Tech for Smart Summer Play: Gadgets That Keep Kids Learning
As a tech expert—and a mom—I’m always on the hunt for smart ways to keep my kids entertained. Let’s be real: summer should be fun, but it can also be a great opportunity to sneak in a little learning (without the eye rolls).
This year, I’m leaning into edutainment—tech that feels like play but secretly builds skills in reading, STEM, creativity, and more. From screen-free imagination tools to hands-on inventions, these are my favorite picks for smart summer fun that’s anything but boring.
📚 Reading Eggs
💻 readingeggs.com | $83.99/year or $7/month
🟢 Try it FREE for 30 days + 50% OFF subscriptions for up to 4 kids this June!
Reading Eggs has been a lifesaver for us during summer break. Designed for ages 2–13, this award-winning app helps kids build real reading skills—especially helpful for preschool and early elementary-aged kids.
Developed by educators and backed by the science of reading, it makes literacy fun, with interactive games and rewards that keep them coming back for more. No eye-rolls or dragging feet here—kids actually want to do it.
💡 TechSesh Tip: Use it across devices for up to four children with just one account—perfect for siblings!
🤖 Curio (featuring Grok)
🎯 heycurio.com | $99
This is not your average toy. Grok is an AI-powered playmate that talks to your child, tells jokes, and joins in their imaginary adventures—no screens, no distractions.
Parents can even customize prompts with the free app to match the activity of the moment. Building a block tower? Grok jumps in with “Let’s build the tallest tower ever!” It’s like giving your child their own improv buddy.
It’s smart, safe, and designed to spark creativity while supporting language development and independent play.
⚙️ Make-It-Move Electronics Set
🔧 Available at major toy retailers | Prices vary
Have a little inventor at home? The Make-It-Move Electronics Set lets kids explore mechanical motion by building motor-powered gadgets with wheels, pulleys, and axles.
They learn real engineering concepts hands-on, which means fewer “I’m bored” complaints and more creative thinking. The possibilities are endless—and the pride on their faces when their invention actually moves is everything.
✍️ 3Doodler Start+ Essentials 3D Pen Set for Kids
🎨 the3doodler.com | MSRP varies by retailer
Want to take arts and crafts to the next level? The 3Doodler Start+ 3D Pen lets kids literally bring their ideas off the page and into 3D.
With the push of a button, safe-to-touch plastic extrudes from the pen and hardens almost instantly—so kids can draw up, out, and around to create their own 3D shapes. It’s creative, hands-on, and surprisingly empowering for kids ages 6 and up.
Each set includes:
A wireless 3D pen
Child-safe Start+ refills
An activity guide with 10 beginner-friendly projects
Whether your child is into art, building, or inventing, this tactile STEM tool builds confidence and problem-solving skills—all while having a blast.
🧠 KiwiCo Crates
📦 kiwico.com | Starting at $29.95/month
KiwiCo is our go-to for monthly hands-on projects that combine creativity with real science and engineering principles. Each crate is tailored to your child’s age and interest—from preschool art kits to advanced engineering and robotics.
You just pick a crate, and every month your child receives a beautifully designed box filled with materials, instructions, and educational insights that feel like fun. No batteries, no screens—just brain-boosting play delivered to your door.
💡 Jessica’s Pick: We love the Tinker Crate (ages 9–14) for STEM-focused builds and the Koala Crate (ages 2–4) for crafty early learners.
Final Thoughts: Smart Fun = Happy Summer
With a little tech-savvy strategy, summer doesn’t have to mean mindless screen time. These picks deliver interactive, imagination-fueled play that keeps kids learning without them even realizing it.
Because here’s the secret: when kids are having fun, learning comes naturally. And when that fun comes with tech that’s thoughtfully designed? That’s a win for everyone.
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For more tips and tools that blend family life with the best in consumer tech, follow me @JessicaNaziri and check out the latest on TechSesh.co 💡