We asked STEM educators and museum staff what they would suggest to give as engineering gifts (and what they used to play with as kids). Here are their recommendations:

What are kids into? We’ve put together a list of suggestions any child and parent would be thrilled to open on a special day. As an engineering museum we encourage learning through doing, building, testing and collaborating creatively! Here’s what the educators and office staff at the Museum recommend to engineer fun this season:

Kit, Director of Education, says her favorite toys growing up were, “Anything miniature. I liked making little rooms with miniature things in them.” For an engineering gift idea, Kit says you can’t go wrong with assorted LEGO bricks for free building.

Sarah C., Senior Director of Advancement, says she liked, “Books, art supplies, and dolls. All the dolls.” Her picks for engineering fun? “LEGO pieces are the choice at my house. My kids also love Snap Circuits, and the Marble Run from MindWare.”

Marissa, STEM Educator, recommends Magna-Tiles as a gift this year to engineer fun. Marissa liked to get creative with Wiki Stix when she was growing up.

Katy, our Reservations Coordinator, also liked Barbies and – surprise – she suggests Magna-Tiles too!

Richard, STEM Educator, says he liked LEGO bricks and Star Wars action figures. He suggests young engineers seek out the KIKO.893 Artificial Intelligence Robot Kit.

Kara, Director of Marketing and Communications, grew up playing with Barbies and suggests Marbleworks to engineer fun this year. There are plenty of ideas on Pinterest for homemade marble runs if you’re in the DIY spirit.

Sarah T. Visitor Experience Coordinator played with Barbies, Playstation 1, and art supplies. She suggests the book, Rosie Revere, Engineer.*

*If your kids love the book consider checking out our Rosie Revere summer camp this year!

Beth, Director of Finance and Operations, liked Giant Tinker Toys and suggests a modern version. One brand to check out is Matchaccino Construction Fort.

 

OR! Give the gift of quality time

The Works Museum has a membership special for the holidays. Save $10 on  memberships from November 20 to December 20, with code HOLIDAYS10. Members receive free admission all year round, advance camp registration, and discounts on merchandise, birthday parties, and camps. (Discount not valid for Gateway or Innovators Club memberships)

 

Still looking for ideas?

This year for Give to the Max Day, The Works Museum raised money to update the beloved Structures exhibit. There are still 100+ bricks available to dedicate with your donation of $25 or more. Any donor can dedicate a brick in honor of someone they love and truly build the future!