KiwiCo Kiwi Crate review

Kiwi Crate is KiwiCo's line for ages 6 to 9, and it works differently from every other pick here: each month a new project arrives with everything needed to build it. KiwiCo's examples include stunt cars that race through a hoop, a motorized spin art studio that shows the centrifugal effect, and a tabletop pinball machine. Each box includes instructions, ways to play and bonus challenges, and KiwiCo adds videos and activity ideas online. Shipping is free and members can switch or cancel anytime; member perks also include 10% off store orders. The learning value is in the building: children follow steps, then test and adjust what they made. KiwiCo showed prices in PLN for our location, so we have not quoted a USD price and the value score is cautious. Families with younger children can look at KiwiCo's other lines, and families who want one lasting toy rather than a monthly box should pick MAGNA-TILES.

Who it is for

6- to 9-year-olds who like to build things

Price

See vendor pricing (USD check pending).

US price check pending. See the vendor pricing page.

Key features

• One STEAM project each month, such as stunt cars, motorized spin art or desktop pinball
• Each crate includes the materials, instructions, ways to play and bonus challenges
• Videos and activity ideas extend each topic
• Free shipping, and members can switch or cancel anytime
• Member perks include 10% off every order and free shipping on any U.S. order

Strengths and weaknesses

• Strength: A new engineering build arrives every month
• Strength: Kids can often work on their own, which builds problem solving
• Strength: Sister lines cover other ages, such as Atlas Crate for geography and Tinker Crate for ages 9 to 12
• Weakness: Our check showed prices in PLN, so the USD price is pending
• Weakness: A subscription, so it keeps billing until you cancel
• Weakness: Finished builds take up shelf space month after month

Key facts

• Ages: 6 to 9
• Format: Monthly subscription
• Shipping: Free
• Cancel: Anytime
• Topics: Science and engineering

Where it ranks

KiwiCo Kiwi Crate is No. 6 in our Best Educational Toys verdict.