STEM toys
The best science, technology, engineering and mathematics toys can help children learn in fun ways that don’t feel like homework. They’ll be picking up on concepts without even knowing it. STEM toys are made for various skill levels from toddlers to teenagers, so it’s important to choose one that is age-appropriate.
In the case of one favorite product, Skoolzy Rainbow Counting Bears, children ages 3 to 5 can begin learning skills like counting and sorting to get a head start on school. It’s also designed to develop motor skills.
What to know before you buy a STEM toy
It can be difficult to find the right STEM toy for a child, especially since STEM has become a kind of catchphrase. A truly wide range of products are given the label, and some may or may not actually help with STEM skills. You can increase your chance of finding a toy that both delights and educates by considering a few key factors.
Quality
Some of the best products in the STEM toy arena are a little pricier than your average toy. Keep in mind that they also offer more than the average toy, as they provide both learning and entertainment.
Age recommendation
As with all toys, age recommendations can help keep kids safe in terms of choking and other hazards. With STEM toys, these age recommendations are important in other ways too. A toy that’s too simple will bore an older child, for instance.
Longevity and replayability
While there isn’t really a toy for all ages, there are some that will be great for many ages. Legos are a great example. Once you’re past the age of choking hazards, your child should be able to use the same set for many years and you can watch as their projects grow more sophisticated.
Types of STEM toys
The range of options in this category is rather impressive. Along with the STEM toys you remember from your childhood, there are all sorts of new ideas out there for encouraging the future STEM student.
Coding toys
A coding toy for toddlers may seem advanced, but the basic skills needed to make a computer do what you want can start very early. You can find coding toys for virtually any age group, and coding education may impact other areas of learning. One study indicated that kids ages 8 and older had improved problem-solving skills in other areas if they had played with coding toys.
Chemistry sets
This is one of the oldest types of STEM toys, and kids still love using beakers to cook up all sorts of science experiments. More modern versions are designed to help them create other fun things, including bath bombs.
Robotics toys
Your child can make their own robot or teach an existing robot to do simple tasks like learn their name.
Building sets
Legos, Tinker Toys and basic wooden blocks are just a few of the available building sets that can help children learn the basics of engineering. There are even sets that help kids construct a miniature version of their dream rollercoaster.
Electronics sets
Snap Circuits and similar products help children learn electronics concepts. Some let your child learn to power a flag, for example, or understand conductivity.
Biology toys
Butterfly nets, ant farms and many other toys can be a fun way to get kids interested in the natural world.
STEM toy cost
Quality STEM toys usually start at a higher price range than normal toys. They can go as high as $100 and more when you include robots and other higher-end sets.
STEM toy FAQ
Do these toys really help children learn STEM concepts?
A. Though it would take a great amount of funding to study every toy and its effects, there are some studies that suggest a correlation between playing with STEM toys and STEM skills. Basic building blocks are associated with improved math learning, for instance.
Do parents need to play along?
A. Not necessarily. Some toys, including chemistry sets, can be dangerous if used incorrectly, so supervision is a good idea in that case. Some research has shown that guided play can increase the benefits of STEM toys, but letting kids experiment on their own can also provide valuable learning experiences.
Why encourage STEM education?
A. STEM is a growing field that could lead to more job options in the future. STEM jobs have a median wage of $89,780, which is more than double that of other jobs.
Which STEM toy should I get?
Best of the best STEM toy
Skoolzy Rainbow Counting Bears: available at Amazon
Our take: This can get 3-, 4- and 5-year-olds thinking about sorting and counting in a fun way.
What we like: The pieces are nontoxic, free of BPA and phthalates.
What we dislike: You don’t get instructions with this product, which can be disorienting.
Best bang for your buck STEM toy
Skoolzy Peg Board Set: available at Amazon
Our take: Simple stacking and sorting set is fun for young kids and comes at a great low price.
What we like: The set comes with a string backpack so it’s easy to take anywhere.
What we dislike: The pegboard is made of foam, so it might not last.
Honorable mention STEM toy
Melissa & Doug Magnetic Human Body Anatomy Play Set: available at Amazon
Our take: Kids under 6 can get a start on science class with this doll that allows them to learn about human anatomy.
What we like: This anatomy set teaches all about the body while helping develop motor skills.
What we dislike: It includes anatomically correct boy and girl magnets, which some parents might not want.
Angie Parkinson is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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