11 best smithsonian kits

Smithsonian kits are educational and science-based toy kits that are designed to engage children and learners of all ages in hands-on exploration and discovery. These kits are often associated with the Smithsonian Institution, a renowned museum and research organization in the United States. Here's what you should know about Smithsonian kits:

  1. Educational Focus: Smithsonian kits are designed with a strong educational focus. They aim to foster curiosity, creativity, and a love for science, history, and learning in general.

  2. Variety of Topics: Smithsonian kits cover a wide range of topics, including:

    • Science: Kits related to astronomy, geology, chemistry, physics, and more.
    • History: Kits that explore historical artifacts, cultures, and events.
    • Paleontology: Kits that allow kids to excavate and learn about dinosaurs and fossils.
    • Engineering: Kits that introduce engineering concepts and challenges.
    • Nature: Kits related to wildlife, ecosystems, and environmental science.
  3. Hands-On Learning: These kits typically include materials, tools, and detailed instructions that enable hands-on learning experiences. They often come with models, specimens, or experiments that users can interact with.

  4. Age Range: Smithsonian kits are available for different age groups, from young children to teenagers and even adults.They are designed to cater to various levels of complexity and understanding.

  5. Authenticity: Some Smithsonian kits are designed to replicate real-life objects or phenomena. For example, paleontology kits may include fossils or dinosaur replicas, providing an authentic learning experience.

  6. STEM Education: Many Smithsonian kits align with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education principles, helping children and learners develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

  7. Interactive: These kits encourage interactive learning, sparking curiosity and encouraging users to ask questions and seek answers through experimentation and exploration.

  8. Gifts and Learning Tools: Smithsonian kits make for great gifts for children and individuals interested in science and history. They can also serve as valuable tools for educators and parents looking to supplement classroom learning or homeschooling.

  9. Quality and Reputation: Smithsonian is a well-respected name in the field of education and science, and their kits are known for their quality and accuracy.

  10. Availability: Smithsonian kits are available through various retailers and online marketplaces, making them accessible to a wide audience.

Smithsonian kits are a fantastic way to combine fun and education, providing opportunities for individuals to learn about the world around them in an engaging and memorable way. Whether exploring the cosmos, digging up fossils, or conducting experiments, these kits offer an enriching learning experience.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best smithsonian kits on the market
  

Smithsonian Rock and Gem Dig

Smithsonian

Based on 659 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Includes 1 Sand Block containing 11 Real Gemstones, Minerals, or Rocks, 1 Mallet, 1 Dowel, 1 Pair of Goggles, 1 Streak Plate, 1 Magnifying Glass, 1 Pouch and Color Poster with Instructions

From the Manufacturer

Dig for semi-precious gemstones and minerals and identify your treasures. Test for hardness and streak. Learn how rocks and minerals are formed and have fun with an archealogical dig. Detailed instructions are included.

  • Excavate Gemstones and Minerals
  • Identify Gemstones and Minerals
  • Learn how Rocks and Minerals are formed
  • S.T.E.M- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math
  • Age 8 and Up

User questions & answers

Question: how safe are the toy goggles
Answer: There are 30 (I just checked the box). It's a cute set that's held up really well.
Question: how many rocks
Answer: About 9 inches by 3 inches by 3 inches.
Question: How safe are the toy goggles
Answer: The box says, "Designed in the USA; printed in Shenzhen, China."
Question: Can you polish the stonesyou find
Answer: It is NOT 5#...

Smithsonian Diggin' Up Dinosaurs T-Rex Plastic Skeleton Set Educational,Fun,Science,Archeological Playset for Kids Age 8 up

Smithsonian

Based on 603 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Includes 1 Sand Block with T-Rex "Fossil", 1 Mallet, 1 Dowel, 1 Pair of Goggles, 1 Brush, and Color Poster with Instructions

From the Manufacturer

Conduct your own archeological dig with this cool kit. Dig up a plastic skeleton of a t-ren. Waiting to be unearthed and assemble the bones into a cool t-rex. Detailed instructions are included.

