Thames & Kosmos Candy Claw Machine

Grades K and up.

Build a working model of the classic claw machine! This sweet STEM challenge will help students develop their motor skills and teach them about common engineering components.

Learn how the gears, levers, belt, screws, hydraulics, linkages, cranks, and claws all work together to pick up, move, and drop prizes. Experiment with different gear ratios to speed up or power up your claw. Choose from three different claw shapes (end effectors) and find the one that works best to pick up a particular candy or prize. A spring-loaded trap door shoots the collected candy out.

Students will have everything they need to get started, including lollipops (Saf-T-Pops) and decoys (fake candy boxes). When the included candy is gone, you can refill the machine with your own small treats or toys.

This kit includes 113 pieces and a 16-page guide. No batteries or electricity required.