Best STEM Gifts – Ideas for Kids

Walk through the toy aisle of most stores and you’re bound to come across a wide variety of STEM toys, science kits, and building toys. You can find some inspiration for STEM gifts, but how do you know what to buy?

We play with a lot of STEM kits and educational toys; Whether it’s coding a robot to navigate a maze, constructing circuits that light up the night, or unraveling the mysteries of the universe with augmented reality, you can find some amazing STEM gifts.

LEGO

LEGOs are by far the most played with toy in our house. We have completed sets and bins of bricks, and some things in between. There are themed sets to suit plenty of interests, and a simple bucket of bricks can spawn all kinds of creations.

From simple builds to complex programmable robotics, LEGO is more than just a toy—it’s a teaching tool that introduces concepts of engineering, physics, and even basic coding.

Sets range from basic bricks for younger children to advanced kits like LEGO Technic, which offer intricate builds for older kids, making LEGO a versatile option for all ages and skill levels.

Best Features:

• Wide Variety of Sets: From basic LEGO bricks for free-form building to themed sets like LEGO City, Star Wars, Superheros, or Technic that teach structural engineering.
• STEM Learning: Encourages creative thinking and problem-solving through building challenges.
• Hands-On Activities: Building models fosters fine motor skills, spatial awareness, and logical reasoning.
• Replayability: With LEGO, kids can deconstruct and rebuild, creating new scenarios and testing out ideas.
• Coding Options: Some advanced sets, like LEGO Mindstorms or LEGO Technic with Control+, introduce programming and robotics. (Some of these sets can be harder to find)
• Durable & Long-Lasting: LEGO pieces are built to last, making them a great investment for years of loads of fun.

mBot2 from Makeblock

An advanced educational robot designed to teach coding, robotics, and artificial intelligence concepts through hands-on learning.

Best Features:

• CyberPi Microcontroller: The heart of mBot2, CyberPi includes multiple sensors, a display screen, and Wi-Fi connectivity for advanced coding projects.
• Block-Based and Python Coding: Kids can start with Scratch-based block coding and move on to Python as they advance.
• AI and IoT Capabilities: Introduces kids to the concepts of artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things in a hands-on, fun way.
• Customizable and Expandable: mBot2 can be expanded with additional parts and accessories, allowing kids to keep learning and building as they grow.
• Durable and Modular Design: Built to last, with easy-to-assemble parts that encourage exploration and creativity.

If you’re considering the mBot, we’d recommend the Rover Robotics add on. It’s a worthwhile upgrade, and has easily become our favorite robot kit! You can check out our full review of the Rover upgrade.

Magna Tiles

Next to LEGOs, magnetic tile sets are our kid’s go to toys. Magna-Tiles are magnetic building tiles that allow kids to construct 2D and 3D structures with ease.

These colorful, translucent tiles snap together to form everything from basic shapes to complex buildings, encouraging creative thinking and hands-on exploration of geometry, symmetry, and engineering principles.

Magna-Tiles are a fantastic open-ended building toy that grows with kids as they develop their spatial reasoning and problem-solving skills, making them a perfect gift for a wide age range.

There are many brands and sets available. We’ve tested a bunch and found they’re all pretty comparable in quality and compatible for building. If you’ve got a kids who loves building, you can’t go wrong with a set of magnet tiles. Even if they already have some, they can always add on and build more.

Best Features:

• Wide Variety of Sets: With themed sets like Magna-Tiles Metropolis and Magna-Tiles Glow in the Dark, kids can explore different ways to play and build.
• STEM Learning through Play: Magna-Tiles help children learn fundamental concepts in geometry, physics, and engineering by experimenting with shapes, angles, and magnetism.
• Hands-On Activities: Kids can build towers, bridges, or more imaginative designs, enhancing fine motor skills and spatial awareness through construction.
• Durable and Safe Materials: Made from high-quality, food-grade plastic with strong magnets, ensuring they’re safe, sturdy, and built to last.
• Endless Creativity: The open-ended nature of Magna-Tiles fosters loads of fun, allowing kids to continuously create, experiment, and redesign without boundaries.
• STEAM Integration: Incorporates elements of art and design as kids explore shape, color, and form while building.
• Encourages Group Play: Magna-Tiles are perfect for collaborative play, encouraging communication, teamwork, and social interaction during joint building projects.

Sphero BOLT Robot

The Sphero BOLT is a programmable robotic ball that makes coding engaging and interactive. Kids can control the robot through an app, learning coding by completing challenges, programming movements, or creating games. It’s equipped with sensors, lights, and a customizable LED matrix, providing a fun, high-tech way to teach basic programming principles.

Best Features:

• Multi-Platform Coding: Supports drawing, block-based coding, and JavaScript.
• LED Matrix Display: Customizable animations and real-time data visualization.
• Advanced Sensors: Includes infrared communication, compass, light sensor, and accelerometer.
• Durable Design: Waterproof and scratch-resistant for various play environments.

