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Published Dec 4, 2024 ⦁ 16 min read
10 Best STEM LEGO Sets for Kids 2024

10 Best STEM LEGO Sets for Kids 2024

Looking for the best STEM LEGO sets for kids in 2024? Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the perfect set based on age, interests, and learning goals. STEM LEGO sets combine fun and education, teaching kids skills like problem-solving, engineering, and coding. From beginner-friendly options to advanced robotics kits, there’s something for every young builder.

Top STEM LEGO Sets for 2024:

LEGO

  • LEGO Education SPIKE Prime Set ($399.95): Ages 10-14, robotics and coding with Scratch and Python.
  • LEGO NASA Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle ($219.99): Ages 10+, space exploration and engineering.
  • LEGO Space Base and Rocket Launchpad ($134.99): Ages 7-12, introduces rocketry and mission planning.
  • LEGO Education BricQ Motion Prime ($197.00 CAD): Ages 10-16, hands-on physics and mechanics.
  • LEGO Coding Express ($249.95): Ages 2-5, early coding concepts using DUPLO.
  • LEGO NASA Mars Rover Perseverance ($99.99): Ages 8+, robotics and planetary science.
  • LEGO Natural History Museum ($299.99): Ages 8+, biology and architectural design.
  • LEGO Planet Earth and Moon in Orbit ($99.99 CAD): Ages 10+, astronomy and orbital mechanics.
  • LEGO Space Shuttle Discovery ($199.99): Ages 10+, aerospace engineering and space history.
  • LEGO Education My XL World ($299.95): Ages 4-7, early STEM skills through large-scale building.

Quick Comparison Table:

Set Name Price Age Range Key Focus Features
SPIKE Prime $399.95 10-14 Robotics, Coding Scratch, Python, motors, sensors
Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle $219.99 10+ Space Engineering Historical, mechanical details
Space Base & Rocket Launchpad $134.99 7-12 Rocketry, Space Science Launch systems, mission control
BricQ Motion Prime $197.00 CAD 10-16 Physics, Mechanics Motion systems, gears
Coding Express $249.95 2-5 Early Coding DUPLO train, action bricks
Mars Rover Perseverance $99.99 8+ Robotics, Planetary Sci Robotic arm, landing module
Natural History Museum $299.99 8+ Biology, Architecture Museum design, interactive exhibits
Planet Earth & Moon in Orbit $99.99 CAD 10+ Astronomy, Physics Earth-Moon rotation system
Space Shuttle Discovery $199.99 10+ Aerospace Engineering Movable parts, detailed design
My XL World $299.95 4-7 Basic STEM Concepts Large-scale building, activity guides

Choose a set that matches your child’s age, skill level, and interests to make learning fun and engaging!

How to Choose the Right STEM LEGO Set

Picking the perfect STEM LEGO set takes some thought. You'll want to focus on your child's age, interests, and skill level to make sure it's both educational and fun.

Match the Set to Age and Skill Level

Age Group Suggested Sets Features to Look For
3-6 years LEGO DUPLO, My XL World Simple builds, early STEM concepts
7-12 years Space Base, Coding Express Moderate challenges, intro to coding
13+ years NASA Apollo LRV, Space Shuttle Discovery Detailed designs, advanced topics

Focus on Educational Goals

Does your child love robotics? The SPIKE Prime Set offers hands-on coding and engineering activities. If space exploration excites them, the NASA Mars Rover Perseverance introduces mechanical engineering concepts through a space-themed build.

Gauge the Difficulty Level

Think about your child's experience with LEGO. A set that's too easy might not hold their attention, while one that's too hard could be frustrating. Gradually moving up in complexity keeps them engaged and helps build their skills.

Connect It to Learning

Look for sets like BricQ Motion Prime that tie into what they're learning in school. These can turn abstract ideas into hands-on activities, making lessons more engaging and easier to understand.

Practical Tips for Choosing

  • Budget: Find a set that offers good value for its price.
  • Longevity: Expandable sets can grow with your child’s interests.
  • Build Time: Match the complexity to your child's attention span.
  • Reviews: Check what other parents and educators say about the set.

You can also use tools like Kidtivity Lab to plan personalized activities that combine LEGO building with broader educational goals.

