The involvement of young children in technology has become the norm in today’s society. Every day, more and more kids are transitioning into tech. Even schools have added STEM activities to their curricula to ensure that their kids do not miss out on the numerous benefits of having a STEM skill.
Coding for kids is easy, fun, and accessible. There are many ways with which parents can introduce their kids to coding, some of which include coding programs, resources, coding subscription boxes and kits, coding boot camps, coding books, apps, games, and many more! The idea behind these is to ensure all kids have equal opportunities to get involved in STEM. So, whether your kids want to learn robotics, Python, website development, games, etc., you can be sure to find a perfect coding program for them.
A remarkable tool for kids to get into the world of programming is LEGO. LEGO is a colorful building block toy for learning how to code. The LEGO plastic bricks can be easily assembled and disassembled, making them seamless for kids to use. Kids can build several incredible activities like a DIY LEGO chess set, a LEGO lantern, LEGO picture puzzles, and LEGO snow globes, among others.
Kids can have maximum fun with the LEGO set, while learning the basics of coding for kids, coding toys, problem-solving, and critical thinking.
Overview of LEGO Coding with Kids
LEGO coding with kids introduces kids to the basics of programming and STEM through fun activities. LEGO coding also educates kids on off-screen and computer coding, math, engineering, and ratios, as well as other coding functions like loops, variables, statements, etc.
The simplicity of the LEGO bricks is one of its strengths, and young children as early as 4 years of age can get started with the LEGO toys. The LEGO sets can be used interchangeably, as all LEGO toys are compatible with each other. This means that your kids can own as many LEGO sets as they want, and creatively assemble them.
Older kids can also code with LEGO. Parents can teach their kids computer code and robotics with the LEGO bricks sets. Learning to code with LEGO is exciting, as kids get to enter into the world of robotics and electronics through hands-on LEGO projects.
LEGO originally uses the LEGO Mindstorm programming, a visual programming language. However, kids can also learn other visual and text-based languages, including Python, Lua, and Scratch, among others. If you want your kids to combine simplicity with fun and learning, then you should totally try LEGO toys!
All About LEGO Coding
LEGO is a great way to introduce kids to programming. The project ideas range from simple to complex and kids can always grow with them. They can begin with simple LEGO coding toys, then proceed to use bigger sets as they grow older. Also, the old LEGO bricks will continue to remain relevant as all LEGO bricks can be assembled interchangeably.
LEGO and coding are two mutually exclusive terms; this means that kids can learn how to create awesome projects without including coding and computer science. They will also understand certain coding syntax and terminologies, such as variables, algorithms, loops, bits, etc. However, coding is important, and as kids progress, they will have to extend their knowledge to coding with LEGO.
LEGO coding inspires kids to think critically and creatively. Kids can discover incredible projects with the LEGO bricks, and task themselves with learning the codes. All your kids need is to learn the basics of LEGO and coding, then they can begin to explore!
In addition, kids can also enter the world of robotics with LEGO robotics toys. Due to the increase in technological trends, the demand for robots has skyrocketed. Robotic inventions are and will continue to remain indispensable in our society. With LEGO coding, kids can learn the basic and advanced methods of building and activating robots. A strong knowledge of how robotics will also help kids understand how technology works.
Benefits of LEGO Coding for Kids
These are some of the positive benefits fo teaching kids LEGO coding:
- Kids understand programming concepts better. Programming is simply a person telling a computer what to do. LEGO coding is practical, and kids will absorb the process more efficiently.
- Coding with LEGO births creativity and independence in kids.
- It promotes independence
- It promotes teamwork and collaboration
- Young children will also acquire other skills, including computational thinking, computer skills, problem-solving, algorithmic thinking, and critical thinking.
LEGO Mindstorms
LEGO Mindstorms is a programmable LEGO robotic kit for kids. Designed for ages 10 and above, the LEGO robotics set equips kids with the skills to build and program up to 17 LEGO robots in one set. Kids and other learners have the opportunity to code 5 different LEGO robotics modules.
- Who doesn't love robots? Introduce kids to the creative world of coding with the best educational STEM toys to foster their curiosities. Building, learning, and programming robots has never been more fun!
- Includes 847 LEGO pieces that kids can build and rebuild into 5 cool multifunctional models. The best and most popular robotics toys for 7-12 year old boys and girls who love to tinker and learn about science. Use the latest tech like color, distance and tilt sensors.
- Construct and code Vernie the Robot to dance, rock out on the Guitar4000, foster Frankie the Cat, interact with the Autobuilder, or explore a new discovery with the M.T.R.4 (Multi-Tooled Rover 4). The IQ-boosting activities are endless!
