Have you heard the term ‘STEM Toys’ before? Maybe it’s just me since I’m in the toy business, but I’m hearing it pop up all the time! STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics so STEM toys are toys, games, and crafts that encourage children to develop their knowledge and understanding of these subjects. These educational toys are fun for children to learn and develop skills through play. In the past STEM toys were often marketed more towards boys but there has been a huge shift in this so that now most STEM toys come with gender-neutral packaging.
Over the next few weeks, I plan on blogging about age-specific STEM toys but in today’s blog, I just want to explain what they are and show off my top 10 STEM toys.
These kits have everything your child needs to grow their own crystal. It’s a fun science experiment with dazzling results. This kit is a great introduction to science and geology for children aged 8+.
2. 100 piece Solar System Jigsaw Puzzle
All jigsaw puzzles fit into the category of STEM toys as there’s maths and engineering skills needed to assemble them. This has double value as a STEM toy as it’s scienced themed.
Cut and carve out shapes with this wood carving knife set.
4. Glow in the Dark Solar System
Learn all about our Solar System and planets and make your very own model for your room with this glow in the dark set.
The Easy Coding Game is great for problem solving.
6. The Human Body Under X-Ray Jigsaw
Another jigsaw with a science (biology) theme. The Human Body Under X-Ray is a jigsaw with a difference as it has hidden images that can only be seen using the ‘x-ray’ torch!
7. Scratch and Reveal Map of Ireland
Enjoy learning Irish geography with this Scratch and Reveal Map of Ireland.
8. Solarbot
Make 6 different solar powered robots with this Solarbot kit for older children and adults.
This kit comes with 12 double-sided cards with images to replicate with the 48 different length wooden sticks. Great for figuring out spaces and shapes. It is recommended for children aged 5- 8 years.
10. Terra Kids Construction Kit – Animals
Find items from nature and then shape and attach them to make cool looking animals
So, as you can see, STEM toys include a huge range of educational toys, games, and crafts. I hope this has given you an understanding of how broad the term is and yet at the same time has helped you visualise some examples of what can be included. Next week I plan on blogging about STEM toys for pre-school aged children.
Thanks for taking the time to read,
xx Suzie
PS. If you’d like some STEM toy ideas for specific age groups, you can check out these blogs.
