Coding is the new literacy. We've all seen the might of technology and coding seems to be the next 'it' thing. Here are toys that can help to pique your child's interest in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM).

STEAM Crystal Science

Fancy having some crystals that you can call your own? This is a learning experience for both kids and parents!

Embark on a science and geology experiment together as you learn about the complexity of growing gorgeous crystals of your own. This kit has everything that you’ll need to grow over 10 crystals (including glow-in-the-dark ones!) and can last indefinitely. Display your finished work and tell your guests all about the wonderful time your family grew crystals together!

From $42.86 at Amazon and My Toy Shop

Arduino Starter Kit

This kit is for the more serious tech tinkerers to dip their toes in STEAM and to self-learn even more with Arduino.

We often have curious parents asking if we teach Arduino here. Our answer? If they can do basic programming (Scratch included!), then they can transfer that knowledge to Arduino. These kits have hardware (i.e. programmable boards, sensors, mechanical parts) and open-source software, which introduces concepts such as electricity and Arduino code. Activities and tools include sensors, buttons, and more!

Find out more here.

Access free tutorials here.

$128 for the Starter Kit from Duck Learning

Micro:Bit

Take coding one step further with one of the world’s smallest programmable computers.

Pop two AAA batteries in, and you’re ready to create your projects. The pocket-sized computer has an LED light display, buttons, sensors and a compass, which you can work with Scratch, Python, Microsoft MakeCode, and more. Created by news agency BBC, it was distributed to children in the United Kingdom - Singapore is following suit with select schools - to heighten curiosity and interest in coding. Join in the fun! Make a random number generator, light-up compass and more - like what we do in our Young and Advanced Computer Scientists courses!

Find out more and get FREE activities here.

$30 from Coding Lab, call us at +65 6977 9641

Read: Tech Gift Ideas for Christmas

(Written by Cheryl Tang)

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