Introducing the 10 Best Coding Toys For Kids for 2023, a comprehensive list that encompasses the most engaging and educational toys designed to ignite the passion for coding in young minds. In this fast-paced digital era, equipping children with essential coding skills has never been more important. These cutting-edge toys not only make computer programming accessible and fun but also foster creativity, problem-solving, and logical thinking. From programmable robots to interactive coding games, these top ten coding toys offer an excellent platform for children to explore the exciting world of programming while having a blast. So, let's dive into our curated selection and discover the perfect coding toy for your budding young coders!
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Learning Resources Code & Go Robot Mouse Activity Set is a screen-free early coding toy designed for kids ages 4 and up. This interactive STEM coding pet helps children develop critical thinking, coding skills, and problem-solving abilities. The set includes a robot mouse named Colby, which lights up, makes sounds, and features 2 speeds and colorful buttons for easy programming. With 16 maze grids, 22 maze walls, 3 tunnels, coding cards, and activity guides, kids can learn coding concepts through hands-on play. The Code & Go Robot Mouse Activity Set is a super STEM learning tool that helps kids build essential skills for success in school and beyond. It also makes for a great gift idea for various occasions, including back-to-school, holidays, birthdays, and more. Overall, this coding toy provides an engaging and educational experience for young learners.
Key Features
- Develops critical thinking, coding skills, and problem-solving
- Teaches coding fundamentals and programming concepts
- Robot mouse Colby with lights, sounds, and 2 speeds
- Includes maze grids, walls, tunnels, coding cards, and activity guide
- Promotes STEM learning and skill development
- Ideal gift for various occasions
Specifications
- Color: Multi-color
- Dimension: 16.30Lx12.60Wx3.10H
- Size: –
Pros
- Engaging and interactive learning experience
- High-quality and durable plastic pieces
- Simple setup and programming process
- Allows for creativity and customization
Cons
- Unclear instructions in non-English language
- Buttons on mouse not labeled
The Learning Resources Code & Go Robot Mouse Activity Set is a fantastic educational toy that introduces young kids to the world of coding in a fun and interactive way. With its engaging features, durable construction, and versatile gameplay, this coding pet provides an excellent opportunity for children to develop critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and coding fundamentals. While the non-English instructions may cause some confusion, the overall experience and learning potential of this toy make it a worthwhile purchase. Whether as a back-to-school gift or for various other occasions, the Code & Go Robot Mouse Activity Set is sure to captivate young minds and inspire their interest in STEM subjects.
Overall Score: 8/10
Introducing the Learning Resources Botley The Coding Robot 2.0 Activity Set! This coding robot is perfect for kids aged 5 and above, providing them with a fun and interactive way to learn coding and STEM skills. With 78 pieces included in the set, kids can enjoy 16 different coding styles and transform Botley 2.0 into various forms such as a train, police car, and ghost. The best part is that this coding robot offers screen-free fun, allowing kids to learn coding without the need for a tablet or phone. Designed to foster critical thinking and other important skills, the Botley The Coding Robot 2.0 Activity Set makes for a great gift idea for any occasion, including back to school. With its bright colors and durable build quality, this coding robot is sure to provide hours of educational and entertaining fun!
Key Features
- Code right out of the box with the next generation of our Toy of the Year winning coding robot
- 16 fun interactions—transform Botley 2.0 into a train, police car, ghost, and more
- Features expanded coding styles—code through music, lights, and movements
- Coding helps kids learn coding and STEM skills without a tablet or phone
- From science and technology to engineering and math, STEM learning help kids build critical thinking and other skills they need for success
- Ideal gift for Halloween, Christmas, Stocking Stuffers, Easter Baskets Stuffers or even for Homeschool
- Make this the smartest back-to-school yet with toys and tools from Learning Resources trusted by teachers and parents alike since 1984
Specifications
- Color: Multi-color
- Dimension: 9.60Lx9.10Wx6.40H
Pros
- Provides a fun and interactive way for kids to learn coding and STEM skills
- Offers screen-free fun without the need for a tablet or phone
- Features a durable and colorful design
- Includes 78 pieces and 16 different coding styles for endless play possibilities
Cons
- Botley's turn angles are limited to 90 or 45 degrees, which may lead to programming errors
- Some users have reported quality issues with the communication between Botley and the remote programmer
- Limited accessories available for the robot
The Learning Resources Botley The Coding Robot 2.0 Activity Set is a fantastic educational toy that provides kids with an engaging way to learn coding and STEM skills. With its colorful design and 78 pieces, kids can enjoy transforming Botley 2.0 into various forms and exploring different coding styles. The screen-free nature of this toy allows kids to have fun while learning, and the durable build quality ensures it will last for years to come. While there may be some limitations in terms of turn angles and communication issues reported by some users, overall, this coding robot offers an excellent opportunity for kids to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The Learning Resources Botley The Coding Robot 2.0 Activity Set is a great gift idea for kids aged 5 and above, making learning both educational and fun!
Overall Score: 7.8/10
Introduce your child to the world of coding with Scrambles the Fox, an interactive STEM coding toy. Scrambles comes with a 12-page full-color storybook adventure that presents coding challenges for kids to solve. The toy is screen-free, allowing children to develop coding skills without the need for technology. Kids can code Scrambles to follow black-line paths and reach the goal, promoting sequential and computational thinking. This toy makes a great gift for various occasions and is perfect for children aged 4 and above. However, some customers have experienced issues with the toy's functionality, such as wheels not spinning properly. Nevertheless, it remains a cute and enjoyable coding toy for preschool and kindergarten-aged children.