With these tips in mind, you're ready to dive into the top STEM LEGO sets for 2024.

1. LEGO Education SPIKE Prime Set

LEGO Education

The LEGO Education SPIKE Prime Set is a hands-on STEM tool crafted for kids aged 10-14. At $399.95, it offers 528 pieces, including motors, sensors, and a programmable hub, making robotics and coding an interactive experience.

Key Components and Features

Component Details Educational Focus
Hardware Motors, sensors, hub Practical engineering skills
Software Works with SPIKE App Visual coding practice
Build Pieces 528 LEGO elements Creativity and design
Storage Includes an organizing bin Encourages neat project work
Learning Tools Lesson plans and tutorials Guided, structured education

How It Helps Students Learn

With this kit, students can build real robots, improving both engineering and coding abilities. It’s versatile enough for solo projects or teamwork, making it a great fit for classrooms where two students can share one kit.

Programming Options and Skill Levels

The SPIKE Prime Set uses Scratch for beginners and Python for more advanced learners, accommodating a range of coding abilities. Lesson plans aligned with educational standards ensure a structured approach. Whether at home or in school, it blends fun with learning.

"The LEGO Education SPIKE Prime Set provides a comprehensive introduction to programming and robotics, offering students hands-on experience with engineering challenges while developing critical thinking skills."

The set includes a rechargeable battery for long sessions and supports a progression from simple to advanced projects. Parents can also enhance the experience with resources like Kidtivity Lab, which offers personalized STEM activities to complement the kit.

For kids interested in diving deeper into robotics and coding, the SPIKE Prime Set is a solid starting point, opening doors to more advanced LEGO engineering kits.

2. LEGO NASA Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle - LRV

NASA

The LEGO NASA Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle - LRV, priced at $219.99, offers a hands-on way to explore the history of space exploration while diving into STEM learning. This detailed model is perfect for kids aged 10 and up, blending historical insights with engineering concepts.

Educational Components and Features

Component Learning Focus STEM Areas
Vehicle Design Basics of engineering Technology, Engineering
Historical Details Space exploration history Science, History
Construction Elements Spatial reasoning Mathematics, Engineering
Moving Parts Mechanical systems Physics, Engineering

STEM Learning Experience

This set combines space history with mechanical engineering for a unique, space-themed challenge. Kids can recreate a key piece of space exploration history while learning about concepts like motion dynamics and lunar gravity. It's a fun way to connect past achievements with STEM topics.

Skill Development Focus

Building this set helps develop:

  • Engineering and problem-solving skills through the assembly process.
  • Physics and spatial reasoning by understanding how the vehicle's mechanics work.

"The set's attention to detail and historical accuracy, combined with its engineering complexity, makes it an engaging tool for teaching advanced STEM concepts."

Parents can expand the learning experience by adding space-related activities that align with the set's lunar exploration theme.

Advanced Learning Applications

The LRV's detailed design and engineering focus make it an excellent resource for exploring topics like lunar missions, vehicle mechanics, and space engineering principles.

For anyone passionate about space, this set provides an engaging educational journey. Coming up next: the Space Base and Rocket Launchpad, offering even more interactive space-themed builds.

3. LEGO Space Base and Rocket Launchpad

The LEGO Space Base and Rocket Launchpad set ($134.99) is perfect for kids aged 7-12 who are curious about space. It turns complex STEM ideas into fun, hands-on activities that kids can both learn from and enjoy.

Educational Components and Features

Component Learning Focus STEM Areas
Rocket Assembly and Launch Basics of rocketry and gravity Physics, Engineering
Base Construction Structural design and stability Mathematics, Engineering
Mission Control Space mission planning and operations Technology, Science

STEM Learning Experience

This set introduces kids to concepts like how gravity impacts rocket launches and the challenges of assembling a rocket or constructing a base. It also allows them to experiment with launch angles, plan layouts, and solve problems in mission control. The level of difficulty strikes a good balance, making it both approachable and educational.

Advanced Learning Opportunities

Kids can go further by experimenting with rocket trajectories, exploring gravitational forces, and tackling spatial planning challenges. The mission control scenarios also help develop problem-solving skills.

