In the Information Age, we live in a data driven world. Someone has to create and manage the systems that shuffle around all of that data. Programming and coding aren’t activities just for stuffy cubicles anymore. Coding has become cool, and gone mainstream. More importantly, coding is for kids.
*We’re an affiliate – we may earn a commission through qualifying purchases from the links on this page. As always, thanks!*
Toys can teach kids the logic and thought processes core to coding. Here are our top picks.
Top Pick: Makeblock mBot Ranger Robot Kit
The Makeblock Mbot Ranger is a fantastic robot that is customizable and versatile, perfect for both beginners and experienced users. The kit comes with everything needed to build and program the robot, along with easy-to-follow instructions and various programming options.
The Mbot Ranger has 3 different configurations (2 wheel, 3 wheel, or tank treads) and a variety of sensors, so you have lots of options for your builds. It’s also fun to rebuild it and experiment with different configurations for different purposes. Check out the video below to see it in action:
The robot kit has cool features like temperature and sound sensors, and Bluetooth wireless connectivity for remote control.
Building it and using the remote control, it’s an incredibly fun toy. At the same time, it’s also a powerful learning tool. With a clear programming interface and tutorials, it’s ready to go for classroom use. (It’s also fun at home and would make a great home school project.)
The mBlock programming software is straightforward and adaptable, offering options for both block-based and Arduino.
It’s geared for ages 10 and up. That said, our 8 year old did fine with block based coding – and since it offers more advanced coding options, it can scale with him as his skills advance.
The more he learns, the more complex things he’ll be able to code with it. It’s a nice bonus when toys have some longevity and kids don’t grow out of them too quickly.
The Makeblock Mbot Ranger is an excellent tool for exploring the world of robotics; for both beginners and experienced coders. I’m not sure who was having more fun – me or my son.
One thing of note – it’ll burn through AA batteries like crazy. You’ll want to grab the rechargeable battery pack. Check out our full review of the mBot Ranger.
Makeblock has more than just the Ranger. Check out the Mbot2 Neo; It’s a more compact robot kit that you can control through the app as well as block and Python coding. The mBot2 stands out for its ease of assembly and user-friendly learning approach, making it ideal for educational settings and a great starter robot.
For something a bit simpler, try the mTiny for younger kids.
Runner Up: Dash Robot
For a great way to get kids started with coding, we’d suggest taking a look at the Dash robot from Wonder Workshop.
Dash offers an open-ended learning platform that makes tech knowledge simple and accessible, helping kids grow into confident creative architects.
Kids can control the Dash Robot with voice commands and explore coding concepts like loops, events conditions, and sequences. The dash is programmable through apps that can be run from most tablets or smart phones.
Dash is used in over 20,000 schools and is gaining popularity in classroom use, so you know it’s a top choice for educators to get kids started in coding concepts.
- Comes with 5 free apps
- Charged and ready to go out of the box.
Dash Robots provide access to the Wonder League platform for kids to collaborate and explore together.
The Dash is expandable. If your kid is looking for additional things to do with the Dash, check out this pack of challenge cards or turn the Dash into a catapult with this launcher kit. This xylophone kit allows kids to compose songs or remix tunes from a song library to make the Dash play, move, and provide a light show.
Honorable Mention: Sphero SPRK+
The Sphero SPRK+ is a robot ball with programmable sensors including a gyroscope, accelerometer, motor encoders, and LED lights. The ball is made from clear plastic, so you can see the “guts” of the robot as it follows commands and rolls around.
You can use a tablet or smartphone to load the Sphero Edu app and get started. There are sample programs included in the app, so you can start having fun right away. The sample programs also serve as examples to learn from.
Depending on your child’s (or your) experience level, there are several options to program your robot. The Sphero can be programmed using draw and drive commands, drag and drop block coding (Scratch blocks), or JavaScript for more advanced users. Playing with the Sphero, they’re learning real world transferable skills, and provides challenges for different skill levels that can scale with a child’s ability.
Tired of coding and just want to play? You can also use the app to directly remote control the Sphero and drive it around.
The Sphero’s run time is a little over an hour per charge, and it does take a while to recharge to full power. Plan your activities in bursts to make the most out of your charge time.
For more, check out our full coding toy post
Related Posts
Check out our post on How to Teach Kids to Code for all kinds of resources to get started programming.
FREE Coding Courses – want to check out a new programming language or learn about coding and programming? Check out our list of free online courses.
Find out if there is the best age to start coding.
