10 Best Robotics Kits for Kids: Engaging STEM Toys for Learning and Fun

It can be tough to pick the right robot kit with all the options to choose from. Moreover, finding robotic kits that captivate your child’s interest, rather than becoming another forgotten toy, adds to the complexity. This is precisely where this guide comes in. We’ve rolled up our sleeves and dug deep into customer reviews to shortlist the most loved robotics kits for kids on the market. So, finding the right one will not be like finding a needle in a haystack. Ready? Let’s go.

In the table below, we’ve curated a selection of the highest-rated robotics kits, specifically designed for kids, that both parents and kids love. Whether your little one is just getting started or is already an advanced user of robotics for kids, we’ve got you covered.

Product Cool Features Why Buy It Customer Reviews
SunFounder Raspberry Pi Smart Video Robot Car Kit for Raspberry Pi Enthusiasts Video transmission, Raspberry Pi compatibility Excellent introduction to programming and robotics, manageable difficulty level, great for beginners and Raspberry Pi enthusiasts Read Customer Reviews Here
LEGO Mindstorms EV3 Robotics Kit Configurable designs, advanced programming capabilities Versatile kit for advanced level learners, challenges and engages with complex projects, accommodates users of varying skill levels Read Customer Reviews Here
ELEGOO UNO R3 Project Smart Robot Car Kit V4 Obstacle avoidance, line tracking, versatile programming modes Comprehensive kit for robotics and programming introduction, hands-on assembly and programming experience, fosters logical thinking and problem-solving skills Read Customer Reviews Here
VEX IQ Robotics Construction Kit Sturdy components, powerful programming capabilities Immersive learning experience, suitable for aspiring engineers and problem solvers, adaptable for different skill levels Read Customer Reviews Here
Sphero Indi at-Home Learning Kit Screenless STEAM learning, custom maze building, coding concepts Encourages problem-solving and computational thinking skills, ideal for young beginners, hands-on engagement Read Customer Reviews Here
LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox Set Seamless integration of building and coding, imaginative play Combines LEGO building system with coding and robotics, fosters creativity and problem-solving skills, suitable for young builders Read Customer Reviews Here
UBTECH JIMU Robot BuilderBots Kit Interchangeable parts, advanced sensors, programmable features Encourages creativity and problem-solving skills, versatile and engaging robotics kit, immersive and educational experience Read Customer Reviews Here
Wonder Workshop Dash Responsive coding robot, voice commands, interactive play Inspires creativity and fosters interest in programming, develops problem-solving skills and computational thinking Read Customer Reviews Here
Nintendo Labo DIY cardboard constructions, interactive video games, creative play Unique blend of physical building and digital gaming introduces key concepts in robotics, fosters creativity and problem-solving Read Customer Reviews Here

1. SunFounder Raspberry Pi Smart Video Robot Car Kit for Raspberry Pi Enthusiasts

This kit stands out for its excellent introduction to programming and robotics, specifically designed for Raspberry Pi enthusiasts. Although it’s a bit more complex than beginner programmable robot kits, it offers deeper insights into the world of robotics. It’s a mobile robot that allows kids to experiment with video transmission and learn the basics of robotic car assembly. With step-by-step guides, the difficulty level is manageable, making it an excellent introductory robotics kit for those who are keen on Raspberry Pi.

Who it’s best for:

This Raspberry Pi robot kit is a great option for kids who are new to robotics. It allows children to assemble and control a customizable robot car using a Raspberry Pi board. With its simple setup and user-friendly interface, kids can learn the basics of robotics while exploring the world of coding, electronics, and remote control functionalities.

What kids learn:

  • Basic programming concepts
  • Circuit design and assembly
  • Video streaming and image recognition
  • Remote control and navigation

What customers are saying

Customers have mentioned how easy and clear the SunFounder kit’s instructions are. Many appreciate the educational value it provides, with parents noting how their children developed an interest in programming and robotics after using this kit. The interactive nature of this robot car kit also encourages their children’s problem-solving skills.

Why Parents Buy It

The SunFounder Raspberry Pi Smart Video Robot Car Kit is an ideal entry-level kit for children eager to explore robotics. Children who love cars easily gravitate to them, too.

