The holidays are approaching, and if you’re dreading the pile of plastic that will accumulate on your living room floor, you’re probably looking for some better gift options. This list includes books for kids who are curious about all things tech — from AI to AV and everything in between. And remember to support your local small businesses this holiday season! It’s still early enough to order a book directly from your local bookstore, or pay one a visit to find books similar to the titles below.

Note: AVIXA is not affiliated with any of the authors or publishers that made the list, and we don't receive compensation for any of the books featured below. These are just personal suggestions from a mom whose two-year-old can already turn on Netflix. 🤓

1. What is AI?: The curious kid's guide to artificial intelligence

Abebooks.com

We all know AI is talked about constantly these days, and your kids might have a lot of questions. This picture book does a great job at making the complex topic accessible and engaging. It tackles the fundamental questions surrounding AI — what it is, its significance, potential risks, and its likely impact on our future lives. Through Neal Layton's distinctive collage-style illustrations, the book traces AI's evolution from early computers to modern intelligent programs capable of tasks like speech recognition and personalized recommendations. This book is ideal for curious children aged 6 and up and for parents eager to help their kids understand a popular topic.

2. Bots! Robotics Engineering: with Hands-On Makerspace Activities

Nomadpress.net

Boop beep! This engaging robotics book introduces young readers to the world of robotics by examining their evolution, design, and impact on society. It delves into the history and innovators of robotics, teaching young readers about pivotal figures and groundbreaking developments in the field. The book is packed with interactive activities that encourage kids to build, code, and experiment with their creations while exploring essential STEM concepts. Robot enthusiasts can get hands-on experience by crafting things like hydraulic arms and programmable cardboard robots, and it’s aimed around grades 4-6. 

3. Ultimate Book of the Future: Incredible, Ingenious, and Totally Real Tech that will Change Life as You Know It

Penguin Random House

Is your child curious about what life might look like in a hundred years? This thrilling book offers an exciting peek at futuristic technology, exploring innovations that blur the line between science fiction and reality. Readers are taken on an imaginative journey through emerging technologies shaping the cities, entertainment, and space travel of tomorrow. With a focus on high-tech gadgets and visionary ideas, the book profiles the brilliant minds bringing these concepts to life. Special sections ponder fascinating "what if" scenarios (perfect for your question-obsessed little one!), such as the plausibility of dinosaurs roaming Earth again or a robot in political power. Each chapter also examines technological innovations that were once predicted but have yet to materialize and highlights future career paths for your kids. This one skews a bit older and is ideal for middle grad

4. How Does it Work: TVs and Remote Controls

Kidbookdepository.com

Know any little ones who are always toying with the clicker? This educational book invites young readers to explore the world of home entertainment technology, with a focus on the science behind TVs and remotes. Through vibrant images and accessible text, children are introduced to how these essential devices operate. The book features a diagram to help illustrate the internal components of a TV and includes activities to encourage further exploration. Complete with a table of contents, glossary, and index, this title is part of the "How Does It Work?" series, which aims to deepen kids' understanding of everyday technology. The age level for this book is around 7-10 years.

5. 100 Things to Know About Numbers, Computers & Coding

HarperCollins

If you wish your own parents introduced you to coding at a young age, here’s your chance to get your kids interested early! This intriguing book presents young readers with 100 facts about technology and the brain. They’ll discover surprising details, such as the existence of a specific brain area dedicated to recognizing numbers, the origin of the term "computer bug," and the surprising fact that much of the internet infrastructure lies beneath the ocean. The book is enhanced with vibrant infographic illustrations that make learning engaging and visually stimulating. Additional resources, including a glossary, an index, and curated website links, provide opportunities for deeper exploration. This one is a great choice for inquisitive minds, ideally around age 8-11. 

6. Light Waves

Penguin Random House
This engaging picture book follows two children and a cow in a lab coat as they explore how light works through a mix of realistic and imaginative scenarios. If you're already intrigued, it also offers a kid-friendly introduction to the physics of light — including solar energy, the electromagnetic spectrum, photon particles, light scattering, and the principles of reflection and refraction. David A. Adler uses simple language and relatable examples to explain how light travels and changes direction, and it even includes easy, hands-on experiments using common household items. Light Waves has been recognized as a finalist for the AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books in the Children's category, so you can be sure it's a hit. This book is perfect for budding scientists ages 6-9.

7. Sound, Pitch, Volume, Music, and Noise

Cream & Amber
This book is currently only available for preorder, but it’s perfect for readers aged 8 to 11 who are curious about the world of sound. Through hands-on activities, kids can learn about the science of sound waves, the functioning of the human ear, and the importance of sound in communication. The book covers a range of topics — from the everyday sounds of nature and urban life to more complex concepts like how scientists use sound for ocean mapping and studying climate change. Featuring engaging illustrations, insightful sidebars, and links to additional online resources and videos, it connects scientific principles to real-world experiences. The book supports learning with essential questions, a glossary, media recommendations, a bibliography, and an index, all aligned with Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards.

Any other books deserve a spot on the list? Drop them in the comments below!

Main photo credit: Getty/ljubaphoto