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Science Gifts For Kids?

Posted by ScuttleMonkey on from the explosives-always-go-over-well dept.

beernutmark writes "I have two science-loving kids ages 7 and 9. My youngest knew Neil deGrasse Tyson's name at age 4. With the holidays coming up, I am looking to get them some quality science-related tools. Two items on the list are a quality microscope and/or a real rock-hounding kit. I am looking for any other gift suggestions for this year or future years (or even for younger kids for other readers) and hints on good sources."

8 of 368 comments (clear)

  1. Anonymous Coward by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 5, Insightful

    Think Geek

  2. Telescope by Monkeedude1212 · · Score: 4, Insightful

    If they Dig astronomy that is

    1. Re:Telescope by middlemen · · Score: 5, Insightful

      And if you have a hot neighbor as well ;)

    2. Re:Telescope by Nathrael · · Score: 5, Insightful

      This post being modded Insightful instead of Funny can teach us a *lot* about Slashdot users :P .

      --
      A good education is a bit like a STD - it makes you unsuitable for a lot of jobs and gives you a desire to spread it.
  3. Don't overthink this by Wonko+the+Sane · · Score: 3, Insightful

    Swiss army knife
    Magnifying glass.
    Soldering iron.

  4. Not plastic by goober · · Score: 3, Insightful

    Don't fall for anything made of plastic that says "Educational!" on the package. Science toys don't teach kids anything. Parents do! Look for something that you can do and learn together. Steer towards gifts that have wider applications, e.g. don't get a telescope, get binoculars! Don't get a microscope, get a hand magnifying glass! Don't get a nature DVD, get a bird book!

  5. Re:newtons laws are still good for practical purpo by CodeHog · · Score: 3, Insightful

    And if things don't work out in the science field, they can use it to weigh their drugs.

    --
    Fat, drunk, and stupid is no way to go through life, son.
  6. Re:Help them get started with electronics+programm by cstec · · Score: 3, Insightful

    ...Ages 7 and 9 may be a bit young... but we know that 11-year olds do well with getting introduced to electronics and programming

    11?!? What the Hell are you talking about?

    My 8 yr old has worked for years in BASIC and the Mindstorm's awful visual environment, has passed SnapCircuits (which rock) and starting raw wiring comps. Even my 5 year old is starting to work in Logo. Sure, they're quick, but statistically speaking I bet most of the kids of Slashdot readers are!

    Don't ever assume something's too hard. Throw them in the deep end and see what happens, you'll be surprised, and you can always give 'em a hand if they're drowing. Expect a lot and you'll get a lot.