I feel your pain. Our ODS has been similar at times, in that he is not particularly interested in anything that requires instructions or seems like it would be more fun with an adult around. Lots of failed toys/guides sitting on shelves around here.
Does he like building? We have had continued success with MagnaTiles and with the large wooden building blocks (DS is now 7 and has enjoyed both for years.) Legos really only started to be fun for him in the last six or seven months. Something was too frustrating (without us there to help him recreate the picture on the box) until he was ready.
Snapcircuits worked well. The big K'nex rollercoaster is mostly in the box still...
