Octacog

By Cog Toy Company, LLC
Price $39.99
Age 7+

This STEM construction toy gives kids a fun and effective way to explore the physics of balance in a game-based format. At the outset, players insert any number of balance rods into variously-angled holes in the Octacog core and add weights to them (the set's inspiration cards offer design suggestions) to create a balanced design. The resultant structure is perched upon the set's balance pedestal with the sole point of contact being a small plastic tip resting in a shallow divot. Regardless of how well-balanced the setup, it's vulnerability to outside forces will be obvious, and here's where the fun and learning really kick in. The goal is to either add a new weighted piece or to move an existing one a notch closer to the core without the Octacog structure falling. The process of assessing which choice would serve best, making it, and then observing the outcome proves highly instructive. An Octacog Expansion Pack significantly adds to the exciting design possibilities. Whether playing solo, with others, or executing one's own designs, Octacog proves to be a fantastic way to enjoyably investigate physics while sharpening critical thinking skills through play.