Robots

• Buy your son miniature robots that light up or have moving parts. A five-year-old might really enjoy playing with Star Wars-themed robots or even dinosaur robots. Some mechanical toys only have buttons that turn on lights or cause parts to move while others come with a remote control that allows the child to guide the robot around the room and do tricks.
  
  

Gadgets

• Buy your five-year-old son pint-sized gadgets that allow him to pretend that he's a film maker, photographer, artist or tourist. Toy camcorders, cameras, cell phones and other gadgets can open up a world of imagination. Look for gadgets that include buttons, flashes, tripods, travel bags and other equipment that enhances the experience. These gifts work well for a little guy who's always trying to imitate his Dad. Pair these gifts with other fun gifts such as books about kids' photography or art kits.
  
  

Classic Simple Toys

• Five-year-old boys also enjoy playing with simple moving toys such as yoyos, harmonicas, spinning tops or other instruments. Fill up a kid's backpack with several of these types of toys or buy one small toy that can keep him busy all day long. You can find basic toys like this at a dollar store and in many department stores.
  
  

Building Toys

• Building toys also fall within the realm of mechanical merchandise for five-year-olds. Buy him an airplane that he can take apart and put back together or find a build-able castle or linking blocks. Some round blocks come with wheels and other parts that allow kids to create cars and trucks that move. Your son might also like building a log cabin with Lincoln logs or building his own race track.