STEAM Christmas Gift Ideas for Middle Schoolers

This Christmas when shopping for your child please consider buying devices that encourage their computational and analytical thinking skills. There are several products out there that support the growth of adolescents science and technology. For lack of a better terms, these 'toys' are no longer just for 'nerds'. I have already come across 3 great ideas that I think all middle school students should have at home that are not just educational but also fun!

The first is the Kano Computer Kit, this kit costs $129 and has everything your child needs to build their own computer. The kit includes a step-by-step guide on how to build the computer, what an exciting experience for any child! Once built the computer is completely functional and includes programs to help teaching coding skills using music, art and games. Although this is for children 6+, I am considering buying this for my husband and I.

Next, are coding robots, there are several options out there including the Sphero and the Ozobot. These robots can be easily programmed using drag-and-drop coding on an old cell phone or some even with markers on a piece of paper. The variety of opportunities these robots provide for your child to practice their computational skills as well as the excitement of creating their own program make this an awesome Christmas present. These usually range in price from $40-$100.

Finally a key to success in computational thinking and life in general is mental endurance, that is your child's ability to stick it out to solve a difficult problem. A great way to encourage mental stamina is with puzzles, this could be a 1,000 piece puzzle that you work on as a family or a puzzle book of Sudokus or riddles. Success in coding comes from hours of trying various solutions and experiencing failure. Puzzles definitely help train our brains to endure through difficult tasks.

Obviously, I do not work for any of these companies nor am I receiving any kick back here. I'm simply a teacher who wants to help her students learn and help parents. Hope you have a wonderful holiday season!