Benefits of Robots as Toys
Robots have become increasingly popular toys for children in recent years. Robotic toys provide unique benefits that can support a child's development and education in various ways. Here are some of the key advantages of robots as toys.
Sparks Interest in STEM Topics
Building and programming robot toys introduces kids to important STEM concepts - science, technology, engineering and math. Assembling a robot kit helps children develop technical skills and an understanding of mechanical engineering principles. Programming a robot teaches logic, critical thinking and coding skills.
Develops Spatial and Motor Skills
Manipulating the physical components of a robot toy helps improve fine motor control and hand-eye coordination. Following technical assembly instructions also promotes spatial reasoning abilities.
Encourages Creativity and Imagination
Robot toys allow kids to create, design and customize their own unique robotic creations. They can use their imagination to build robots with different functions and abilities. This open-ended play fosters creativity, innovation and problem solving.
Teaches Coding and Programming
Many robot kits can be programmed using beginner-friendly block coding or more advanced text-based coding languages. This allows children to control their robot's motions, sounds, lights and more. Early coding education helps develop logical thinking and prepares kids for our increasingly digital world.
Promotes Collaboration and Teamwork
Building and coding robots is often done in pairs or groups. This collaborative play encourages important social skills like communication, cooperation, sharing and teamwork.
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Provides Educational Value
- Can be integrated into STEM lessons at school
- Reinforces math and science concepts
- Teaches cause and effect relationships
- Practices following multi-step instructions
Sparks Excitement for Learning
Interactive robot toys make learning feel more hands-on and engaging for kids. Seeing their coded instructions come to life in a moving robot is exciting and highly motivating. This enthusiasm for STEM-based play can boost overall academic interest.
With the right adult guidance, robot toys provide an ideal way to make STEM and coding concepts genuinely fun and accessible for children. Kids gain knowledge and skills while unleashing their creativity through imaginative robotic play.
Types of Robots for Kids
There are many different types of robotic toys available for children today. Some key categories include programmable robots, remote control robots, robot-building kits, robotic pets and humanoid robots.
Programmable Robots
Programmable robot toys can be coded to move and react in different ways. Popular options include:
- Cubelets - magnetic blocks that snap together to form robots
- Dash - responds to voice commands and can be programmed through apps
- LEGO Mindstorms - build and program walking, talking robots
- mBot - STEM-focused programmable robot for beginners
- Ozobot - small robot programmed using color code markers
- Sphero - app-controlled ball robot that rolls and lights up
Remote Control Robots
These pre-built robot toys are maneuvered using a remote control:
- HEXBUG - insect-inspired robots that crawl around
- Mad Mechs - battling robots with foam swords and shields
- MiPosaur - robot dinosaur that walks, roars and chomps
- Robosapien - humanoid robot that walks, dances and makes sounds
- Zoomer Robot Dog - responsive robotic "puppy" that moves and barks
Robotics Kits
Kits contain parts and instructions for building a custom robot. Some popular options:
- KIBO - wood block coding robot for preschoolers
- LEGO Boost - building blocks to create robotic models
- Makeblock Airblock - modular flying robot constructed from blocks
- Robotis Premium - aluminum robot kit with advanced programming
- VEX Robotics - metal parts to build competition-ready robots
Robotic Pets
Interactive pets and animals like:
- FurReal pets - plush baby animals that respond to touch
- Hatchimals - colorful robotic creatures that hatch from eggs
- Tekno puppies - electronic pets that bark, sit, and fetch
Robotic toys allow kids to learn, explore and have fun through STEM-based play. With so many options available, there is a robot toy to suit any child's interests and skill level.
Educational Robot Kits
Robotics kits are a great way for kids to learn about STEM concepts through hands-on building and coding of interactive robotic models. Here are some of the top educational robot kits for children.
LEGO Mindstorms
The LEGO Mindstorms robotics kit allows kids to build programmable LEGO robots using motors, sensors, bricks, and technical components. They can code behaviors and movements using the intuitive drag-and-drop interface or text-based programming.
- Ages: 10+ years
- Key learning: Programming, mechanics, problem solving
- Models: Humanoids, vehicles, animals
KIBO Robot Kit
KIBO is a screen-free coding robot made of wood blocks and modules. Children assemble KIBO then scan color-coded blocks to make it move, light up, and make sounds. No reading required!
