Building & Playing with the Gumball Machine Maker

I received product in exchange for sharing my honest opinion.

My kids have always loved to build things with whatever they got their hands on from blocks to forts to science experiments. They also, like most kids, enjoy sweets like candy. Who would have ever thought you could combine those two things? Well Thames & Kosmos has come out with a fun kit that is sure to put a smile on any child’s face – the Gumball Machine Maker.

Build your own gumball machines and learn physics lessons in the process. A turn of a handle dispenses one gumball at a time out of the clear storage globe and down the track. As the gumballs roll down the track, they perform cool stunts and tricks. Stunts include a pulley lift, pendulum, funnel, trampoline, variable-slope ramp, pinball launcher, and domino slide. Each segment of the track teaches a different lesson in mechanical physics, allowing users to explore topics including simple machines, force, motion, momentum, gravity, Newton’s laws, energy transfer, and more. Trial-and-error experiments teach in a fun, hands-on way. AGES 6+ MSRP: $39.95.

My 11-year-old was so excited to see this kit and can’t wait to get started with it. We are saving it for a rainy day to build but so far just looking at it, it looks like fun from start to finish. I love toys that have you build them and then you get to enjoy them afterward for days and days! She doesn’t realize either that it is educational and teaches physics. Kids can learn how and why things move the way they do. Something about seeing something from pieces to creation too I think gives kids a sense of accomplishment and pride. It even comes with a small bag of gumballs to get started!

For more than 20 years, Thames & Kosmos has been creating toys for budding engineers and explorers. They have over 250 unique products that are all engaging and educational. Kids are curious by nature and I have always believed the best way to learn is through hands-on activities.

BUY IT: Check out the Gumball Machine Maker on Amazon or wherever toys are sold.