Enhancing the Experience

Parents can make the activity even more engaging by connecting the building process to real-life space missions. This adds context and makes the STEM lessons more relatable.

Practical STEM Lessons

This set introduces the basics of space exploration and engineering challenges. It encourages kids to think critically about what goes into a space mission, offering a hands-on way to grasp essential engineering and physics principles.

For those ready to dive deeper into motion and physics, the next step is the LEGO Education BricQ Motion Prime set, which builds on these foundational ideas with more in-depth exploration.

4. LEGO Education BricQ Motion Prime Set

The LEGO Education BricQ Motion Prime Set ($197.00 CAD) introduces students aged 10-16 to the fundamentals of motion and mechanics, making complex physics concepts easier to grasp through hands-on learning.

Educational Components and Features

Component Focus Area STEM Disciplines
Motion Systems Forces and mechanical concepts Physics, Engineering
Building Pieces 562 elements, including motors and gears Engineering, Technology
Learning Tools NGSS/ISTE-aligned curriculum and lesson plans Science, Mathematics

STEM Learning in Action

This set emphasizes real-world physics applications. With motors, gears, and sensors, students can dive into concepts like force, motion, and energy transfer. Designed for middle and early high school levels, it strikes a balance between being engaging and manageable.

Expanding Knowledge

Aligned with Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) standards, students can experiment with mechanics and motion. They’ll create functional mechanical systems that visually demonstrate key physics principles, helping to turn theoretical ideas into clear, hands-on experiences.

Hands-On Learning

The set includes teacher guides and worksheets to support structured lessons, while its 562 pieces allow for various configurations and experiments. This makes it perfect for extended learning both in classrooms and at home.

For younger students interested in combining programming with building, the LEGO Coding Express offers a great follow-up option.

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5. LEGO Coding Express

The LEGO Coding Express ($249.95) is a hands-on learning tool designed for kids aged 2-5. With 234 pieces, including a DUPLO Connected Train Hub and tracks, it introduces coding concepts through interactive play.

Key Features and Learning Focus

Feature Focus Area What It Teaches
DUPLO Connected Train Hub Basic Programming Hands-on control and feedback
Action Bricks Sequencing & Logic Visual coding concepts
Track System Spatial Reasoning Problem-solving through design
Lesson Materials Curriculum Integration 8 lessons aligned with standards

Building Early Coding Skills

This set helps kids grasp coding basics without using screens. By placing action bricks on the tracks, they explore sequencing, loops, and conditionals. It’s a simple way to introduce programming concepts and prepare them for advanced tools like SPIKE Prime.

Designed for the Classroom

LEGO Coding Express comes with ready-made lesson plans tailored for young learners. Its flexible design supports both guided activities and open-ended exploration, making it a great fit for various teaching styles.

Playful Learning in Action

Kids learn coding principles while playing with trains - what’s not to love? As they interact with action bricks and tracks, they also develop fine motor skills and logical thinking. The train theme keeps them engaged while making abstract concepts easy to understand.

Resources for Educators

LEGO Education offers plenty of support, including activity guides, assessment tools, cross-curricular ideas, and teacher training. These resources help educators get the most out of each session.

For older kids ready to tackle more advanced robotics and engineering, the LEGO NASA Mars Rover Perseverance is a great next step.

6. LEGO NASA Mars Rover Perseverance

The LEGO NASA Mars Rover Perseverance set ($99.99) offers an engaging way to explore robotics and planetary science with its 271-piece design. Aimed at kids 8 and older, this set strikes a balance between fun and education, making it ideal for budding scientists.

Educational Features and Learning Opportunities

Feature Focus Area Skills Gained
Robotic Arm Engineering Concepts Motor Skills & Spatial Awareness
Rover Assembly Physics Basics Problem-Solving & Technical Skills
Landing Module Space Exploration Logical Thinking & Planning
Mission Details Astronomy Insights Scientific Thinking

Kids can dive into multiple STEM fields as they assemble the rover. The process teaches engineering principles while introducing them to Mars exploration. Along the way, they sharpen critical thinking and spatial reasoning skills.

