We’re a few days into our Summer holidays and the kids are really enjoying the freedom to rest and play. We’re currently enjoying a few days away from home and I packed a few things to keep them busy in case they got bored. Over the last few months we’ve been trying out the new STEM kits from National Geographic. They are a great range for inquisitive kids and I was pleased to see they have a mini version of some of their kits. These are a great size for tucking inside a case for a weekend away.
We received three of the National Geographic STEM Mini Dig Kits to try out: Dino Poop, Shark Tooth and Treasure. My children were already pretty familiar with what to expect so carefully chose which one they wanted to do on their own and which one they would share.
The 7 year old started with the Dino Poop kit. It contained a poo shape (in which the fossil was inside inside), a small dig tool and a leaflet with more information about the fossil. It didn’t take her long to dig her fossil out and read more about it.
The 9 year old chose the Shark Tooth kit to add to his collection. His fossil was hidden inside a shark and he added a little water to soften it. Again, he dug into it with the plastic toll, brushing away the loose bits as they came away. He soon found his shark tooth and washed it clean.
They shared the third kit which was shaped like a treasure chest. This was the most difficult to dig into and the children ended up placing it in a cup of water to soften. Inside was a piece of Fool’s Gold which my son was pleased to add to his collection.
The kits are small and didn’t take my two long to discover the treasure inside them. Younger children might take longer to open them. I think they are a great idea and good value. They also make a fun introduction to science and geology for young scientists.
Budding scientists will love the authentic appeal of The National Geographic range of experiment-based kits. The range includes something for everyone, from crystals, to dinosaurs and creepy crawlies. Other exciting kits include Geodes, Build Your Own Volcano and Ultimate Play Sand.
Kits are suitable for ages 8 and over. National Geographic Kits (£9.99) and National Geographic Mini Kits (£4.99) are available at all good toy shops Visit www.bandai.co.uk for further information.
You may be interested in our other Bandai STEM Ambassador posts:
National Geographic Break Open 2 Geodes kit
National Geographic The Shark Tooth Dig Kit
National Geographic Gemstone Dig Kit
Build Your Own Volcano at Home
These look like lots of fun. I think my son would like them, and £5 for the mini kits seems pretty inexpensive so we could definitely get a few so he could build up a collection. He’d probably choose the bug one as he loves creepy crawlies!
Ooh my son would love these, a great activity to get hands on whilst learning at the same time.
These look really good and not bad for the price to keep the kids entertained for a bit x