- Ages: 4-7 years
- Key learning: Sequencing, critical thinking, cause & effect
- Models: Different animals and creations
BOOST Creative Toolbox
The LEGO BOOST kit lets kids bring LEGO creations to life by adding motors and sensors. They can program behaviors via the app, enhancing storytelling and imaginative play.
- Ages: 7-12 years
- Key learning: Coding, design thinking, problem solving
- Models: Robot, guitar, catapult and more
Makeblock mBot
The mBot kit allows young engineers to snap together a wheeled robot and code its movements via Makeblock's block or Python coding software.
- Ages: 8-15 years
- Key learning: Coding, electronics, robotics
- Models: Wheeled robot with lights, buzzer and sensors
littleBits Rule Your Room Kit
Kids can invent their own smart room creations by snapping together littleBits electronic blocks with circuits and code them via an app.
- Ages: 8-12 years
- Key learning: Coding, electronics, creative problem solving
- Models: Own inventions like a smart lamp, door alarm, etc.
Choosing an age-appropriate robotics kit supports STEM learning through coding, electronics and mechanical engineering principles. Kids will have fun building, programming and playing with their own interactive robotic creations.
Top Robot Toy Brands
Several toy companies have become leaders in producing interactive and educational robot toys for children. Here are some of the top robotics toy brands.
LEGO
The iconic LEGO brick company makes some of the most popular robotics kits including LEGO Mindstorms and LEGO BOOST. These allow kids to build programmable robots out of LEGOs then code their movements and reactions.
- Age range: 7 years and up
- Key products: Mindstorms, BOOST Creative Toolbox, WeDo robotics
- Learning focus: Coding, mechanics, problem-solving
Sphero
Sphero makes the app-enabled robotic ball called Sphero as well as the hexagonal bot Sphero BOLT. Kids can drive them using a smartphone or tablet and even code their behaviors.
- Age range: 8 years and up
- Key products: Sphero balls, Sphero BOLT, Specdrums
- Learning focus: Programming, music, more
Anki
Anki produces the popular Anki Cozmo, a cute robotic tank bot with an expressive face that kids can code. It has a beginner-friendly visual programming interface.
- Age range: 6 years and up
- Key products: Cozmo, Vector
- Learning focus: Coding, emotions, AI
Makeblock
Makeblock makes the mBot programmable robot kit as well as Neuron creative electronics kits that use color-coded electronic blocks.
- Age range: 8 years and up
- Key products: mBot, Neuron, Airblock drones
- Learning focus: Coding, electronics, STEM skills
UBTECH Robotics
UBTECH produces the JIMU robotic kits with motors, sensors and easy block coding as well as the interactive humanoid robot Meebot.
- Age range: 8 years and up
- Key products: JIMU robot kit, Meebot
- Learning focus: Coding, engineering, problem-solving
These innovative companies are making STEM and robotics engaging and fun for kids through exciting consumer robotic toys.
Playing Safely with Robot Toys
Robot toys provide great fun and learning for kids. Like any electrical toy, safety should be the top priority during robotic play. Here are some tips for using robot toys safely.
Use Age-Appropriate Toys
Consider your child's age and maturity when selecting a robot toy. Many robotics kits have recommended age grades to guide appropriateness.
- Read product specs for any age, skill, or height and weight limitations.
- Younger kids should play only with consumer robots made just for children.
- Older kids can handle more complex kits for building robots.
Read Instruction Manuals
Carefully read all printed materials and safety guidelines before your child plays with a new robotic toy.
- Review safety and operating info with your child.
- Ensure proper assembly, setup, and use.
- Follow charging requirements and guidelines.
Supervise Play
Actively supervise kids during playtime with any robotic toy and assist if needed.
- Teach appropriate handling and operation.
- Prevent improper use that could cause injury.
- Watch for malfunctions requiring battery removal.
Consider Materials
Factor in potential hazards with small parts or sharp edges.
- Opt for soft materials like plastic or rubber for younger kids.
- Ensure a non-tip base for top-heavy wheeled robots.
- Check for loose parts that may detach and pose choking risks.
Emphasize Safe Play Spaces
Set up controlled play areas away from dangers like stairs, furniture edges, pools and traffic.
