Do you often see your child exploring and trying to discover something new? If curiosity is what drives your little one when they are at play, then you may have a budding little scientist in the family. Encourage your curious child in their quest to know the answers lurking behind every mystery they can find – with science toys!
It’s only natural for kids to explore and question everything they encounter with their 5 senses. That’s why some people say that children are born to be scientists, but many experts believe that the love for science can be nurtured as kids grow up.
The best advice is to introduce science at a young age – even before they set foot in school. Fortunately, there are lots of science kits for kids even for preschoolers. However, as they grow up and develop more complex interests, they should be exposed to more advanced science-related toys.
Before we recommend some specific toys and kits, let’s find out why science gifts are important for children.
Empowering Young Minds: The Value of Science Toys
By the name itself, we know that “science” is all about knowledge and learning new things. We can say that toys geared for scientific learning aim to let children ask questions, hypothesise, test their hypotheses through experimentation, and then find out the answers to their questions. They’re all about exploration and discovery – but done in a fun, play-friendly setting.
Here are some of the key values and benefits for kids when they play with science toys:
1. Education and Learning
Science toys can make learning fun and engaging! They promote scientific principles, encouraging children to explore, experiment, and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. This can stimulate an early interest in science and education, while allowing them to experience the same fun and excitement of play.
Toys with science themes can incite curiosity and a love for exploration. They often present phenomena that bring out a child's interest and encourage them to learn more.
2. Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
Science toys elicit problem-solving and critical thinking in kids. They often present challenges or questions that children must solve, fostering cognitive development and analytical thinking. Whether it's figuring out how to build a structure or understanding a scientific concept, these problem-solving skills can be valuable in dealing with life’s challenges as they grow up.
3. Creativity and Imagination
Science toys encourage creative thinking. Building, designing, and experimenting with these toys can inspire children to use their imaginations to come up with new ideas and solutions.
4. Hands-On Interaction
Science toys typically involve hands-on activities, allowing children to physically interact with the materials and concepts they're exploring. Many experts believe that this kind of learning approach can be more effective for children than passive learning.
5. Fine Motor Skills
Some science toys involve manipulating parts of different shapes and sizes, which can help develop a child’s fine motor skills. This is particularly important for younger children who are still developing their dexterity.
6. Family Bonding
Playing with science toys can be a great way for families to bond and learn together! Parents and children can work on science projects and experiments presented in the sciences kits, spending quality time together.
7. Social Skills
Some science toys are designed for group activities, allowing children to play and work with other kids. They will learn cooperation, proper communication, and teamwork.
8. Future Career in the Field of Science
When kids develop an interest in science and critical thinking early on, this can be a stepping stone for them to pursue a career in science and technology including medicine and engineering.
9. Environmental Awareness
Some science toys are related to understanding Mother Earth and the environment. The concepts they learn can instil a sense of responsibility and awareness about ecological issues.
10. Confidence to Ask Questions
Because science-themed toys promote exploration and discovery, children are encouraged to ask more questions and find the solutions to the more challenging mysteries that are waiting to be solved. Such skill is beneficial to life in general.
Now that we have learned some of the important benefits of playing with science toys, let’s have a look at the top selling science kits for kids.
Best of the Best: Science Kits That Score Top Marks
The world of magnets offers lots of opportunities for science education! Get magnetised and learn about the science of magnetism, and its use to humanity and in our everyday lives.
Give your child a chemistry set and introduce them to the marvellous world of scientific discoveries! Kids will love science more once they begin playing and experimenting with chemistry sets equipped with various lab accessories like balance scales, beakers, test tubes, funnels, and magnifying glasses. Follow the detailed instructions for a variety of fun, safe experiments!
• National Geographic and Australian Geographic Toys
Brace yourselves for some seriously fascinating fun! Budding young scientists, conservationists, and geologists are in for a treat – with science toys and games from National Geographic and Australian Geographic. Check them out and see how they can challenge your kids penchant for science today!
How about a dose of astronomy? Experience magical moments when you gaze into the stars through the lens of a telescope! It’s fascinating, spellbinding, and not to mention FUN! The timeless pastime of stargazing through a telescope is something you and your child don’t want to miss during a clear night sky.
Give your child a microscope kit and see them get thrilled taking a peek at how microscopic objects look when enlarged. Curious and adventurous kids may try doing experiments on drops of water to see what miniscule specimens can be found there. Made by reputable science toy manufacturers, our microscope kits are child-friendly – with features and accessories to safely assist kids in their experiments.
As your child grows up, they may be more interested in more advanced science concepts. They will look for more challenging experiments and projects. For kids who are developing an eye for engineering and robots, we have the VEX Robotics range. Beyond science and engineering principles, VEX Robotics allows customisation to meet the level of your child’s abilities, inspiring and preparing them to be problem-solvers of tomorrow.
The name says it all – these science kits are all about growing crystals! Sounds scientifically interesting? The crystal growing kit provides the right amount of chemicals and supplies to properly grow crystals and diodes in various shapes and colours. The procedures are safe and child-friendly. Instructions are provided in the package.
Now it’s time for some zoology! Sea Monkeys are the fun lovable little creatures that are too small to hug, but are highly enjoyable to care for and love. If you have a hard time raising pets that need to be walked outdoors, and fed multiple times a day, Sea Monkeys can be the perfect pet for you. They are one of the easiest pets to raise!
For STEM (science, technology, engineering, and maths) enthusiasts, here’s a toy range that will excite you. Enter Meccano! Being one of the oldest construction systems in the world, Meccano has been inspiring young builders and aspiring engineers to bring their imaginations to life. When kids build and play with Meccano sets, they get their gears turning and their creativity soaring!
K’NEX prides itself on connecting science, technology, engineering, arts, and maths with imagination. STEAMagination can be found in every K’NEX set. With K’NEX, building dreams become a fun-powered, 3-D reality! The K’NEX product line has been making toys specially designed for every age group and skill level. From the living room to the board room, K’NEX is proud to help inspire the builders of tomorrow!
Finding the Perfect Science Gift
To ensure safety, it's important to choose the science toys that are appropriate to your child’s age. Also, while these toys can be valuable as part of your child’s play experience, science-themed toys and lab kits are most effective when used in conjunction with a well-rounded education that includes classroom learning and a variety of educational experiences.
To find the perfect sciences gifts for your kids, drop by a Mr Toys retail store near you or shop here on our website.