The simplest coding product we've tested out so far, Coding Critters are ideal as a first coding toy, as well as for siblings who love to learn together.
We were kindly gifted these Coding Critters by Learning Resources for purpose of review. All opinions and images are our own and completely genuine. This post contains affiliate links.
We are super lucky to get the opportunity to test out Learning Resources' latest offering in the world of coding robots. These little Coding Critters are aimed for kids 4+ and are available in three different animals (Scamper and Sneaker the cats, Ranger and Zip the dogs, and Rumble and Bumble the dinosaurs). My kids loved that each critter came with a mini version to play with too.
These coding robots were definitely one of the easiest battery-operated toys I've ever set up. Often with coding robots and STEM toys it takes a while to get going, but I loved that my kids could build the play pieces themselves while I just had to put the batteries (3 x AAA) in the critters.
Once the batteries are in, the critters are so simple to use. Just code the animal's movements using the arrows on its back, and then press the middle button to make it move.
At first 5 yr old big bro took the lead on experimenting with the coding, but it was great to see that within a matter of minutes, 2 yr old baby sis was also able to join in. She thought it was really cool that the critters made their own animal noises as they moved.
Inside each pack there is also a short story book with a series of coding challenges. I thought it was really clever how the story book clearly explained the tasks, and made them seem fun and exciting. For example, one challenge involved the baby cat going down the slide, and the big cat having to be coded to meet her at the bottom of the slide.
There was so much team work and concentration going on! Another challenge example is where the dinosaur has to knock down a tower of rocks. So many skills were being developed, especially problem solving, but in a really fun and engaging way for my kids.
I mentioned it earlier but I would say one of my favorite things about the Coding Critters was that it nurtured a strong sense of collaboration. With past coding robots, they have been more appropriate for big bro's age, leaving baby sis a little dejected. The Coding Critters are perfect for toddlers and siblings because of their simplicity. There is such an immediate cause and effect that frustration isn't an issue. The play pieces were also really relatable to both kids- slides, tunnels, bones, rocks etc. are great for imaginative and creative play!
You can see from the expressions on their faces how engaged they were. Coding Critters is a STEM toy which both my kids have the confidence to explore independently which I think is great for developing coding and problem solving skills, as well as an instinct to explore and experiment.
Are there any negatives? With the exception of the slightly annoying noise the cat makes (I accepted that's part of parenting many years ago!!), I really don't think I have anything negative to say about these little critters. I think the price point is fair and the sets are versatile enough for prolonged play and learning. I can't wait to get my 5 yr old to write his own coding challenge book for a critter of his choice!
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