As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to think about family, togetherness, and—of course—gifts! I can’t stand when someone gives my child a mindless toy that just adds to the clutter. Instead, I prefer “smart toys” that challenge his mind or can be built and displayed proudly afterward.
According to Laura Brooks, an expert in childhood education and play, “Instead of focusing solely on gadgets that talk, children need to practice joint attention skills,” she notes. “These skills are crucial for learning in a classroom, participating in discussions, and understanding differing perspectives.”
Brooks also emphasizes that effective educational toys should serve various purposes, such as:
- Icebreakers in social situations
- Stimulating imaginative play
- Enhancing memory
- Supporting executive functioning (a series of processes relating to self-management)
- Encouraging artistic expression
- Fostering scientific reasoning
While “smart toys” may hint at high-tech gadgets, I like to think of them as “toys that make you smarter.” The market is brimming with STEM-focused, robotics, and coding toys that can even teach us a thing or two as parents. If you’re on the hunt for the best smart toys for your little one this holiday season, check out these fantastic options:
1. Artie 3000
Perfect for Future Coders
Price: $62.99 at Amazon
Artie 3000 is a coding robot that allows kids to create their own code, and it draws the images! Although we wish there was a robot that could say, “Clean your room!” with kids automatically complying. Suitable for mini-coders aged seven and older, this little guy is an honorary member of Mensa—so he’ll be the smartest companion for your child.
2. Relay
For Parents Hesitant to Introduce Smartphones
Price: $49.99 at Amazon
Relay is a screen-free smartphone substitute that functions as a walkie-talkie with nationwide coverage and GPS tracking. With a companion app to manage devices and track locations, it operates over 4G LTE and WiFi—making it an excellent alternative if you’re not ready for your child to have a smartphone.
3. Moving Creations with K’nex
For LEGO Enthusiasts
Price: $39.99 at Amazon
This kit guides budding engineers through nine builds and 18 STEM experiments, complete with “Think Bigger” challenges to deepen their understanding of the scientific method. Kids can explore the principles of pneumatics and hydraulics while you brush up on the vocabulary!
4. Jooki
For Young Music Lovers
Price: $199.99 at Amazon
Jooki is a versatile music player that streams songs and stories from your phone or Spotify, records messages, and operates over WiFi and Bluetooth. Parents can add personalized content, so while this is a gift for your kid, you might just find yourself using it too.
5. Boolean Box
Empowering Future Innovators
Price: $159.99 at Amazon
Designed for girls (who run the world!), Boolean Box is a DIY computer and electronics kit. It includes a Raspberry Pi, mouse, keyboard, and all the essentials for bringing coding projects to life. Ages eight and up can create art, games, and even replicas of classic games like Pac-Man.
6. Gumball Machine Maker
Great for Aspiring Physicists
Price: $27.99 at Amazon
Kids can build their own gumball machines while learning about physics. As gumballs travel down the track, they encounter fun mechanics like pulleys, pendulums, and trampolines, ensuring they stay engaged—and we get a sweet treat at the end!
7. Air-Walker
For Future Astronauts
Price: $27.99 at Amazon
This robot uses suction cups and pumps to crawl along smooth, vertical surfaces. Kids can construct four additional models, making it a hands-on kit that brings engineering concepts to life while demonstrating air pressure principles.
8. ABCmouse
For Little Bookworms
Download at Amazon
ABCmouse is a digital learning resource for children ages 2–8 that accelerates early literacy and math skills, ensuring kindergarten and third-grade readiness. Developed by educators, it’s a trusted tool utilized in over 70,000 classrooms and nearly half of U.S. public libraries.
9. KeySmart
For Teens on the Go
Price: $22.99 at Amazon
Perfect for older kids, this durable key holder can store up to 14 keys and includes a bottle opener. Plus, it comes with a Tile tracker, so they’ll never misplace their keys again!
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In summary, the holiday season is the perfect time to choose thoughtful gifts that stimulate your child’s creativity and intellect. With these smart toys, Santa will surely impress this year!
Keyphrase: Smart toys for kids
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