  • Chip away to discover Dinosaur " Fossils"
  • Assemble an amazing T-Rex Replica
  • Learn about the Evolution and Extinction of Dinosaurs
  • S.T.E.M- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math
  • Age 8 and Up

User questions & answers

Question: Would this be appropriate for a 7 year old
Answer: The entire back is magnetic.
Question: I got this for my daughter for christmas and she loved it but it only came with half a skelaton. how do i get this broblem fixed
Answer: Not sure about the magnets, but as far as I know, Hape uses safe, non-toxic water-based paint finishes. They are great quality; the paint does not chip or flake like some of the other wooden toys we have owned.
Question: would it be impossible for a 2 year old to do this?is it too hard to chisel?My sons always had great motor skills&with supervision/help (of course
Answer: The board pictured is the Hape Anywhere Art Studio. It does not come with this set and would need to be purchased separately. The ABC letters can stick to any magnetic surface.
Question: how hard is the material the dinosaur bones are encased in
Answer: The set I bought did not come with numbers. Also, the carton looked different from the one in the picture.

Smithsonian Optics Room Planetarium and Dual Projector Science Kit, Black/Blue

Based on 563 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Includes 1 Dual Planetarium Projector, 1 Star Background Slide, 3 Changeable Slide Discs and Detailed Instructions

  • A Dual Function Planetarium Projector brings the Nighttime Sky into your room
  • A Rotating Star Pattern of the Northern Sky is projected with 24 HD Space images
  • Choose HD images of Planets, Nebulae, Moons, Astronaut, Space Craft and Other Celestial Bodies
  • Over 50 different image combinations
  • Age 8 and Up

User questions & answers

Question: Is there a way to purchase the disks alone? Our projector only has one disk (we purchased it used
Answer: Yes. These are so awesome . . Hours of fun!
Question: Projector keeps turning off after about 15 to 30 minutes. Is there a way to make it stay on longer
Answer: Made of non-toxic and durable ABS plastic.Round edge design without sharpness,no worry about hurting your kid's little hands.my grandson got them when he was 5 and played with them a lot.
Question: How many movies does ir have
Answer: Made of non-toxic and durable ABS plastic.Round edge design without sharpness,no worry about hurting your kid's little hands.my grandson got them when he was 5 years old and played with them a lot.
Question: Does this show all 8 planets
Answer: China

Smithsonian Motor-Works

Smithsonian

Based on 817 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Includes 2 Washers, 2 Shafts in various lengths, 4 Exhaust Valves, 4 Intake Valves, 8 Valve Stems, 4 Piston Pins, 8 Piston Halves, 4 Connecting Rods, 8 Timing Cams, 8 Rocker Arms, 1 Crankshaft, 1 Crankshaft Pulley, 1 Fan Pulley, 1 fan, 1 engine Mounting Stand, 5 Bearings, 1 Clutch Housing, 1 Oil Pan, 1 Lower Crankcase, 1 Rocker Arm Cover, 1 Upper Cylinder Head, 1 Timing Belt, 1 Timing Wheel, 1 Timimg Gear, 1 Tensioning Belt Pulley, 1 Lower Cylinder Head, 1 Lower Cylinder Block, 1 Dipstick, 1 Positioning Jig, 1 Timimg Belt Cover, 1 Intake Manifold, 1 Exhaust Manifold, 1 Carburator Cover, 1 Carburator Bowel, 1 front Half of Water Distribution Assdembly, 1 Drive Module, 1 Battery Pack, 67 Scews and Color Poster with Instructions. Requires 2 ) 1.5 V) "AA" Batteries, 1 Pair of Scisssors and a Screwdriver ( Not Included)

From the Manufacturer

Build a real working battery powered 4-cylinder model engine with real lights and sound. Watch the spark plugs fire and the valves open and close. See how the pistons fire and watch the belts and fan turn. Detailed instructions are included.

