Lego celebrates 50 years of building toys

Building blocks have been around forever. One of the most popular makers of building toys--Lego--is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The Enfield, Conn., company has something for kids of all ages whether they're looking for action, adventure, creativity, or just plain fun.

Toddlers and preschoolers just love the Thomas Load and Carry Train Set ($29.99). With 61 pieces, kids can snap the famous Tank Engine together, assemble the track to form a 23" x 35" circuit, create Tidmouth Station, a coal bin, etc. The beauty of Legos, of course, is that they can be put together and taken apart many, many times, and youngsters never tire of it.

Children a little bit older will enjoy the versatile, open-ended Designer Sets. Wild Hunters ($29) comes with instructions for building nine animals, such as a lion, vulture, or crocodile, and 26 ideas for using the 630-piece set. All models have realistic joints for a full range of movement.

More skilled builders will revel in creating authentic models from the Technic series, such as a Street Bike ($49.99). With 506 pieces, a fully functional bike can be created that features rear suspension with adjustable tension, a chain drive that powers pistons in a V4 engine, and handlebar steering. Measuring 10" high by 7" long, it includes a kickstand for display. What's more, the set contains instructions to rebuild it into a custom chopper.

For a smaller set that will fit into a pocket or backpack, the X-Pod ($3.49) comes in Dragon, Monster, Aqua, or Arachno. The unique container can be built right into the model.

For more information on Lego kits, visit www.lego.com.

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