T he past few weeks have been nonstop fun playing with Christmas toys. Though I don’t think it is necessary that every toy is a learning toy, I do try and seek out a few unique educational gifts each year. This year’s big win for fun and education is Smartivity’s Music Machine. It is a mechanical xylophone that comes as a DIY kit and is the best STEAM toy I’ve found yet.
I researched the kit before purchasing it and found my daughter, Isabelle, was right at the recommended age to use it (8 and over). My husband and I were prepared to lend a hand in the construction process, but it was quite clear from the start. The kit included over 100 pieces made from laser-cut wood and was entirely mess-free. That means no glue! Pieces are held together using tiny rubber bands, which put Isabelle’s fine motor skills to the test. Battery Operated Toy
Once all pieces are set together, you arrange pegs in certain holes. When you rotate the handle of the machine, mallets strike keys according to the arrangement of the pegs. It plays whatever tune you’ve laid out. The Smartivity Music Machine instruction booklet provides some familiar tunes to start with.
Isabelle enjoyed not only the assembly, but also music composition afterwards. She did and has since spent time developing her own unique tunes to play. She is learning what she thinks sounds good and what doesn’t, meanwhile making observations about vibrations.
Though my husband and I helped Isabelle some in the construction process because her hands are still small, she guided the assembly and felt empowered by it. Now if she chooses too, she could further customize her machine by using markers or paint since it isn’t already decorated. If you are considering something that combines analytical skills, motor skills, and creativity, I highly recommend checking out this kit. Always check with a local toy store to see if they have an item available before purchasing elsewhere.
Next time you buy a gift for a child, consider a STEAM toy. STEAM (science-technology-engineering-ARTS-math) integrates arts with traditional STEM subjects, promoting a more comprehensive understanding of the world. It helps students see connections between different subjects, fostering a deeper and more holistic understanding of how things work. Hopefully the more children see these subjects as fun at home, the less likely they will see them as intimidating at school.
To check out our Smartivity Music Machine construction process on Instagram, visit @explorationandeducation.
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I am the mom of an elementary-aged daughter and teen stepson. I live in a rambunctious household with the kids, my husband, dogs, and a cat. In my full-time job, I lead the marketing team for an organization in the book industry. When I’m not working (or sleeping), I enjoy adventuring with the family. As a big believer in experiential education, I see it as my job to instill a love for learning in both kids beyond what they experience in the classroom.
Toy Kitchen In this blog I cover outdoor adventures, travel and exploration, all things learning and education, and other anecdotes from life.