2. LEGO Mindstorms EV3 Robotics Kit – The Best Configurable Robot Kit

The LEGO Mindstorms EV3 Robotics Kit is designed for advanced users to learn more about robotics, programming, and engineering. It’s got the Lego charm coupled with the complexity of robotics, striking a balance that keeps children engaged. While it offers advanced features, it is also designed to be accessible to users without extensive knowledge in these areas.

The EV3 kit includes a programmable brick (essentially the ‘brain’ of the robot), along with motors and a host of sensors (touch, color, infrared), which children can assemble in various ways to create their own designs. The kit also comes with detailed step-by-step guides to construct several pre-designed robots, offering a practical approach to understanding advanced-level engineering concepts quickly.

One of the standout features of the LEGO Mindstorms EV3 is its configurability. Advanced-level learners can explore intricate mechanical designs and experiment with sophisticated programming concepts.

What Kids Learn:

Children will learn the basics of programming as they code their robots to perform various tasks using the accompanying EV3 Programmer app. Children can create, customize and command their robots and get to practice their problem-solving skills, too. (side note: If your child likes this, they might also like these robot battle kits.

Customer Reviews

Customers frequently praise the LEGO Mindstorms EV3 kit for its educational value. Parents often remark about the transformative effect the kit has had on their children’s learning, fostering an enduring interest in robotics and STEM fields. Also, It’s not often you find advanced robot kits for adults, but this one is one that they also love to tinker with.

Why You Should Buy It

One key reason to invest in the LEGO Mindstorms EV3 is its potential for growth. With its high level of customizability, children of varying skill levels, from beginners to advanced users, can continuously find new challenges and learning opportunities. As your child’s skills progress, the kit can be adapted to offer more complex tasks and creations.

3. ELEGOO UNO R3 Project Smart Robot Car Kit V4

The ELEGOO UNO R3 Project Smart Robot Car Kit V4 is one of the most comprehensive robotic stem kits designed to introduce children and adults alike to the fascinating world of robotics and programming.

With its emphasis on hands-on assembly and programming experience, this kit provides a fun and engaging entry point into the world of STEM. While it is not purely a solar robot creation kit, it offers the opportunity for further customization and expansion, including the potential to incorporate solar power into the robot car.

The kit, based on the Arduino UNO R3 microcontroller board, includes everything needed to assemble a versatile robotic car, including a car chassis, motors, a servo motor, sensors, and the Arduino board itself. There are multiple modes available for the car, such as obstacle avoidance, line tracking, and even IR remote and Bluetooth control via a mobile app, offering a plethora of learning opportunities.

A key selling point is its emphasis on hands-on assembly and programming experience. Users get to understand the inner workings of a robot by building one themselves and then bringing it to life through coding. This instills the basic principles of robotics, coding, and electronics in a fun and engaging manner.

The ELEGOO Smart Robot Car Kit uses a simple programming environment, making it one of the best robotic kits for beginners. With the provided CD or online tutorials, users can learn to program each function step-by-step. This fosters an understanding of logic, problem-solving, and the sequential nature of coding.

Who is it best for

The ELEGOO UNO R3 Project Smart Robot Car Kit is best suited for kids who have a moderate level of experience with robotics. It is a great choice for children who are looking to expand their knowledge and skills beyond basic introductory kits but are not yet ready for robot kits with more advanced features.

This kit is suitable for kids in the age range of around 10 years and older, depending on their individual abilities and interests. It offers a moderate difficulty level, striking a balance between simplicity and complexity. It is ideal for kids who have some prior knowledge of basic circuitry, programming concepts, and mechanical assembly.

What kids learn:

Children learn the basics of programming through the hands-on process of coding their own robot car. They’ll use an accessible programming environment and follow step-by-step tutorials to create various functions.

What customers think about this robot kit:

Customer reviews highlight the quality of the kit’s components, the learning opportunities it provides, and the supportive customer service. Parents and educators particularly appreciate the kit’s educational value, noting how it keeps children engaged while giving them a hands-on approach to learning about robotics.

Why you should buy it:

This isn’t just a toy, but an educational toy robotic kit that provides a fun and engaging entry point into the world of STEM. The process of building and programming the robot car fosters valuable skills like problem-solving, logical thinking, and creativity. Additionally, it serves as a great introduction to programming and electronics.

4. VEX IQ Robotics Construction Kit

The VEX IQ Robotics Construction Kit is a versatile platform that empowers young minds to learn robotics and engineering. With its sturdy components, advanced sensors, and powerful programming capabilities, this kit provides an immersive learning experience.

