STEM (science, engineering, technology, and math) philosophy integrates technology and tangible, hands-on learning experiences with the more traditional fields of mathematics and science. Interdisciplinary techniques ensure a contemporary approach to fundamentals and create competent students competing at a global level. Entire schools are devoted to STEM studies and many educational institutes include STEM teachings in their curriculum. Early exposure to STEM in the classroom breaks down barriers - making the concepts practical and exiting as opposed to dull or inaccessible.
What better way to incorporate STEM concepts into daily life than with toys? Fusing education and fun guarantees a good time for all. Inquiring young minds will be too busy playing to realize they are learning. Your budding whiz kid wants to see these under their tree. Adults will love these interactive products too! Point Santa in the right direction with these 11 gifts.
3D Magic wants you to consider this a child's version of the 3D printer. Trace a stencil or fill a mold with magic gel and pop it in the 3D maker. LED light turns it into a three dimensional creation that lasts. Parents will appreciate the fact that there is no heat, glue, or mess involved. $39.99 on the 3D Magic website.
“Ever played Mario on Play-Doh or Piano on Bananas?” asks Makey Makey. Now you can. Connect one end of the alligator clips to an internet source and the other to the household object of your choice and voila - instant and innovative circuits! A great introduction to electrical concepts and thinking outside of the box. $49.95 on the Makey Makey website.
Build a variety of animals controlled by remote. Included in the kit by Thames & Kosmos are an elephant, scorpion, rabbit, crab, orangutan, and penguin. The process emphasizes animal locomotion and biomechanics. A detailed, fully-colored instructional manual help kids assemble the animals. $38.90 on Amazon.com.
Build your own play structure with simple instructions. Add bed sheets for decoration and/or exterior walls. The website includes design ideas. Perfect for the backyard on a pleasant day. Comes in Original, Princess, and Glow In The Dark styles. The even have fort lights! $60.99 on the Crazy Forts! website
Winner of Kapi's Best Robot toy at the 2015 Consumer Electronics Show, the Ozobot offers extensive support via free downloads. Teachers helped design the STEM inspired lesson plans. Activities and interactive games occur at all levels for all ages. What child hasn't dreamed of their own robot? $59.95 on Amazon.com.
A computer coding kit for children 6+, Kano introduces the basics of code. Among other things users can create their first computer, code games and music, and build a variety of devices. Forbes, Wall Street Journal, CNN, Wired—and many other reputable organizations—give rave reviews. Go beyond computer savvy and conquer code. $99.95 on the Kano website.
Inspire your children to unleash their inner scientist with this perfect introductory science lab kit in a box. The educational and fun kit contains 20 pieces for ages 4 and up. Parental supervision required—chemicals are included. Prep for upcoming science fairs or erupt your own volcano! $16.79 on Amazon.com.
Now the kids in your life can learn electronics in a way that is easy and exciting. Choose from 175 projects or watch the strobe light with spinning pattern change to the beat of your music on the MP3 player. No tools required. Enjoy hours of educational fun while learning about electronics. $84.95 on the Snap Circuits website.
With 60 challenge cards to choose from kids can select their own level of adventure. Whatever they choose “this single-player maze-meets-marble-run will give your brain’s coordination and critical thinking centers the kick in the synapse that they need.” Get the ball rolling! This project offers a specific goal and encourages teamwork. $29.99 on Marbles: the Brain Store.
No more toothpicks and glue! K'NEX introduces youngsters to the functional aspects of building bridges. Perfect for the budding architect or engineer in training, the set includes 207 parts, enough to build 13 structural replicas and feed any child's imagination. Work alone or with friends. $39.99 on the K'NEX website.
Even Disney jumped on the STEM bandwagon. Over 1000 pieces await creative minds ready to rocket into another dimension. Play with or without an Imagicademy suite of apps for an enhanced experience that brings their physical play into the digital world. Space exploration is within arms reach. $44.95 on DisneyStore.com.
