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As a parent deeply invested in nurturing creativity and technological skills in my child, I am dreaming about what I’d like Santa Claus to place under our Christmas tree. This year, I am all about stimulating my daughter’s young mind with exciting and educational gifts.
The following five recommendations aren’t just random picks; they’re thoughtfully chosen to ignite a toddler’s curiosity and learning in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Be sure to check out our resource page for an extensive list of STEAM recommendations tailored for children of all ages.
Here are the Best STEM Gifts for Preschoolers
Chemistry Fun for Little Scientists
KiwiCo Colorful Chemistry
KiwiCo’s Colorful Chemistry set is a wonderful introduction to the world of chemistry for young minds. This kit includes safe and non-toxic materials for various experiments, making it perfect for children interested in science. Designed for kids aged 3 and up, it’s priced at approximately $20. It’s a great way to spark a love for science and learn about chemical reactions and color mixing. Kids will also develop important skills like following instructions and problem-solving.
Magnetic Building Blocks to Spark Creativity
MAGNA-TILES Classic 100-Piece Set
The MAGNA-TILES is more than just a toy; it’s an invitation to the world of geometry and architecture for toddlers. These magnetic tiles, designed for little hands, encourage creative play while subtly introducing basic math concepts. Perfect for kids who love to build and create, this set targets children aged 3 years and up and is priced at around $120. It is expensive but a well-worth investment in your child’s cognitive development and spatial reasoning skills.
Explore the Microscopic World
Carson MicroBrite Plus Microscope (MM-300)
The Carson MicroBrite Plus Microscope (MM-300) is a fantastic tool for budding young scientists. This pocket-sized microscope offers powerful magnification compared to other alternatives, allowing kids to explore the details of the world around them. It’s ideal for curious children fascinated by nature and science and suitable for ages 3 and up. With a price tag of about $15, it’s an affordable way to introduce the wonders of science to your toddler.
A Storybook About Coding for Kids
Hello Ruby: Adventures in Coding
“Hello Ruby: Adventures in Coding” is an adventure into the world of coding and computational thinking through the eyes of a curious and clever little girl called Ruby. Written by Linda Liukas, this story-driven approach to coding is perfect for kids who love stories and puzzles. Targeting children aged 4-8, it’s priced around $15. This book is a delightful way to introduce basic programming concepts in a fun, engaging manner.
Prehistoric Rollercoaster Play and Learning
Dinosaurs Race Track Flexible Track Playset
The Dinosaurs Race Track Flexible Track Playset combines the thrill of building race tracks with the excitement of dinosaurs. This playset is ideal for toddlers fascinated by building things like trains and cars and enjoying constructive play. Suitable for ages 3 and above, it’s priced around $25, with the biggest set costing around $45. This toy encourages imaginative play and helps develop fine motor skills.