  • Build a Working Model of a 4-Cylinder Engine
  • Valves Rock, Spark Plugs Fire, and Pistons Drive Crankshaft
  • Battery Operated Moving Parts and Lights
  • Includes 35" x 23" 9 89 cm x 57 cm) Colored Poster
  • Age 8 and Up

User questions & answers

Question: For what age group
Answer: The Stilring Engine is NOT a steam engine. It runs on differential temperature.
Question: The description says it a 4 cyl, but the picture is 8. Which is this
Answer: doesn't have a wick on motor just in little bottle and would have no idea jujst a cotton one i guess
Question: The distributor assembly came apart when we were screwing it in.... the 2 silver balls are now loose in there. Any advice on getting it back together
Answer: I don't know. I bought two and didn't know there was a difference.
Question: Does this use gasoline or fuel
Answer: I don't see why not, it's just a matter of finding a bulb of the same type, in clear. I would either check with the company if they have access to a clear one, or go to some place like Fry's Electronics, or look online. Either way, the Stirling Engine is a really cool toy to have!

Smithsonian Mega Science Lab

Smithsonian

Based on 420 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Chemical Powder: 1.77 ox ( 50.2 g) of Bag #1 "Golden Citrine", Paint Net Content: 4 x 0.077 fl oz ( 2.3 ml), 1 Weather Station with Thermometer, 1 Rain Gauge, 1 Cloud Chart, 1 Granite stone, 1 stirring Stick, 1 Crystal Growing Cup, 1 Volcano Base, 1 Volcano Structure, 1 Eruption Tube, 4 Tapes, 1 Foam Tape, 1 Plaster Strip, 1 Eco Dome Pod, 1 Bug Collecting Tool, 1 Dino Dig Sand Block with Dinosaur Skeleton, 1 Wood Mallet, 1 Dowel, 1 Plastic Pedestal, 1 Earth Model, 1 Moon Model, 1 Paintbrush, 1 pair of Goggles and Color Poster with instructions. Requires Vinegar and Baking Powder for Volcano Eruption ( Not Included)

From the Manufacturer

Learn about volcanos, weather, crystals growing, dinosaurs, microscopic science and outer space with this multi-lab science set. A truly complete science set. A science real sampler with amazing adventures. Safe and easy to do. Detailed instructions are included.

  • Build a Habitat for Frogs, Ant, Bugs, and othe rLife Forms
  • 6 Activities
  • Explore Dinosaurs, Crystals, Volcanoes, and the Weather
  • S.T.E.M- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math
  • Age 10 and Up

User questions & answers

Question: My kit didn't come with instructions. How can I obtain them for the experiments
Answer: I think we got around twelve or thirteen of varying sizes. Most of them were pretty small, but my son didn't really care about the size. He just got excited whenever he found one.
Question: If I take this on a plane to give to my grandson..is there anything inside that would make the airlines confiscate
Answer: You said it: Toy Goggles, so hey are toys. For this game set, i would say they get the job done, as long as you are able to keep them on your child.
Question: are batteries supplied? if not, what is required
Answer: All you have to do is wipe them off. They are already polished. ***this set is a rip off. They are really small. Save your money and buy bigger stones or a mix of gemstones. Your child will like it way more more****
Question: what age range is this for
Answer: Yes, we packed the magnetic building blocks with a nice box for you.And they are smooth and easy to clean up.The magnetic block quality is really good and a super buy! You only need one set, as there are a lot pieces and different shapes.

Smithsonian Magic Rocks Kit - Space by Smithsonian

Based on 89 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Smithsonian Magic Rocks Kit - Space. Includes: 0.44oz (12.4g) Magic Rocks, 2 x 4.5 fl oz (133ml) Sodium Silicate, 1 Space background print, 1 sticker sheet, 1 aquarium and detailed instructions. Please refer to front panet for additional warnings.

