Toy Insider Editor-in-Chief  Marissa DiBartolo joined Fox 40 in Sacramento to show off some fun science toys that are so much fun, kids won’t realize they’re also learning. For more on the items featured in this segment, check out the product notes below, and for the complete rundown of the best toys of the holiday season, be sure to check our complete Toy Insider Holiday Gift Guide.


SMARTY PAD

This interactive LED tablet features 12 games and an age-appropriate, educator-vetted curriculum. Its motion sensors encourage sensory play, small motor skill development, and critical thinking. Kids can play and learn in English and Spanish.

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3D BUILD & PLAY

Insert a colorful strand of BPA-free, nontoxic material and crank the handle to create custom 3D characters, animals, and more. Includes a themed storybook and backdrops to extend the fun. Helps build fine motor skills.

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DIY MUSIC MAKER SCIENCE LAB

Explore the science of pitch, vibration, and acoustics while making a box guitar, a pan flute, and an ocean drum. Features a 36-page, illustrated storybook and activity guide that includes 10 STEM-based activities.

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  • Ages: 5+
  • Manufacturer: HAND2MIND
  • MSRP: $34.99

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JIXELZ CREATOR

Kids can use the included book of 40 design templates to make animals, objects, and more with 3,000 precision-cut micro jigsaw pieces in 20 colors. Plus, kids can draw their own designs with the pre-jixelated graph paper.

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YOUNIVERSE ULTIMATE CRYSTAL GROWING LABORATORY

Kids grow their own crystal magic. Learn the science behind nucleation, molecular reactions, and more. Discover how science and style come together by creating sparkling, crystal-growing accessories. Or learn how easy it is to make a rainbow that shines no matter the weather with a simple chemical reaction.

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