5 LEGO Alternatives That Add STEM, Movement, and Remote Control Fun

If your child loves building blocks, you've probably already experienced the magic of LEGO, the iconic brand that has defined creative play for decades. But as your young builder grows, you might start looking for more: more interactivity, more movement, more learning, and maybe even something a little more budget-friendly. That’s where smart LEGO alternatives come into play. These options offer the same excitement of building, while adding features like remote control, coding elements, or STEM-based challenges that keep kids engaged and learning through play.

Why Consider Alternatives to LEGO?

Let’s be clear: LEGO is fantastic. It helps with fine motor skills, creativity, and even early engineering concepts. But as kids get older, some crave toys that offer:

• More motion: Robots that move, cars that drive, and creations that react to commands.

• More STEM learning: Exposure to coding, solar energy, gears, and electronics.

• More screen-free interaction: Toys that offer real-world engagement without tablets.

• More value: Great gifts that don't break the bank.

That’s where brands like Sillbird come in, blending construction with education, robotics, and remote control fun. These toys are thoughtfully designed to keep older kids engaged, challenged, and learning through hands-on play.

1.  STEM 12-in-1 Solar Robot Kit

• Best for: Kids interested in green energy and mechanical movement
• Age recommendation: 8-12
• STEM Focus: Renewable energy, mechanical engineering, hands-on problem solving
• Number of parts: 58 to 98 parts
• Click here to learn more about this product

This kit is one of the most popular toys in 2025 for a reason. With 12 different models to build (including animals, vehicles, and robots), it provides weeks of fun. But it also introduces kids to real solar-powered movement, with no batteries required.

Kids will learn how sunlight can power gears, motors, and motion—a great intro to renewable energy. It also keeps them away from screens while giving them a real sense of achievement as they see their creations move under the sun.

2. ecoEbot STEM Toy

• Best for: Kids who want to build and drive their robots
• Age recommendation: 8 and up
• STEM Focus: Remote control mechanics, problem solving, assembly logic
• Number of parts: 418 to 281 parts
• Click here to learn more about this product

This toy is a buildable 5-in-1 robot with a motorized remote control system that lets kids drive it across the room, over books, and around obstacles.

It offers a fantastic mix of hands-on building and real interactive play. Unlike traditional brick sets, this one actually moves on command, creating a dynamic experience that keeps kids fully engaged.

Parents appreciate that it helps build focus and persistence. Assembling a remote control robot means kids need to follow instructions carefully and solve small problems along the way—skills that are just as valuable as the fun.

3. 3-in-1 Transforming Building Kit: SkyDino

SkyDino isn’t just a robot; it also transforms into a jet and a mechanical dinosaur. This 3-in-1 kit lets kids build in three unique modes, sparking creativity while developing spatial awareness and engineering skills.

With over 1,100 pieces, it's a great choice for kids who are ready for a more advanced building challenge. It also looks fantastic on display, making it perfect for collectors or for kids who love to showcase their creations.

4. Remote Control Robot Dinosaur Toy