Technology within the toy industry is advancing at an astonishing rate. Computing power that many years ago could have cost thousands of dollars is now available for a fraction of the cost in tiny toys that fit the palm of your hand. For the first time AI (well, not true AI) robots are moving out of research labs and into peoples lives. Not as helpers, carers or apocalyptic killing machines, but as lovable robot toys.

You are never ‘too old’, ‘too mature’ or ‘too smart’ to play with toys. Not only because they are a massive amount of fun, but because they are a great way to learn new skills. Skills which could one day land you a job!

It’s estimated that between 2014 and 2024 the number of jobs in Science, Technology, Engineering & Math (STEM) fields will grow by 17%. Conversely, non-STEM jobs are set to grow just 12%. But the benefits don’t stop there, STEM skills could also boost your earnings! This is where STEM toys for adults come into play – pun intended.

STEM toys are educational toys that teach fundamental principles about science, technology, engineering and math. They may be designed for beginners, but don’t let that throw you off! Many of the toys start with the basics, but have scope to move into some really advanced concepts.

From learning to code, to building your own computers, to constructing and programming your own robots, read on for our recommendation of the most awesome STEM toys for adults this year.