When people ask how I ended up starting Enchanted Years, they're often surprised to learn that before I became involved in the world of toys, I was a scientist.
I'm Laura and I founded Enchanted Years in 2010. Before that, I completed a PhD in Physiology at Monash University in 1999, followed by postdoctoral research at the Weill Cornell Medical Centre in New York City and later at the Lawson Health Research Institute in London, Ontario.
Science has always been part of who I am. Although my career took a different path, my love of curiosity, discovery and learning never changed. It's one of the reasons I'm so passionate about STEM toys. They're not about pushing children towards a particular career - they're about helping children become curious and confident thinkers.
Children's interests start earlier than you might think
It's easy to assume children develop an interest in science when they choose subjects at school. In reality, those interests begin much earlier.
Industry research suggests that girls are less likely than boys to be encouraged to engage with STEM-related toys and activities, reflecting persistent gender stereotypes around science and engineering (LEGO Group & Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media, 2021) BUT every child deserves the chance to see themselves as someone who can explore science, technology and engineering.
Professor Dame Athene Donald has written extensively about how children's attitudes towards science are shaped in the early years (Donald, 2023). Long before high school, children are already forming beliefs about what they enjoy, what they are good at and what feels "like me," with these perceptions beginning to shape their interests from around six years of age (Bian et al., 2017).
The opportunities children have to explore, build, experiment and ask questions all help shape those beliefs.
That's why play matters.
What is STEM?
STEM stands for:
· Science – exploring the natural world.
· Technology – using tools to solve problems.
· Engineering – designing, building and improving.
· Mathematics – recognising patterns, measuring and logical thinking.
These aren't just school subjects. They're skills children use every day solve a puzzle, build a road for their toy cars, test an idea or figure out why something works.
What are STEM toys?
STEM toys encourage children to think, create and problem-solve.
The best STEM toys don't feel like lessons. Instead, they spark questions like:
· What happens if I try this?
· Can I build it another way?
· Why did that happen?
How to choose a STEM toy
For engineering and design: Construction toys like GraviTrax and Air Toobz encourage children to build, test and redesign. Whether they're creating the fastest marble run or experimenting with different air-powered pathways, children learn that there's often more than one solution - and that trial and error is part of the fun.
For maths and logical thinking: Don't overlook a great puzzle. Jigsaw puzzles, logic puzzles and brain teasers help children develop spatial awareness, pattern recognition, sequencing and perseverance - all important mathematical skills.
For science and discovery: I'm a big fan of the Einstein Science Kits from Purple Cow because they use everyday household items. Children aren't just following instructions - they're exploring scientific concepts with things they already know, making science feel accessible and relevant.
For technology and coding: Technology doesn't have to mean screens. Toys that introduce sequencing, coding concepts and cause-and-effect thinking help children develop computational thinking in playful, age-appropriate ways. At Enchanted Years, our Kidz Robotix range makes coding tangible through hands-on play, allowing children to build, experiment and problem-solve while learning the foundations of robotics, engineering and computer science - without needing to spend hours in front of a screen.
Whatever you choose, look for toys that are open-ended, match your child's interests and can grow with them over time. The best STEM toys don't just entertain for an afternoon - they inspire children to keep asking, "What if...?"
How to play with STEM toys
Parents don't need to know all the answers.
One of the best ways to support STEM learning is through guided play. Join your child, explore together and ask open-ended questions such as:
· What do you think will happen?
· Why do you think that worked?
· What could you try differently?
These questions encourage children to think like scientists rather than simply following instructions.
As children gain confidence, you can gradually step back and let them take the lead. This transition from guided play to independent play helps children build confidence, resilience and problem-solving skills.
More than preparing future scientists
At Enchanted Years, we don't believe STEM toys are only for children who might one day become scientists or engineers.
They're for every child.
Whether your child grows up to be an artist, teacher, chef, engineer or something none of us can imagine yet, the curiosity, creativity and resilience developed through STEM play will benefit them for life.
After all, STEM isn't really about memorising facts.
It's about asking questions, trying new ideas and discovering the joy of learning.
Here's to raising curious, confident learners through play.
Laura & The Enchanted Years Team