It can be hard to think up of gifts for kids, especially if they're not yours. While you can certainly grab another one of those same old toys or worse, a new gadget, it may look like you didn't really give much thought into your gift. Of course, the kid may be elated to get a new iPad but is it something that would benefit them? Probably not. 

Even though phones and tables are great learning tools, experts now say that kids need to lessen their screen time. One good way to do this would be to get them engaged in a fun, outdoor activity and if it can be time spent learning as well, all the better.

Educational toys are always a great gift idea for toddlers to early teens since it can spark their interest for learning. Gifts of knowledge like science kits also don't lose their charm easily and end up as clutter. If you're wondering which ones to get, here are a couple of highly recommended ones.

 

SmartLab Toys Outdoor Science Lab Bugs, Dirt, & Plants

Studies have already shown that kids who spend more time outdoors playing with dirt and other natural stuff have a more robust immune system. This outdoor science kit for handling bugs, plants and dirt can cultivate a kid's interest in nature and help them overcome fear of insects. 

Compliments	Complaints
Good build quality, well-made Includes lots of accessories Comes with easy to follow instructions and activity suggestions	Lots of sponsored reviews on Amazon Might not be a good gift during winter Mostly made of plastic, not suitable for heavy use

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INNOCHEER Outdoor Explorer Kit & Bug Catcher for Kids

  

Here's another science kit that may spark your kid's interest in bugs. Compared to the SmartLab kit, Innocheer's kit also includes a vest, hat, and a pair of binoculars so you can also use it for costume parties and similar dress-up events.

Compliments	Complaints
Backpack is a hit with young kids Available in styles for girls and boys Inexpensive gift but loads of fun for kids	Items are not as durable, suitable only for younger kids Binoculars don't magnify as much Vest and backpack a bit small

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Gskyer Telescope, 70mm Aperture 400mm AZ Mount Astronomical Refracting Telescope for Kids Beginners

The Gskyer refracting telescope is a good starter for any beginner. While $99 may sound steep, it gets you a fully functional telescope that will allow you to actually see the surface of the moon. You can even hook it up to your smartphone and with the wireless remote, take celestial images. 

Compliments	Complaints
Comes with a two-year warranty and 24-hour tech support Decent performance for an entry level telescope Easy to follow setup instructions	Stand is quite short Can be hard to view celestial bodies without assistance of adults Experienced stargazers will recommend getting a more powerful telescope with a bigger aperture

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4M Outdoor Survival Science Kit

Compliments	Complaints
Good, cheap gift that works as advertised Includes instructions on how to use equipment	Recommended for kids 8 up who may already be capable of using real equipment No Amazon reviews yet

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SmartLab Toys Storm Watcher Weather Lab

Meteorology can be a boring subject but every student will have to tackle it in school one way or the other. With this kit, you may be able to make learning about the weather fun for your kid which can be a gateway for sparking their interest in other sciences.

Compliments	Complaints
Affordable gift for boys and girls Can teach them the basics of data gathering and using scientific tools Its a set that can be used out of the box, instead of having to buy each equipment individually	Not as durable, won't last long under the elements and heavy use The items are small and intended for use only by kids

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