Understanding the MindWorks Sustainability Ratings

At MindWorks, we believe hands-on learning should be exciting, practical — and built to last. That’s why every kit we create is highly sustainable, thoughtfully designed with a smart blend of non-consumable products and purposeful consumable materials.

• The non-consumables — like books, building sets, games, or manipulatives — are meant to be used again and again. They form the heart of each kit and provide lasting value.
• The consumables — paper goods, art supplies, and other single-use components — are selected just as carefully. We prioritize consumable materials that are easy to replace, affordable, and familiar to most educators.

To help you plan ahead, we’ve developed a simple Sustainability Rating System. Each kit is labeled with 1, 2, or 3 stars, based on the type and quantity of consumables included — all within the context of an already reusable-rich experience.

✨ Be sure to check out our recommended collection of highly sustainable enrichment kits.

⭐⭐⭐ 3-Star Sustainability

Our most sustainable kits: Fewest consumables, most easily replaced from local stores

These kits rely heavily on non-consumable materials and include only a small number of consumable items that are easy to find and inexpensive to replace. Think: construction paper, paint, chenille stems, or other classroom basics.

Perfect for programs that plan to reuse materials frequently.

⭐⭐ 2-Star Sustainability

Moderate number of consumables: Typically available at local stores

These kits include more consumables than our 3-star kits, but everything inside is easily replaceable — available at stores like Dollar Tree, Walmart, craft retailers, or on Amazon. Think: basic art supplies, construction paper, cotton balls, string, chipboard, craft paper, etc.

Great for repeat use when you want quick, low-effort restocking.

⭐ 1-Star Sustainability

Higher consumables: Some specialty items may need to be replaced online

These kits contain more consumables overall, and some of those materials may be more specialized — such as specialty art papers or niche craft supplies. While still designed for ease of use, these materials may not be readily available at your average big-box store but are typically available on Amazon.

A great option when you're looking for high-impact activities and don’t mind using specialty materials — which can also be refreshed through the MindWorks rebuy option.

🔄 All Kits Include a High Level of Reusables

No matter the star rating, every MindWorks kit contains a strong foundation of non-consumable materials — books, building sets, manipulatives, games, and tools that are used again and again. The sustainability rating only reflects the consumable portion of the kit — not the overall value or completeness of the experience.

Why We Rank This Way

• To help you plan for reuse
  

• To support budget-friendly, scalable programming
  

• To give you full transparency

• To promote sustainability without sacrificing creativity

While some exceptions may apply, these guidelines are designed to help you choose the kits that best align with your program’s sustainability priorities.