Five-year-olds are natural scientists—they question everything, tinker with anything, and see the world as one big puzzle waiting to be solved. This is the sweet spot where curiosity peaks and hands are always ready to build, spin, test, and discover.
STEM toys at this age aren't about turning your child into a rocket scientist (though who knows!). They're about giving her the tools to ask "what if?" and actually find out. When your kindergartener snaps magnetic pieces together and watches a robot transform, or rolls a marble down a track and predicts where it will go—that's learning happening so naturally she won't even realize she's thinking hard.
The toys on this page are chosen because they meet kids exactly where they are at five: ready to move, build, and experiment, but still totally in it for the fun. Every block stacked, every piece connected, every "I did it!" moment is quietly building the problem-solving skills and confidence she'll need for every challenge ahead.
Our Recommended Products
Elevate Learning with Estes PS II Launch Pad
Estes 3552 PS II Launch Pad is the perfect launching point for aspiring young engineers and rocket enthusiasts! Designed for children aged 10 and older, this robust launch pad ignites curiosity about physics and aerodynamics. As kids engage in hands-on experimentation, they develop critical skills in STEM—science, technology, engineering, and math—while enjoying the thrill of rocket launches. Parents and educators will appreciate how this dynamic tool fosters problem-solving skills and teamwork, all while delivering a fun, unforgettable experience.
Elevate Learning with Estes PS II Launch Pad captivates kids with real rocket launches, making STEM concepts tangible and thrilling while nurturing their inner engineer.
Engino STEAM Solar Energy Kit
The Engino STEAM Labs How Solar Energy Works Kit offers an engaging way for children ages 8 and up to explore the fundamentals of renewable energy. With over 65 snap-fit pieces, this hands-on building experience fosters creativity, enhances fine motor skills, and promotes critical thinking through STEM education. It's the perfect blend of learning and play, making science both accessible and enjoyable for young builders.
Engino STEAM Solar Energy Kit includes over 65 snap-fit pieces that transform renewable energy concepts into hands-on fun, making science feel like an exciting building project!
K'NEX Roller Coaster STEM Set
The K'NEX Education - STEM Explorations Roller Coaster Set is the ultimate creative building experience for budding engineers aged 8 and up! With 546 assorted pieces and a battery-powered motor, this engaging set sparks curiosity and promotes hands-on learning as kids construct their own thrilling roller coasters. It's not just about building; it's about exploring scientific principles through inquiry-based experiments that encourage problem-solving and critical thinking. Designed to align with national STEM standards, this set makes science exciting, helping our children develop essential skills while having fun!
K'NEX Roller Coaster STEM Set includes 546 assorted pieces that transform our living rooms into mini amusement parks while kids learn essential STEM concepts through fun, hands-on experimentation.
Creative City Engineering Building Set
The Learning Resources City Engineering and Design Building Set is a fantastic way to foster an early love of STEM in children aged 5 and up! With 100 pieces, kids can unleash their creativity as they build skyscrapers, cranes, and bridges, all while honing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Following the design process of Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create, and Improve, this set challenges young minds to think like true engineers. It's an engaging, hands-on way to introduce science, technology, engineering, and math in a fun and interactive format that keeps learning exciting.
Creative City Engineering Building Set features 100 pieces that let kids design everything from skyscrapers to bridges, turning them into little architects while having a blast!
Hands-On Engineering Fun for Everyone
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!
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.
Creative Excavator Building Adventure
The Off Bits Build Your Own Excavator Toy is an incredible STEM journey for kids aged 8 to 12 years, sparking their imagination and engineering spirit. With over 150 pieces, this engaging building kit enhances critical thinking and problem-solving skills, allowing young builders to create at least three unique models, each with its own potential for exploration. Gift your child a world of creativity and hands-on learning that echoes the essential principles of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math in a fun, interactive way!
Creative Excavator Building Adventure includes over 150 pieces that empower kids to become little engineers, crafting unique models while indulging their imaginations and curiosity.
Engino QBOIDZ Farm Tractor Adventure
Engino QBOIDZ Farm Tractor is an exciting building kit that transforms playtime into an educational experience! Designed for children ages 4 and up, this innovative toy helps develop vital fine motor skills while encouraging creativity and spatial awareness. With 10 different model options to construct, kids can dive into a world of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) as they learn through hands-on play. Plus, the interactive features, including a 3D model viewer and additional creative challenges, make it an engaging way for young builders to discover the joys of building and learning!
