Unleash your child's inner secret agent with our top 10 best spy kits for kids! In 2020, we reviewed a range of exciting options, from gadget-packed adventures to educational forensic science sets. Whether your child dreams of nighttime missions, cracking codes, or solving mysteries, this comprehensive guide has something for every aspiring detective. We've explored a variety of kits, each offering unique features and learning opportunities, ensuring hours of imaginative play and valuable skill development.From sophisticated lie detectors and fingerprint analysis kits to build-your-own combination locks and high-tech surveillance equipment, we've carefully examined the pros and cons of each product. This detailed review considers factors like durability, ease of use, educational value, and overall entertainment. Discover the perfect spy kit to ignite your child's curiosity and foster a love for problem-solving, critical thinking, and creative fun. Get ready to embark on thrilling missions and unlock a world of espionage!
Pros And Cons
- Teaches how to take fingerprints
- Allows making a 3D cast of a digit
- Offers seven experiments on chemical mixtures and compounds
- Includes several lab tools and talcum powder with a brush
- Supplies don't last very long
- Includes 11 liar detection cards
- Includes a moisture sensor
- Includes a hidden storage compartment
- Portable design
- Lights flash depending on answers
- Includes goggles with flashlights for playing in the dark
- Includes a scope for pinpointing targets
- Includes a motion alarm
- Includes a voice changer and recorder
- Includes an invisible ink pen
- Lights are not very bright
- Includes many small toys for pretend missions
- Includes a motion detector
- Includes a listening device
- Includes an adjustable belt
- Features a laser trap alarm
- Includes an ear-mounted flashlight
- Includes a pen that writes with invisible ink
Read more: Top 5 Motion-Activated Spy Toys
Spy X Night Ranger Set
The Spy X Night Ranger set is a fun option for nighttime adventures. It includes goggles with dual flashlights, perfect for playing in the dark. A scope helps little spies pinpoint their targets, and a motion alarm adds an extra layer of excitement and suspense. The set also contains a voice changer and recorder, plus an invisible ink pen for secret messages.
However, the flashlights are noted as not very bright, which might be a drawback for some users. While the features are engaging for kids, it may lack the intensity needed for true nighttime play.
4M Kid's Labs Fingerprint Kit
The 4M Kid's Labs Fingerprint Kit offers a more educational approach to spying. Kids learn basic forensic science techniques like fingerprint analysis using provided cards, a stamp pad, dusting powder, and a magnifying glass. This encourages problem-solving skills by identifying a culprit in a mock crime scenario.
The kit includes a convenient plastic carrying case. While affordable, the brush is reportedly not very robust. The value lies in the educational experience and the engaging detective work it promotes.
Klutz Ultimate Vaulting Code
The Klutz Ultimate Vaulting Code allows kids to build their own combination lock safe. This hands-on STEM activity teaches them about encoding and circuitry. It provides a fun way to store valuables while learning essential concepts.
This kit offers a unique blend of fun and education. The instructions are clear and come with additional activities. The ability to create something tangible, like a functioning safe, is a highlight.
Discovery Kids Lie Detector
The Discovery Kids Lie Detector is perfect for young detectives interested in truth detection. It includes cards designed to teach lie detection techniques and a moisture sensor to detect sweating, adding a playful layer of interrogation. The hidden compartment adds a nice touch for storing secrets.
The design is portable, making it convenient for use anywhere. The flashing lights depending on answers make the process dynamic. While fun, it lacks the scientific accuracy of professional lie detectors.
Mukikim Spy X Micro Gear Set
The Mukikim Spy X Micro Gear Set is packed with small gadgets for exciting pretend missions. It includes a motion detector, a listening device, an adjustable belt, a laser trap, and an alarm. The set also has an ear-mounted flashlight and a pen that writes in invisible ink.
The variety of gadgets makes this a complete spying kit for imaginative play. The inclusion of items like the ear mounted flashlight and the invisible ink pen adds to the immersive experience.
Purple Cow Young Detectives Kit
The Purple Cow Young Detectives Kit lets kids learn fingerprint analysis and 3D casting. It provides seven experiments focusing on chemical mixtures and compounds, equipping them with scientific investigation skills. The kit includes various lab tools and talcum powder.
Though the supplies might not last very long, the hands-on learning experience is valuable. The combination of forensic science and experimentation makes it educational and engaging.
Spy Gear Sigma Mission Secret Agent
The Spy Gear Sigma Mission Secret Agent kit is a pricier option but offers a substantial package. It includes functioning walkie-talkies, a voice changer with eight effects, a collapsible scope, ninja throwing stars, a motion sensor alarm, and a red light for night vision simulation.
The features are well-rounded, combining communication, disguise, and surveillance. The high quality of some of the components justifies the higher cost.
Scientific Explorer Crime Catchers Kit
The Scientific Explorer Crime Catchers kit blends sleuthing with science. It features two mysteries to solve through experiments, including fingerprint dusting and decoding secret messages. The kit includes suspect cards, baking soda, pH test strips, and an activity booklet.
This kit is excellent for kids who love both science and mystery. The inclusion of multiple experiments adds depth and educational value. The activity booklet provides guidance and extra information.
Spy School Sneaky Surveillance Kit
The Spy School Sneaky Surveillance kit features unique gadgets. It includes a listening device disguised as a yo-yo, a book with spy holes, a periscope, a build-it-yourself magnifying lens, rear view glasses, and a secret box.
The creative gadgets add a fun and unique element to the spying experience. The disguised listening device is particularly clever. The focus is on clever disguise and observation techniques.
Thames & Kosmos Master Detective Toolkit
The Thames & Kosmos Master Detective Toolkit is a comprehensive kit ideal for budding investigators. It comes with crime scene tape, fingerprint powder, vials, chalk, a mock mission, a full-color manual, and a UV flashlight.
This kit offers the most complete crime scene investigation setup. The inclusion of a UV flashlight is a stand-out feature, providing a more advanced investigative tool. The thoroughness of the kit makes it a top choice.
Conclusion
Each spy kit offers a unique set of features and experiences. The Spy Gear Sigma Mission set stands out for its high-quality components and features like functioning walkie-talkies and voice changer. The Thames & Kosmos Master Detective Toolkit provides a complete crime scene investigation experience. The best choice depends on your child’s interests – whether they prefer hands-on science experiments, gadget-based missions, or more educational tools.
Ultimately, the best spy kit is one that ignites a child’s imagination and fosters a love for learning, problem-solving, and creative play. Consider your child's age and preferences when making your selection. Remember to always supervise children during playtime with these kits.