When I Grow Up . . . Cool Toys to Inspire Future Careers

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Remember the days when anything seemed possible? Part of the beauty of childhood is that the world is at children's disposal, whether they're dreaming of running for president to playing major league baseball. It's our job as parents to encourage those big dreams, empowering our kids with the knowledge and tools they need to, one day, perhaps, turn them into reality. Whether they transform your kids' lives or are "just for fun," these 10 toys are meant to ignite young imaginations and look forward to a bright future. Source: Thinkstock

For the Future Astronaut

For the Future Astronaut

Blast off in Melissa & Doug's awesome astronaut playsuit ($30).

For the Future Builder

For the Future Builder

This first Workbench ($100) by Melissa & Doug is just like the real deal . . . right down to the nuts and bolts.

For the Future Engineer

For the Future Engineer

If you read our site regularly, you already know that we're big fans of GoldieBlox's line of engineering toys geared toward girls. Their latest release, GoldieBlox and the Dunk Tank ($20), makes an educational and fun addition to the toy box.

For the Future Designer

For the Future Designer

Created in conjunction with Dylan's Candy Bar, ALEX Toys' aptly named ALEX Toys Arm Candy kit ($14) encourages creativity.

For the Future Doctor

For the Future Doctor

Everything she needs to treat her beloved patients is included in Disney's Doc McStuffins Doctor's Bag ($34).

For the Future Interior Decorator

For the Future Interior Decorator

These tiny replicas of signature Ikea pieces ($13) let little ones arrange and rearrange their own ideas for floor plans.

For the Future Explorer

For the Future Explorer

Janod's World Magneti'Stick ($70) set of 109 magnetic stickers offers hours of jet-set fun (and there's even a hidden educational component).

For the Future Baker

For the Future Baker

Until they're ready for a KitchenAid, Kidkraft's Pastel Baking Set ($21, originally $143) features just the right sized mixer!

For the Future Pilot

For the Future Pilot

Playmobil's City Action Cargo and Passenger Aircraft ($105, originally $120) has everything your little aviator needs to stage his or her own flight plan.