Engino QBOIDZ Farm Tractor Adventure includes 10 different model options that turn building into a fun STEM exploration, nurturing curiosity while keeping tiny hands actively engaged.
Engino QBOIDZ: Alligator Adventure Fun
Engino QBOIDZ, Alligator Adventure is an exciting building block set that brings hands-on learning right into your child's playtime! With 62 pieces and five fascinating model options, kids can explore their creativity while enhancing their fine motor skills and spatial awareness. Perfectly designed and safe for young builders, this STEM kit fosters the love of science, technology, engineering, and math through playful challenges and interactive games. Parents and educators will appreciate the rich educational benefits that come alongside imaginative play, making it a perfect addition to any preschool learning environment!
Engino QBOIDZ: Alligator Adventure includes 62 pieces that encourage kids to engineer their own alligator models while sneaking in fine motor and spatial skills without even realizing it!
Circuit Clay Science Adventure Kit
The KLUTZ Circuit Clay Science/STEM Activity Kit is a fantastic way to spark curiosity and creativity in young minds! Designed to engage kids in building electrical circuits without any soldering, this award-winning kit offers 15 hands-on projects that promote essential STEAM skills. With a comprehensive 52-page guide, it leads children through each exciting challenge, instilling confidence and critical thinking as they play. As parents and educators, we can appreciate how this kit not only entertains but educates, making complex concepts approachable and fun for budding engineers and creators.
Circuit Clay Science Adventure Kit includes a comprehensive 52-page guide that transforms complex electrical circuits into fun, hands-on projects that ignite curiosity in young minds.
Engino STEAM Labs: How Buoyancy Works
Engino STEAM Labs: How Buoyancy Works is a delightful construction kit designed for budding engineers aged 8 and up. By engaging with this set, kids discover the principles of buoyancy through hands-on building, encouraging creativity, fine motor skills, and spatial awareness while making learning fun. It’s the perfect tool for parents and educators who want to blend play with essential STEM concepts, ensuring that children not only create but also understand the science behind their creations.
Engino STEAM Labs: How Buoyancy Works is a hands-on construction kit that makes learning about buoyancy feel like an exciting engineering adventure, inspiring curiosity with every build.
K'NEX STEM Vehicle Builder Set
The K'NEX Education - STEM Explorations: Vehicles Building Set is the ultimate playground for curious minds aged 8 and up. With over 130 parts, kids can team up to create seven exciting vehicle models powered by different energy sources, exploring the principles of physics in a hands-on and engaging way. This set is not just about building; it's an educational adventure into potential and kinetic energy, velocity, and motion, all while aligning with national STEM standards. As parents and educators, we know how crucial it is to spark an interest in science and engineering—this set makes learning those concepts fun and interactive, fostering teamwork and critical thinking along the way.
K'NEX STEM Vehicle Builder Set includes over 130 parts, allowing kids to build seven different vehicle models while exploring energy concepts and exercising their engineering imaginations.
Create Melodies with Smartivity Xylophone!
Smartivity Mechanical Xylophone Music Machine for Kids 8-14 Years Old is an exciting opportunity for our children to dive into the world of music and engineering! As parents and educators, we love how this DIY project not only sparks creativity but also builds confidence and critical thinking skills. Watching our kids construct their own musical instrument from sustainable wood ignites a passion for science and art, all while keeping screen time at bay. This hands-on experience is truly a gift that resonates with learning long after the music has stopped!
Create Melodies with Smartivity Xylophone! is a DIY project that fosters creativity while kids build their own instrument from sustainable wood, blending music and engineering perfectly.
Build and Play with Smartivity Hydraulic Crane
Smartivity Hydraulic Crane Toy is an enthralling journey into the world of engineering and creativity! As parents and educators, we know how important it is to reduce screen time while boosting children's confidence and problem-solving skills. This DIY STEM toy not only teaches kids about hydraulic mechanisms but also fosters a lifelong love for science through hands-on building. With its easy-to-follow instructions and all-natural materials, your child will enjoy building, learning, and playing confidently for hours on end!
Build and Play with Smartivity Hydraulic Crane includes easy-to-follow instructions and all-natural materials, making engineering fun and accessible while sparking a lifelong love for science.
