6 Best STEM Toys for Toddlers Every Child Should Have

Toddlers thrive with STEM toys—fun toys that introduce science, technology, engineering, and math concepts. These toys engage little minds in playful learning, promoting problem-solving skills and critical thinking.


Through hands-on exploration, toddlers grasp simple principles such as cause and effect and STEM concepts, laying the foundation for future learning.


Read on for our top tips and recommendations for choosing STEM toys to nurture essential skills in your little one!

Our Favourite STEM Toys from Learning Resources

Discover the world of Learning Resources – a brand synonymous with quality, fun, and engaging educational toys for kids. With over 40 years of experience, this family-owned company is on a mission to inspire children for success in school and beyond.


We proudly stock Learning Resources products because of their commitment to delivering innovative and effective learning toys – the best kind. A great educational toy is one where children have so much fun playing that they haven't the faintest idea they’re learning.

Learning Resources Snap-N-Learn Counting Sheep

Kids love this set of 10 colourful counting sheep, which is brilliant for learning all about colours and numbers. We like that the fleeces are easy to remove and clip back on.


Another bonus is they are versatile enough to be played with in many imaginary scenarios, too.

"Just the right size for little hands to manage and the colour match helps in finding the right coat" ~ Perfect size for little hands - Joan

Smart Splash Number Fun Ducks

Little ones can dive into early learning fun with these 10 numbered ducks! Each duck sports a number on its tummy and a matching number of dots on its back.


Perfect for bath time or water tables, and importantly, these ducks are mould-resistant and easy to clean.

"My son loves these. He's able to play, learn and have fun at the same time. Absolutely amazing!" ~ Amazing! - Mia

Learning Resources Snap n Learn Rhyming Pups

This clever set includes 10 heads and 10 tails that can be mixed and matched to make over 55 rhyming words. Start by learning colours and letters, then progress to sounding out three-letter words and rhyming.

"Kids love playing with these! My 4 year old blends the sounds as she puts the pieces together. Learning how to read is fun with this set." ~ Love it! - Florida

Fun STEM Toys for Learning About Nature

Nature toys are all about hands-on exploration and are a brilliant way to spark a child's curiosity about the natural world. From observing insects to feeding birds, these toys offer engaging experiences that establish the foundation for early STEM learning.


At Farm Toys Online, we firmly believe that the outdoors and farming should have a more prominent place in our children's curriculum. That's why we are constantly searching for the best STEM toys to help parents in educating their kids about these crucial subjects. 


Here are some of our favourites:

Giant Butterfly Garden

This kit contains everything you need to witness the wonder of metamorphosis up close with your little one! 


Simply redeem the unique code on the included voucher, and you'll receive two cups of 6-10 baby caterpillars


The mesh habitat is reusable, so after releasing your butterflies, you can order a refill cup of caterpillars and watch the magic happen again!


The Very Hungry Caterpillar Butterfly Raising Kit

Perfect for fans of "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" children's book, this kit contains everything your little one needs to witness the magic of metamorphosis in real life! The reusable mesh habitat has a lovely "Very Hungry Caterpillar" theme that younger children will adore.


Bug Spotter Kit

Ideal for inquisitive minds!


Inside, you'll find a bug pot with a magnifier lid, perfect for getting a closer look at the captured mini-beast. An illustrated bug-spotter card provides extra information on identifying your bug and understanding the vital role these tiny creatures play in our ecosystem.


We also love that everything comes neatly packaged in a reusable jute bag, ready for a mini-beast adventure!


Why STEM Toys Are So Important for Helping Children Learn

STEM toys, especially top-quality ones like ours, significantly contribute to children's development. These are the toys that will hone your toddler's superhero skills in problem-solving, critical thinking, and encourage creativity.


The hands-on nature of these toys also promotes fine motor skills development as children manipulate and interact with the various pieces.


We believe there's no better way to encourage a love of learning about farming and the great outdoors than through nature kits, farm animal toys, toy tractors, and toy farm sets!


You can read more about why STEM toys are so important in our STEM Toys Guide for Parents.

Our Toddlers' Top Picks: Shop Our Selection of the Best STEM Toys

At Farm Toys Online, we take pride in offering top-quality STEM toys that will nurture your child's superhero abilities.


Our belief in the importance of outdoor and farm-themed learning is evident in Julia's handpicked selection of nature kits, farm animal toys, toy tractors, and farm sets. Head to the website and encourage a love for learning through play with our unbeatable range of farm toys.


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FAQs

What Brand Makes the Best STEM Toys for Kids?

When it comes to the best STEM toys for kids, Learning Resources takes the spotlight with their incredible commitment to quality and innovation. 

However, remember that finding the perfect brand also hinges on your child's unique play style and preferences. Taking into account what captivates your little one will make the learning journey even more special and enjoyable.

What Age Should Children Start Playing With STEM Toys?

Introducing STEM toys to children can begin as early as toddlerhood, typically around 2 to 3 years old. At this age, kids are naturally curious and eager to explore. Simple STEM toys with bright colours and numbers that introduce basic concepts can help lay the foundation for later learning.

What Makes a Good STEM Toy?

The ideal STEM toy captivates children's interest to the extent that they have so much fun playing that they don't even realise they are learning. These toys engage young minds, making complex concepts feel like exciting discoveries rather than lessons.

How Do STEM Toys Help My Child's Development?

They spark curiosity, encourage experimentation, and lay the foundation for a lifelong interest in science, technology, engineering, and maths. Investing in STEM toys will help nurture your child's creativity and hone essential cognitive and motor skills.

Kelly-Ann Victor

Kelly-Anne Victor

Hi, I'm Kelly-Anne, proud mum to Henry and Carmen. I lead all things marketing at Farm Toys Online. Alongside Julia, I'm on a mission to rescue kids from screens, focusing on helping parents choose the perfect farm toys that spark imaginative play. My favourite tractor brand is Massey Ferguson, and when it comes to horses, I adore a Welsh Pony!

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