Ultimate Guide to the Best STEM Toys — Australia (From Babies to Teens!)
By now you have probably heard of STEM, and while it may sound like a buzz word it is actually so much more. It stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. These are the skills of the future in Australia and globally, and when you encourage your child’s learning in these areas it could be greatly beneficial later on.
There is a seemingly unlimited number of educational toys available in Australia, and if you are looking for more info based on activity type or age range, we recommend visiting STEM Toy Expert for detailed purchasing advice.
However, if you’re interested in seeing what is available right now in Australia, we’ve put together a list of our favourite learning toys for babies, teenagers, preschoolers, primary school children, and teens:
BEST STEM TOYS FOR BABIES
For babies, STEM learning is all about celebrating their exploration, while encouraging them to develop their fine motor skills.
As parents, this is often something we do automatically, as we nurture our little ones to gradually build their confidence and independence over their childhood years.
The Play Gym
For new babies, we know tummy time is recommended to help strengthen their muscles and get them ready for crawling. An interactive playmat will keep them entertained right from the newborn stage, and is great for their development.
One option is the Forstart Kick and Play Piano Gym that can be converted into 4 different positions, to suit each milestone with rolling, sitting, crawling, and standing. The colours will be visually appealing to your baby, and there are music and lights which are activated when they grab and kick.
We like that this playmat grows with your child, making it an investment they won’t become bored with too quickly. It’s stable, easy to set up, and washable making your job as a parent that little bit easier.
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational play gyms for babies:
- Little Archer and Co. Baby Floor Activity Play Gym
- Fisher-Price Colourful Carnival Music and Lights Deluxe Play Gym
- Yookidoo Gymotion Lay to Sit-Up Play Infant Toy
- TINY LOVE Baby Playmat in Meadow Days
The Building Blocks
Toys which stack are educational, since they teach your baby problem-solving skills and help them be creative. For older kids, LEGO is fun and can be a good starting point for a future engineer.
While a baby is too young to play with tiny pieces (and they are torture on bare feet), bright building blocks can be an early introduction to a hobby that has numerous learning benefits. It doesn’t have to be all music and lights, as something basic will work just as well. We like the Fisher-Price Stack and Explore Block Set because it is bright, and has different textures, images, and number patterns.
As your little one learns, they can stack these blocks on top of one another, or inside with the nesting design. This set will test their problem-solving skills, without destroying their newly developed confidence!
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational blocks for babies:
- Adpartner Baby Blocks
- Fisher-Price Baby’s First Blocks
- Animal and Number Cardboard Stacking Blocks
- Aideal Soft Baby Teether Toy Building Blocks
The Musical Toy
Learning an instrument is a good way to develop STEM skills, as it is said to have similar benefits to teaching your child a new language. Music requires focus, and there aren’t many babies who don’t enjoy making noise!
A musical toy that they can hold and shake will be a good choice, and you can complement this with some baby song time. Singing with your baby is a fun way to bond, and we like the Spaufu Colourful Rainbow Wooden Rattles Handy Bells.
Increase coordination as they grip the handle, and use it as a rattle to create different sound effects. This is simple, yet educational, and sometimes that is the best kind of toy!
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational musical toys for babies:
- Sanwooden Interesting Toy Sand Egg Shakers
- Halilit Music Carnival Instrument Gift Set
- Baby Portable Harp Musical Instrument
- Interactive Nursery Rhymes Book and Toy Maracas for Babies
The Book
Little ones get a lot out of books from an early age, and reading is (hopefully) something they will love for the rest of their lives. It is no secret that books are great for imagination, speech, and literacy. But, there are some books which are extra special and will help them with memory, actions, and cause and effect. For this, we cannot go past Where is the Green Sheep? By Mem Fox and illustrated by Judy Horacek.
This is a beautifully illustrated board book with simple language and an interesting rhyming story. They will learn about adjectives, feelings, and problem solving as they wait for the mystery of the lost green sheep to be solved.
This will be a much-loved favourite for many years, and one that parents won’t get tired of too quickly. Due to the sturdy design, this book is suitable for all ages from babies to school children.
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational books for babies:
BEST STEM TOYS FOR TODDLERS
Once your baby hits the age of one they are classed as a toddler. This is a big period for little ones as their development and learning kick into overdrive. The toddler years can be supported with specific STEM toys to prepare them for preschool. For creative play, a toddler dollhouse is a great option, and they’re not just for girls! For toddler STEM toys with wheels and making music, here are some more options.
