Here at umeandthekids, we were recently sent an Explore box to build with my daughter. My little one was thrilled to receive a Build a Repeating Marble Run kit, as she is a huge fan of marble runs!
With my little ones’ help, we are going to build our marble run together and share honest opinions on its educational value, difficulty, and fun factor.
Tinkerer Explore Box – Automaton
From the age range I had selected, we received a wooden build-a-repeating marble run, suitable for ages 9+, which comes complete with all the necessary parts to assemble the marble run and is part of the Automation range.
Inside the box, along with all the necessary parts, you receive a lovely book that explains exactly what automation is, from its history to cool facts and further reading suggestions if your child shows a genuine interest in this topic.
Imagine not just building the kit but having the knowledge of the whys and hows. You are not only giving them the tools to use in school, but with learning through play, you are making it fun, too, and this is what STEAM learning is all about.
What is STEAM Learning?
STEAM learning is an educational approach that integrates Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics to foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. STEAM emphasises how these fields intersect in the real world through hands-on, project-based learning and experimentation.
Assembling The Marble Run
We started by laying out all the parts needed and followed the self-explanatory, step-by-step instructions in the instruction booklet. I loved that no glue or fancy gadgets were required to assemble the marble run, and any parts that needed sticking together were done so using foam stickers, which were included in the kit.
In total, it took us 1 hour to build, and happily for Mum, there was zero mess. My daughter stayed engaged throughout the build and did need my help with some of the challenges of her first construction project, yet was so happy and proud that she did most of it herself.
Final Thoughts
I recommend the STEAM boxes from Tinkerer for children of all ages and those with diverse interests. These STEAM boxes would make a perfect gift for children, and the subscriptions they provide would make an excellent gift for christmas that keeps giving every month, not just on Christmas day, and help build knowledge whilst having fun. Help shape your child’s education and future through play and let their imaginations soar.
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