CUE ROBOT

Wonder Workshop

Codable robots are definitely a thing these days, but Cue still stands out from the crowd. You can program this little guy to do just about anything, using block programming, JavaScript, Wonder Workshop’s proprietary machine-based language, or any combination. But Cue does more than just follow you around, bump fists and imitate you. Cue is also a real wiseguy, with a vocabulary of more than 100,000 words. And if you happen to have one of those kids who prefers texting to speaking, Cue texts as well. For ages 10 and older. Under $200 for Cue; under $40 for Sketch Kit. makewonder.com

STEM STARTER KIT

My First Lab

So many STEM toys focus on technology and engineering, but let’s not forget about the marvels of the natural world. This simple kit easily converts just about any phone or tablet into a powerful micro­scope that will let you see things in new ways. You’ll be able to find plenty of things to look at around your house — the dirt lurking between the fibers of your carpets or the tiny Abraham Lincoln in the Lincoln Memorial on the back of a penny — but to get you started, this kit comes with 15 different 3D specimens on slides, including a feather, sugar, salt, hair and even an insect leg. For ages 6 and older. $20. myfirstlab.com

NIKKO TURBO PANTHER 60TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION RC CAR

Toy State

If you love remote- controlled cars (and who doesn’t?), you’ll love Turbo Panther. It’s a 1:14 completely proportional scale model that is designed for speed, crazy turns, spins and more. This baby is very well made and will stand up to those inevitable (or deliberate) crashes. And it’s stable, so there’ll be a minimum of flipovers. The Panther is designed to zip through any terrain, and because it’s waterproof, you can even run your Panther through the occasional puddle. For ages 6 and older. Prices vary. toystate.com/ our-toys/nikko