Learning Resources
Software DevElementary
Snap Circuits Explore Coding, STEM Building Toy for Ages 8 to 108, Amazon Exclusive
Perfect for future software developers and electrical engineers, this kit bridges the gap between hardware and coding in a way kids can see and touch. As they program circuits to react, move, or light up, children gain a deeper understanding of cause and effect, sequencing, and digital logic—the same principles behind computer programming. It’s a fun and practical way to inspire innovation and confidence in tomorrow’s tech creators.
Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code
Vibrant and inspiring, this picture book celebrates Grace Hopper—the brilliant mathematician and inventor who taught computers to speak our language. With bold illustrations and lively storytelling, it shows how her creativity, humor, and persistence turned complex code into something the world could use. It’s an empowering story about curiosity, courage, and the joy of problem-solving.
Bottleboom STEM 13-in-1 Education Solar Power Robots Toys for Boys Age 8-12, Educational Toy Science Kits for Kids Experiment Robotics Set Birthday Gifts for 8 9 10 11 12 Years Old-Green
Perfect for future software developers, engineers, and innovators, this kit teaches systems thinking and mechanical logic—skills that translate directly into coding and robotics. By assembling each solar-powered model, kids learn how energy, design, and motion interact, reinforcing the problem-solving mindset essential in technology and engineering. It’s a brilliant blend of science, sustainability, and creativity that inspires the next generation of builders and coders.
Ada and the Thinking Machine: The True Story of Ada Lovelace
Combining history, art, and imagination, this inspiring biography captures the story of Ada Lovelace—the brilliant mind who envisioned computer programming before computers even existed. McCully’s vivid storytelling and detailed illustrations make complex ideas approachable, showing young readers how curiosity and creativity can spark innovation that changes the world.
ThinkFun Code Master Programming Logic Game and STEM Toy – Teaches Programming Skills Through Fun Gameplay
ThinkFun’s Code Master turns programming concepts into an exciting adventure, helping kids build logic, sequencing, and problem-solving skills as they work through 60 increasingly challenging levels. With colorful maps, action tokens, and clear instructions, it makes learning to think like a coder fun, hands-on, and accessible for players ages 8 and up. Award-winning and endlessly engaging, it’s the perfect smart game for curious kids and STEM fans alike.
Ada Byron Lovelace & the Thinking Machine
Brilliantly told and beautifully illustrated, this picture book introduces readers to Ada Lovelace—the visionary who imagined the first computer long before one existed. With a focus on creativity, curiosity, and perseverance, it shows how Ada’s love of math and logic changed the course of technology. It’s a stunning celebration of imagination meeting innovation.
Makeblock mBot Robot Kit, Robotics for Kids Ages 8-12 Learn to Code with Scratch & Arduino, STEM Toys Science Kits for Kids Age 8-12 Boys and Girls Age 8+
Ideal for aspiring coders, engineers, and inventors, mBot helps children understand real-world programming logic while seeing their code come to life. It nurtures problem-solving, creativity, and critical thinking—the same skills used by software developers every day. By building, coding, and iterating, kids learn how machines “think,” setting the stage for a lifelong passion for technology and innovation.
Learning Resources Code & Go Robot Mouse - 31 Pieces, Ages 4+, Coding STEM Toys, Screen-Free Coding Toys for Kids
Ideal for budding software developers and engineers, this clever mouse helps kids understand the fundamentals of coding logic—like sequencing, cause and effect, and pattern recognition—through real-world play. It transforms abstract programming concepts into tangible, visual results, making it easier for young learners to grasp how code drives movement and problem-solving. By experimenting, testing, and refining their commands, children learn to think like coders—an essential mindset for future innovators in technology and robotics.
Learning Resources Botley The Coding Robot Activity Set - 77 Pieces, Ages 5+, Screen-Free Coding Robots for Kids, STEM Toys for Kids, Programming for Kids, for Kids
This clever little robot is a perfect first step for aspiring software developers, coders, and robotics engineers. Botley helps kids grasp the logic behind programming—sequencing, loops, and problem-solving—through movement and play. By experimenting with commands and seeing real results, children learn how computers “think” and how to break big problems into smaller, solvable steps. It’s a playful foundation for future coders who want to build, design, and innovate in the digital world.
Sphero Mini (Green) - Coding Robot Ball - Educational Coding and Gaming for Kids and Teens - Bluetooth Connectivity - Interactive and Fun Learning Experience for Ages 8+
Perfect for aspiring software developers, robotics engineers, and inventors, Sphero Mini turns coding into a game of creativity and precision. It teaches core programming principles like sequencing, loops, and logic while encouraging experimentation through real-world feedback. Kids quickly see how their code shapes movement, behavior, and performance—an essential connection for any future coder. Fun, approachable, and endlessly programmable, it’s a playful introduction to the problem-solving mindset behind every great tech innovator.
Playz My First Coding & Computer Science Kit - Learn About Binary Codes, Encryption, Algorithms & Pixelation Through Fun Puzzling Activities Without Using a Computer for Boys, Girls, Teenagers, Kids
This kit is a perfect introduction for future software developers, engineers, and data scientists. It teaches kids the fundamentals of coding and computational thinking through tactile play—showing how patterns, logic, and problem-solving shape the digital world. By connecting abstract ideas to real experiments, it lays a strong foundation for understanding how technology works and inspires confidence in every budding coder.
Learning Resources Code & Go Robot Mouse Activity Set, Screen-Free Early Coding Toy for Kids, Interactive STEM Coding Pet,Back to School,Ages 4+,83 Pieces
Perfect for future software developers and engineers, this coding mouse turns abstract programming ideas into fun, tangible experiences. It teaches kids how to think like coders—breaking big problems into smaller steps, testing solutions, and learning through trial and error. By mastering logic and sequencing in a creative way, children build the same foundational skills used by real-world programmers, all while having a blast.
Learning Resources STEM Explorers Pixel Art Challenge - Math Puzzles, Pattern Blocks, Sensory Bin, Arts and Crafts, Math Manipulatives, Building Toys, Montessori
This kit is an excellent introduction for future software developers and digital designers. By learning how patterns, grids, and logic come together to form complete images, kids begin thinking like programmers—translating abstract ideas into structured, step-by-step creations. It’s a fun, hands-on way to connect creativity with computational thinking, inspiring confidence and curiosity in the coders and engineers of tomorrow.
Teach Tech Mech 5, Mechanical Coding Robot
Perfect for future software developers, mechanical engineers, and robotics designers, Mech-5 transforms coding into something kids can touch and see. It helps them understand the logic behind programming and the mechanics that power real-world machines. By building and coding this robot from scratch, children strengthen their spatial reasoning, sequencing, and troubleshooting skills—the same abilities they’ll one day use to design software, robotics, or even AI systems. It’s the ultimate introduction to how code drives creation.
Who Is Bill Gates?
This fast-paced biography shows how curiosity and big ideas can change the world. Patricia Brennan Demuth introduces readers to Bill Gates’ journey from a computer-loving kid to the visionary who built Microsoft and redefined modern technology. It’s an inspiring story about innovation, persistence, and using success to make a difference.