The Way Things Work

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.

Mechanical Engineering STEM Kit

Our Rank:
The Thames & Kosmos Mechanical Engineering: Machines & Vehicles STEM Experiment Kit sparks curiosity and innovation in kids aged 8 and up! By building 20 exciting mechanical models like a crane and an all-wheel drive ATV, children delve into the fascinating world of physics, exploring concepts like force, motion, and energy. This hands-on learning experience not only cultivates critical thinking and problem-solving skills but also connects real-world applications of engineering, making it an essential educational tool for budding young scientists and builders. With an engaging 80-page manual, parents can share in the exploration of how machines impact our daily lives while watching their children thrive and learn. 8+ years
Why we love it:
Mechanical Engineering STEM Kit includes an engaging 80-page manual that turns complex physics into fun hands-on building, making learning feel like an exciting adventure.

Kids First Engineering Design Kit

Our Rank:
The Kids First Engineering Design Kit invites young explorers to dive into the exciting world of mechanical physics! With 22 action-packed science experiments, your budding engineer will construct amazing models like a pulley system and a crane, demonstrating core principles of force and motion. As they play and create, they're also building critical thinking skills and sparking curiosity about the universe around them. Perfect for parents who want to inspire a love of science and hands-on learning, this kit transforms complex concepts into fun, engaging activities. 5-10 years
Why we love it:
Kids First Engineering Design Kit features 22 action-packed science experiments that turn complex physics into tangible projects, igniting a passion for exploration and creativity.

Engaging Motors & Generators Kit

Our Rank:
The Thames & Kosmos Motors & Generators Science Kit is an exciting adventure into the world of electricity and motion for kids aged 8 and up! This award-winning kit offers 25 hands-on STEM experiments that encourage young minds to explore the fascinating relationship between electricity and motion. With a full-color student guide, children will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they discover how electric motors and generators work. Watching their creations come to life not only boosts their confidence but also inspires a lifelong love for science and innovation. 8+ years
Why we love it:
Engaging Motors & Generators Kit includes 25 hands-on STEM experiments that transform curiosity into confidence while sparking a lasting love for science and innovation.

Gears Galore STEM Kit for Kids

Our Rank:
The Thames & Kosmos Kids First: Intro to Gears STEM Experiment Kit is a fantastic way for little ones aged 3 and up to dive into the exciting world of mechanical engineering! With this kit, young learners can build four different geared machines while exploring fundamental concepts like gears, power, and motion. Designed with oversized, durable pieces, this kit not only enhances fine motor skills and visual-spatial reasoning but also sparks curiosity and problem-solving as kids experiment with various configurations, guided by a beautifully illustrated manual. It's truly a fun and interactive way for our kids to develop critical STEM skills right from preschool! 3+ years
Why we love it:
Gears Galore STEM Kit for Kids includes oversized, durable pieces that make learning about gears and motion an interactive adventure, fostering both creativity and critical skills in little engineers.

Fun with Tools: Build and Learn!

Our Rank:
The Thames & Kosmos Kids First: Intro to Tools & Building STEM Experiment Kit is a fantastic way to engage young minds with mechanical engineering principles. Designed for curious preschoolers, this kit not only teaches the basics of using tools like hammers and screwdrivers but also fosters fine motor skills, visual-spatial understanding, and creative reasoning as they construct their own models. Parents and educators will appreciate the durability of the parts and the beautifully illustrated manual, making learning both safe and enjoyable. 3+ years
Why we love it:
Fun with Tools: Build and Learn! teaches preschoolers to use real tools like hammers and screwdrivers, turning them into little builders while making learning about engineering feel safe and enjoyable.

Unlock Physics with Hands-On Fun

Our Rank:
The Thames & Kosmos Physics Pro (V 2.0) Science Kit invites curious minds aged 8 and up to dive deep into the world of advanced physics through 31 exciting experiments. With over 212 parts, kids not only build incredible models like wind tunnels and hydraulic lifts but also develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they explore fluid dynamics, energy, hydraulics, and pneumatics. This award-winning kit engages young scientists in hands-on learning, igniting a lifelong passion for STEM! 8+ years
Why we love it:
Unlock Physics with Hands-On Fun includes over 212 parts for 31 exciting experiments, making complex physics feel like an exhilarating DIY adventure instead of a textbook nightmare.

Engage Young Mechanics with Fun!

Our Rank:
The Qaba Truck Engine Toy is an interactive mechanic set that invites children aged 3 and up to explore the exciting world of cars. With 61 pieces, including realistic sounds and lights, it stimulates hands-on learning about car parts and functions, nurturing problem-solving skills and creativity as kids engage in pretend play. Parents will appreciate how this toy not only entertains but also develops important cognitive and motor skills through imaginative exploration. 3+ years
Why we love it:
Engage Young Mechanics with Fun! includes 61 interactive pieces, allowing kids to dive into the world of car mechanics while developing critical thinking and motor skills.

Engaging Simple Machines Adventure

Our Rank:
The K’NEX Education – Intro to Simple Machines: Wheels, Axles, & Inclined Planes Set offers a vibrant collection of 221 durable pieces that inspire creativity and engineering skills in children ages 8 and up. By engaging in hands-on building projects, kids not only learn about fundamental scientific concepts like motion and forces but also develop critical thinking and teamwork as they collaborate on their own exciting creations. This set is a fantastic way to spark curiosity and foster a love for learning in a fun and interactive environment. 8+ years
Why we love it:
Engaging Simple Machines Adventure includes 221 durable pieces that turn building into a collaborative quest, making learning about science feel less like studying and more like an epic masterpiece in the making.