This post was last Updated on June 8, 2023 by Himanshu Tyagi to reflect the accuracy and up-to-date information on the page.
It can be pretty challenging when it comes to finding suitable coding toys for kids. They can be challenging to come by and costly. Moreover, we also want coding to be an activity that the kids enjoy.
So, where do you begin your quest for the ideal coding toy? These days there are quite a few coding toys in the market that are fun to use and appeal to children. There is no limit on what you can do with them.
The best part is that some of these are screen-free, while others can use a tablet for coding, but it goes beyond scripting on a device and into making stuff happen. We’ve compiled a list of our favorite coding toys to get you started. To pique your children’s interest by, including some of these coding toys in your set.
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12 Best Coding Toys for Kids of all ages
1. Artie 3000
The first on our list of coding toys for kids is Artie 3000. This modern STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) coding toy blends art with technology.
This powerful STEM bot teaches kids how to code while creating art. Using Artie’s setup and designs, kids can learn to code using Drag & Drop, Remote Control, Point & Click, Blockly, Snap!, Python, and JavaScript.
Artie 3000 is a super cute character that encourages innovation not just through art but also through coding. It is an extraordinary Art Bot for kids that are STEM enthusiasts and art lovers.
2. Code-a-Pillar
This one is a fun toy for the little ones. Each section has an action built-in, allowing kids to customize their Code-A-Pillar and set it to perform a series of tasks.
The test allows kids to learn how to get their Code-A-Pillar to hit a specific goal or follow a particular series. Regarding coding, the toy mainly emphasizes teaching sequencing and problem-solving.
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3. Coji
The next on our list of coding toys for kids is Coji. It is a cool little robot that can be programmed using emojis. Kids can load programs onto the robot with the help of a tablet or smartphone and have fun.
Coji can also perform some simple tasks without using a mobile device. Each emoji represents a different robot behavior you can combine into a series. For example, directional symbols can move the robot.
The best is to play a little melody for your child by adding a musical instrument. Children can also make some if-else statements. The accompanying app includes some games to make the experience even more immersive.
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4. Dash Robot
The Dash Robots seem to be a big hit with the kids, as they are always in demand. They are also extremely long-lasting and can withstand the relentless demands of a public program.
Dash Robot is one of those Coding Toys for Kids that could fit into any age category. Though it is intended for children aged six and above, it can be enjoyed by people of all ages. For coding, it has block coding and drawing coding options.
5. Ozobot
This one is yet another exciting coding toy for kids. Colby, the mouse, wants his cheese in this setup, and it’s up to the kids to design a maze and then program Colby to navigate it and receive his treat.
It goes further than Code-A-Pillar by allowing children to design mazes and then program the mouse to move around them. This entails a lot of preparation, sequencing, and problem-solving for the kids. It’s a simple design, but it gives the kids plenty of opportunities to think logically about each move.
6. Sphero, Mini, BB-8, and Ollie
This coding toy ball is incredible! Since it includes drawing coding, drag-and-drop block coding, and learning Javascript programming, most kids can use it, regardless of age.
With Sphero, kids can make everything they can imagine. Even better, Sphero has various coding toys to choose from, each with its own set of advantages and challenges. It has Sphero BOLT, Sphero SPRK+, Sphero Mini, Sphero BB-8, and Ollie, all of which play an essential role in coding adventures.
The Sphero BB-8 received a software upgrade and now has many other Spheros’ coding features. We don’t think you can go wrong with Sphero, as kids across all age groups can enjoy and learn through it.
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7. Cubetto
Cubetto is a project from the startup company Primo Toys. It was launched in 2016. The toy is designed for 3-year-old kids and is made up of wood.
The best thing is that it will teach your little one the basics of programming commands without using a screen. It has a wooden robot controlled by a board where kids insert wooden commands or coding blocks.
8. Lego Boost
The following two coding toys for kids are from the well-known toy creator- Lego. If you’ve ever wished that your Lego creations from childhood would come to life, your dreams are now a step closer to becoming a reality.
Lego recently introduced a new sub-brand called Boost that promises to do just that. The starter kit includes sensors, motors, and a one-of-a-kind companion app that teaches kids how to code so they can program their new robot pals. Mindstorms from Lego might also help you do this, but it’s a far more sophisticated device targeted at grown-up kids.
Boost, on the other hand, is meant for children aged seven and above. The Lego Boost comes with a “creative toolbox” containing three Boost bricks and 840 other Lego blocks. Vernie the Robot, Frankie the Cat, the Guitar 4000, the Multi-Tool Rover 4, and an Autobuilder are the five models included in the kit.
However, you must first download the Boost app before building any of them. The software is crucial to the process because it contains all the instructions and is used to program and communicate with the Boost creations.
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9. Lego Mindstorms Robot Inventor kit
The Mindstorms Robot Inventor kit from Lego is a new collection that allows kids to design and create robots. A color sensor, distance sensor, four motors, and Lego’s Bluetooth-enabled “Intelligent Hub” are among the 949 parts included in the package.
It’s the first new addition to the Mindstorms lineup in seven years, and it’s built to teach children basic STEM skills, including programming. This pack includes instructions for five robots. The most impressive among the robots is the ‘Blast,’ which uses every hub, motor, and sensor included in the package.
It can feel its surroundings and shoot darts. Other robots include ‘Charlie,’ a more miniature robot who prefers to dance and give high-fives, and Tricky, the “sporty” robot who can play basketball and soccer. Also, ‘Gelo,’ a quadruped that can walk around and avoid obstacles, and the MVP (Modular Vehicle Platform) can be mounted into various vehicles such as cranes and buggies.
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10. Botley 2.0
Botley 2.0 is a coding toy for children aged five years and above. This new Botley is an improved original version, which is still quite popular.
Among all the coding toys for kids, this one is quite intuitive, and kids as young as five will be coding without a computer in no time. Music, light, and movement are all in this toy, encouraging their interest in STEM and coding.
11. Osmo
The Osmo system is more of a game than a toy, but it is so clever and entertaining that we believe it deserves to be included. The Osmo Coding Starter Kit has three fantastic programming games: Coding Awbie, Coding Jam, and Coding Duo.
As the child’s abilities improve, the complexity of these games increases. The gameplay helps kids develop their coding skills. Learning by combining coding and music, blending science and creativity, is fantastic.
It makes coding enjoyable for children who would otherwise be intimidated by it. Osmo is compatible with Kindle Fire and iPad.
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12. Augie
Last but not least on our list of best coding toys for kids is Augie. It is a top-of-the-line coding robot with ‘virtual reality capabilities. The toy was created to help children learn to code while having fun at the same time.
Augie can stimulate your child’s imagination while improving their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Augie also has a free app with fun gameplay and engaging lesson plans.
Summary
With this, we summarize our list of the best coding toys for kids of all ages. Do check out all these coding toys before making a decision. Pick a suitable toy for your kids which can develop their interest in the latest technology and programming. However, don’t forget the most important thing, i.e., having fun with your kids while playing with these coding toys.