The STEM Equipment Your Kid Actually Needs
Honest recommendations from a robotics teacher with a PhD. I help parents build a real STEM learning setup at home, from their first robotics kit to a full workshop.
PhD in Biochemistry from a top-10 research university
FTC Robotics Coach
16+ Years in STEM Education
Every product on this site has been used by me with real students. I recommend the same things here that I recommend to parents I work with, and I’ll tell you what not to buy, too.
What Are You Looking For?
Browse by category or start with your child’s age.
Ages 5-18
Robotics Kits
LEGO SPIKE, VEX IQ, and more. Which platform, at which age, and what to actually do with it once you open the box.
The Workshop
Maker Tools
3D printers, soldering stations, Arduino kits, workbenches, and tool sets. Everything you need to build a real maker space at home.
Real Science
Science Lab
Microscopes, chemistry kits, lab equipment, and backyard experiments. Recommendations from someone with a PhD, not a marketing team.
The Full Path
Start Here
Not sure where to begin? Tell me your child’s age, and I’ll show you the learning pathway from first kit to advanced engineering.
How This Site Works
1
I test it with my students first.
Every product recommendation comes from hands-on experience with real students. If I haven’t used it, I don’t review it.
2
I think in pathways, not one-off purchases.
A robotics kit is the beginning of a journey. I’ll help you see where each purchase leads, so you’re not starting over every year.
3
I tell you what to skip.
Most “best of” lists recommend everything. I’ll tell you which popular products aren’t worth the money and what to buy instead.
Not Sure Where to Start?
Tell me your child’s age and experience level, and I’ll point you in the right direction.
Ask Me Anything