Programmable robot kits for children are a great way to introduce them to STEAM. Today we bring you the best programmable robots and robotics kits for children age 6 to 9.
Table of Contents
- 1 Why invest in robot kits to learn robotics?
- 2 11 programmable robot and robotics kits you should consider
- 2.1 Dash, the robot for curious children
- 2.2 Edison, the programmable robotic car for everyone
- 2.3 Sphero Bolt, the new robotic ball with matrix LEDs
- 2.4 Lego WeDo 2.0, a Lego Education set perfect for home
- 2.5 Codey Rocky by Makeblock
- 2.6 Gizmos and Gadgets Kit 2nd Edition by LittleBits
- 2.7 Bit Coding Robot by Ozobot
- 2.8 mBot by Makeblock
- 2.9 Cozmo by Anki
- 2.10 SAM Labs Curious Cars Kit
- 2.11 Electric Motor Catalyst by Tinkering Labs
Why invest in robot kits to learn robotics?
- Between 6 and 9 years, children are in a great moment to begin playing with robotics because they already know how to read, follow instructions and they are developing spatial imagination.
- They are creative and can test their skills by programming all kinds of actions on robots. The only limit is their imagination!
- Robot kits are great STEAM toys for anyone, regardless of previous knowledge in robotics. All these kits start from zero to infinity.
11 programmable robot and robotics kits you should consider
Our list has robotics kits and programmable robots. The difference is that robots come out of the box ready to play and kits some assembly is going to be required.
Dash, the robot for curious children
You still do not know Dash? Well, do not let it escape because this programmable robot does everything. Children learn to program, create music, solve puzzles, challenges, and they have fun! It is an educational robot that also has various apps with games, challenges and block-based programming. Compatible with Swift Playgrounds by Apple. Age 5 to 12.
Edison, the programmable robotic car for everyone
Edison is a robotics kit with a multitude of features and for children to grow with it.
Looking at the photo you may not see anything special but give it a try! It detects and dodges obstacles, it includes a light sensor, it can moves with the sound of a clap, it traces lines following its path and communicates with other Edison robots. In addition it is very very resistant, supposedly it can withstand a vehicle running it over (but please, don’t!).
It can be programmed in different environments and levels according to the child’s age: from block-based to Python. It is compatible with Lego, even for use as a motor for other constructions. And all this for less than $60. Age: 4+.
Sphero Bolt, the new robotic ball with matrix LEDs
Sphero Bolt, is a totally renewed version of the SPRK + educational robotic ball. The change goes beyond the physical aspect since Sphero has updated some sensors and the LED matrix, which allows visual programming that is very attractive to children. In the dark, it’s incredible!
Programmable sensors include Infrared, Compass, Light Sensor, Gyroscope, Accelerometer, and Motor Encoders. It’s water-resistant. You can code Bolt in 3 ways: by drawing, using Scratch blocks, or writing JavaScript. And of course do take advantage of all the features of the educational application Sphero Edu. A very creative app-enabled robot that combines fun with art, programming and learning.
Lego WeDo 2.0, a Lego Education set perfect for home
For fans of Lego, we could not forget the set Lego WeDo 2.0. A robotics kit for children to start programming and assembling robots. Although it is geared towards the education sector, do not be scared. It is perfect for home as long as you’re a motivated parent. It’s Lego too, what more can we say?
We have it and we are delighted (and our son even more so!). The educational content in the app is quite impressive. Age: 7+
Alternatives: Building Blocks and Coding Kits
Codey Rocky by Makeblock
Codey Rocky is the new coding and smart robot from Makeblock. With Codey Rocky, elementary school children will discover robotics, AI & IoT and programming. It comes out of the box ready to play and coding (no assembly requiered).
Codey Rocky is integrated with over 10 programmable electronic modules including IR receiver/transmitter, LED display, light/voice sensors, speaker, gyroscope… You can make it dance, sing, follow lights, make faces via a block-based language. Codey Rocky is programmed with mBlock5, based on Scratch 3.0 and with the simple click button, you can switch to Python. Age: 6+
Gizmos and Gadgets Kit 2nd Edition by LittleBits
LittleBits are electronic building blocks, small magnetized pieces that snap together. With LittleBits, children learn the basics of electronics and it’s a good introduction for them into further robotic projects.
Perfect for kids that are interested in Science, Engineering, Maths and Robotics. Gizmos & Gadgets Kit, 2nd Edition is a toolbox that includes all materials, instructions and accessories for 16 inventions; children can create app-enabled games, pranks and crazy contraptions. More invention ideas on the Littebits blog. A great gift for children thinking in the next school science fair. Age: 8+.
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Bit Coding Robot by Ozobot
Bit by Ozobot is a pocket-sized, basic bot. No assembly required. Ready to roll and play with the 2 different code modes. With the start coding mode no screen is needed (children code with Colour Markers and stickers).
OzoBlockly is the advanced coding mode, block-based on a computer or tablet. Your children will learn basic coding and combine it with Art activities, the perfect STEAM toy. Age: 6+
mBot by Makeblock
If you want your children to learn robotics and start with Arduino, Makeblock mBot’s programmable robot is your robotics kit.
mBot is a robotic kit easy to assemble, program and then you can expand it with other servos and components. There are lots of video, forums and info in Internet about mBot. Age: 7+
Arduino car robots
Cozmo by Anki
Cozmo is a cute robot for all the family, for fun and learning. Your kids and Cozmo will grow together and your kids will be able to access more functionality as they learn to read and expand their logical skills. Do you want to play with Cozmo? He is designed so that even adults can have a good time, there is even an SDK for low level programming. Cozmo integrates a lot of games, many need the 3 cubes that come with the robot and you can play in 3 different modes: Explorer, SandBox and Constructor. Yes, there is a new version (Vector) but we still love Cozmo as the perfect educational robot for kids and adults to learn to code. Age: 8+
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SAM Labs Curious Cars Kit
SAM Curious Lab is a set to build and program your own cars and games. As the creator, Joachim Horn, says: “SAM provides the tools and technology for kids to explore and express their imaginations”. A great educational toy for the young inventor. It includes more than 20 projects.
Each SAM block has a specific skill. Buzzers, motors, sensors and so much more. They’re wirelessly activated using Bluetooth to move, light up or sound. And it’s Lego compatible. High quality materials and easy to use. Ages 7+.
Electric Motor Catalyst by Tinkering Labs
Electric Motors Catalyst is a hands-on robotic, mechanic and engineering kit to inspire young children to imagine and build their own inventions. We love it for not being all metal and plastic. It’s an open-ended play with real wood, motors and hardware. Age: 8+
All sets are incredible robot and robotic kits for girls and boys to inspire and ignite their imagination, create productive playtime and learning! If you need more gift ideas, just check our age range category from 6 to 9 years old.
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