Running a STEM- Coding, Robotics and MakersEd kids Camp I have the chance to try out the newest coolest tools, kits and programs. My top picks don’t include toys exclusively although play is a critical foundation of any Science, Technology, Engineering and Math exploration. I have included favorites from camp and new finds.
So…in no particular order, except that my absolute favorites may be a bit higher on the list, here are my picks! Let me know the great things I’ve forgotten, I’ll keep expanding the list! WIth kids of all ages this season- Innovate, Construct, Explore, Create, Play!
1. MaKey MaKey The Original Invention Kit for Everyone, turns everyday objects into touchpads and combines them with the internet. http://www.makeymakey.com/ Ages- Elementary and up.
2. Make: it Kits Make: and RadioShack teamed up to introduce a series of kits designed to spark your creativity and get you started making. http://www.makershed.com/collections/make-it-kits Ages- upper elementary and up.
3. Cubelets A modular robot construction system built with nature in mind. http://www.modrobotics.com/cubelets/ Ages- Elementary and up.
4. The Finch A robot designed for computer science education. http://www.finchrobot.com/ Ages- Elementary and up.
5. Squishy Circuits All about using playdough to create electrical circuits using battery packs, LEDs, buzzers, and small motors. http://squishycircuitsstore.com/kits.html Ages- Upper elementary and up.
6. littleBitslittleBits puts the power of electronics in the hands of everyone by making your own electronic creations with no soldering, wiring, or programming required. http://littlebits.cc/ Ages- Elementary and up.
7. Snap Circuits and Snap CircuitsJr. Makes learning electronics easy and fun with all parts snapping together. http://www.snapcircuits.net/ Ages- Elementary and up.
8. Lego Toy building brick, endless imagining & constructing. http://www.lego.com/en-us/ Ages- All.
9. EZ-Robot Walking and talking humanoid robot built with EZ-Bits. http://www.ez-robot.com/ Ages- Upper Elementary and up.
10. Tegu Wooden magnetic construction blocks. http://www.tegu.com/building-sets#large-sets Ages- Preschool and up.