20 great tech gifts for kids that are just as educational as they are fun

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• Tech toys are products that integrate some sort of computer software, mechanical elements, or that work with an external device like a smartphone or tablet.
• Tech toys are plenty of fun, but they also foster development of the skills and knowledge young people today will need in the workforce of tomorrow.
• Many tech toys made for younger children are designed to be used screen-free yet still engender development of STEM aptitude.
• We've rounded up the best tech gifts for kids, including the Anki Cozmo Robot, Pai Technologies Botzees Augmented Reality Kit, and more.
• Still shopping for gifts? Check out all our 2019 Holiday Gift Guides on Insider Picks.

Toys are, first and foremost, all about fun. They should amuse and engage kids and serve as a pleasant pastime that can be enjoyed again and again. But if learning and skill development come along with that fun, so much the better. And with great tech toys, an increase in STEM-related knowledge and aptitude is baked right in.

Tech toys come in all shapes and sizes and are designed for kids of all ages and interests. There are basics that teach elementary coding skills without the use of screens and there are advanced options that involve the physical building of robots followed by complex programming and control of the creation.

What all great tech toys have in common is the ability to amuse and inform a young mind at the same time. Also, they make great gifts for the youngster to whom that young mind belongs.

These are the 5 best tech gifts for kids:

1. Pai Technologies Botzees Augmented Reality Kit
2. Tinkering Labs Electric Motors Catalyst
3. SmartLab Toys Smart Circuits
4. Sphero Mini Programable Robot Ball
5. Anki Cozmo Robot

Here are 20 great tech gifts for the budding scientist, engineer, or mathematician on your list.

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