How Do STEM Toys Teach Kids Math and Science?

Learn about the benefits of educational toys

Scientific results on STEM toys
Certain STEM toys do work to teach kids
Make sure you stay involved
Start with the basics
Expensive doesn’t equal effective

STEM toys use the concepts of science, technology, engineering and math to help children understand various ideas. Some toys may help with coding basics, while others look at basic problem-solving. However, not all STEM toys are equal. There are a variety of factors that determine the real benefits of STEM toys and if they help kids. There's some disagreement in education and scientific communities as to how much these toys do, and what they're prepping kids for. With the right information and understanding of this toy type, you can select which toys to buy to help with your child's education and career path.

Scientific results are mixed

Long-term research on STEM toys and their effects aren't conclusive. These educational toys are a fairly new concept that designers are working to perfect. Researchers are still trying to figure out what are the best STEM toys. While most evidence looks only at immediate results since there are no long-term results yet, the good news is that individual studies are encouraging. There is some data to show that various ages of children in certain subjects gain a short-term learning boost from STEM toys. The catch is that these studies pertain to only specific types of toys rather than anything with the STEM label on it. Which is why it's beneficial to choose the right kinds of toys with the right goals in mind if you want positive outcomes.

Certain toys do work

The toys that seem to offer positive results target very young children and much older children. For example, sensory toys help babies gain an understanding of the world around them. Blocks, shape toys and puzzles help with spatial skills which are associated with math learning in later years. Older kids may get help with engineering and robotics concepts if they use kits for building or coding robots. This means it's important to match toys to your kid's developmental age range or lessons they already have going on in school.

When looking for toys, there are a few must-haves that could set children up for better success. STEM toys should have explanations attached that help kids understand why they need to do certain steps, and how it relates to broader concepts. They also should not be overly complicated to understand, nor should they be boring and simplistic. A happy medium keeps kids interested while helping them learn. Most of all, seek STEM toys that have specific studies attached to them to back up their claims or backing from a trusted educational organization.

Make sure you stay involved

Just because STEM toys benefit children doesn't mean parents shouldn't take part in their use. Many of these toys target themselves to parents as much as children. They look at career paths and long-term applications of the simple concepts found in STEM toys, so parents may help by guiding kids towards that goal by giving these games and activities home. Help your child learn and understand more and encourage them to ask questions.

The best STEM toys are child-led, which means the child stays in charge and drives the activity forward. That doesn't mean parents can't help. Connect a child's play to scientific concepts to make them stick or ask them questions about what's going on to be sure they get it. Not to mention, if a child enjoys playing with you, this will encourage them to try other STEM toys.

Start with the basics

When you think about what STEM toys are, you may immediately go to coding toys or robotics. However, many educational toys are far simpler than that. Effective toys for very young children work on straightforward learning development, like coordination, motor skills and spatial understanding. They may help with sensory stimulation by making sounds or showing flashing colors.

Classic toys like building blocks or interlocking bricks still work as STEM toys because they help children pass through developmental stages. You can offer them as ways to learn colors or create shapes. Although these sorts of toys may not relate directly to a school lesson, they still help with basic growth. This can help them be ready for future classes once they start school.

Expensive doesn't equal effective

When trying to pick out a STEM toy, it's important to remember that pricey toys aren't necessarily better than inexpensive ones. Some toy companies take advantage of the STEM label to justify hiking up their prices, even if a toy only has a loose connection to STEM subjects. So, when you shop, keep an eye out for effectiveness and what comes in the box.

Ask yourself if the toy teaches anything and if it can relate to what children learn in school. You may be able to put some kits together yourself with things at home, minus the flashy colors and packaging. Simple activities, such as throwing a ball or stacking blocks, can help with STEM concepts if you put them in the right context. Don't be afraid to check on discounts for deals on educational toys that make it easier to bring new activities home for your kids.

It's not completely clear yet what the best STEM toys are in the long run, but we do know why STEM toys are important. That said, all types of toys have benefits for children of various ages. Be careful in your selections and don't rely on bright and fun packaging to guide your purchases. Think about what toys work well for your child and which involve the best possible results.