Learning STEM concepts at home is easier than ever with new toys and products that push creativity. Build marble roller coasters, code robots, try new science experiments and more. Here are a few of our favorites.

KD Interactive Aura Drone

Testers ages 6, 9 and 11 took turns using the glove to move the KD Interactive Aura Drone above their heads, no remote controller needed! The drone can safely be used indoors, and easily bounces off any object. Charge the drone and controller separately with the USB charger included. Ages 6 and older. Available at Target, Amazon and Toys R Us. $99.99.

Osmo Coding Games

Osmo Coding Games help teach the elements of coding from an early age. With the original, Coding Awbie, your child controls “Awbie,” a character on the hunt for strawberries, and with each programmed command he gets closer to his destination. Other games such as Coding Jam, Pizza Co. and Newton work on other educational concepts. Ages 4-12 depending on game. Available at most major retailers. Prices vary.

LEGO Play Tape

Nimuno Loops can be cut, stuck or moved around in creative ways and the top allows for LEGO blocks to be attached. Kids can build a 3D sidewalk, run the tape around their bedroom walls for added play space or attach the tape on top of plastic toys. Ages 3 and older. Available at most major retailers. Prices vary.

Guidecraft Grippies Stackers

The magnetic x and o figures of the Guidecraft Grippies Stackers interlock to encourage balancing and matching. The round figures have a variety of facial expressions, and the set comes in different colors and patterns. Ages 18 mo. and older. Available on the website. 16-and 24-piece sets $39.95-$59.95.

Learning Resources Code & Go Robot Mouse Activity Set

Learning Resources Code & Go Robot Mouse Activity Set lets your child develop coding skills by programming the robot mouse to go through a sequence of steps then race to find the cheese. Ages 5 and older. Available at most major retailers. Prices vary.

Play Monster Marbleocity Mini Coaster

Kids can build their own working, wooden roller coaster with the Play Monster Marbleocity Mini Coaster, and watch marbles roll down and around by the twist of a lever. Ages 9 and older. Available at Barnes & Noble and Toys R Us. $29.99.

Thinkfun CODE: Rover Control

Our 11-year-old tester enjoyed coloring with dry erase markers to complete codes while playing with the Thinkfun CODE: Rover Control. Get ready for a brain workout; there are over 40 challenges, with the game becoming more difficult as it progresses. Our tester was busy for more than an hour and made it through three levels. Ages 8 and older. Available at Target for $14.99.

Parker: Your Augmented Reality Bear by Seedling

This teddy bear comes to life – Parker: Your Augmented Reality Bear by Seedling activates augmented reality effects to create an interactive world of doctor play. Our testers liked playing with Parker through the app to check temperatures, decorate band-aids and take x-rays. The app also includes games and puzzles. Ages 3 and older. Available on the website and Apple. $59.99.

Little Tykes My First Drone

Younger kids will love flying around My First Drone. Lights and sounds add to the experience of learning how drones fly and move. The remote is easy to grip for small hands and the hard outer shell protects when the drone crashes. Ages 4 and older. Available at most major retailers. $42.99.

Nancy B’s Science Club Way to Grow Hydroponics Kit & Gardening Diary

Nancy B’s Science Club Way to Grow Hydroponics Kit by Educational Insights includes a 22-page activity journal and the ability to grow and study plants without any soil. Ages 8 and older. Available at most major retailers. $21.99.

Recent Posts