In a world where science and storytelling often live in separate classrooms, the Animatronic Songbird Mini aims to unite both—and it’s doing so in the most whimsical, innovative way possible. Now live on Kickstarter through July 27, 2025, this build-it-yourself animatronics kit is already making waves in the STEAM education community.
Developed by Garner Holt Education Through Imagination, the educational division of the legendary Garner Holt Productions, the Songbird Mini brings professional-level animatronic design directly into homes, classrooms, and makerspaces—with no extra tools, 3D printers, or prior tech experience required.
Animatronics Meets Accessibility
At its core, the Animatronic Songbird Mini is more than a model. It’s a compact, hands-on introduction to the real-world principles of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math (STEAM). The kit teaches essential concepts like servo motion, mechanical linkages, and programmable sequencing, all through a fun and artistic lens.
And while it looks like a charming little bird, this isn’t a toy—it’s a serious learning tool. Designed to be equally engaging for beginners and seasoned makers alike, the kit is ideal for students, educators, hobbyists, homeschool families, and curious creators of all ages.
And while it looks like a charming little bird, this isn’t a toy—it’s a serious learning tool.
A Legacy of Storytelling and Innovation
What sets the Songbird Mini apart is its pedigree. Garner Holt Productions has long been a name synonymous with theme park magic, crafting animatronic characters for icons like Disney, Universal, and beyond. Now, with the launch of this kit, they’re bringing their behind-the-scenes knowledge and engineering excellence to the world of education.
Founder Garner Holt has spent a career transforming imagination into reality. This project continues that mission—putting the power of innovation directly into the hands of the next generation of creators.
A Campaign with Purpose
More than just a product launch, the Kickstarter campaign supporting the Animatronic Songbird Mini is designed to make learning accessible. Funds raised during the campaign will be used to:
- Lower production costs, making kits more affordable for schools and families
- Refine product design to enhance ease of use and educational value
- Fuel future development of educational technology, bringing even more animatronic kits to life
Supporters will also receive a variety of rewards based on their pledge level, including:
- Exclusive behind-the-scenes updates from the Garner Holt Productions factory
- Access to the Animatronics and Robotics Explorers Club
- Discounted classroom and homeschool bundles
- Special early-backer surprises
- And, through the Heroic Explorer Tier, the opportunity to help provide kits directly to under-resourced students and learning communities
Every pledge is a vote for hands-on, imaginative, and equitable education.
Why It Matters Now
In a time when hands-on learning, creativity, and technological literacy are more important than ever, the Animatronic Songbird Mini delivers on all fronts. It teaches problem-solving, mechanical engineering, and artistic design—while capturing the joy of watching something you built come to life.
More importantly, it creates opportunities. For students to understand complex systems. For teachers to engage their classrooms in new ways. And for all of us to rethink what it means to learn through play and innovation.
How to Get Involved
The Kickstarter campaign runs from June 25 to July 27, 2025, and is your chance to be part of something truly meaningful—and magical.
Whether you’re backing a kit for yourself, your classroom, or a student in need, you’re helping build a more creative, hands-on future for STEAM education.
As Garner Holt himself might say, it’s time to make the magic move.
Berry Place 28
Vlogger, Podcast Host, Ice Cream Aficionado
A life long thrill seeker, Berry Place 28 has always been captivated by entertainment and theme parks. BP28 was a former Cast Member for Disney, many years ago, who now enjoys vlogging at Disneyland and covering the history, rides and attractions that Walt Disney created. In addition, he enjoys covering Knott’s Berry Farm, SeaWorld, and other theme parks and local attractions. Berry Place 28 was named after the “Berry Place” market that Walter and Cordelia Knott opened in 1928 and after Mickey Mouse which was created in 1928.