Ideal for Classrooms and Group Activities

This set’s moderate difficulty level makes it suitable for both solo projects and teamwork. While some basic LEGO familiarity is helpful, the instructions are straightforward and easy to follow. Teachers can use it to bring robotics and space science lessons to life, turning complex ideas into hands-on learning.

Real-World Space Science in Action

The rover design highlights technology used in Mars missions, tying space science to real-world applications. Paired with additional educational tools, it offers an in-depth look at robotics and planetary exploration, making it a valuable resource for curious minds.

If you're looking to explore Earth's wonders instead, the LEGO Natural History Museum set provides another exciting STEM-focused building experience.

7. LEGO Natural History Museum

The LEGO Natural History Museum set ($299.99) brings natural history and STEM concepts to life with its 2,129 pieces. Designed for builders aged 8 and up, it blends architectural design with lessons in biology and science.

Key Features and Learning Opportunities

Feature Focus Area Skills Developed
Museum Structure Architecture & Design Spatial Reasoning
Historical Exhibits Biology & Natural History Scientific Classification
Interactive Displays Mechanical Physics Problem-Solving Skills
Detailed Specimens Ecosystem Exploration Observation & Analysis

This set offers a hands-on way to explore museum exhibit design, structural stability, and the diversity of life. Each exhibit highlights biological variety while also teaching principles of engineering and scientific observation.

Learning Science Through Building

As kids construct the museum, they gain a better understanding of ecosystems and species diversity while applying engineering concepts. The design encourages creativity in exhibit layouts and helps make complex scientific ideas more accessible.

Ideas for Classroom Use

Teachers can use this set to inspire research projects on the featured specimens, creating a well-rounded lesson plan that combines biology, engineering, and design. Parents can expand the experience with the Kidtivity Lab app, which offers activities like researching real-life specimens or designing custom museum exhibits, turning the build into an ongoing learning adventure.

Next up, the LEGO Planet Earth and Moon in Orbit set takes young builders on a journey into space exploration and science.

8. LEGO Planet Earth and Moon in Orbit

The LEGO Planet Earth and Moon in Orbit set ($99.99 CAD) offers kids aged 10 and up a fun way to dive into astronomy. It combines creative building with lessons in space science and engineering, providing an engaging hands-on experience.

Key Features and Learning Opportunities

Feature Focus Area Skills Gained
Orbital Mechanism Physics & Mechanics Understanding Engineering Concepts
Earth Model Geography & Astronomy Improving Spatial Awareness
Moon Rotation System Earth-Moon Interaction Observing Scientific Phenomena
Interactive Elements Gravity Concepts Building and Assembly Skills

Bringing Space Science to Life

This set turns complex astronomical ideas into something kids can see and touch. By building and interacting with the model, they can explore how the Earth and Moon move, understand lunar phases, and grasp the basics of orbital mechanics.

Practical Uses for Learning

Perfect for astronomy lessons, this model helps explain topics like Earth's rotation, lunar phases, eclipses, and gravity. By blending astronomy with engineering, it introduces kids to multiple STEM fields in a single activity.

Designed for Home and Classroom Learning

Whether used at home or in school, this set fits well into science lessons. Parents can also use the Kidtivity Lab app to add space-themed activities, reinforcing what kids learn through building.

For those looking to take space exploration further, the LEGO Space Shuttle Discovery set offers a more advanced challenge, making it a great next step for budding engineers and astronomers.

9. LEGO Space Shuttle Discovery

The LEGO Space Shuttle Discovery set ($199.99) offers an interactive way to dive into the world of space exploration. With 2,354 pieces, this intricate model is designed for builders aged 10 and up, providing a challenging and rewarding experience.

Features and Learning Opportunities

Feature Learning Benefit Focus Area
Movable Mechanical Parts Helps understand complex systems Engineering & Technology
Detailed Design Introduces space exploration concepts Science & History
21-inch Length Builds spatial reasoning skills Mathematics & Scale
Advanced Assembly Encourages problem-solving Engineering Process

A Hands-On Aerospace Adventure

The model's impressive size gives builders a sense of the shuttle's actual proportions, while its complexity makes it ideal for seasoned LEGO enthusiasts. It’s not just a building exercise - it’s a way to explore key principles of aerospace engineering in a practical and engaging way.

