by Brendan Murphy, Editorial Assistant, MedPage Today December 16, 2021

The holiday season is in full swing. You may have already picked up the perfect gifts for the healthcare workers in your life. But if you have young children on your list, that likely means you're in the market for some toys. Luckily, there are plenty of fun and inventive options out there, especially if you work in healthcare and are looking for medical- or science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)-related toys to pique your kid's interest in the field. Not only are these toys great for playtime, but you might just inspire our future generations of healthcare professionals.

What kids don't love using their imagination and pretending? Most sets come equipped with various toy instruments, and some even have a doctor's coat and name tag, which will enrich any young mind.

These educational toy organs are a fantastic way to introduce children to anatomy. Many of them come as colorful organ-shaped pillows, and they're perfect for traveling.

Blood type tests, sugar metabolism tests, and bacteria kits are all widely available and are perfect for getting children interested in the sciences.

Another great way to introduce kids to anatomy, human body books for kids have playful illustrations with easy-to-read, fun text.

Instead of opting for a toy stethoscope that comes in play doctor sets, go for a real one. This will make kids feel like they're the real deal, and there are plenty of fun ways to use them!

Who doesn't love bobbleheads? If you're a physician, consider getting a custom bobblehead made of yourself in your scrubs or lab coat.

Junior microscopes can make for great fun with young kids. It allows them to explore things they've never seen before, while teaching them valuable skills in how to operate an important tool.

This is one of the classics. Although it may not be entirely realistic, it broadly exposes children to the medical profession and can refine their motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

These often come with anatomically-correct removable parts. Swap out the action figures for one of these!

Many kids already love toy cars, so a toy ambulance is a no-brainer. Get them excited about emergency medicine and show them the importance of first responders!

Do you have any healthcare-centric gifts you like to give? Let us know in the comments!

Brendan Murphy is an Editorial Assistant for MedPage Today. He is based in Buffalo, NY.

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