Welcome to Part 1 of STEM Launcher’s 2023 Holiday Science Gift Guide for Kids. I’ve gathered up some of my favorite science gifts that are perfect for the science loving kid on your holiday list. Please note some links are affiliate links and I may earn a small commission when you click and buy through those links.
I only list gifts here that I actually have tried and love. I’m generally not a huge fan of many of the science kits that are out there- they’re often not the best quality, their explanations are lacking, and they’re sometimes just expensive versions of ingredients you can find in your kitchen!
Here are some of my favorite science gifts!
Thames and Kosmos Magnetic Science Kit
This kit comes with some great magnets and magnetic items to explore! My favorite item in the kit is the floating magnets, but you’ll love the variety of activities you can do with the materials provided in this kit.
Stay Curious and Keep Exploring Book
Written by the amazing Emily Calandrelli of Emily’s Wonder Lab, this book has easy and fun science activities that you can do at home along with some great easy-to-understand explanations. If you loved the Netflix show, you’ll love this book even more!
Old Nobby Molecular Model Kit
Chemistry-loving kids will have hours of fun building molecules with this molecular model kit. It’s a nice screen-free option- I haven’t found an app-related modeling kit that I like yet, so until I do, this is what I’ll be recommending.
Snap Circuits
I have nothing but good things to say about Snap Circuits! We discovered them during our pandemic homeschooling time- and they were easy enough that my (then) 1st grader could use them. They’re an excellent and relatively safe way for kids (and adults!) to learn about circuits. The included activity book is fantastic and very thorough and will give a solid foundation for kids to branch out and try their own projects.
I Take Naps Periodically Pillow
I may be a little biased since this is my own design, but I think this pillow is the perfect gift! Featuring a fun periodic table design with ‘naps’ spelled out with elements, it’s sure to get a spot of honor on the recipient’s bed or couch.

The Element in the Room Book
If your kid is obsessed with the periodic table, this book will teach them all kinds of fun and quirky facts about the elements! It’s not by any means a comprehensive book about the elements but does provide some fun new facts that even surprised me!