STEM Highlights

This set connects with several STEM areas:

  • Science: Learn about aerospace concepts and space exploration.
  • Technology: Understand the mechanics and operation of a shuttle.
  • Engineering: Dive into design principles through its intricate assembly.
  • Mathematics: Explore geometry and spatial relationships.

Bringing Learning to Life

The Space Shuttle Discovery set is more than just a fun project; it’s a tool for connecting theoretical knowledge to real-world applications. Its realistic design mirrors the actual NASA Space Shuttle Discovery, allowing students to explore aerospace engineering and learn about historic space missions. Whether as a personal project or part of a STEM curriculum, this set bridges the gap between learning and doing.

For those looking to explore broader concepts, the LEGO Education My XL World set offers another engaging way to introduce interconnected systems.

10. LEGO Education My XL World

The LEGO Education My XL World set ($299.95) is designed for kids aged 4-7 to explore STEM concepts through hands-on building and guided activities. This kit blends fun and learning, helping young children build skills in science, technology, engineering, and math.

Key Features and Learning Opportunities

Feature Learning Focus STEM Area
Activity Cards Step-by-step learning guidance All STEM areas
Basic Physics Elements Introduction to simple mechanics Science
Building Components Exploring structural design Engineering
Shape-based Learning Developing spatial reasoning Mathematics
Simple Machines Learning basic technical ideas Technology

Early STEM Exploration

This set introduces kids to STEM by encouraging them to build and experiment with structures and simple machines. Through these activities, they learn about stability, mechanics, and spatial reasoning. It's a hands-on way for children to grasp concepts like how things work and why structures hold up.

Tools for Learning

LEGO Education provides activity guides, cards, and online resources to help parents and educators use the set effectively. These tools make it easy to integrate the kit into structured lessons or casual play. Pairing the set with digital resources or experiments can further enhance the learning experience.

Building a Strong Foundation

The My XL World set is perfect for introducing young children to STEM concepts in a way that's both fun and educational. It helps prepare them for more advanced topics later on, making it a great first step in their educational journey. This set is a smart choice for parents and teachers looking to invest in early learning.

Comparison of STEM LEGO Sets

These LEGO sets combine hands-on play with STEM learning, catering to various age groups and interests. Here's a detailed breakdown to help you pick the right one.

STEM LEGO Set Comparison

Set Name Price Age Range Key STEM Focus Features
Planet Earth and Moon in Orbit $74.99 8+ Astronomy, Physics Orbital mechanics, globe design
NASA Mars Rover Perseverance $99.99 10+ Space Engineering, Robotics Articulated arm, deployable instruments
Space Base and Rocket Launchpad $134.99 7+ Engineering, Space Science Motors, sensors, launch sequences
LEGO Education BricQ Motion Prime $149.95 8+ Physics, Engineering Motion learning, hands-on mechanics
NASA Space Shuttle Discovery $199.99 10+ Aerospace, Engineering Authentic details, deployable payload
NASA Apollo Lunar Roving Vehicle $219.99 12+ Engineering, Space History Historical accuracy, technical details
LEGO Education My XL World $299.95 4-7 Basic STEM Concepts Large-scale building, guided activities
Natural History Museum $299.99 10+ Biology, Architecture Detailed exhibits, scientific accuracy
LEGO Education SPIKE Prime $399.95 10-16 Coding, Robotics Comprehensive programming platform

Educational Integration

LEGO Education sets are crafted to align with recognized STEM standards like NGSS and ISTE, making them perfect for classroom use. Sets like SPIKE Prime and BricQ Motion Prime combine physical building with digital tools, offering a blend of hands-on and tech-based learning.

Value Considerations

  • Complexity for the right age group: Match the set to the user's skill level for the best experience.
  • Learning goals: Think about which STEM skills you'd like to focus on, such as coding, engineering, or physics.
  • Price vs. depth: Higher-priced sets often come with more advanced features and educational opportunities.

For coding and robotics, SPIKE Prime is a standout choice. If space engineering or physics is the goal, the NASA-themed sets deliver an engaging experience. These options are versatile enough for both educational and recreational use.

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