See my reply to a sibling comment asking the same question. In addition to those comments, another option is the Lego WeDo construction set (9580) [1]. Not as

See my reply to a sibling comment asking the same question. In addition to those comments, another option is the Lego WeDo construction set (9580) [1]. Not as many technic parts, but it contains a couple of sensors (tilt/distance), and the USB hub for interfacing with a computer. You could also just buy a small technic set or two from the toy store (they are all clearly labeled "technic" on the box), but after buying a couple of these, you'll wish you had just bought a single large set for the value for parts. [1] https://www.amazon.com/Lego-Education-Wedo-Construction-9580/dp/B00NBHXW9U https://www.amazon.com/Lego-Education-Wedo-Construction-9580... NOTE: Same caveat that this set uses the power functions 1.0 plug design, and version 2.0 is upcoming and seems incompatible. Maybe they'll make adapters.