Parents often dread their kids receiving more toys at Christmas, but presents can be educational, as well as fun. 

This means mums and dads who want to encourage their youngsters to enhance their science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) knowledge can certainly do so this Christmas. 

While STEM toys for little children can be as simple as remote-controlled robots and magnetic tiles, they are a little more complex for older kids. 

For instance, those interested in space and have high hopes to become an astronaut one day will love a Lego space rocket model. 

The NASA Apollo Saturn V 92176 comes with three removable rocket stages, while the NASA Space Shuttle Discovery has a mission control and a command module.

Alternatively, you could get them an advanced chemistry set, letting them enjoy conducting countless experiments in their own bedroom. 

You could invest in a digital microscope with LCD display to develop their interest in biology and being investigative, or why not improve their electronic skills with ‘build and code your own’ machines? 

Terrariums where they can grow plant life, construction kits, and anatomy models are also big hits, as are 3D lamps, drones, periodic table magnets and illuminated globes.

You could even get them posters of their favourite scientists from Einstein to Stephen Hawkings. 

Of course, following the release of the hit film Oppenheimer at the cinema earlier this year, many teens might find the blockbuster in their stockings on Christmas Day. 

Watching this together as a family is a great way to learn about the development of the atomic bomb, which will not only improve their scientific understanding but also their historical knowledge.

Giving these educational gifts at Christmas is a great way to keep young ones’ brains stimulated over the festive break, so they can head back to school ready to engage in their STEM classes once again.