Tech Gifts For Kids 2014
This Season's Coolest Techie Gifts For Kids
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Today's kids don't know how good they have it! From racing robots that hit top speeds to a souped-up Super Mario accessory that brings the game to life, modern toys have all the benefits of technology built right in. This holiday season, give the kids in your life something that will spark their love for science, technology, and engineering. We found 12 geeky picks that will do just that!
Nintendo amiibo
Nintendo amiibo ($12 each, available 11/21) is a new toy-to-life collection that turns some of the most classic Nintendo figures (Mario, Luigi, Link, Zelda, etc.) into playable action figures that can work with different games on the Wii U GamePad controller (no portal necessary). With the figures, you can add that character to the game, level up your character, or get bonus items. Players can also use their amiibo figures to save their own personal Mii data. See the whole lineup of characters here.
Dino Pet
Dino Pet ($60) is a living art piece and a science lesson, together in one apatosaurus-shaped aquarium. Fill it with living dinoflagellates and continue to add Dino Food to keep Dino Pet glowing at night.
Tamagotchi Friends Dream Town
The original virtual pet of the '90s is back with new high-tech features! Like the old version, you can hatch an egg and watch it grow, but Tamagotchi Friends ($15, originally $20) can now send texts to other Tamagotchis. They can also go on playdates and exchange gifts using wireless technologies.
Sphero Ollie
The wickedly fast robot Sphero Ollie ($100) can hit a max speed of 14 miles per hour. Best of all, it's controlled by your smartphone. It's designed to be a speed racer, but you can perform a number of tricks as well.
LittleBits Ugly Sweater Hack
With this LittleBits DIY kit ($45), you can construct an LED light-powered "ugly" Christmas sweater that can pulse and glow.
SEGA Genesis Wireless Game Console
Talk about a throwback! Relive the memories with this classic Sega console ($68), which comes with two wireless controllers and 80 built-in games.
Barbie Fashion Design Maker
With the Barbie Fashion Design Maker ($50), you can create fashions on your tablet or computer then print them onto the included sheets of printable fabric to transform 2D designs into 3D.
GoldieBlox and the Movie Machine
Teach her engineering principles and animation spatial skills with GoldieBlox and the Movie Machine ($30), which gives girls the tools to make their own movies. The set works with a free animation app for iOS.
Minecraft Creeper Case
If he or she is a Minecraft superfan, this snap-on Creeper iPhone case ($10) for iPhone 4-4S is the perfect pick.
Minecraft Light-Up Torch
Light the way with this torch ($25) that produces Level 14 light. Two keyhole mounts allow you to post it up on your wall, too.
Roominate
Roominate ($50) is a fun new architectural engineering toy that includes modular building pieces and tools. Kids can wire up motors and light circuits to make elevators, working lamps, and more. The kit helps build skills essential to science, tech, engineering, and math fields.
Tiggly Shapes
Tiggly Shapes ($30) are toys that work with three different Tiggly iPad apps. Tots aged 18 months to 3 years can learn how to draw, understand spatial thinking, compose music, and more.