Best for

The VEX Robotics Construction Kit is best suited for aspiring engineers, young problem solvers, and those eager to explore the realms of robotics and engineering. Its adaptable nature allows children to start with basic models and progress to more advanced creations as their skills develop. This kit is suitable for kids aged 8 and above who are ready for a comprehensive robotics experience and have an enthusiasm for STEM learning.

What Kids Learn

Through the VEX IQ Robotics Construction Kit, children gain valuable skills in engineering, programming, and problem-solving. They learn mechanical principles as they design and assemble their own robots using VEX IQ building system. With the intuitive programming interface, young builders explore coding concepts and develop logical thinking. The kit’s sensors enable kids to learn about data acquisition and utilize real-time feedback for autonomous behaviors.

Customer Feedback

Customers have consistently praised VEX Robotics for the quality of their products. Parents appreciate the durability and versatility of the components. Many customers have reported that their children develop a deeper understanding of engineering principles and programming concepts through the engaging activities offered by the kit. The inclusion of a variety of challenges and competitions adds an extra layer of excitement and motivation for young learners.

Why Parents Buy It

This comprehensive kit nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills while fostering a passion for STEM subjects. With its high-quality components and extensive support from the VEX IQ community, parents can be confident in their child’s exploration of robotics and their development as future engineers.

5. Wonder Workshop Dash

The Wonder Workshop Dash is a coding robot designed to inspire creativity and foster an interest in programming among kids. This friendly, responsive robot, controlled via accompanying apps, can dance, sing, navigate objects, respond to voice commands, and more. Kids can easily create sequences of code using a simple drag-and-drop language, and watch Dash come to life. It’s one of the bestselling gifts for kids every year.

Best For

Dash is a perfect kit for beginners and is recommended for children aged 6 and up. The robot’s intuitive controls and lively personality make it a great companion for kids eager to explore the basic principles of programming. It is an ideal choice for beginners as well as those with some coding experience. Dash provides an accessible and enjoyable way to learn the foundations of coding and computational thinking.

What Kids Learn

Playing with the Wonder Workshop Dash, children learn the core concepts of coding as they give their robot instructions and see it respond. They’ll develop problem-solving skills and computational thinking, as they figure out how to code Dash to perform various tasks. Dash provides an accessible and enjoyable way to learn the foundations of coding and computational thinking. Through block-based coding, they learn fundamental programming concepts like sequencing, loops, and conditionals. The accompanying apps also offer puzzles and challenges that help children enhance their understanding of sequences, loops, and conditionals. Dash’s various sensors and actuators allow children to explore robotics and understand how technology interacts with the physical world.

Customer Reviews

Customers often express satisfaction with the Wonder Workshop Dash’s child-friendly design and educational value. Parents are thrilled to see their kids learning valuable coding skills while having a lot of fun. The robot’s intuitive programming interface, combined with its interactive features, keeps kids motivated and encourages them to explore and experiment with coding. They also appreciate Dash’s durable construction and long battery life.

Why Parents Should Buy It

The Wonder Workshop Dash offers numerous reasons for parents to invest in this coding robot. It provides a structured introduction to coding and computational thinking. Dash not only provides the basics but does so in a way that encourages creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

Furthermore, the Wonder Workshop offers a range of resources, including curriculum and online communities, to support parents and educators in guiding children’s coding journeys effectively.

6. Sphero Indi at-Home Learning Kit – Best for Kids 4 Years Old and Above

The Sphero Indi at-Home Learning Kit is a screenless STEAM learning robot designed to help foster the problem-solving and computational thinking skills of young children. It’s a great starter robot kit that encourages kids aged 4 and above to design and build custom mazes while learning coding concepts. Through interactive play and creative problem-solving, Sphero Indi gets children to think like engineers.

Best for

This learning kit is a great introduction to robotics and programming for young children. It is best suited for kids aged 4 and above who are eager to explore STEAM concepts through a screenless, hands-on approach. It is a perfect choice for beginners in coding and robotics, as well as those with prior experience. The kit’s accessible design and engaging activities provide a welcoming entry point for young learners, allowing them to develop computational thinking skills at their own pace.

