The next generation toy is here. Here at Mums TV, we have tried and tested the intellectual, but interactive new toddler’s toy, Botley the coding robot, priced at only £79. This toy aims to introduce coding fundamentals without the need for a screen – seems impossible, right? We give you our full honest review on why this robot should play a key part in your toddlers adapting and learning.
With the growing demand for careers in the coding and programming sectors, this toy is the ideal introduction to coding for children aged 5+. These skills are important as part of STEM learning and will help your kids to love learning. It also introduces young learners to other STEM subjects such as Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths!
For a 77-piece activity set, the whole package is very compact, making this the perfect size to be delivered or to be picked up and taken home in the car. The whole package comes with Botley the coding robot, a remote programmer, detachable robot arms, 40 coding cards, 6 double-sided cards, 27 obstacle building pieces and a starter guide with coding challenges.
Setting up the toy itself is fairly easy and hassle-free and it required 5 AA batteries (2 for the remote, 3 for the robot).
What we found unique about this toy is that you don’t require a screen to code. There is a danger that over-exposure to screens can affect a child’s learning and development, as well as their eyesight. Therefore, it’s perfect if you’re looking for a toy to help limit screen time.
Botley the coding robot has a soft and friendly spoken voice, which is easy for children to understand. He has adorable, endearing beeps and noises, which is very helpful (don’t worry, parents, there is an option to turn the noises off if it all gets a bit too much!)
He comes with a set of cards so kids can put the "moves" in order to help with the coding and the booklet has 10 coding activities (in increasing difficulty) to help get kids started on coding.
Verdict: Your child will be learning a lot, whilst mainly having fun and Botley will certainly engage your child’s growing brain. We rate this toy 10/10 for practicality, for learning and for being heaps of fun!
Get your own Botley the coding robot today from these retailers:
https://www.learningresources.co.uk/category/products/botley-the-coding-robot-page.do
https://www.learningresources.co.uk/product/stem-pendulonium-challenge.do
https://www.learningresources.co.uk/product/stem-magnet-set.do