Last Updated on September 16, 2022 by Natalie
Babies and toddlers learn through play but you can provide higher quality learning by more educational forms of play. STEM toys for toddlers provide just that.
My full-time job now is raising my toddler. I was a working professional for 14 years before I gave it up to spend all the moments with my little one. I like to do well at my job, whatever that may be. As a 24/7 caretaker, I try my best to stay present, engaged and provide stimulation for my toddler.
It’s challenging to do that every. single. day. So it’s great having toys and tools to depend on on days where I need some extra inspiration.
Below, I’m sharing all the STEM learning items that I put together for my toddler’s Christmas list as well as some favorites that I have at home. I also have a post sharing Creative Development toys for Toddlers and another for Montessori Toys for Toddlers.
But first…
What is STEM learning?
STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. It’s an experiential approach to learning and discovery. It encourages critical thinking, creativity and problem solving. Each of these categories are broken down and explained here.
Now let’s get to it…
Sensory Table
This multi-functional sensory table can hold sand or water and has a chalkboard cover. There is an option to buy them with chairs so it can be used as a dining or drawing table. While many Montessori aficionados do not consider a Sensory Table a Montessori element (as Montessori helps kids to learn to do things for themselves), it can be used for Montessori functions such as washing dishes. As compared to other Sensory Tables, this is a great price for the quality.
LEGO DUPLO Number Train Learn to Count
We got this toy to help with learning to identify numbers.
Train Set with Battery Operated Train & Wooden Tracks
This one was a gift I gave my son last Christmas when he was just 21 months. When he walked out on Christmas morning, he immediately went straight to the train and said “Wow!” A few months ago, when he was about 2.5 he started making me set it up constantly. It’s currently set up in the living room.
Mega Bloks Thomas & Friends Thomas Sodor Adventures Building Bag
My toddler loves to play with this set of mega bloks, which are a very important part of STEM learning. It helps with spatial skills, creative problem solving, and somehow, language skills. But best of all, it provides continuous entertainment.
Take Apart Truck
I just learned about these take apart toys and I chose this truck because he loves construction vehicles. These toys are fun because they allow kids to satisfy their curiosity taking the toy apart and allows them to safely practice putting them together with tools. Yea-yah!
Chunky Puzzles
We love puzzles here! Melissa & Doug have a lot of nice ones. My little guy has pretty much mastered his already so I’m looking for some new ones to add to our collection.
Shape Sorter
A shape-sorting activity that keeps my little guy entertained.
Remember that while all these toys are exciting, don’t overwhelm your little one with too many options at the same time. Take them out when it’s time to play. Too many toy options could affect the concentration level of kids and even hamper creativity, life skills, social interactions, imagination, mental health, and team spirit, which is the opposite of what we are trying to do here.
Truth time: I’m absolutely failing at this reminder I just shared. Not on purpose but because I have no where to store toys. I need to get some storage furniture.
I feel better now that I said that.
I’m so excited to get into these!
Do you have any STEM toys you love that should be on this list? Please share!
