Yeah, I didn't realize how expensive Mindstorms is! That's certainly a no for us for now. Technics looks like it could be fun, though. Can someone explain a bit more about Snap Circuits? Do you make recognizable "things" or is it more exploratory of effects?

He has this and REALLY likes it. I wonder if I should get some more of this stuff. http://www.amazon.com/Learning-Resources-Gears-Oogly-Googly/dp/B00000IVN7