Launch into Learning with Big Daddy Rocket
Estes 2162 Big Daddy Rocket-Building Kit offers an exhilarating opportunity for our older kids to dive into engineering and physics like never before! This advanced kit not only encourages creativity as they design their very own rocket, but also sharpens critical thinking and problem-solving skills during the assembly process. With a thrilling projected altitude of 900 feet, kids can experience the tangible results of their hard work and enjoy the excitement of watching their creation soar high into the sky. As parents, we can feel proud knowing that our children are engaging with STEM concepts through hands-on learning and fun exploration.
Launch into Learning with Big Daddy Rocket features a DIY rocket-building kit that not only fuels creativity but also turns STEM concepts into exhilarating outdoor adventures.
Build and Blast Off with Alpha Rocket!
Estes 1225 Alpha Rocket-Building Kit is an exhilarating way to spark an interest in STEM for kids ages 10 and up! As parents and educators, we know that building this beginner-friendly rocket model fosters creativity, critical thinking, and a love for science. With its impressive ability to soar up to 1,000 feet, kids will experience the thrill of launching their own creation while learning about aerodynamics and engineering principles. It's more than just fun; it's a hands-on lesson in the wonders of outer space!
Build and Blast Off with Alpha Rocket! is an exhilarating rocket-building kit that teaches kids about aerodynamics while launching their creativity up to 1,000 feet into the sky.
Air-Power Turbo Racer: Speed Meets Science
Thames & Kosmos Air-Power Turbo Racer STEM Experiment Kit is an exhilarating way for kids to dive into the world of engineering and clean energy! This hands-on building project encourages creativity and critical thinking as young minds assemble their very own air-powered race car. As it zips along at 9 mph and travels over 60 feet, children are not just having fun; they're developing a solid understanding of essential physics concepts and sustainable technology. Plus, with durable components designed for repeated play, this kit promises endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Air-Power Turbo Racer lets kids build their own air-powered race car that zooms up to 9 mph, turning science into an exhilarating race against time and gravity.
NASCAR Authentics Build Submarines Car
NASCAR Authentics Brad Keselowski 2024 Buildsubmarines.com Salutes No. 6 1:64 Scale HT Die-cast Car is more than just a cool collectible—it's a fantastic way to spark our children's interest in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM)! As they explore the details of this officially licensed car, kids can learn about teamwork and the important roles that different workers play in building our nation's future, especially those involved in creating submarines. Plus, this die-cast car promotes fine motor skills through hands-on play and encourages imaginative scenarios that can enhance storytelling abilities. It’s a fun, educational tool for every young racing fan and budding engineer!
NASCAR Authentics Build Submarines Car features a 1:64 scale die-cast design that brings racing excitement while teaching kids about STEM and teamwork—talk about a thrilling learning experience!
Power Up STEM Learning with Matrix Jr. Drill
BLACK+DECKER Matrix Jr. Power Drill Kids Tools Play Toy is an engaging way to ignite a passion for science and engineering in young minds! With real forward and reverse drilling action, kids not only get to mimic the work of grown-ups but also build critical thinking and design skills. The removable jigsaw head and compatibility with Build-It Kits open doors to endless creative projects, transforming playtime into a hands-on learning experience. Plus, the LED light adds an extra touch of realism, making every project feel just like the real thing!
Power Up STEM Learning with Matrix Jr. Drill features real forward and reverse drilling action, making DIY adventures feel just like the grown-up version of home improvement projects.
Launch Learning with Nike Smoke Rocket
Estes 009704 Nike Smoke Pro Series II STEM Rocket is an exhilarating way to engage young minds in the world of science, technology, engineering, and math! Designed for expert builders, this impressive model promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and hands-on learning as kids assemble and launch their very own rocket. With a projected altitude of 600 feet, the excitement of seeing their hard work take flight encourages perseverance and ignites a passion for STEM exploration. Perfect for family projects or classroom activities, this rocket is a thrilling gateway to understanding aerodynamics and physics!
Launch Learning with Nike Smoke Rocket offers kids the thrill of assembling and launching their own rocket, all while igniting a lifelong passion for STEM exploration.
Unleash Creativity with Axial Gear Set!
Axial 32P Portal Gear Set, 23T/12T (2 pieces each) is an exciting way to spark your child's imagination and problem-solving skills! As we dive into the world of gears and mechanics, our little builders gain hands-on experience in engineering concepts, enhancing their critical thinking and fine motor skills. This gear set is perfect for constructing custom projects, allowing kids to explore the dynamics of motion while having fun. Together, we can foster a love for STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) and inspire the next generation of innovators!
