Gifts That Teach This Christmas

Posted by Susan Hyde Nov 21, 2007

Learning through Play

Children learn best through play, so Christmas is the perfect time to sneak in some educational toys and activities. Santa has never had so many fun choices for smart gifts that support kinesthetic learning.

• Snap Circuits: Elenco Electronics' award-winning Snap Circuit products are a perfect way to introduce a young Thomas Edison to the world of electricity. The kits, geared for kids 8 and up, are available at a variety of price points ($29.95-$119.950, but it well worth it to buy a larger set. The remote control Snap Rover and new Deluxe Snap Rover are particularly irresistable for kinesthetic learners.
• Smart Globe: Oregon Scientific's Smart Globe is a perfect gift for budding cartographers. The talking globe has thirty different activities that can be geared for three different ability levels. Kids can $109.95 retail price.
• Quirkle: Mindware's new game teaches critical thinking to children as young as six. This is the perfect first strategy game, but it is equally fun for older siblings and adults. Players use attributes (shape or color) to link tiles and score points.
• Made for Trade: Retailing at only $25.00, this board game from Talicor teaches American Colonial History, economics and the barter system. Players learn about life in early America while trading common items from the era. This game is great for young historians ages 8 and up.
• K'nex: K'nex is still one of the best made-in-the USA products. K'nex building sets are available for preschool builder as well as for older siblings. The serious builder on your list will love the Complete Amusement Park Combo Park. Retailing at $169.96, this 1100-piece motorized set is pure kinesthetic fun.