KiwiCo STEM Subscription Boxes

Monthly Educational Gifts that deliver hands-on activities right to your door, covering a wide variety of STEM topics.

Best Features:

• Tailored Projects: Suitable for all ages, from toddlers to teens.
• Diverse Topics: From Science Kits to art and engineering.
• All-Inclusive Kits: Everything needed for loads of fun is included.
• Educational Content: Enhances critical thinking and creativity.

National Geographic Mega Science Series

The National Geographic Mega Science Series offers comprehensive Science Kits designed to engage kids with real-world experiments. Whether it’s geology, chemistry, or paleontology, each kit includes hands-on projects that teach scientific principles while providing loads of fun. Kids can dig up fossils, grow crystals, or conduct safe chemistry experiments, making science exciting and accessible.

Best Features:

• Real Specimens: Kits often include genuine samples, like fossils, minerals, or gemstones, for kids to examine and learn from.
• Multiple Experiments: Each kit is packed with a variety of experiments and activities, keeping children engaged and learning.
• Educational Content: National Geographic provides detailed guides and explanations to help kids understand the science behind each experiment.
• STEM Exploration: Encourages a love for science by allowing kids to explore subjects like geology, chemistry, and physics in a hands-on way.
• High-Quality Materials: Kits come with all the tools and materials needed to conduct experiments safely and effectively.

SmartLab Toys Ultimate Secret Formula Lab

The SmartLab Toys Ultimate Secret Formula Lab is a hands-on chemistry kit that lets kids conduct safe and fun experiments, from making slime to creating chemical reactions. This Science Kit comes with everything needed to explore basic chemistry principles, making it a great teaching tool for young scientists looking to understand how the world works.

Since all the ingredients are included, you don’t have to worry about scrambling for materials to do the experiments. There’s a good variety of experiments that pop, fizz, bubble, and boom!

Best Features:

• 40 Fun Experiments: Kids can create everything from fizzy reactions to sticky slime, providing loads of fun while learning chemistry concepts.
• Lab-Grade Tools: Comes with high-quality tools like test tubes, beakers, and measuring spoons, giving kids an authentic lab experience.
• STEM Learning: Teaches scientific principles like the states of matter, chemical reactions, and more.
• Safety Focused: All experiments use safe, non-toxic materials, so kids can experiment worry-free.
• Educational Guidebook: Includes a detailed instruction manual that explains the science behind each experiment, making learning easy and accessible.

Snap Circuits Electronics Exploration Kit

The Snap Circuits Electronics Kit is an award-winning educational toy that allows kids to build real, working electronic circuits. With over 100 projects to explore, this kit introduces children to the basics of electrical engineering in a fun and safe way. The components are easy to snap together, making it simple for beginners to create circuits that power lights, fans, and sound effects.

Best Features:

• Easy-to-Use: Pieces snap together securely, eliminating the need for soldering or other tools, making it safe for younger learners.
• Over 100 Projects: The kit includes a variety of circuits that let kids create everything from alarms to light sensors, fostering creativity and experimentation.
• STEM Concepts: Kids learn about electrical currents, switches, and circuits, providing a foundation in electrical engineering.
• Clear Instructions: The kit comes with an illustrated guide that makes learning the principles of electronics easy and engaging.
• Durable and Safe Components: The parts are designed with safety in mind, ensuring they can be used without risk.

littleBits Electronic Music Inventor Kit

A modular electronics kit that lets kids build their own instruments, blending music and engineering for a loads of fun experience.

Best Features:

• Snap-Together Components: Simplifies circuit building.
• Coding Integration: Great intro to coding with app-based control.
• Creative Expression: Encourages experimentation with sound.
• Reusable Parts: A classic engineering gift that keeps on giving.

Botley 2.0 Coding Robot

Brief Description: The Botley 2.0 Coding Robot offers a screen-free way for young children to learn the basics of coding. By programming Botley to navigate obstacles, follow lines, or complete mazes, kids are introduced to coding through fun, interactive play. With its advanced features, Botley can also teach loops and logic, making it a great option for kids who are just starting their coding journey.

Best Features:

• Screen-Free Coding: No screens are required—kids can program Botley using a remote control and input basic commands directly into the robot.
• Advanced Features: Botley 2.0 includes new features like object detection, line-following, and night vision, providing more advanced learning opportunities.
• Expandable Play: The robot is compatible with additional accessories and activity sets, allowing for more complex challenges as kids’ skills grow.
• Interactive Learning: Through hands-on play, kids learn about sequences, loops, and logic, making Botley a great teaching tool for introducing coding concepts.

Code Rocket

Code Rocket is a rocket-shaped coding device designed to introduce children to C++ and JavaScript through engaging, interactive projects. Kids can learn real-world coding languages while programming the rocket to light up, make sounds, or even perform “missions.” It’s a perfect blend of STEM learning and fun, giving kids a taste of what it’s like to be a real programmer.