The Walker
No two children will ever be the same, and depending on their determination you may find a walker useful before the age of one. The VTech Sit-to-Stand Learning Walker made the list of best STEM toys for cognitive development and motor skills, and there is a good reason why.
This interactive walker has a removable control panel which will help them become familiar with the product. There are piano keys, songs, lights, rollers, shapes, and a play phone which complement the comfortable handle as they learn to walk.
Both fine and gross motor skills have been considered by the VTech brand, and the bright colours will be visually appealing to younger children. With inbuilt opportunities to stimulate learning, they will gain important skills while playing.
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational walkers for toddlers:
- Classic World Baby Walker with Block
- Fisher-Price 3-in-1 Sit Stride and Ride Lion
- Yyqt Baby Walker- Multi-Function Play
- PlanToys – Baby Walker
The Set of Wheels
One of the questions you may get asked at your toddler’s routine health check is whether they are pushing things along. This is a milestone for younger toddlers as they “brrm brrm”, push, and pull. When your child pushes something along they will see what happens when they try different actions. How quickly will it go? Will it roll? Will it crash?
As their skills develop they might use their car, truck, or train in the dirt, or to race. One toy we like is the Mega Bloks ABC Learning Train Building Set. It has all the benefits of building blocks, with a set of wheels and a happy face.
There are 20 pieces in this playset, and the blocks come with letters of the alphabet. This allows parents to reinforce colours, and encourage literacy. They can mix and match with other Mega Bloks pieces, and this can be transformed into a station. As they stack, drive, and crash, they will be practising their fine motor skills.
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational toys with wheels for toddlers:
- VTech Baby Push and Ride Alphabet Train
- TOWO Wooden Car Park Zig Zag Car Slide
- Melissa and Doug Stacking Train
- Fisher-Price Little People Garage Playset
The Pounding Toy
Your toddler can start to learn about mechanics, and improve their dexterity with a pounding toy. It will help them get control over their arms and allow them to explore cause and effect. We like the Hape Pound and Tap Bench because it’s not only something they can tap with a hammer, but it makes music too.
This colourful playset has three balls they can experiment with, plus a xylophone for making different sounds.
There is something special about a wooden toy in this plastic world. We like that this has all the features your child needs to be pushed mentally, while still being a durable classic.
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational pounding toys for toddlers:
- Melissa and Doug Deluxe Pounding Bench Wooden Toy with Mallet
- Toyvian Wooden Hammer and Peg Toy Frog
- Hape Rainbow Pounder
BEST STEM TOYS FOR PRESCHOOLERS
The preschool years give your child a good foundation for school, and anything you can do to prepare them will be of benefit. During this time, you can get them excited about STEM as they are already naturally curious about how things work. In addition to helping them learn to write their name, the following toys will get them thinking.
The Tool Kit
Children want to be like Mum or Dad, and they will feel like they are being helpful with their very own tool kit. A set with pieces that can be removed and repositioned, with various tools will promote imagination, fine motor skills, and role-playing.
Your toddler will need to work out what fits where, what actions are required, and how to fit everything inside their toolbox. We like the Think Gizmos Deluxe Toolset because it will keep them occupied.
Early learning with a toolset may just lead to a passion for mechanics and robotics in the future. At the very least, they may learn some useful DIY skills. This Think Gizmos Set has 40 pieces and includes a battery-powered drill with sound. Despite being plastic, the components are durable enough for little hands.
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational tool kits for preschoolers:
- Black and Decker Tool Box Roleplay Toy
- 23 Piece Backpack Set
- YITOOK Kids Tool Belt
- Durable Kids Tool Set with Electronic Cordless Drill
The Play Kitchen
Play kitchens are interactive, imaginative, explorative, and social for little ones. As your child becomes more confident they will learn to take orders and memorise your special requests. They will understand methods and gain the ability to follow instructions. It is no surprise that many preschools have kitchens set up for play.
We love the KidKraft Uptown Espresso Kitchen because it is a design many parents would be envious of! It comes with cupboards and appliances for them to cook up a pretend feast. It is a larger size encouraging play with their siblings or friends.
Accessorise with wooden food for hours of play, you may even get your fussy eaters trying new things at dinner time. KidKraft has a range of other styles and colours, and there is something to suit any decor.
