Robots are no longer exclusive to science fiction stories or industrial production lines. Educational robots are becoming increasingly popular among teachers, parents and children alike. These robots are designed with features that enhance your child's learning experience through fun and interactive activities, stimulating creativity and problem-solving skills.
In this article, we'll compare the best educational robots for children based on features, price, and performance to help you make an informed decision when shopping for one.
1. LEGO MINDSTORMS EV3
LEGO Mindstorms EV3 is a popular educational robot that allows children to build and program their own robots using the LEGO building system. The kit comes with a programmable brick, motors and various sensors that can be assembled to create a wide range of robots such as a walking, talking robot or a vehicle that can drive around.
Some of the notable features of the LEGO Mindstorms EV3 include:
- Intuitive drag and drop programming interface that supports multiple programming languages, including Scratch and Python.
- Ability to connect to Bluetooth-enabled devices for remote control and sensor data transfer.
- Comes with a variety of sensors including touch, infrared, and color sensors.
- Suitable for children aged 10 and above.
The LEGO Mindstorms EV3 kit is available for around $350.
2. Ozobot Evo
Ozobot Evo is a fun and interactive coding robot that can be programmed using color codes or a mobile app. Using color code markers, children can create their own mazes, tracks and challenges for the Ozobot to follow.
Some of the features of Ozobot Evo include:
- Supports both color code and block-based programming.
- Ability to connect to mobile devices via Bluetooth.
- Comes with a variety of sensors including line following and proximity sensors.
- Suitable for children aged 6 and above.
The Ozobot Evo is available for around $100.
3. Sphero Bolt
Sphero Bolt is a spherical robot that can be programmed using a mobile app. It features LED lights, a 9-axis accelerometer and a compass that can be used to create complex applications and games.
Some of the features of Sphero Bolt include:
- Ability to create your own programs and games using the mobile app.
- Comes with a variety of sensors including infrared, compass, and light sensors.
- Suitable for children aged 8 and above.
The Sphero Bolt is available for around $150.
4. Wonder Workshop Dash
Wonder Workshop Dash is a cute and interactive robot that can be programmed using a mobile app or block-based programming language. It features a variety of sensors and motors that allow it to move around, play music and respond to voice commands.
Some of the features of Wonder Workshop Dash include:
- Intuitive programming interface suitable for children as young as 6.
- Comes with various sensors including distance, speed and sound sensors.
- Can be accessorized with various add-ons such as snap-on building bricks and xylophone.
- Suitable for children aged 6 and above.
The Wonder Workshop Dash is available for around $150.
These are some of the best educational robots for children in 2021. Each of these robots has its unique features and is suitable for children of different age groups. By choosing a robot that fits your child's interests and skills, you can help enhance their learning experience through play and exploration.
References:
- LEGO Mindstorms EV3. (n.d.). About EV3. LEGO. https://www.lego.com/en-us/mindstorms/about-ev3.
- Ozobot. (n.d.). Ozobot Evo. https://ozobot.com/products/evo.
- Sphero. (n.d.). Sphero Bolt. https://sphero.com/products/bolt.
- Wonder Workshop. (n.d.). Dash Robot. Make Wonder. https://education.makewonder.com/shop/product/robot.