What Kids Learn

By working with the Sphero Indi at-Home Learning Kit, kids can learn several important skills. Through designing and building custom mazes, children gain insights into spatial reasoning, problem-solving, and critical thinking. They learn coding concepts by using the robot’s physical blocks, which represent different commands and actions. This screenless approach enhances their understanding of coding fundamentals while promoting creativity and logical reasoning.

Customer Feedback

Customers have praised the Sphero Indi at-Home Learning Kit for its intuitive design and educational value. Parents appreciate the kit’s ability to captivate their children’s interest and promote independent exploration. Many customers have reported that their kids quickly grasp coding and problem-solving skills through the hands-on activities provided by the kit. The absence of screens and the physical interaction with the robot have been particularly appreciated by parents concerned about excessive screen time.

Why Parents Should Buy It

The Sphero Indi at-Home Learning Kit offers numerous benefits that make it a valuable investment for parents. By engaging with this screenless STEAM learning robot, children develop essential skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and computational thinking. The hands-on nature of the kit encourages creativity and independent exploration, fostering a love for learning and empowering children to become confident problem solvers.

7. Lego Boost Creative Toolbox Set

The LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox is a versatile robotics kit that seamlessly combines the LEGO building system with coding and robotics. While not specifically designed as one of the robotic toys for toddlers, its simplicity and intuitive design make it approachable even for the younger age group. Designed to engage young builders and coders, this kit provides a hands-on and interactive experience.

Best for

The LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox is an excellent choice for children under 5 years old who are eager to explore robotics in a playful and intuitive manner. Its user-friendly features and simplified coding elements make it ideal for young builders who are new to robotics and coding. This kit provides a seamless transition from imaginative LEGO play to basic coding concepts, making it perfect for aspiring young creators.

What Kids Learn

Through the LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox, children learn various skills that lay a foundation for future STEM learning. They engage in hands-on building, developing fine motor skills and spatial awareness. By using the intuitive drag-and-drop coding interface, kids explore basic programming concepts such as sequencing, loops, and conditional statements. Additionally, the kit encourages creativity and problem-solving as children customize their creations and bring them to life.

Customer Feedback

Customers have praised the LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox for its seamless integration of building and coding. Parents appreciate how the kit sparks their children’s imagination, fostering a love for STEM subjects. Many customers have reported that their kids quickly grasp coding concepts through the intuitive interface and enjoy the endless possibilities for customization.

Why Parents Should Buy It

The LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox is a must-have for parents seeking an engaging and educational robotics kit. It seamlessly combines the timeless appeal of LEGO with the excitement of coding, providing a comprehensive learning experience for children under 5. This kit nurtures creativity, logical thinking, and problem-solving skills while introducing basic programming concepts in a playful and interactive manner.

8. UBTECH JIMU Robot BuilderBots Kit

The UBTECH JIMU Robot BuilderBots Kit is a versatile and engaging robotics kit that encourages young builders to explore the world of robotics and coding. With its interchangeable parts, advanced sensors, and programmable robot kit features, this kit empowers children to unleash their creativity and problem-solving skills.

Best for

This robotics kit is best suited for young builders and aspiring programmers. With its versatile components and programmable capabilities, it appeals to kids who enjoy hands-on building. This kit is recommended for children aged 8 and above, like the equally popular Discovery Mindblown Solar Robot Creation Kit.

What Kids Learn

Children develop a range of skills. As they assemble the pre-designed robots or create their own unique designs, they gain insights into mechanical engineering principles and improve their fine motor skills. With the intuitive programming interface, young builders explore coding concepts and logical thinking. The kit’s advanced sensors enable kids to delve into sensor integration and learn about environmental interactions.

Customer Feedback

Customers consistently praise the UBTECH JIMU Robot BuilderBots Kit for its versatility and educational value. Parents appreciate the kit’s ability to spark their children’s creativity and problem-solving abilities. Many customers have reported that their kids enjoy the freedom to design and customize their robots while learning programming concepts. The kit’s high-quality components and clear instructions have also been commended, ensuring a satisfying and rewarding building experience.

Why Parents Should Buy It

The UBTECH JIMU Robot BuilderBots Kit offers an exceptional robotics and coding experience for young inventors. By investing in this kit, parents provide their children with the opportunity to develop essential STEM skills while nurturing creativity and critical thinking. The versatility of the kit allows kids to explore their own unique ideas and unleash their imaginations. With its comprehensive set of building parts, programmable features, and accessible coding interface.

