Pitch: Players (age 8+) assemble a group of magnetic modules to create circuits that light up, vibrate, and spin.
Payoff: The free-form nature of the littleBits—suggested projects range from bubble blowers to “drawer alarms” that catch snooping siblings—is “likely to encourage creativity,” says developmental psychologist Abigail Baird. It’s also a great way to hone engineering skills.
Price: Kits start at $99; available here.