As parents, we want to give our children the best possible start in life, and one way we can do this is by providing them with toys that promote learning and development. STEM toys are a great way to do this, as they encourage children to explore and learn about science, technology, engineering, and math concepts through play. In this blog post, we’ll review the latest and greatest STEM toys for toddlers, highlighting their pros and cons so you can make an informed decision about which toys to invest in for your child..(Some of the links within this post are affiliate links of which I receive a small compensation from sales of certain items, There is no additional cost to you.)
Coding Critters™ – Scamper & Sneaker
Coding Critters™ Scamper & Sneaker is a fun and interactive toy that teaches young children the basics of coding. With this toy, children can code Scamper & Sneaker to perform different actions, such as chasing their toy mouse or dancing to music. The toy comes with a storybook that introduces children to the characters and encourages them to use their imagination.
Pros:
Coding Critters™ Scamper & Sneaker is a fun and engaging way to introduce children to the basics of coding. The toy promotes problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and creativity. The storybook included with the toy also encourages children to develop their imaginations.
Cons:
The toy may require parental assistance to get started with coding, which may be challenging for parents who are not familiar with coding themselves. Some children may also lose interest in the toy quickly, as the coding possibilities are limited.
Magna-Tiles® Clear Colors 100 Piece Set
Magna-Tiles® Clear Colors 100 Piece Set is a building toy that promotes spatial awareness and geometric understanding. The tiles are made from high-quality materials and are designed to be durable and long-lasting. The set includes 100 tiles in various shapes and sizes, allowing children to create a wide range of structures.
Pros:
Magna-Tiles® Clear Colors 100 Piece Set promotes spatial and geometric awareness in children. The tiles are easy to manipulate and can be used to create a variety of structures. The toy is also durable and long-lasting, making it a good investment for parents.
Cons:
The toy is relatively expensive compared to other building toys, which may make it inaccessible for some families. The tiles may also be challenging for very young children to manipulate.
Vtech® Pull and Sing Puppy
Vtech® Pull and Sing Puppy is a cute and interactive toy that teaches children about numbers, colors, and music. When pulled, the puppy moves its legs and plays music. The toy also includes buttons that children can press to hear different sounds and learn about numbers and colors.
Pros:
Vtech® Pull and Sing Puppy is a fun and engaging way for young children to learn about numbers, colors, and music. The toy is durable and long-lasting, and the interactive features encourage children to engage with the toy.
Cons:
Some parents may find the music and sounds of the toy repetitive and annoying. The toy may also be less engaging for older toddlers who are already familiar with basic numbers and colors.
Osmo – Little Genius Starter Kit for iPad
Osmo – Little Genius Starter Kit for iPad is an educational toy that uses an iPad to teach children about letters, numbers, and problem-solving skills. The kit includes a stand for the iPad, four game apps, and physical pieces that children can manipulate to solve puzzles and complete challenges.
Pros:
Osmo – Little Genius Starter Kit for iPad is a fun and interactive way to introduce young children to basic academic concepts. The kit promotes problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and creativity. The use of an iPad also makes the toy engaging for children who enjoy using technology.
Cons:
The toy requires the use of an iPad, which may not be accessible to all families. Some children may also find the physical pieces included with the kit challenging to manipulate.
Learning Resources® Botley™ the Coding Robot
Learning Resources® Botley™ the Coding Robot is a fun and interactive toy that teaches children the basics of coding. The toy includes a remote control that children can use to program Botley to perform different actions, such as moving forward, turning, and avoiding obstacles.
Pros:
Learning Resources® Botley™ the Coding Robot is a fun and engaging way for young children to learn the basics of coding. The toy promotes problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and creativity. The remote control also encourages children to develop their fine motor skills.
Cons:
The toy may require parental assistance to get started with coding, which may be challenging for parents who are not familiar with coding themselves. Some children may also lose interest in the toy quickly, as the coding possibilities are limited.