Best Features:

• Learn Real Coding Languages: Code Rocket teaches the fundamentals of C++ and JavaScript, making it an ideal entry point for kids who are ready to go beyond block-based coding.
• Interactive Projects: The rocket responds to the code with lights, sounds, and motion, providing immediate feedback and keeping kids engaged.
• STEM Learning: Teaches coding while integrating engineering concepts like circuits and design, offering a comprehensive learning experience.
• User-Friendly Software: Even though it teaches professional programming languages, Code Rocket offers a kid-friendly interface to ease them into the process.

Puzzle Books

Puzzle books are a great activity to challenge your skills and keep your mind sharp. Did you know we have our own books available on Amazon? Check out our series of puzzle books!

You’ll find classics like Sudoku as well as some fun twists like Jigsaw Sudoku and Math Crosswords or Number Search. We’ve got something for every skill level and pocket size puzzles to go (or tuck into a gift bag.) You’ll also find some coloring books from STEMtropolis Press!

ThinkFun Gravity Maze Marble Run

The ThinkFun Gravity Maze Marble Run is a logic and engineering puzzle where kids must build a maze that directs a marble to a target. The challenges increase in difficulty, helping children develop problem-solving skills while also teaching principles of gravity, force, and momentum. It’s both a classic engineering gift and a fun puzzle game that keeps kids engaged with hands-on activities.

Best Features:

• 60 Challenges: From beginner to expert, Gravity Maze offers a wide range of puzzles that increase in complexity as kids advance.
• STEM Learning: Teaches important concepts in physics and engineering, such as gravity, momentum, and building stability.
• Hands-On Problem Solving: Kids must plan, build, and test their mazes, encouraging critical thinking and perseverance.
• High-Quality Components: The durable plastic pieces are built to last, allowing for endless hours of play and replayability.
• Solo or Group Play: Can be played alone or collaboratively, making it a versatile gift for all types of learners.

Augmented Reality (AR) Globe

The Augmented Reality (AR) Globe is an interactive globe that uses AR technology to bring geography lessons to life. Paired with a companion app, kids can explore different countries, learn about cultures, and engage in quizzes and games. It’s a fantastic way to make geography and world history more engaging for kids, turning passive learning into an immersive, hands-on activity.

Best Features:

• Augmented Reality Experience: Using the AR app, kids can explore the globe in 3D, learning about everything from wildlife to landmarks and cultural traditions.
• Interactive Learning: Engages kids with quizzes and facts, encouraging them to test their knowledge as they learn.
• Regular Updates: The app content is regularly updated, ensuring that the learning experience stays fresh and relevant.
• STEM and Geography Learning: Teaches geography, cultural studies, and global awareness through a fun, interactive platform.
• Perfect Gift for Explorers: Ideal for curious kids who love learning about the world.

3Doodler Start+ Essentials Pen Set

The 3Doodler Start+ is a kid-friendly 3D printing pen that lets kids create three-dimensional objects by drawing in the air – no 3D printer needed! This hands-on activity combines art and engineering, as children can design their own 3D creations, from simple shapes to intricate structures. It encourages creative thinking and spatial awareness while being completely safe for younger users.

Best Features:

Safe for Kids: Unlike traditional 3D printers, the pen is low-temperature and uses eco-friendly plastic, making it safe for kids to use without supervision.

Simple to Use: The pen is designed with easy-to-use controls, perfect for beginners.

Rechargeable: The 3Doodler is cordless and rechargeable, making it convenient for portability.

Creative Freedom: Kids can create anything from toys to decorations, developing their artistic skills along with their understanding of spatial design.

Osmo Genius Starter Kit

The Osmo Genius Starter Kit combines physical game pieces with iPad or Fire tablet-based gameplay, turning screen time into a learning experience. The interactive kit includes educational games that focus on math, spelling, problem-solving, and spatial reasoning. By blending tangible pieces with digital interactions, Osmo creates an immersive learning environment that promotes creative thinking and hands-on activities.

Best Features:

• Interactive Play: Blends tactile learning with technology.
• Educational Games: Covers math, spelling, and problem-solving.
• Adaptable Difficulty: Adjusts to the child’s skill level.
• No Wi-Fi Needed: Once set up, the games don’t require an internet connection, making it great for on-the-go learning.

Kano PC Kit

A DIY laptop kit that lets kids assemble their own computer, blending building toys with technology.

Best Features:

• Hands-On Assembly: A perfect gift for kids to learn about hardware.
• Coding Challenges: Offers tutorials in Python, JavaScript, and more.
• Full Windows Experience: Runs Windows applications, bridging fun and education.
• Educational Apps: Comes with creative and learning-focused software.

Wrap Up – STEM Gifts for Kids

There’s bound to be something in our gift guide to appeal to the budding scientist or engineer on your gift list.

Instead of another toy that gets stuffed in the closet, pick an educational gift that offers loads of fun as well as an investment in your child’s future. From building toys that develop engineering skills to science kits that inspire a love for experimentation, there’s a wide variety of options to suit every interest.

These STEM toys for kids not only make the perfect gift for the holidays or birthday gift but also serve as valuable teaching tools that promote creative thinking and computational thinking.