Kind of play
Science kits need a closer look at the experiment list, consumables and adult preparation. Choose a set with activities the child wants to perform and a realistic place to do them, rather than judging value by the number of advertised experiments.
Gift ages 5–12
A hanging glow-in-the-dark planet set that turns bedroom decor into a small science project.
Gift ages 4–9
Twelve separate digs make this a practical dinosaur party activity.
Gift ages 6–10
A small gardening project that continues after craft time.
Gift ages 6–10
A miniature garden with a fantasy setting, suited to a child who enjoys decorating as much as watching plants grow.
Gift ages 8–12
An Earth science activity kit with volcano, crystal, tornado, and excavation projects.
Gift ages 6–10
Microscope up to 400x, six prepared slides, six blank slides, rocks and specimen tools.
Gift ages 10–12
Chemistry equipment and chemicals with an 80-page manual describing 125 experiments.
Gift ages 6–12
Five-in-one station with wind vane, compass, rain gauge, anemometer and thermometer, stake and 32-page manual.
Gift ages 6–10
Small unicorn planter with chia seeds, growing medium, sand and decorations.
Gift ages 6–10
Wooden tree-house pieces, paint, decorations, critters, chia seeds and grow trays.
Gift ages 4–7
Child-sized science tools and illustrated instructions for 50 activities.
Gift ages 8–12
Supplies for 15 experiments plus 30 additional household-material activities.
Gift ages 6–10
57-piece lab station, experiment cards, chemicals and illustrated manual.
