Inquiring young minds need toys that educate, spark creativity and, of course, make playtime fun. Vergennes-based WowToyz delivers on all fronts, say the folks at Creative Child magazine, who recently bestowed top toy honors on the company. From WowToyz' classic Jr. Science Explorer Telescope to its Museum Quality Great Dinos, the company's designs aim to foster "inquisitiveness and creativity and ... self-confidence through play," says Rebecca Chauvin, director of operations at WowToyz. Another 2011 product of the year, the Jr. Science Explorer Soda Powered Clock Kit, is sure to be a kid-pleaser: What better way to learn about electrolytes than building a Pepsi-fueled timepiece?

WowToyz: Find WowToyz at specialty retailers and online. Jr. Science Explorer Telescope set, $16.95 at mightytoy.com. Info, wowtoyz.com.