Learning Toys
Reading, writing and math are all very important skills for your child to learn, but that doesn't mean learning them has to be boring. There are many exciting toys for boys that teach these skills such as, the LeapFrog Tag Reading System, the Leapster2 Gaming System, or even classic board games like Scrabble Junior, which works on spelling, vocabulary and even addition. Fat Brain Toys is a company that specializes in educational toys.
Imagination Toys
One of the most powerful entertainment sources for a child, especially around 6 years old, is their imagination. Costumes are a good source of imagination play. If you're kid is into superheroes, wait until the day after Halloween and hit up costume shops or online costume shops for sales. If you have a while before Halloween, try thrift stores for cheap outfits. You can also make your own if your capable of sewing, just pick up some fabric from craft stores. Have your kids use their imagination more by using paper plates or papier mache to create their own masks and accessories.
Timeless Boy Toys
Toys that never go out of style for 6-year-old boys are a great place to start if you're not sure what your kid might be into at this age. Action figures are a good idea and have a broad range of choices. G.I. Joe figures are super poseable and fun. If you're child likes cars or puzzles, but you still want to stay in the action-figure realm, try Transformers. Don't forget to explore other classic options like board games or Hot Wheels.
Physical Activity Toys
Sitting in the house playing with toys is not always your only choice. Get the young man out of the house by getting him a bike, skateboard, scooter or roller blades. If you don't want your 6-year-old on wheels just yet, look to sports. This is a great age to get them into basketball, baseball, soccer or even football. You can find fairly cheap sets of equipment to start your little one off small. Don't forget to look in "board" games to find things like HyperDash, a game in which they have to run to the numbered or colored disk that the toy base calls out and touch them. Laser tag is a fun alternative to the original game, but requires someone else to play with.