Best STEM Toys For Kids 2023

What is STEM?

STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering & Math.

STEM toys encourage kids to develop skills in these four disciplines that are essential to children’s future academic and career success.

Research shows that playing is one of the best ways for kids to learn. Kids learn without even knowing it and keep coming back for more. Try that with their homework! :)

We select these toys because they can promote STEM skills that are age-appropriate and consistent with findings in child brain development studies, AND they are fun and engaging!

Without further ado, here are our top picks for the best STEM toys for kids.

STEM Toys For Toddlers

STEM Toys For 2 Year Olds

2 year olds can benefit tremendously from playing with toys that stimulate the five senses or help them learn colors and shapes. But since they still tend to put toys into their mouths, it is best to avoid toys with small parts.

STEM Toys For 3 Year Olds

3 year olds can master more complex spatial relations. Their thinking brains (Pre-Frontal Cortex) are also starting to take shape allowing the toddlers to start making sense of the world.

The first 3 years are also the time when little children's brains grow the fastest in mass. To take advantage of the speedy growth, expose them to various positive experiences. Introduce basic natural or physics concepts such as magnetism, gears, quantification (counting), etc.

STEM Toys For 4 Year Olds

4 year olds are well on their way to develop executive function and self-regulation skills. They are important mental processes that allow us to plan, focus, memorize and multi-task successfully.

Executive function and self-regulation skills are crucial for learning, development and positive behavior. They depend on 3 highly interrelated brain functions: working memory, mental flexibility and self-control.

STEM Toys For 5 Year Olds

From age 5 onward, children start learning to read. They know the implication of cause-and-effect and become increasingly independent. Toys that involve reading (e.g. instructions) and investigating consequences can further enhance those new skills.

STEM Toys For 8 Year Olds

8 year olds have the ability to absorb complex STEM knowledge. Keep them interested in STEM. Show them how interesting science can be, how science allows them to understand natural wonders of the world and how science can enhance their lives.

STEM Toys For 12+ Year Olds

In an era where even little kids have their own cellphones, it is not surprising that some 12+ year olds are already experts in STEM. Help them identify their passion in STEM and explore more the area they enjoy the most.

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