# What is Tinker Crate?

> Tinker Crate is KiwiCos handson STEM subscription box designed for curious kids ages 912 Each monthly crate challenges young innovators to apply real scienc

Source: https://support.kiwico.com/en_us/what-is-tinker-crate-HkEw6qy7gl

Last updated: 2026-05-22T15:26:17.656Z

Tinker Crate is KiwiCo's hands-on STEM subscription box designed for curious kids ages 9–12. Each monthly crate challenges young innovators to apply real science concepts to exciting, multi-step engineering builds — from game mechanics to fluid dynamics.

Unlike simple craft kits, Tinker Crate combines core engineering principles with creative problem-solving, giving kids the tools and knowledge to build, experiment, and think like real engineers.

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## What's Inside Each Crate?

Every Tinker Crate arrives with everything your child needs to complete the project — no extra supplies required. Each crate includes:

*   **All required materials and components** for the featured build
*   **Step-by-step instruction booklet** with clear, illustrated guidance
*   **Bonus challenges** to push young engineers even further
*   **Deep dives** into the history and science behind each engineering concept
*   **Tinker Zine** — an engaging mini-magazine exploring related STEM topics

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## Topics & Project Examples

Tinker Crate covers a wide range of engineering disciplines, including:

*   **Game Engineering** — Learn the mechanics behind games and build your own
*   **Engineering with Fluids** — Explore hydraulics and pneumatics in action
*   **Structural Engineering** — Discover what makes buildings and bridges strong
*   **Electrical Engineering** — Build circuits and bring creations to life with light and motion
*   **Mechanical Engineering** — Understand gears, levers, pulleys, and more

Each project is thoughtfully designed to align with real-world STEM concepts and age-appropriate educational standards.

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## What Will Your Innovator Learn?

Tinker Crate helps kids ages 9–12 develop meaningful, lasting skills:

*   **Advanced engineering concepts** — Go beyond the basics with challenging, multi-step builds
*   **Critical thinking & problem-solving** — Tackle real design challenges and discover creative solutions
*   **STEM confidence** — Develop a growth mindset through hands-on experimentation
*   **Historical context** — Understand how engineering has shaped the modern world
*   **Extended challenge skills** — Take projects further with optional advanced activities included in every crate

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## Who Is Tinker Crate For?

Tinker Crate is a great fit for:

*   Kids ages **9–12** who love building, tinkering, and figuring out how things work
*   Young learners ready to dive deeper into science and engineering
*   Parents looking for screen-free, educational activities that are genuinely engaging
*   Gift-givers searching for something unique, enriching, and memorable

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## KiwiCo Labs Subscriber Benefits

As a **KiwiCo Labs: Tinker Crate** subscriber, you unlock exclusive perks with every active membership:

*   **Free shipping** on every crate delivered to your door (US deliveries only)
*   **10% off** sitewide at kiwico.com
*   **Early access** to new product launches before the general public

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## How to Subscribe

Getting started with Tinker Crate is easy:

1.  Visit [kiwico.com/tinker](https://www.kiwico.com/tinker) to explore the subscription options
2.  Choose your plan — monthly, 3-month, 6-month, or annual
3.  Your first crate ships shortly after your purchase is confirmed
4.  A brand-new crate arrives every month, ready to build!