The Way Things Work

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Welcome to 'The Way Things Work,' where curiosity meets understanding! As parents and educators, we often wonder how to explain the mechanics of the world around us to our little ones. This page dives into the fascinating principles that govern everything from simple machines to complex systems.

Discovering Simple Machines Together

Our Rank:
The Thames & Kosmos Simple Machines Science Experiment & Model Building Kit is a fantastic way for kids aged 8 and up to dive into the world of mechanical physics. Through building 26 engaging models, children will enhance their problem-solving skills, understand fundamental engineering principles, and explore how simple machines make everyday tasks easier. Parents and educators will appreciate the hands-on learning approach that encourages curiosity and critical thinking, setting the foundation for future science and engineering pursuits. 8+ years
Why we love it:
Discovering Simple Machines Together includes 26 engaging models that turn complex physics into a fun building adventure, setting kids up for future engineering success while fueling their curiosity.

Become a Young Mechanic Today!

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The Bubble Factory: Motor Car Engine Workshop is the ultimate hands-on adventure for aspiring little mechanics! With this exciting toy, children can dive into the world of engineering by taking apart and rebuilding their very own car engine. Not only does it ignite their imagination, but it also promotes fine motor skills, problem-solving, and understanding mechanical concepts—all while having a blast with lights and sounds. 3+ years
Why we love it:
Become a Young Mechanic Today! allows kids to take apart and rebuild their own car engine, making learning about mechanics a thrilling hands-on experience filled with lights and sounds.

Beginner's Balance: Fun with Math & Science

Our Rank:
Learning Resources Beginner's Balance is an exciting gateway to early math and science skills for our little ones! Perfect for ages 4 and up, this engaging seesaw balances not just toys, but also the foundation for understanding mass and measurement. With 10 adorable bear counters and a helpful activity guide, our children can explore concepts in a hands-on way, making learning feel like play. 4+ years
Why we love it:
Beginner's Balance comes with 10 adorable bear counters, transforming math and science into an engaging game where kids can play and learn without even realizing it!

Spin and Learn with Gears

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The SPARK & WOW Spinny Gears wooden gear board is an exciting, hands-on learning tool for toddlers aged 2-5 years. Designed to cultivate critical thinking and spatial reasoning, this engaging toy challenges little ones to fit colorful gears onto pegs while discovering various combinations and spinning them to create mesmerizing patterns. Parents and educators will appreciate how this toy not only fosters creativity but also enhances coordination and problem-solving skills in young learners. 2-5 years
Why we love it:
Spin and Learn with Gears features colorful gears that allow toddlers to explore combinations and patterns, making learning feel like an exciting, hands-on adventure.

Discover Simple Machines Today!

Our Rank:
The Learning Resources STEM Simple Machines Activity Set offers a hands-on journey into the fascinating world of engineering for children aged 5 and up. With 19 interactive pieces, including a lever board and an Archimedes screw, this activity set inspires critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and an understanding of cause and effect. Parents and educators will appreciate how it seamlessly introduces STEM concepts while encouraging children to explore real-world applications in a fun, engaging way. 5+ years
Why we love it:
Discover Simple Machines Today! includes 19 interactive pieces that turn learning into a fun engineering adventure, making complex concepts accessible and exciting for curious minds.

Hands-On Engineering Fun for Everyone

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The Thames & Kosmos Big Engineering Makerspace invites kids to dive into the fascinating world of physics and engineering with 22 exciting lessons and experiments. This comprehensive STEM kit empowers children to build real-world machines like a hydraulic lift and robotic arm while fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. Perfect for homeschooling or learning pods, this kit not only engages young minds but also nurtures a love for science and discovery without the need for batteries! 8+ years
Why we love it:
Hands-On Engineering Fun for Everyone offers 22 exciting lessons and experiments, transforming science into a hands-on adventure that sparks a lifelong passion for learning and discovery.

Classic Steel Engineering Fun

Our Rank:
The Eitech 10006-C06 Classic Series Basic Set is more than just a construction toy; it’s an engaging introduction to engineering for kids aged 6 and up. With over 270 durable steel pieces, this set sparks innovation and creativity while helping children develop important cognitive skills, problem-solving abilities, and fine motor skills as they build at least six engaging models. We appreciate how the included easy-to-read illustrated instructions empower young builders to explore their imaginations and learn fundamental STEM principles along the way. 6+ years
Why we love it:
Classic Steel Engineering Fun includes over 270 durable steel pieces, transforming kids into mini-engineers as they tackle challenges and ignite their imaginations—one model at a time!

Medieval Physics Adventure Kit

Our Rank:
The Thames & Kosmos Catapult Engineering STEM Maker Kit inspires kids to design and build six exciting medieval machines, including catapults and trebuchets. This engaging kit not only nurtures creativity and critical thinking but also deepens understanding of mechanical physics concepts like force, energy, and motion through hands-on activities and experiments. Perfect for young engineers aged 8 and up, it transforms learning into an epic adventure filled with fun and discovery! 8+ years
Why we love it:
Medieval Physics Adventure Kit includes six exciting medieval machines that turn complex concepts like force and motion into a thrilling hands-on engineering adventure.