Following basic safety guidelines allows kids to explore robotics creatively while avoiding potential hazards. Proper adult supervision ensures learning and discovery are paired with responsible safety.
Choosing the Right Robot Toy for Your Child
With so many robot toys available, it can be tricky finding just the right one for your child. Here are some tips for choosing a robot toy that matches your child's interests and abilities.
Consider Age Recommendations
Pay attention to the suggested age range for any robot toy you are considering. This helps ensure it is developmentally appropriate.
- Ages 3-7: Simple remote control robots or interactive robotic pets
- Ages 7-12: Introductory robotics kits with some building/coding
- Ages 12+: Advanced robotics sets with complex builds and programming
Factor in Interests
Does your child like to build things or prefer ready-to-play toys? This will help guide you towards robotics kits vs. prebuilt robots.
- Building: Kits to construct custom robots from parts
- Coding: Programmable bots controlled via coding
- Interactive play: Robotic pets, drones, or prebuilt robots
Consider Educational Value
Determine what skills you want your child to develop through robotic toys like programming, engineering, problem-solving, etc.
- Focus on kits that teach coding for budding computer scientists.
- Opt for mechanics-focused kits to inspire future engineers.
- Choose flexible kits to allow open-ended experimentation.
Evaluate Difficulty Level
Make sure to select robot toys that match your child's skill level and abilities to avoid frustration.
- Beginner: Block coding, simple remote controls, household robots
- Intermediate: Robotics kits with some technical complexity
- Advanced: Sophisticated kits with advanced programming
Read Reviews
Check reviews to learn what other parents and kids have experienced with a particular robotic toy.
Choosing the right robot toy takes some thoughtful consideration. Focus on your child's maturity, capabilities and interests to make the perfect match.
What is the Use of Amazon Prime for a Regular Buyer of Robot Toys?
For parents and kids who frequently purchase robot toys, an Amazon Prime membership can provide some useful benefits and perks.
Free Two-Day Shipping
Amazon Prime offers free two-day shipping on over 100 million items, including most robot toys sold directly by Amazon. This provides faster delivery times so you can get new robotics kits and toys quickly.
Release Date Delivery
As an Amazon Prime member, you can choose to get free release date delivery on eligible pre-ordered robot toys. This ensures hot new robotics sets arrive on your doorstep on the exact day they are released.
Easy Returns
Amazon Prime simplifies the returns process if you need to return robot toys. You get free returns on eligible items without having to worry about return shipping costs.
Access to Deals
Amazon Prime members get 30-minute early access to select Lightning Deals on robotics toys. You have the chance to grab timed deals and discounts before non-Prime members.
Prime-Exclusive Discounts
Some robot toy deals and coupons are exclusively available to Prime members, such as 20% off select robotics kits. This provides regular savings for avid robot toy buyers.
Streaming Kids Content
A Prime membership includes access to a vast library of kids shows, movies and educational content via Prime Video. This can provide entertainment for kids along with robot toy playtime.
Share Benefits
With Amazon Household, two adults and up to four teens/kids can share Prime benefits using one account. The whole family can take advantage of perks like free shipping on robot toys.
For frequent shoppers of robotics toys, an Amazon Prime subscription can provide worthwhile benefits that enhance the overall customer experience.
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Discover The Latest And Most Innovative Robots For Kids And Adults That Will Bring Excitement And Entertainment To Your Home.
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What Are The Best Coding Robots For Kids?
Here are some of the best coding robots for kids:
- Learning Resources Botley the Coding Robot 2.0 Activity Set
- Wonder Workshop Dash
- Sphero SPRK+
- Ozobot
- LEGO Boost
- Botley Coding Robot
- mBot Neo
These coding robots are designed to teach kids the basics of programming and coding through interactive play. They are great for developing problem-solving and logical thinking skills, and are suitable for a variety of age groups and price points. Some of these robots are specifically designed for younger learners, while others are more advanced and suitable for older children.
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What Age Range Are The Coding Robots Suitable For?
Based on the search results, coding robots for kids are suitable for a wide range of age groups, from as young as 4 to as old as 18+. Here are some of the age ranges for popular coding robots:
It's important to note that some coding robots are designed specifically for younger learners, while others are more advanced and suitable for older children. It's best to check the recommended age range for each robot before making a purchase.
