Engino Mega Builds Challenger Space shuttle

£179.99

The importance of STEM subjects is certainly on the rise, as the world becomes increasingly dependent on the development of scientific and technological thinking. This is something that Engino are greatly aware of, as their products have helped children develop vital skills in science, engineering, and creativity for nearly twenty years.

As part of the special edition ‘Mega Build’ Range, Engino have released the new Challenger Space Shuttle. As far as the design goes, the space shuttle is a fantastic idea, as it replicates the specialised engineering and algorithmic thinking skills that are required for STEM. The kit is recommended for children aged 9 and above, however, I certainly learnt many new skills when giving the Space Shuttle a go!

 

The Mega Build Challenger Space Shuttle includes over 1000 parts, which can initially seem daunting, but are all necessary to build the mighty shuttle! Plus, Engino is there to help by providing an app, called KidCad, (great name) that provides 3D interactive instructions. I found this to be invaluable, as the instructions were really easy to follow and let you see your creative process in greater detail, since you can zoom in and out and visualise certain aspects. KidCad is available to download for free on PC, smartphone, and tablet, making it accessible for children and adults.

In terms of the actual construction, it was really fun and enjoyable to build, whilst requiring some concentration. The kit consists of 1135 parts that perfectly fit together to build intricate parts of the shuttle. Although this may seem fiddly, each small rod, bolt, and wheel is specially designed in a snap-fit motion so that it is fast and easy to build. As I went through the building proccess, it was great to see the model slowly come together.

Disguised behind an enjoyable construction project, is also includes vital skill development in following instructions, as well as focus and perseverance skills. These are significant in developing a child’s practical nature, particularly if they are interested in going into a STEM subject. Away from STEM, it can also help your child develop fine motor skills, as well as ideas for teamwork and collaboration, in which the Space Shuttle can become a project between friends.

Once assembled, it feels like such an achievement that it can be proudly displayed. However, on the chance you do want the mighty structure down, it comes with a handy extraction tool which makes it so much easier to take parts down and pull apart small pieces. Another fantastic feature is the fact that it all comes in a robust plastic box, allowing you to keep it all together. This is a heaven-send in stopping you lose any of the tiny parts, as you can keep the box sealed up tight and neatly tucked away when not being used.

Overall, the Engino Mega Build Space Shuttle is a fantastic project for young children to have hours of fun that they continuously come back to, whilst developing a wide range of important skills. Incorporating enjoyable and imaginative projects with education helps open up a new world of fun, as Engino are encouraging millions of future engineers. 

Pros:

- Utilises skills needed for STEM subjects.

- Develop skills in perseverance and teamwork.

- 3D interactive instructions via app.

- Includes extraction tool for disassembling.

- Packaged in a plastic box, keeping parts together.

- Keeps children entertained for hours!!