When we think of science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM), we often imagine older children in labs or classrooms. But in reality, STEAM learning with the all important addition of the arts starts much earlier. In fact, the preschool years are the ideal time to introduce children to these powerful concepts through hands on, open ended play.
At Edx Education, we know that STEAM toys for toddlers aren’t about high tech gadgets they’re about sparking curiosity, nurturing problem solving skills, and building confidence. It’s about learning science through play from the very beginning.
What is STEAM Learning?
STEAM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. These aren’t just academic subjects; they’re ways of thinking, exploring, and making sense of the world.
In the early years, STEAM learning looks like:
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Pouring water between containers (science and maths)
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Building a tower of blocks (engineering)
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Sorting coloured pebbles (maths and art)
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Creating patterns and asking “what if?” questions (all five areas)
This type of learning encourages critical thinking, creativity, and resilience skills children will use throughout their lives.
Why Start STEAM in the Early Years?
Between the ages of 0–6, children are naturally inquisitive. They love to ask questions, experiment, and explore. These are the core habits of scientists and engineers! Introducing early years STEM through playful experiences helps children build strong cognitive foundations before they even realise they’re “learning.”
As I share in my book Happy Children Play, playful learning helps children make sense of big ideas in small, meaningful ways. When we make learning fun, it sticks.
The Best STEAM Toys for Toddlers and Preschoolers
At Edx Education, our educational toy range is designed to encourage exploration and experimentation. Here are some of our favourite educational STEM kits UK families love:
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MyGears® Construction Sets – A hands-on way to explore motion, mechanics, and cause and effect
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Linking Cubes – Perfect for patterning, counting, measuring, and building
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Rainbow Pebbles® – Develops sorting, sequencing, and creative design skills
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Number Rods – Builds a strong foundation in numeracy and measurement
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Water and Sand Trays – Explore scientific concepts like volume, absorption, and texture
These open-ended toys grow with your child, supporting both structured play and free exploration.
How to Learn Science Through Play at Home
You don’t need to be a teacher or have a science lab to introduce STEAM learning. Here are some simple educational activities that make learning fun at home:
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Sink or Float? Collect household objects and test them in a bowl of water. Ask your child to guess first then test and compare results.
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Shape Hunt in Nature Explore the garden or park and find objects shaped like circles, triangles, or rectangles.
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Build a Marble Run Use cardboard tubes and blocks to engineer a path for marbles or small balls.
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Create Patterns Use Rainbow Pebbles® or buttons to build and repeat colourful patterns.
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Make a Volcano –Combine baking soda and vinegar for a safe science experiment with a wow-factor.
Everyday play can include elements of design, testing, observing, and revising—just like real-world science and engineering.
STEAM = School Readiness + Future Success
Introducing STEAM in the early years doesn’t just help children prepare for school it helps prepare them for life. From developing problem-solving skills to fostering a love of learning, STEAM-based play supports every aspect of child development.
As more parents look for screen-free activities, critical thinking toys, and home learning kits, the demand for hands-on educational resources is growing. And that’s exactly what we’re proud to offer at Edx Education.
Play, Learn & Create, Every Day
Our mission is to make learning joyful and accessible for every child. Through our STEAM toys for toddlers, eco-friendly learning tools, and downloadable resources, we help families embrace the power of play from day one.
Visit shopedx.co.uk to explore our full range of early years STEM toys, educational STEM kits UK, and outdoor learning activities.
And don’t forget to tune into the Play, Learn & Create with Edx Education podcast for weekly inspiration, expert interviews, and real-world tips from educators, parents, and play advocates like me.
Because when children play, they don’t just learn—they thrive.