STEM kits and activites are a fun way to get children interested in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and many schools around the world have introduced it into their curriculum. But what is STEM? STEM is a problem-based approach to learning that combines knowledge in four areas: Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
I get annoyed when I see articles or hear people referring to it as a recent trend or a hot topic because it has actually been around since 1957. The launch of Sputnik, Russia’s first satellite, into space placed a rocket (awful pun) up the US’ butt, putting them on the path to technology and innovation. Because of their competitive spirit and need to win the space race that Americans were encouraged to become leaders in the field.
I get even more annoyed when a school claims to be STEM-centric because they’ve introduced an earthworm into a Biology class or LEGO building as a subject. STEM is, and can be, so much more than that.
If you want to nurture a love of these subjects in your children there are a plethora of games and KiwiCo Reviews and STEM activities to suit all ages. I only have space to highlight 11.
11 STEM Activities to Encourage and Nurture a Love for Technology and Innovation
![]() | Snap Circuits Jr. SC-100 Electronics Discovery Kit | Check price at |
![]() | Scientific Explorer Mind Blowing Science Kit Lowest Price | Check price at |
![]() | LeapFrog LeapStart Pre-Kindergarten Activity Book: Pre-K STEM and Teamwork | Check price at |
![]() | AMSCOPE KIDS 52-Piece Microscope Kit | Check price at |
![]() | Educational Insights Design & Drill BrightWorks | Check price at |
![]() | Fisher-Price Think & Learn Code-a-pillar | Check price at |
![]() | Coding Games in Scratch | Check price at |
![]() | Bloxels: Build Your Own Video Games | Check price at |
![]() | Klutz LEGO Chain Reactions Craft Kit | Check price at |
1. Snap Circuits Jr. SC-100 Electronics Discovery Kit
Recommended Age: 8 years and older
2. Scientific Explorer Mind Blowing Science Kit
The STEM activities in this kit are a fun introduction to the wonderful world of science and exploration, and includes mind-blowing experiments that will entertain the whole family. The Explorer My First Mind Blowing Science Kit teaches children about the natural world with loads of interactive experiments like creating a sunset in a test tube, a colorful volcano or their very own crystals. It includes red cabbage powder, baking soda, three color tablets, vegetable oil, 3 test tubes with a stand, plus a whole lot more. An activity guide is also included.
Recommended Age: Children ages 4 and up with adult supervision
3. LeapFrog LeapStart Pre-Kindergarten Activity Book: Pre-K STEM and Teamwork
Recommended Age: 2–4 years-old
4. AMSCOPE KIDS 52-Piece Microscope Kit
Nurture a love of science with the AMSCOPE KIDS 52 microscope kit, the winner of 2016’s “Top Pick of Microscopes For Beginners” award. The compound microscope has a monocular viewing head with LED and mirror illumination as well as a built-in color filter wheel, a forward-facing rotating turret. Perfect for budding scientists, it comes with a 52-piece accessory kit with brine shrimp eggs and hatchery, and a hard-sided plastic carrying case. The LED light is powered by two AA batteries, which are included.
Recommended Age:Â 6+
5. Educational Insights Design & Drill BrightWorks
Recommended Age: 3–12
6. Fisher-Price Think & Learn Code-a-pillar
They’re never too young for STEM activities. Get your little ones interested in coding from an early age with the Code-a-pillar from Fisher-Price Toys. The idea is to ‘program’ a path using problem-solving skills, as well as planning and sequencing skills. This little guy also helps develop critical thinking skills—by ‘programming’ different combinations your future computer whiz will send the code-a-pillar in different directions.
Recommended Age: 4–8
7. Coding Games in Scratch
Recommended Age: 8–12
8. Bloxels: Build Your Own Video Games
Recommended Age: 8–13
9. GoldieBlox and the Dunk Tank
Recommended Age:Â 4+
10. Klutz LEGO Chain Reactions Craft Kit
Recommended Age:Â 8+

Recommended Age:Â 3+
As a teacher or parent, what do you think of these STEM activities? Have you discovered any other standout activities you would like to share with us? Let u know below.
Feature image courtesy of Flickr, jaycodyLab.