Unleash Creativity with Axial Gear Set! is a fun way for kids to explore mechanical dynamics through hands-on building while igniting their passion for STEM learning.
Build & Power with Wind Energy!
The Thames & Kosmos Wind Power V4.0 STEM Experiment Kit offers kids a chance to dive into the fascinating world of renewable energy by building a real, working 3-foot tall wind turbine. This engaging kit not only teaches children about wind energy and the importance of sustainability, but it also enhances critical thinking and engineering skills as they experiment with generating electricity to power a small model car. Perfect for outdoor fun, parents and educators will appreciate how this award-nominated kit fosters hands-on learning and ignites curiosity about science and the environment!
Build & Power with Wind Energy! allows kids to construct a real 3-foot tall wind turbine, making renewable energy come alive in a fun and engaging way.
Build Bubbles with E-BLOX STEM Kit!
E-BLOX Building Blocks STEM Circuit Kit is an exciting and interactive way for our little ones to explore the wonders of science and engineering! With no electronic circuitry experience needed, children can easily assemble their own bubble machine in just four simple steps, following the colorful instructions designed with young builders in mind. This DIY project not only foster creativity but also promotes critical thinking and systematic problem-solving skills, making it a fantastic STEM toy that truly combines learning and fun. Kids get to see their creation come to life as it churns out delightful bubbles, providing endless entertainment and inspiration to chase and pop!
Build Bubbles with E-BLOX STEM Kit! helps little ones easily assemble a bubble machine in just four steps, turning science and engineering into an explosive bubble-chasing adventure.
Gundam GP00 Blossom: Build and Learn!
Gundam GP00 Blossom is not just a toy; it’s an exciting gateway into the world of engineering and creativity! With its intricate design and multiple accessories, this Mobile Suit encourages kids to engage in imaginative play while developing fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination. As they assemble and pose the RX-78GP00, they’ll also explore the concepts of science and technology behind mobile suits. For parents and educators, it’s a fantastic tool to inspire young minds toward STEM learning in a fun and interactive way!
Gundam GP00 Blossom features an intricate design that sparks creativity while engaging kids in hands-on engineering—it's the perfect blend of fun and STEM learning!
Smartivity Kaleidoscope: Build and Explore!
Smartivity Kaleidoscope Toy for Kids is a fantastic way for our children to dive into the enchanting world of STEM! As they assemble this captivating mechanical machine, they not only engage their creativity but also develop critical thinking and engineering skills. It's a marvelous opportunity to reduce screen time and cultivate a lifelong love for science through hands-on exploration. Plus, with easy-to-follow instructions and a lifetime supply of replacement parts, we know the fun won't just stop after the first build—our kids will come back again and again to create dazzling designs!
Smartivity Kaleidoscope: Build and Explore! includes easy-to-follow instructions, making it a perfect way for kids to dive into STEM learning while building dazzling designs.
SolarBots: Build Fun Solar-Powered Robots
Thames & Kosmos SolarBots: 8-in-1 Solar Robot STEM Experiment Kit invites young inventors to dive into the world of solar energy! With eight different robots to build—like the lively drummer bot and the curious dinosaur bot—kids will explore engineering concepts and the science of solar power in an engaging, hands-on way. This kit not only fosters creativity and problem-solving skills but also encourages environmentally-friendly thinking through the magic of renewable energy. Additionally, the included 48-page manual is packed with fascinating facts that spark curiosity and a deeper understanding of real-world solar technology.
SolarBots: Build Fun Solar-Powered Robots comes with eight different robots to build, making learning about renewable energy as exciting as constructing a tiny robotic band.
Educational Value
At five, your child's brain is wired for hands-on discovery. STEM toys harness that natural drive by turning abstract ideas into something she can hold, manipulate, and understand. Building with blocks teaches spatial reasoning and patience. Magnetic construction toys develop fine motor skills while exploring how pieces fit together. Rolling marbles down gravity tracks introduces basic physics concepts—and yes, five-year-olds absolutely get it when they see it happen.
Beyond the specific skills, these toys build something equally important: confidence. Every problem your child solves on her own—"How do I make this stand up?" or "What happens if I change the track?"—proves to her that she's capable of figuring things out. That belief becomes the foundation for all the learning ahead.