Thames & Kosmos · Science & STEM
Chemistry C500
A good science gift for a curious tween with an adult nearby.
American brand
US$39.95
at Thames & Kosmos
Price seen September 28, 2026
Science and STEM gifts under $50
The best STEM gifts produce a result a child can see and be proud of: a working circuit, a grown crystal, a coded robot. Match the kit's age rating to the child's reading level. Every pick below was under $50 when we checked.
In short: 9 gifts, led by Thames & Kosmos Chemistry C500 (US$39.95 at Thames & Kosmos), Thames & Kosmos Hydroponics Lab (US$24.95 at Thames & Kosmos) and LEGO LEGO Speed Champions McLaren W1 77257 (C$34.99 at Mastermind Toys). Prices run C$24.99–C$50 · US$24.95–US$39.95 · £5.95. Every price was read on the shop's own page, last checked September 28, 2026.
9 picks · prices checked September 28, 2026 · we may earn a commission from shop links. Details
9 picks
Thames & Kosmos · Science & STEM
Hydroponics Lab
For a curious child who likes watching things grow; it teaches plant science with real edible results.
American brandUS$24.95
at Thames & Kosmos
Price seen September 28, 2026
LEGO · Science & STEM
LEGO Speed Champions McLaren W1 77257
Suits a car fan aged nine and up.
C$34.99
at Mastermind Toys
Price seen September 28, 2026
National Geographic · Science & STEM
National Geographic Crystal Garden
A low-cost science gift for a curious eight-to-ten-year-old.
C$24.99
at Scholar's Choice
Price seen September 28, 2026
Thames & Kosmos · Science & STEM
Ooze Labs: Big Bucket of Crystal Growing
For a kid who likes experiments that leave something to keep on the shelf.
American brandUS$29.95
at Thames & Kosmos
Price seen September 28, 2026
WWF-Canada · Outdoors & camping
Polar Bear Adoption Kit
Works for a friend who likes wildlife and would welcome a gift that also gives.
Canadian brandWWF-Canada · Outdoors & camping
Sea Otter Adoption Kit
A feel-good gift for an animal lover that is also a donation.
Canadian brandThames & Kosmos · Science & STEM
SolarBots 8-in-1 Solar Robot Kit
Suits a kid who likes building and wants to see how motors and solar power work.
C$44.99
at Scholar's Choice
Price seen September 28, 2026
Ohh Deer · Science & STEM
Space Shuttle Mini Jigsaw Puzzle
Suits a tween or teen who likes space or quick puzzles on a quiet afternoon.
British brand
Before you buy
- Friend exchanges often settle between 30 and 50 in local currency.
- Check whether an adult needs to supervise.
- Some coding toys require a tablet or computer.
Every pick links to the shop that sells it; we never hold stock or take payment. See how we choose.