Meryl discusses why STEM gifts matter for kids and teens—and how choosing the right ones can build creativity, problem-solving, and curiosity. Whether you’re catching Black Friday sales or shopping any time of year, today’s episode is packed with practical ideas for skill-building gifts.

Early exposure: Starting STEM learning early helps children see it as a natural part of their world—and helps parents become more comfortable with it too.

Builds real skills: In an age when many teens rely heavily on AI tools, STEM toys encourage hands-on logic, creativity, and problem-solving.

Long-lasting value: Unlike many novelty toys, high-quality STEM kits and building sets are used again and again, often across multiple ages.

Did you know Advent calendars aren’t just chocolate anymore? Meryl shares several STEM options your kids will love opening every day in December, including:

National Geographic Advent Calendars (fossils, gemstones, science experiments)

Kiwi Co Mechanical Ornaments Advent Calendar – gear and lever–based mini builds

LEGO Advent Calendars – including themed sets like Frozen

Purple Cow “Shocking Science” Advent Calendar

Exit the Game Advent Calendar – a daily escape-room-style puzzle

Clixo  

A magnetic, flexible building toy (ages 4–99!) that encourages creativity, spatial reasoning, and engineering thinking. Great for travel.

Mbot Robots

Affordable, buildable robots ideal for introducing teens to robotics and coding.

Math Board Games

A fun, screen-free way to strengthen mathematical reasoning. (Search “math board games” at homeschoolingwithtechnology.com for a full episode.)

Classic Building Toys

K’Nex

LEGO (including Power Functions to integrate mechanics)

Keva Planks for bridge-building and other architectural challenges

Circuits Kits

Snap Circuits Junior / Classic – perfect for younger learners and still engaging for older kids

Expanded circuit board kits for those who master the basics

Chemistry & Forensics Kits

Hands-on experimentation for budding scientists—everything from volcano-making to mini forensics labs.

Educational Advent Calendars

STEM Gifts Under $50

Take a look at show sponsor, FundaFunda Academy to see what they offer for online classes and web-based unit studies.

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