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational play kitchens for preschoolers:
- Keezi Kids Childrens Pretend Kitchen Playset
- Little Tikes Cook n’ Store Kitchen
- KidKraft Ultimate Corner Play Kitchen with Lights and Sounds
- Melissa and Doug Cutting Fruit Set
The Puzzle
Puzzles are great for all ages, and will certainly keep the brain active! For preschoolers, a puzzle can be useful in developing logic, problem-solving abilities… and patience.
We like the Colourful Geometric Brainteaser Puzzle because it is wooden, colourful, and harder than it looks! This is a toy the whole family can enjoy, and kids will have to analyse each shape to find the right fit.
This intelligence boosting puzzle toy uses Montessori principles and will challenge them while still being enjoyable. It is also a great way to learn about colours and unusual shapes.
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational puzzle games for preschoolers:
BEST STEM TOYS FOR PRIMARY SCHOOL
When your child starts school, you may be amazed by how quickly they learn. Before you know it they will be reading, writing, counting, adding, and computing. Their social skills will improve, and hopefully, it will be a place they love from day one. While STEM is part of the curriculum, there are ways you can nurture these skills at home.
The Coding Game
Coding is one of the most important skills of the future, and there are more and more coding clubs opening up for primary school-aged children. While you could choose a computer program for them to tinker with, the Bits and Bytes Coding Game is a standalone product.
It teaches the basics of coding, without the need for technology. Your child will be learning without even realising, and this game has become a popular choice for professionals and parents alike.
The cards with monster graphics are appealing to younger primary children, and this is something they can play with their family or friends. Before taking the plunge and putting them in front of a computer, this will help to build the right knowledge base.
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational coding games for primary school children:
- Littlecodr Kids Coding Logic Game
- ThinkFun Code Master Programming Logic Game
- My First Coding Book Board Book
- Coder Bunnyz
The Building Kit
Making and creating will eliminate some of the upcoming holiday boredom and teach them new skills. They will learn to follow instructions and problem solve with an engineering kit, and we like the Kids First Robot.
With wheels and rotating gears, your child will have to use their developing STEM skills to ensure the robot works as it should. This is made from colourful plastic, which is easier for those just starting out in robotics. There is also the option to choose their own design.
Once the project is complete, your child will be left with a cute little critter complete with eyes. Skills used in the building process include concept development, science, math, and fine motor skills.
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational building kits for primary school children:
- Brick and Electronics Exploration Kit
- Smart Lab Toys: Smart Circuits: Electronics Lab
- Creative Construction Building Blocks Set
- VATOS STEM Building Toys
The Craft Project
Making things from scratch can be fulfilling, and your child will learn how things go together. The final product will be more exciting if it is an item they would wear or use, and something electronic could be the key. For girls, we like the Make it Real GoldieBlox Headphones.
These unicorn headphones are both cute, and functional and they can be accessorised with a range of embellishments.
There is STEM information included in the kit, teaching them how sound is made and other useful facts. This product has been specifically designed to support these important skill sets, and the unique headphones will be motivation for them to finish.
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational craft projects for primary school children:
- Craft Tastic Inventor’s Box
- DIY Slumber Party Movie Night STEM Toy
- Squishy Circuits Deluxe Kit
- Sand Art Kit for Kids
BEST STEM TOYS FOR TEENAGERS
It can be hard to keep teens entertained, as “I’m bored” can be a common phrase. For teenagers, STEM toys do need to be engaging, and often doing things with their hands is a welcome change from schoolwork. Working on an educational project at home with your teenager may preserve that bond and boost communication.
The Robotics Kit
Nothing says “STEM Toy” more than a build-it-yourself, codable robot! While there are many great build your own robot kits available, the ultimate prize has to go to LEGO Mindstorms. It’s simply amazing what can be done with this set! From Robot Wars to fully-functional bridge-laying robots, if your teen can imagine it, they can build it!
Unfortunately, this amazing LEGO robotics can be hard to get hold of in Australia, and it is also a sizable investment. If you are looking for a codable robot for your teen to learn robotics, coding and express their creativity, here are some of the best robots for teenagers:
The Drone Building Kit
Drones are popular for teens, but why just fly them when you can create them? The STEM Toy Expert rated the Flybrix as one of the best drone building kits, and we have to say, we like their recommendation. This is put together using Lego-style pieces, with electrical components that need to be assembled correctly.
Because it is Lego-compatible, they can change the style and fix it when it breaks. Different designs may have different flying capabilities and it will help them problem-solve to get it functioning efficiently. The experts say this is good for aerodynamics, geometry, and electrical engineering.