Fat Brain Toys® Squigz™ Starter Set
Fat Brain Toys® Squigz™ Starter Set is a suction-cup building toy that promotes creativity and imagination. The toy includes various-sized suction cups that children can use to create different structures.
Pros:
Fat Brain Toys® Squigz™ Starter Set is a fun and engaging toy that encourages children to use their imaginations and creativity. The suction cups are easy to manipulate and can be used to create a wide range of structures.
Cons:
The toy may not be as durable as other building toys, as the suction cups may lose their suction over time. Some parents may also find the toy challenging to clean, as the suction cups may collect dirt and debris.
Green Toys™ Tool Set – Pink
Green Toys™ Tool Set – Pink is a toy toolset that promotes pretend play and fine motor skills. The set includes a hammer, screwdriver, wrench, and other tools, all made from eco-friendly materials.
Pros:
Green Toys™ Tool Set – Pink promotes pretend play and fine motor skills in young children. The toys are made from eco-friendly materials and are designed to be durable and long-lasting.
Cons:
The toy may be less engaging for older toddlers who have already outgrown pretend play. Some parents may also find the color pink limiting, as it may not be suitable for all children.
ThinkFun® Gravity Maze Marble Run Logic Game
ThinkFun® Gravity Maze Marble Run Logic Game is a challenging and interactive toy that promotes problem-solving skills and critical thinking. The game includes various pieces that children can use to create a marble run, and challenges them to solve different puzzles.
Pros:
ThinkFun® Gravity Maze Marble Run Logic Game is a fun and engaging way for young children to develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills. The game is challenging and interactive, and the different levels of difficulty make it suitable for children of varying ages.
Cons:
The toy may be too challenging for very young children, who may become frustrated with the game. Some parents may also find the toy relatively expensive compared to other toys.
Hape Toys® Quadrilla® Marble Run – Twist and Rail
Hape Toys® Quadrilla® Marble Run – Twist and Rail is a high-quality building toy that promotes spatial awareness and engineering skills. The toy includes various wooden pieces that children can use to create a marble run.
Pros:
Hape Toys® Quadrilla® Marble Run – Twist and Rail is a fun and engaging toy that promotes spatial awareness and engineering skills in young children. The toy is made from high-quality materials and is designed to be durable and long-lasting.
Cons:
The toy may be relatively expensive compared to other building toys, which may make it inaccessible for some families. The wooden pieces may also be challenging for very young children to manipulate.
Fisher-Price® Think & Learn Code-a-pillar™
Fisher-Price® Think &Learn Code-a-pillar™ is a toy that teaches children the basics of coding through play. The toy includes various segments that children can connect to create different pathways for the Code-a-pillar™ to follow.
Pros:
Fisher-Price® Think & Learn Code-a-pillar™ is a fun and interactive toy that teaches children the basics of coding. The toy promotes problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and creativity. The toy is also durable and easy to clean.
Cons:
Some children may lose interest in the toy quickly, as the coding possibilities are limited. The toy may also require parental assistance to get started with coding.
Conclusion
STEM toys for toddlers are a great investment for parents who want to promote their child’s development and education. The toys reviewed in this article are just a few of the many STEM toys available on the market today. When choosing a STEM toy for your child, it’s important to consider their age, interests, and skill level, as well as the pros and cons of each toy.
STEM toys help toddlers develop skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and spatial awareness. The toys also encourage children to explore new concepts and ideas in a fun and interactive way. Whether your child is interested in coding, building, or experimenting, there is a STEM toy out there that will capture their imagination and promote their development.
When it comes to choosing the right STEM toy for your child, it’s important to keep in mind that not all toys are created equal. Some toys may be too challenging for young children, while others may be too simplistic. It’s also important to consider the quality and durability of the toy, as well as any potential safety hazards.
Overall, STEM toys for toddlers are a worthwhile investment that can provide hours of fun and learning for your child. With the right toy, you can help your child develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in today’s ever-changing world.