The Mindstorm robots use drag-and-drop based coding, one of the easiest and most effective methods for kids to learn to code. The LEGO Mindstorms also has a free app with over 50 robotic activities for kids to engage in and have fun with. In addition, kids can also create customized remote controls for their inventions.
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- With LEGO MINDSTORMS Robot Inventor (51515), kids gain essential STEM skills as they build, code and play with remote-control model robots and intelligent creations that shoot missiles, play ball, drive around and more!
- With almost 1,000 pieces, including an intelligent Hub, 4 Medium Motors, Color Sensor and Distance Sensor with break-out interface, youngsters can also build their own fun robotic toys and share them online on LEGO Life
- An easy-to-install rechargeable battery is included, so no need to go hunting for spare batteries when the fun’s about to start
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The five LEGO modules in the Mindstorms set include Tricky, Gelo, m.v.p, Charlie, and Blast. Kids can learn all about how to control a robot’s components, and movements, avoid obstacles, assemble robots, etc. Charlie, one of the robotic modules, can play the drums, jump, dance, smile, deliver gifts and letters, and many more! Don’t you just love these LEGO Mindstorm robots?
To suffix this, there are several step-by-step guides, codes, and other activities that make learning with the LEGO Mindstorms seamless. LEGO Mindstorms are also a perfect way to introduce kids to science, engineering, critical thinking, programming, computers, technology, robotics, and math. Kids can unravel their LEGO Mindstorms with their friends, as this encourages teamwork, collaboration, and critical thinking.
LEGO Robotics Programming Classes
LEGO robotics and coding is wide in scope, and without a proper guide, you can get frustrated and almost give up. There are several LEGO robotics programming classes for kids that guide kids from the fundamentals of LEGO, robotics, and coding, then guide them through their journeys to become experts. Here are some of the best LEGO robotics programming classes for kids.
LEGO Coding Activities
This robotics programming class for kids gradually guides kids through the various levels of programming with LEGO robotics. This gives kids the ability to grow with their LEGO toys. As they proceed to higher levels, the lessons become more intense and comprehensive. There are four levels in total here, with lessons and activities at the end of each lesson.
Coding a LEGO Maze
Coding a LEGO maze is a combination of the theoretical and practical aspects of coding a LEGO maze. This class is accessible to young children from the age of 5 and above. The activities are grouped into simple and complex, so younger kids can always hop on the easier projects, and progress to harder projects with time.
Carnegie Mellon Robotics Academy
At this robotics school, learners can master the basics of programming with LEGO Mindstorms EV3. The curriculum contains 10 projects which enumerate the core principles of LEGO, robotics, and programming, including computer science and engineering.
Why Learn Coding with LEGO
Why learn to code? Why should young children be introduced to a seemingly complex subject like coding? The simple answer is that technology is rapidly emerging as the new standard, and coding, is at its center. Coders are in high demand, and learning computer code early gives you an edge in your career.
Beyond building their careers around programming and computer science, coding also poses other numerous benefits for kids in their subjects and regular lives. Coding, for instance, improves mathematical skills. It is common knowledge that kids shy away from math, but when kids combine coding with math, it significantly improves their mathematical skills.
Logical thinking and pattern recognition are necessary skills everyone must possess. Patterns are seen in everyday simple routines, like brushing your teeth or making a cookie, and when kids learn to code, they are subconsciously building their logical reasoning. Coding, just like science, is based on patterns, which helps learners master the art of recognizing patterns in coding and other subjects as well.
Other benefits of learning to code include the following:
- Coding improves persistence and problem-solving skills
- Coding creates room for innovation
- Kids have a better and secure future with coding and other STEM-related subjects
- Coding boosts language skills and confidence.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is LEGO Mindstorms?
LEGO Mindstorms are also a perfect way to introduce kids to science, engineering, critical thinking, programming, computers, technology, robotics, and math. Designed for ages 10 and above, the LEGO robotics set equips kids with the skills to build and program up to 17 LEGO robots in one set.
What is LEGO Robotics and Coding?
This is a method for learners to enter the world of robotics and coding, using the LEGO robotics set.
What do you get a kid who likes LEGOs and coding?
The perfect tool to get a kid who likes the idea of LEGOs and coding is the LEGO Mindstorms. This article highlights what you need to know about the LEGO Mindstorms.
Summary
I hope this provides you a great overview of inspiring kids to learn about computer science using LEGO coding and getting them excited in the fields of STEM. LEGO Mindstorms is an amazing program that allows kid programmers to code and transfer to a robot!
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- LEGO Programming for Kids with Mindstorm