Of course, a drone should fly – and when your teen has completed the project it will be up, up, and away! Control the device with a Bluetooth app.
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational drone making kits for teenagers:
- Build-a-Frame Drone Quadcopter Kit
- Hand Operated Drones
- Makeblock Programmable Flying Robot
- Robolink CoDrone Pro
The Computer Game
As parents, we often feel guilty if our children play computer games, but interactive technology is here to stay. There are plenty of mindless and violent video games, but Minecraft is different. Building, coding, and collaborating is all part of the adventure in a game with endless possibilities.
Engineering and creativity will go hand in hand, as they explore a barren world before making their mark. Often our youth will grasp the concepts in the game and be able to problem-solve and tackle any obstacles…well before their adult parents.
This has become such a huge brand there are books that could also encourage them to read more. Check out this list of build your own computer kits which are perfect for young Minecraft fans. Minecraft is available on a range of devices, with a Story Mode for those who prefer a more structured adventure.
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational computer games for teenagers:
The Battery Powered Vehicle
We could have put Lego on this list, and it would have been a worthy feature. However, a DIY battery-powered remote control car is a little bit different. This is for engineering, creativity, imagination, logic, and intelligence. It is also for fun.
We like the Remote Control 2 in 1 Building Kit with the option to create a jeep or car. The battery recharges via USB, and everything you need is included in the kit.
As they immerse themselves in the building process, your teen will be learning valuable skills they can keep with them for life. Your passionate car enthusiast will be delighted to receive this one.
If you are looking for similar items, here are some of the best educational battery-powered cars for teenagers:
- Yahboom Micro:bit Remote Control Robot Car
- Wireless Remote Control Car Kit
- Remote Control Construction Robot Vehicle Building Kit
THE FAMILY THAT STEMs TOGETHER
The 3D Printer (Bonus Idea!)
If that’s not enough ideas, here’s one for the whole family! Because the family that STEM’s together stays together. Even better, this one can bring art and design into the picture in a big way, making it a true STEAM (STEM + Art) gift that everyone can enjoy.
A 3D Printer has unlimited uses – there are now thousands of designs for everything from an A-Frame Bird-Houses to a Zebra Vase. And that’s just the beginning because if you can design it, you can make it! Our pick of the bunch for beginner 3D Printers is the Comgrow Creality Ender 3, since it represents a sweet spot between price, function and reliability. While there are some lower-priced 3D printers available, it’s likely that the lack of size, features or reliability will lead to frustration.
This Creality Ender 3 3D Printer has a very respectable 220x220x250 mm build volume, so you’ll be able to make some pretty decent sized objects. The Ender 3 is also one of the most popular, beginner-friendly printers, so there’s loads of support available, plus designs that are suitable for use without modifications.
If you’re looking for another way to get the whole family into STEM, check out our guide to the best beginner telescopes in Australia.
Final Words
We hope you enjoyed this list of the best educational STEM toys for all ages. How do you encourage learning at home? Have you had success with any of our featured products? Are there any great STEM kits, toys or sets that we missed? We would love to hear from you, please leave your feedback in the comments section below.
For more in-depth guides, don’t forget to visit STEM Toy Expert.
Anna Wood is a freelance writer and mother of 3.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is STEM?
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. The importance of STEM for future work opportunities of today’s kids has led to a greater focus on building these skills. There is also increasing recognition that STEM skills will become more important as AI and robotics are used to automate many tasks that are done by humans today.
What are STEM toys?
STEM toys are educational toys that promote and enhance learning, interest, and skills in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.
What are STEM kits?
STEM kits are products that include components that can be played with, assembled, and interacted with, and that provide exposure to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics concepts, challenges and skills.
What are the best STEM toys?
The best STEM toys are those that your child will play with, have fun, and learn while using! The best for your child will depend on their age, interests and skill levels. For many younger children, building sets, such as LEGO, K’Nex, and Meccano make great STEM toys, while other children will prefer science kits, such as chemistry sets, that allow scientific experiments. Many children are also fans of robotics sets, such as LEGO Mindstorms.
Where can I buy STEM toys in Australia?
Most department store toy sections and dedicated toy stores include some STEM toys in their collections, even if they don’t label them as STEM toys! There are also online retail options, such as Amazon, which provide a wide variety of options for all ages and the convenience of delivery to your door!
