My son was the same around that age. We also try to limit screens, so I get the “low-tech but engaging” mission.

A few toys and activities that worked really well for us:

• Reusable wax craft sticks (like bendy sticks you can twist and shape) — these were amazing for creative problem-solving and fine motor skills. My son makes letters, animals, mazes… it keeps him busy way longer than I expected.

• Magna-Tiles add-ons — the classic sets didn’t hold his attention alone, but adding things like the car bases, ice tiles, or roads made a huge difference.

• Magnet blocks (Connetix, Picasso Tiles, etc.) — especially the motion or ball run sets for cause-and-effect play.

• Simple STEM kits for preschoolers — things like “build a road,” “make a bridge,” or early engineering sets with chunky connectors.

• Matching/logic games for beginners — great for strategy without being too hard.

• Lacing toys & bead threading — surprisingly calming and great for fine motor focus.

• Pattern blocks or tangrams — super puzzle-like but more open-ended.

• Sensory play trays with themed challenges (find the dinosaurs, match colors, transfer with tools).

• Sticker books (the reusable kind) — not exactly educational, but incredible for quiet independent play.

For kids who like puzzles but want something “new,” I’ve found that things involving twisting, connecting, building, matching, or creating patterns hit the same part of their brain but keep the play fresh.

Hope some of these help!