Gadgets

Best Coding and STEM Toys for kids 2024

Published

4 months ago

September 5, 2024

Looking for the best toys to teach coding, programming, and STEM skills to children and young adults? These toys and games offer a fun way to actively engage kids in learning new technology skills that will prepare them for the jobs of tomorrow.

From robots to electronics kits, there are options for all ages. Keep reading to discover some of the best coding toys and games available.

Coding and programming are now part of the national curriculum, aimed at bridging the skills gap in technology jobs. The new “computing” curriculum includes coding lessons for children as young as five, replacing the traditional ICT tutoring.

For parents with limited coding skills, introducing coding to kids may seem daunting. However, coding is simply a sequence of events. When the right order is followed, the desired action occurs. It’s all about organizing commands in the correct sequence.

In this feature, products are described as “toys” or “games” to emphasize their interactive and engaging nature. Learning through play is one of the most effective ways for children to acquire new skills and overcome educational challenges.

For those who prefer a more artistic approach, there’s STEAM, which incorporates the Arts into STEM for enhanced creativity. Additionally, STREAM stands for Science, Technology, Robotics, Engineering, and Maths.

Not all coding toys are computer-based or require batteries. By presenting educational products as toys, children are more likely to engage with them and learn through play.

To explore more STEM toys, check out the range available at John Lewis (UK) and Walmart (US).

Osmo Coding – Use Physical Blocks With Your Tablet To Learn Coding

Pros

Works with iPads or Fire tablets

Range of games

Price When Reviewed:

$129.99

Ages: 5-12

Osmo is an innovative kids’ game that uses a Montessori-like approach to teach coding via physical objects. The Osmo Coding kit includes a Base unit in which you insert an iPad or Fire tablet, along with a mirror cap that allows the tablet to “see” objects on the table.

There are various Osmo games available, with the latest being Osmo Coding designed for kids aged 5-12. Each physical code block contains a unique command that can be sequenced with other commands to create complex actions for the character Awbie to follow.

Players can see the effects of the coding blocks in real-time before running the actions. Osmo Coding combines physical play with the power of iPad technology, making it a fun and educational experience.

The Osmo Coding Starter Kit includes the Base unit that can be used with other Osmo games, along with additional game options like Coding Jam that lets kids create music through coding.

Sphero Bolt – A Programmable Robot Ball

Price When Reviewed:

$149.99

Ages: 8+

Kids love robots, and the Sphero Bolt is a programmable robot ball that can be controlled via smartphone apps. The translucent version of the robot ball, Sphero Bolt, is equipped with sensors and a programmable LED matrix.

The Sphero app uses a Scratch-like coding environment that allows users to set commands for the robot to roll, flip, spin, or change colors. Advanced programmers can delve into the block-based coding or JavaScript programming options offered by Sphero Edu.

The latest version of Sphero Bolt enables programming with JavaScript, making it a versatile tool for learning coding. Players can drag and drop actions to create sequences and quickly grasp coding concepts while having fun with the robot.

With sample programs and the ability to create custom commands, the Sphero Bolt offers an engaging way for kids to learn coding through interactive play.

Coding Critters MagiCoders

Price When Reviewed:

$54.99

Ages: 4+

The Learning Resources MagiCoders Coding Critters offer a creative and magical way to teach coding and STEM skills. With a spell book to cast spells on Blazer the Dragon or Skye the Unicorn, kids can design limitless coding challenges using the 22-piece pet playset.

Blazer and Skye can perform various actions, such as following a ball, dancing, turning horns into a volcano or rainbow, changing moods, singing, and more. The set helps children develop spatial awareness, sequential logic, and basic coding skills.

Parents have reported positive feedback from their kids, noting that the toy is easy to use and engaging. It encourages imaginative play while teaching coding concepts in an entertaining way.

For children who prefer robot vehicles, Learning Resources offers the Switcheroo Coding Crew, an obstacle-avoiding screen-free coding game featuring a modifiable vehicle with interactive town playset.

Review by Lexi Jary.