Educational science toys abound! If you are casting about for a gift idea, consider one (or more) of the following. They are ranked in no particular order. In addition to these general categories, there are also volcanic eruptions, photography kits, DNA isolation kits, globes, dissection models, electronic star charts, doctor and veterinarian kits, and more.
1. Chemistry Kits
Chemistry sets encompass slime, cooking, glow-in-the-dark fun, and traditional mixing of reagents in test tubes. There's something for everyone!
2. Creature Habitats
You could start an aquarium or terrarium with any number of animals and plants. Creature habitats extend well beyond the traditional ant farm! Check out homes for butterflies, hermit crabs, 'sea monkeys' (can you say brine shimp?), bird houses, frog farms, and more! Keep the season in mind. Some habitats include coupons to ship creatures that may be unavailable at certain times of the year.
3. Telescopes
Choose from reflectors or refractors. A telescope is an investment... this instrument really requires a bit of research before purchasing. Expect to spend a few hundred to a few thousand US dollars. In addition to the telescope manufacturer pay close attention to the maker of the optics!
4. Rock Tumblers
There are rock tumblers that rotate such that they 'tumble' the rock and those that spin along the other axis and agitate the rocks. The first produces rounded rocks and the second retains the rock's shape. You get what you pay for in a tumbler, so buy the best you can afford and from a reputable manufacturer. Get extra grit!
5. Electronics Kits
In addition to traditional electronics sets with wires, capacitors, and such, there are also brightly-colored modular sets suitable for younger inventors. Use kits to build motion detectors, light beam alarms, lie-detectors, water sensors, and more!
6. Microscopes
As with all optics, microscopes vary greatly in quality. Check the manufacturer of the optics. Also, look for a microscope with a self-protective mechanism if the lens is mashed into the specimen. There are also sets that project magnified images onto a screen or television.
7. Metal Detectors
There are hand-held metal detectors and height-adjustable models. Choose one with adjustable sensitivity and be sure to buy batteries in advance. Metal detectors are available in a wide range of prices.
8. Fossil & Archaeology Kits
Dig artifacts or fossils, reconstruct skeletal remains, or hone archeological skills through the many games and puzzles available. There's something for every treasure-hunter and explorer. Be advised that some toys are one-use-only (but fun while they last).
9. Rocketry Kits
There are rocketry sets for all age groups. Choose from air or water powered sets, vinegar and baking soda rockets, or those using serious propellants. In all cases plan on parental supervision and participation.
10. Crystal Growing
You can grow crystals using common household chemicals, but sometimes it's more convenient to get a kit. A variety of safe crystal-growing kits are available. Most kits contain projects that yield crystals within a few hours, with background information about crystals and ideas for further investigations.
