LEGO is Perfect for National STEM Day (November 8)

National STEM Day is just around the corner, and while there are tons of ways to get your kids interested in STEM programs and projects, there are a few toy companies who know exactly how to ignite that desire to learn and be creative. Atop of this list, in my opinion, is The LEGO Group, a company who has been inspiring kids for generations with their interlocking brick systems. Today, The LEGO Group has so many great options for kids interested in STEM, but the one system that has us the most excited are the LEGO electric trains.

LEGO Trains have been around for a very long time. One of the first electric LEGO trains I ever owned was the 1996 Cargo Railway Train. This 9V train was phenomenal, and opened my eyes to what LEGO could be. This was definitely a premium LEGO experience back in the day, and to get it as a family gift one Christmas was a dream come true. Unfortunately, I’m not quite sure what ever happened to this train – I assume at this point one of my siblings has it in their LEGO collection. But this set in particular began a fascination with trains that I probably wouldn’t have otherwise had.

Since the release of this train in 1996, LEGO has continued to innovate and improve their train and track designs, updating the electrical components, track types, and more. Young, aspiring LEGO Trains conductors now have options and elements that I only could have dreamed of in 1996. There are a few LEGO train options available now on the LEGO website, but the newest and most exciting might be the PoweredUP Freight Train, which boasts a ton of track, a great train, and a few extras to get you going. Despite not having a train, I’ve somehow been able to accumulate a ton of LEGO track over the years when purchasing large lots of bricks from Facebook Marketplace, but now might be the best time to get invested with STEM Day just around the corner.

My kids love STEM – they particiapte in workshops throughout the year, fun builds-in-boxes like the one you can get from Mark Rober and Crunch Labs, and of course, LEGO. Perhaps this is the year we pick up the LEGO PoweredUP Freight Train and get to work building a network of tracks around our basement floor!

Here are just a few features of this set, available now on the LEGO website for 249.99!

·       Age: 7+

·       The model measures: 3.5 in. (9 cm) high, 35.5 in. (90 cm) long and 2.5 in. (6 cm) wide

·       Pieces: 1,153

·       Price: $249.99 CAD

·       Key functions and features include:

• Featuring a remote-controlled locomotive with LEGO Powered Up technology, along with a flatcar, open wagon, double deck auto carrier and 33 track pieces for a complete train setup.
• Includes a reach stacker, 2 toy EVs, cargo elements and 6 minifigures to enhance play and inspire train-themed adventures.
• Operate the locomotive using the included remote control or a smart device equipped with the LEGO Powered Up app for an interactive experience.