always check the age recommendation on the packaging. Toys labelled for twelve months and above will have been tested for safety at that developmental stage. Avoid anything with small parts, loose batteries, or sharp edges. Look for the CE marking, which confirms the toy meets European safety standards. If you are unsure, our team at Juniors is always happy to help you find something suitable.

Practical Considerations

Think about the family’s living situation. Maltese apartments and townhouses often have limited play space, so compact toys that store easily are appreciated. Gifts that can be used both indoors and outdoors offer extra versatility. And remember, at this age children are often just as fascinated by the wrapping paper as the gift itself — so do not feel pressured to overspend. A thoughtful €15–€30 gift chosen with care will be treasured.

Visit Juniors in store or online to explore our full range of baby and toddler gifts. Our team can help you choose something perfect for that special first birthday.