Editor’s Note: We will gradually release the rankings of STEAM educational toys and tools in the USA, compiled from information gathered from websites such as stemtoyexpert, amazon, yahoo, etc., for parents, institutions, schools, and STEAM manufacturers to reference. This ranking is very rich, covering everything from computer components to educational toys, with specific rankings for STEAM toys for girls, those suitable for preschool children aged 0-3, and tools favored by teenagers. We believe this complete list will greatly broaden our practical understanding of STEAM education.
At the same time, we will also contact relevant institutions and experts to launch our own rankings of STEAM educational toys and tools in China. Please provide clues and various suggestions, and those interested can contact us via WeChat hooooger to help create a more vibrant STEAM education atmosphere!
Building their own computer components, computer kits, is a great way to cultivate STEM skills. Assembling, disassembling, and reinstalling computers not only enhances their understanding of circuits and component functions, but many computer component toolkits also provide coding tutorials and challenges suitable for all ages (from children to teenagers and adults).
The kits ranked here have already received recognition from notable figures in the tech industry. After in-depth comparisons and research, the Piper computer components are the best self-assembly educational tools suitable for most age groups. Of course, other components that made the cut also have their strengths, some are very suitable for preschoolers. Please read our recommendations for five DIY computer components for children to learn better how to build and use programming computers.
NO.1 Piper Computer Components
The Piper computer components are inspired by the simplicity and assembly flexibility of Lego and Minecraft (a children’s game). Piper believes that one of the secrets to creativity is confidence. With Lego, it is easy to piece together various parts and build your imagination, while Minecraft is almost a digital version of this. Piper aims to eliminate barriers for children to create with technology by simplifying the entire process through building and making it easy to start.
The focus of Piper computer components is to build your own computer and then learn coding. Although assembly can be somewhat complex, children are responsible for hand-assembling a cute wooden computer case. It also comes with many other components, including LED lights, motion sensors, buzzers, buttons, and switches. Therefore, it may be more suitable for an older audience.
When you open the toolbox, you receive a “top secret” letter telling the children that they are about to embark on a daunting assembly task to prevent an asteroid from hitting the Earth. They must then follow the instructions to assemble the “control station”.
When the program starts, it begins with animations of Pip and Piperbot, followed by a storyline that guides you through challenges and tutorials in a Minecraft-style interface to assemble the remaining components.
The programming elements in Piper allow children to customize and create in Minecraft, program sensors and electrical components, etc. Piper uses Python and Java coding languages as well as the graphical programming interface Scratch. Children can also browse the internet and run other normal computer functions such as creating documents and spreadsheets, and find more suggestions on the Piper YouTube channel.
NO.2 Kano Computer Components
One of the founders of Kano has a 7-year-old nephew, Micah, who dreams of computer components that are “as simple and fun as Lego games, easy to assemble, easy to learn, and educational”.
Kano initially set a crowdfunding goal of only $100,000 but ultimately raised $1.5 million, receiving support from Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak and Kickstarter co-founder Yancey Strickler! The subsequent development went very smoothly, and Kano computer components are now found in thousands of schools, coding clubs, and homes worldwide.
The principle of assembly is that children must assemble the computer according to a fun and interactive storybook tutorial. They must understand the assembly goal practically, and Kano’s parts can easily snap together like Lego toys, without the need for complex wiring or soldering.
Once assembled, it’s time to plug Kano into a monitor via HDMI. Depending on the Kano package purchased, a monitor may be included; otherwise, one needs to be prepared. Next comes the coding time!
Kano is equipped with a dedicated coding tutorial that teaches children simple coding games like Snake and Pong, an introduction to “hacking”, and adding mods to Minecraft. Depending on the components purchased, there may also be additional voice guidance. Children can learn how to program art, animation, music, etc., and browse the web.
Kano also utilizes the real coding languages (such as Python and Javascript) used in App and Web development, enabling children to learn real-world skills.
NO.3 Boolean Box Computer Components
This is a computer DIY component specifically designed for girls!
The Boolean Box, developed by the non-profit organization Boolean Girl, is a computer component designed for girls, aimed at introducing fun interactive projects to teach coding and electronics. The company also offers summer camps and clubs to encourage more girls to be interested in STEAM, providing them with a platform to test components.
Boolean Box includes a dedicated monitor and provides everything needed for assembly and learning programming, including a wireless keyboard and mouse, Raspberry Pi microcontroller for electronic projects, and electrical components such as wires, buttons, lights, and resistors. Although it does not have a screen, it can be plugged into a TV via HDMI.
Boolean’s website has a wealth of coding projects for children to use, where they can learn how to write their own video games, create animations, and explore physical computing programs using lights, switches, sounds, etc. Similar to Kano, all beginners can start programming with Scratch (a block-based drag-and-drop coding interface). They can then use the Python programming language for text-based coding.
Finally, two computer components suitable for older kids and even adults:
1. SunFounder Super Starter Computer Components
SunFounder Super Starter is another Raspberry Pi-based computer component offered by the electronic education company SunFounder. It focuses on assembling electrical components and then programming them using Pi. It includes many different colored LEDs, buttons, DC motors, switches, buzzers, small LCD screens, fans, etc., along with all necessary wiring. We really think this computer component is worth the money!
2. Elegoo Mega 2560 Project Computer Components
Elegoo Mega 2560 Project is similar to the SunFounder kit in many ways, but it is powered by Arduino instead of Raspberry Pi. What’s the difference?
The Pi is a general-purpose microcomputer capable of running multiple programs simultaneously. In contrast, Arduino is a microcontroller board, which basically means it is a simple computer best suited for running a single program, such as opening and closing a garage door or operating a simple robot. Therefore, it is a better choice for simple tasks, and for beginners, the Arduino embedded in the Elegoo Mega 2560 Project is a great option.
We will soon introduce the “Best STEAM Educational Toys for Girls”, so stay tuned~
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