  • Smithsonian Magic Rocks Kit - Space

User questions & answers

Question: I spilled the water/chemical on my hard wood floors. Any cleaning ideas? I’ve mopped the area several times but it is not cleaning
Answer: I would start by notifying the vendor from which it was purchased. If it was not "Amazon" direct, meaning sold on Amazon but specifically stated as being sold and warranteed by a third party supplier, then follow the steps indicated on Amazon. I would start by filing a return for reokacement request. Save everything you still have, even the dust/rubble of the substrate. Take a few cell pics: one including everything you have to return, one specifically of the "half Dino skeleton" and then perhaps the box front and back. Always follow Amazon's protocol for communicating with the seller as this provides a record of the claim, request and evidence supporting the reason for the return. It shouldn't be much of an issue other than the inconvenience. But no one is perfect; not even retail sellers. Good luck.
Question: I purchased the star galaxy for my granddaughter, nice but only 3 dics.. that's it.. not worth the money... can i buy more dics. Please
Answer: Nothing is impossible. But it's definitely one of those things you want to share with someone older. Your chisseling the crystals out of a hunk of hardened clay. And would a 2 year old remember finding the wonderful surprises inside the clay? Not sure about that. Good luck
Question: My daughter lost the instructions for Smithsonian magic rocks. Any suggestions of where to find new ones
Answer: I teach middle school children with multiple handicaps. They all enjoyed this project. Students who could, used the tools independently and did quite well finding the bones. Others needed physical guidance. This is a GREAT activity!
Question: Can you drive after using these
Answer: The goggles worked well for my purposes-the "rock" you chip is not very hard-just gives kids the experience.

NSI Smithsonian Giant Volcano Kit

Smithsonian

Based on 216 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Includes 1 Volcano Base, 1 Volcano Structure, 1 Eruption Tube, 6 Double Stick Tapes, 5 Color Paints, 1 Color Glow Paint, 2 Rolls Plaster Strips, 1 foam Tape, 1 Sponge, and Color Poster with Instructions. Paint Net Content: 5 x 0.19 fl oz ( 5.5 ml). Glow Paint Content: 0.202 fl oz ( 6ml). Vinegar and Baking Powder needed to erupt Volcano ( Not Included)

From the Manufacturer

Build and erupt a "volcano" with our new dual mold system. Make the most realistic volcano ever. Eruption tablets create accurate volcanic simulations. A world of adventure and science is great. Detailed instructions are included.

  • Build and Erupt a 14" ( 35 cm) Volcano
  • "Lava" Glows in the Dark
  • Study the difference between 6 types of Volcanoes
  • S.T.E.M- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math
  • Age 8 and Up

User questions & answers

Question: Does this volcano erupt or just have a lava flow
Answer: How can i turn it to stay on longer?
Question: Can someone tell me how much vinegar and baking soda is needed. I am giving it as a gift and would like to include the vinegar and baking soda
Answer: well it has three disks with like 12 images on each which is nice but focusing them on the wall is tricky. In the end I got a cheap projector for my laptop.
Question: how long does it take to complete this project? Can it be done over several days (off and on
Answer: If I'm not mistaken, it does all 8. Plus it does the black hole, milky way, the moon, astronaut, satellite, space station, etc.
Question: How much plastic is in the kit
Answer: I gave it to a 5 year old who love dinosaurs. He excavated with his father and loved it. 7 might be a bit too sophisticated.

Smithsonian Space Perfect Cast Museum Cast, Paint, Display and Learn Craft Kit

Based on 23 reviews Check latest price
  • Smithsonian Perfect Cast Museum Craft Kits combine creativity, discovery, and learning in one exciting artistic journey
  • First, mix the Perfect Cast Casting Material in the 'mix and pour' bag and pour it into the molds
  • While it sets enjoy the fun, games and learning in the included activity booklet
  • Unmold your creations, paint them and set them onto the display background - now it's ready to show off on the easel
  • Make a Space Shuttle, Command Module and Saturn V with this hands-on toy that truly engages a child; proudly made in the USA! for ages 6 years and older

Product features

Each kit includes everything needed to create an educational masterpiece:
Another fine product from the Skullduggery family of brands

Smithsonian Museum Craft and Mold & Paint Kits, Smithsonian Discovery Puzzles and Smithsonian Motorized 3D Puzzles bring fun and learning together by utilizing vibrant imagery and unique and relevant subject matter in a hands-on product that truly engages a child.

