Stem toys are a class of educational toys that focus on inspiring or teaching a science skill in one of four main categories: Science, Technology, Engineering or Math.
Stem toys can be educational and fun.
They make great gifts for kids because they help kids develop an interest in science, technology, engineering, and math.
Here are some of the top categories of STEM toys and examples of each.
Contents: What are STEM toys? A stem toy is a toy that helps children learn about science, technology, engineering, and math.
2. Science Toys Science is such a broad topic. To me, it fundamentally is a discipline that uses the scientific method.
The scientific method fundamentally includes:
observe and form a hypothesis
test and measure results
analyze and draw conclusions
repeat.
Toys that fit in the science category might include:
A tool like a telescope or microscope
A complete kit (lab in a box)
A set of experiments to observe laws of physics
etc.
There are so many toys to choose from that fall in a spectrum of levels of entertainment and open ended exploration.
AmScope 120X-1200X 52-pcs Kids Beginner Microscope STEM Kit with Metal Body Microscope, Plastic Slides, LED Light and Carrying Box (M30-ABS-KT2-W),White
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Stunning Chemistry Set - Mega Science Kit with Over 15 Easy Experiments, Make a Volcano, Launch a Rocket, Create Fizzy Reactions, & More
Ravensburger Gravitrax Starter Set Marble Run & STEM Toy For Kids Age 8 & Up
Engino - Stem Toys, Construction Toys for Kids 8-16, Physics Laws- Inertia, Friction, Circular Motion, Educational Toys
Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners - Travel Telescope with Carry Bag, Phone Adapter and Wireless Remote
Carson MicroBrite Plus 60x-120x LED Lighted Pocket Microscope
3. Technology Toys Anything with a screen is the first thing that comes to mind when we think of technology toys.
This doesn't always have to be the case. There are lots of technology toys without screens.
Some technology toys include:
Learning circuits
basic programming
motors
Learning Resources Botley the Coding Robot 2.0 Activity Set, Coding Robot for Kids, STEM Toy, Early Programming, Coding Games for Kids, 78 pieces, Ages 5+
Wonder Workshop Dash – Coding Robot for Kids 6+ – Voice Activated – Navigates Objects – 5 Free Programming STEM Apps
5 Set STEM Kit, Age 8-10 Years Old, DC Motor Model Car Kit, STEM Projects for Kids Ages 8-12, Electric Building Engineering Science Experiment Kit
Educational Insights Artie 3000 the Coding & Drawing Robot, STEM Toy, Gift for Boys & Girls, Ages 7+
Snap Circuits Classic SC-300 Electronics Exploration Kit | Over 300 Projects | Full Color Project Manual | Snap Circuits Parts | STEM Educational Toy for Kids 8+
Elenco Snap Circuits Jr. SC-100 Electronics Exploration Kit, Over 100 Projects, Full Color Project Manual, 30 + Snap Circuits Parts, STEM Educational Toy for Kids 8 +
4. Engineering Toys Engineering has three broad disciplines:
Electrical engineer
Mechanical Engineer
Civil Engineer
Likewise toys follow these categories and might include:
building bridges
designing pulley systems
how electricity works
Energy Stick Science Kit – Fun Science Kits for Kids to Learn About Conductors of Electricity, Safe, Hands-On STEM Learning Toy, Independent or Group Activity for Classrooms or Home
K’NEX Education – Intro to Structures: Bridges Set – 207 Pieces – For Grades 3-5 Construction Education Toy
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Battery Making Kit - Potato Clock and Penny Powered Flashlight Science Kit, 2 STEM Electricity Projects Great for Girls and Boys, Science Projects That Teach Kids About Circuits
Brackitz Pulley Set for Kids | Building Toy for Boys and Girls | STEM Discovery Learning Kit | Best Children Educational Construction Toys | 77 Pc Set
Thames & Kosmos Structural Engineering: Bridges & Skyscrapers | Science & Engineering Kit | Build 20 Models | Learn about Force, Load, Compression, Tension
KEVA Structures 200 Plank Set
5. Math Toys Mathematical concepts are a natural part of most toys and nearly all games.
Examples of toys and games using math:
sorting and organizing based on color, shape, or size
counting and adding
using money
critical thinking skills
puzzles
Learning Resources Pretend & Play Calculator Cash Register - 73 Pieces, Ages 3+ Develops Early Math Skills, Play Cash Register for Kids, Toy Cash Register, Play Money for Kids
Blue Orange Games Kingdomino Award Winning Family Strategy Board Game
ABCaptain Counting Dinosaur Matching Game with Sorting Cups, Color Classification and Sensory Training Educational Learning Toys Set Gift for Toddlers Preschool
BLINK Family Card Game, Travel-Friendly, with 60 Cards and Instructions
Think Fun Zingo 1-2-3 Number Bingo Game for Age 4 and Up - Award winner and Toy of the Year Nominee
Grandpa Beck’s Gnoming A Round Card Game | A Fun Family Card Game | Enjoyed by Kids, Teens, & Adults | from The Creators of Cover Your Assets | Ideal for 2-7 Players Ages 7+
Montessori Toys for 1 Year Old, Baby Toy 12-18 Months, Wooden Shape Sorting & Ring Stacking Toys
The Mystic Maze • 1000-Piece Jigsaw Puzzle from The Magic Puzzle Company • Series One
Melon Rind Clumsy Thief Money Game - Adding to 100 Math Game for Kids
Do toys have to pass a set standard to be qualified as a stem toy? No. There is not a set standard for stem toys.
However, many stem toys are designed to help children develop important skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, and creativity.
The industry is self regulated and guided by the consumer opinions.
7. What age is too early for STEM toys? We've been asked occasionally when is it too early to get STEM toys for for babies or toddlers?
I think it is never too early to introduce toys that inspire and create daily learning activities.
Some of the most fun toys to introduce are those that encourage motor skills to develop hand and eye coordination.
8. Are you ever too old for STEM toys? 9. Choosing Age Appropriate Toys There are three important things to consider when buying a STEM toy.
Does the topic align with the child's interests?
Is the product age appropriate including instructions, size of pieces, and complexity of the steps?
Is the toy open ended?
When it comes to age appropriate you'll want to follow the guide of the designer, manufacturer or distributor.