9. mBot Robot Kit

The mBot Robot Kit is an engaging and versatile robotics kit that combines educational value with an interactive play experience. Designed for young learners, this kit provides an excellent introduction to coding and robotics through hands-on building and programming. With its user-friendly design, cool features, and expandable options, the mBot Robot Kit nurtures creativity, problem-solving, and STEM skills in a fun and accessible way.

Best for

This robot kit is best suited for beginners, making it an ideal choice for children aged 8 and above who are new to robotics. It is also suitable for educators or parents seeking an educational tool to introduce programming and robotics concepts to children.

What Kids Learn

Through the mBot Robot Kit, children learn a range of valuable skills. They develop basic engineering knowledge as they assemble the robot using the provided components. The kit introduces them to programming through the intuitive mBlock software, which combines block-based coding with the Scratch programming language. Kids gain an understanding of coding concepts like sequencing, loops, and conditional statements, enhancing their logical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

Customer Feedback

Customers consistently praise the mBot Robot Kit for its educational value and ease of use. Parents appreciate how the kit effectively introduces their children to coding and robotics in an enjoyable way. Many customers report that their kids quickly grasp coding concepts and become excited about STEM subjects through the hands-on activities provided by the kit. The expandability of the mBot Robot Kit with additional sensors and components has also been commended, allowing for further exploration and customization.

Why Parents Should Buy It

The mBot Robot Kit is an excellent choice for parents seeking educational robot kit toys that help develop fundamental STEM skills. The user-friendly design and intuitive programming interface make it an accessible kit for beginners in robotics. With its expandability and compatibility with Arduino, the mBot Robot Kit offers room for growth and further exploration as kids get more experienced with robotics

10. The Nintendo Labo

Nintendo Labo is an innovative gaming experience that combines DIY cardboard constructions with interactive video games on the Nintendo Switch console. While not a traditional robot kit, Nintendo Labo offers a creative and engaging platform that blends hands-on building with digital gameplay. By constructing various cardboard accessories and utilizing them in specially designed games, children can explore the intersection of technology, creativity, and interactive play in a truly captivating way.

In comparison to specialized products like combat robot kits, Nintendo Labo allows kids to explore robotics without dealing with the complexity of actual hardware. This unique approach to gaming and learning not only provides entertainment but also introduces children to key concepts and principles in robotics. Through hands-on building and problem-solving, kids develop skills in structural design, spatial reasoning, and following instructions – all crucial in engineering and robotics.

Best for

Nintendo Labo is best suited for children who are interested in a hybrid experience that merges physical construction and digital gaming. It appeals to those who enjoy hands-on building and are eager to combine real-world objects with video games. While not strictly a traditional robot kit, Nintendo Labo offers a unique and creative approach to robotics-related concepts and STEAM learning.

What Kids Learn

Through the Nintendo Labo experience construct a robot with cardboard tiles and build accessories such as a piano, fishing rod, or robot suit. In comparison to assembling a robot humanoid kit, Nintendo Labo focuses on a more tactile and visually creative construction process. They learn about structural design, spatial reasoning, and the importance of following instructions. Additionally, the accompanying software introduces them to interactive gameplay, utilizing motion controls and other features of the Nintendo Switch to bring their cardboard creations to life.

Why It’s Included in the List of Best Robotic Kits

While Nintendo Labo may not fit the traditional definition of a robotic kit, it earns its place on the list of best robotic kits due to its innovative and educational approach to combining technology, creativity, and interactive play. By exploring the possibilities of combining cardboard constructions with video games, children learn robotics in an imaginative and immersive manner.

Customer Feedback

Customers have praised Nintendo Labo for its innovative concept and ability to inspire creativity and engagement in children. Parents appreciate the unique blend of physical building and interactive gaming. Many customers report that their kids thoroughly enjoy the process of constructing the cardboard accessories and find joy in seeing their creations come to life in the accompanying games.

Why Parents Should Buy It

Nintendo Labo offers a one-of-a-kind gaming and learning experience that combines DIY construction, technology, and interactive play. Children get an opportunity to explore the fusion of physical and digital realms, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and STEAM skills. This unique approach to interactive play engages children in a hands-on and imaginative manner, allowing them to explore robotics-related concepts through a different lens.