Just the sort of quality educational product you have come to expect from the Smithsonian Institution and Skullduggery - and they are proudly made in the USA!

Smithsonian Electronic Crystal Growing

Based on 155 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Included 2 Bags of Chemical, 3 Bottles of Coloring Dye, 1 LED Light Base, 1 Clear Blister Tray, 1 Pair of Goggles, 1 Large Mixing Stick, 1 Small Mixing Stick, 1 Bag of Granite Stones, 1 Magnifying Glass, and Color Poster with instructions

From the Manufacturer

Grow your own amazing large crystals, crystal clusters and crystal geodes. Grow "golden citrine", "emerald" green and "aquamarine" blue. Cool LED base with detailed instructions included.

  • Electronic Base Makes your crystals change colors
  • Grow 10 Amazing Crystals
  • Learn about Crystalline Habitats and Crystal Structures
  • Includes 35" x 23" 9 89 cm x 57 cm) Colored Poster
  • S.T.E.M- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math

User questions & answers

Question: So is the rock supposed to be completely submerged in the solution, or should the top of the rock be above the surface
Answer: There is no liquid in this set. There is a chemical powder for the crystal growing project. We doubt there is anything that would be flagged, but suggest checking with your airline.
Question: Hi
Answer: No batteries are required. Everything you need is in the box. Think art class meets science class.
Question: Is the dye food coloring
Answer: The set is age graded 10+ but I think it is fine for a child as young as 7 or 8 if an adult is around to assist. On the other side, the experiments are interesting and detailed enough to entertain a child as old as 10 or 11.
Question: Instructions didn't mention saving crystalline stuff to "Seed" it - will our crystals still grow? It's been 18 hours and nothing
Answer: I’m not sure, you could contact the seller or check the actual website or do a google search for just those. I wish I could help you more.

SmithsonianNSI 150x/450x/900x Microscope Kit

Smithsonian

Based on 400 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Microscope

  • Plastic, Metal, Glass
  • Imported
  • View microscopic specimens at up to 900x actual size
  • Includes prepared and blank slides and laboratory accessories
  • Built in light for direct illumination

User questions & answers

Question: How tall is this microscope
Answer: We found a link that may be what your looking for, http://www.mindware.orientaltrading.com/magic-rocks-refill-a2-68048.fltr . Magic rocks refills. Good luck.
Question: I want to look at a 3d item - a pearl. Will this handle it
Answer: The best thing to do would be to buy a new kit. Alternatively you can find on popular video sharing sites unboxing videos with verbal and visual instructions for this kit.
Question: How does the light turn on
Answer: Since they were for my granddaughter, she isn't old enough
Question: What are the prepared slides of
Answer: the instructions are on the giant poster that came with it

Smithsonian Science Activities Magna Gyroscope Blue

Based on 75 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Included 1 Magna Gyroscope, 1 Base, 10 Weights, 2 Rubber Stoppers, and Color Poster with Instructions

  • Learn About the Properties of Magnetism
  • Perfrom Magnetic Experiments
  • Spin, Lift, and Levitate
  • Includes 23" x 17" ( 58 cm x 43 cm) Color Poster

User questions & answers

Question: What is the length of time a successful spin will last
Answer: from the directions: THE LIQUID CHEMICAL (SODIUM SILICATE), BEFORE IT IS DILUTED WITH WATER, CAN BE HARMFUL. ONCE IT IS MIXED WITH WARM WATER, IT WILL STAIN CLOTHES, FURNITURE OR ANYTHING IT COMES IN CONTACT WITH. WATER AND MILD SOAP IS THE ONLY NEUTRALIZER YOU CAN USE. IT TAKES ONLY TEN (10) SECONDS TO RUIN A VARNISHED, WOOD STAINED, OR ANY OTHER TYPE OF FURNITURE SURFACE.

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