Walmart Has the Hottest STEM Toys for Curious Kids of Every Age

Children’s love of building paths and tracks is equalled by the thrill of defying gravity as they construct tall towers. This electric set is uniquely crafted to let little engineers play with height as the block-like design is easy to snap together and can be stacked, too. Ages 3-8

LEGOs have been leveled up; now engineered with sensors that are reactive to movement, they can be used not only to build a world but also to grow kids’ imagination as they play with characters that make sounds and emit lights. Ages 6+

Less tedious than old-school model building—but still just as good for developing brains—this Back to the Future Lego kit will engage kids by requiring them to focus, follow mapped-out directions, and work hard to ensure each little brick is carefully put in its place. Ages 9+

We all dream of having super strength, but what if you could actually make that wish come true and wrap it up this holiday? The STEM world has been catapulted into pop culture via the wildly popular Crunch Lab series, and your kid can feel like they’re stepping into the storied lab via this “Crunchinator.” Ages 8+

Barbie has always shown that she can be anything—and that includes a scientist! This chemistry lab (a Good Housekeeping 2026 Toy Award winner!) comes with materials for 10 different experiments, including a lava lamp and glow-in-the-dark favorites (think chalk and a bouncy ball). There’s no doll included, but that’s unlikely to be a problem. The giftee might have one or two she can introduce to the lab. Ages 5+

Budding artists can get a little bit of help with their creations thanks to a projector that makes it easy to trace complicated designs. The set comes with 50 creatures to sketch—and will surely inspire far more for them to add on their own. Ages 5+

Some of the best brain exercises hide in the guise of a high-paced board game, and this phonics-focused favorite is no different. It’s designed to make you think of the beginning and end of a word, paging through your mind’s dictionary to find fitting words before the players around you can. Ages 8+

Even if you’ve never heard of elephant toothpaste, there’s a high chance your tweens have. Give them a kit to recreate the viral experiment in your neighborhood. It’s wild to see, period, but the science behind it is just as interesting (and there’s a QR code to quickly access an explainer video from the kid-loved founder). Ages 8+

Making a batch of homemade ice cream sounds delicious to kids of all ages, but if you’re an adult, you also know there’s some science at play. This set includes all the tools needed, such as mixing bowls and a freezing tray, and lets you bring in the ingredients your family will most want to eat. Expect to see art and science mix; getting creative with toppings is part of the fun. Ages 8+