13 best robots for kids

Parents often buy cool robots for their children , hoping that they will awaken their interest to science and technology. Sometimes it turns out that these robots - no more than a remote-controlled toys. But they have a huge potential for learning through the game.

On the market there are many toys that can be programmed. They show children the benefits of programming immediately started performing team. Earlier this training was mostly theoretical. There are many good robots, but not all of them fit all.


Name Age Price Notes KIBO 4 $ 229 - $ 399 < Do not pay attention to the simple design. He looks so that children are not afraid to experiment. Dot and Dash 5 $ 199 - $ 349 Compatible with LEGO, simple programming and wonderful design. Ozobot 8 $ 49.99 - $ 99.99 programmable robot, capable of fit in your pocket. The accuracy depends on the markers, it is better to use the tablet. Sphero 2.0 8 + $ 129 This ball does everything, including stunts. Managed by the application and the joystick. Children will love to equip its accessories to create unique. LEGO Mindstorms EV3 10 + $ 349 EV3 is really cool, but it is even better that he has the international community of experimenters, which is divided into interesting ideas. It is worth the money. VEX IQ Robotics Starter Set 8 + $ 299 Robust construction and easy open-source software. ANKI Drive 8 + $ 149 Designed to surprise, Anki can be used immediately after delivery. The robot is so clever that sometimes it seems that he thinks of you. MiP 8 + $ 99 Although the programming functions could be more, MiP win your heart! Ollie 8 + $ 99.99- $ 149.99 Ollie perfect for shy child . Still more applications will not prevent. RC DLX 8 + $ 129.95 Toy transformed into 20 other toys. A great way to learn the basics of design, but programming is not. JumperBot 8 + $ 49.95 A perfect robot for children who often break things. It does not even need batteries. Brushbot Kit 6 + $ 19.95 A perfect set for the scientific theme parties < MOSS Zombonitron 1600 8 + $ 149.95 Amazing design compounds capable of rotating 360 degrees. Version with programming more expensive at $ 330.
More details about these robots

Sphero 2.0 (age 8+; $ 129), and Ollie (age 8+ $ 99)





In addition, the robot Sphero 2.0 neubivaemy, he also is not afraid of water, and even swim! But the best thing that the robot is ready to use immediately after purchase - you need only a smartphone or tablet to control. While learning to control it need a lot of practice. Various applications allow you to simultaneously control Sphero and record it on video, check reflexes and even play golf with him. Company issued additional accessories and items for tricks.





Company Orbotix, create a robot program introduced SPRK programming Sphero and Ollie.



KIBO (ages 4-7, $ 229 - $ 399) and Ozobot (age 8+; $ 49.99)





Programming - as learning a new language: the earlier it is started, the easier it is to learn it in the future. For any child now it looks like a two-dimensional process, but we all know that for the smallest three-dimensional game better. Help comes robot KIBO , scanning marks on wooden cubes. Each of these represents an action (be shaken, turn right, sing and so on. D.). However, creating a sequence of notes.

Unlike other robots, KIBO looks. The developers made it so special, because the simple design does not take away children from experimentation, but rather creates interest.





Similarly, the robot Ozobot, which is smaller than a ping-pong table, teaches kids the basics of programming. It follows the lines and follow the instructions when the child draws a line between the black color.







LEGO Mindstorms EV3 ($ 349, age 10+), VEX IQ Robotics Construction Kit ($ 299, age 8 +)





EV3 embodies the stereotype of how a robot should look like - a device programmed to выполнение different tasks . Its modular design allows you to change the structure, and the "brain" helps him to think and not to wait for the team for each action. The difference is enormous: the task will indicate the programmed robot, for example, turn to the left, if the right sensor rests against the wall. While the radio-controlled mechanism requires manual human control.





In another system - VEX IQ Robotics Construction Kit - used open source software Modkit for VEX.




Dot and Dash ($ 259, age 5-12, pre-order on Amazon), MiP ($ 99, age 8 +)




Robots Dot and Dash does not look like a humanoid, but still these toys from Wonder Workshop seem really alive. For their good looks and blinking eyes hidden brains. On the iPad, you can download the software for programming Blockly.

Robots can be a kind of toys or pets. When they are left alone, they may be sad sigh. But the best that they can be programmed to perform different tasks.


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The same can be said about the robot MiP, ability to balance on two wheels. He speaks the language of the non-existent, however, children understand it. Robot helps them to not feel alone.




Set Remote Control Machines DLX ($ 129.95; age 8 +)



In fact, there is a shortage in modular radio-controlled toys. LEGO Education WeDo - a great example of a programmable device language Scratch. But if you need something simpler, take a look at a set of Remote Control Machines DLX by companies Thames and Kosmos. Large color book with instructions helps to study design and select 20 different ways to build.



This set - up version of the original Remote Control Machines, compatible with all details of range of toys Thames and Kosmos. Although programming is not supported, the children learned a lot about the mechanisms that they may have to be programmed in real life. MOSS Zombonitron 1600 and littleBits Premium Kit - similar sets. Sets MAKE: Spinbot Kit and Brushbots of Maker Shed represent the category of "do it yourself».



Productive game

Toys Ozobot, Dot and Dash is so unusual that children may not immediately understand them, but do not worry. Most importantly, they can be used immediately after it pulled out of the box. But first, you may have to insert the battery and download management application.

Do not forget to allocate the child a safe place to play. And remember: it is important that children are still interested and find solutions to problems on their own. Learning through play - one of the most important cognitive processes.



Source: geektimes.ru/company/robohunter/blog/252198/