Key Features
- Meet a new coding friend: Scrambles the Fox
- Coding challenges keep kids engaged with a full-color storybook
- Teach Scrambles to follow paths with black-line tracks
- Build screen-free coding skills
- Ideal gift for various occasions
Specifications
- Color: Multi
- Dimension: 6.30Lx7.30Wx2.50H
Pros
- Engaging and interactive coding toy
- Promotes sequential and computational thinking
- Allows kids to create their own paths
- Perfect for teaching coding and storytelling
- Suitable for preschool and kindergarten-aged children
Cons
- Issues with functionality, such as wheels not spinning properly
Learning Resources Coding Critters Go Pets Scrambles the Fox is an adorable and engaging coding toy that introduces preschool and kindergarten-aged children to the basics of coding. With a fun storybook and the ability to teach Scrambles to follow paths, kids can develop their sequential and computational thinking skills while having a blast. It’s a great gift option for occasions like Halloween, Christmas, or birthdays. However, some customers have reported issues with the toy’s functionality, particularly with the wheels. Despite these concerns, the Coding Critters Go Pets Scrambles the Fox remains a valuable tool for screen-free coding education.
Overall Score: 7.5/10
The Learning Resources Coding Critters Ranger & Zip is a screen-free early coding toy that introduces children ages 4 and up to the world of coding. The toy comes with a 22-piece set and a storybook coding adventure, allowing kids to code along with their first coding friends. They can play fetch, hide and seek, and more with the brave Ranger and mischievous Zip. The pet playset allows kids to design their own coding challenges, and in play mode, they can feed, pet, and take care of their interactive pets. This interactive STEM coding toy helps children develop important STEM skills while having fun. It is an ideal gift for boys and girls, suitable for holidays, birthdays, and even as a back-to-school gift. The Coding Critters Ranger & Zip is a great tool for introducing coding concepts to young learners.
Key Features
- EARLY CODING SKILLS: Code along with your first coding friends and their screen-free storybook coding adventure
- PLAY MODE: Play fetch, hide and seek, and more with brave Ranger and mischievous Zip
- KID CODING ROBOT: Design your own endless coding challenges with the 22-piece pet Playset
- REAL PET PLAY: Feed, pet, and take care of your interactive pets in play mode
- Super STEM Skills: From science and technology to engineering and math, STEM learning help kids build critical thinking and other skills they need for success in school and beyond!
- GIVE THE GIFT OF LEARNING: Discover new learning fun every time you give a gift, ideal for holidays, birthdays, and back-to-school
- A Brighter Back to School: Make this the smartest back-to-school yet with toys and tools from Learning Resource trusted by teachers and parents alike since 1984!
Specifications
- Color: Multi
- Dimension: 10.00Lx5.00Wx9.25H
- Size: Osfa
Pros
- Screen-free coding toy for early learners
- Comes with a storybook coding adventure
- Allows design and customization of coding challenges
- Teaches STEM skills in a fun and interactive way
- Ideal gift for boys and girls
Cons
- Limited coding capabilities
- Lack of feedback on the entered commands
- Potentially overpriced for the functionality provided
The Learning Resources Coding Critters Ranger & Zip is a fun and engaging way to introduce young children to the world of coding. While it may lack some advanced features, it provides an excellent foundation for early coding skills. With its screen-free design and interactive playset, children can have hours of learning fun while developing important STEM skills. The toy’s durability and appealing design make it a great gift for boys and girls. However, it is worth noting that the coding capabilities of the toy are limited, and it may not provide a long-term challenge for more advanced learners. Overall, the Coding Critters Ranger & Zip is a valuable tool for early learners and a worthwhile addition to any child’s toy collection.
Overall Score: 8.7/10
Discover the magic of preschool coding with Skye the Unicorn! This screen-free coding toy allows kids aged 4 and up to learn coding skills through interactive play. Skye can perform 12 different coding spells that make her light up, dance, chase her ball, and more. The toy also includes a coding spellbook for kids to follow along with exciting storybook adventures. By engaging with Skye, children develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and STEM skills. Learning Resources has been a trusted brand in educational toys since 1984, making this a smart choice for back-to-school supplies. Colorful and engaging, this coding pet is the perfect gift for young learners!
Key Features
- Discover the magic of preschool coding with Skye the Unicorn
- 12 preschool coding spells to make Skye light up, dance, and more
- Code your way through storybook adventures
- Super STEM skills for critical thinking and problem-solving
- Trusted brand for back-to-school supplies
Specifications
- Color: Multi
- Dimension: 10.00Lx9.00Wx5.00H
- Size: 22 Pieces
Pros
- Engages kids in screen-free coding and interactive play
- Develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Colorful and engaging design
- Trusted brand with a long history in educational toys
Cons
- Requires initial adult-child interaction and instruction
- Limited number of coding spellbooks
- Some users experienced issues with the toy not working
Learning Resources Coding Critters MagiCoders: Skye the Unicorn is a fantastic educational toy for young kids. With its screen-free coding capabilities and interactive play features, it provides a fun and engaging way for children to learn critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The colorful and captivating design of Skye the Unicorn is sure to keep kids entertained and motivated while they explore coding concepts. While the toy may require some initial adult guidance, it offers a great opportunity for parents and children to interact and learn together. Overall, this coding pet is a valuable addition to any child’s toy collection, providing both educational and entertainment value.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Code Rocket Coding Toy is a fantastic tool for kids aged 8 and above to learn block and typed programming with circuits. This coding toy is designed for both boys and girls with no coding experience, offering a hands-on learning experience that combines building real electronic circuits with immediate results. With over 20 projects and built-in LED lights, buttons, and speaker, it provides endless hours of fun and learning. Kids can start with block-based coding like Scratch or Hour of Code, and then progress to text-based code like the pros use. The Code Rocket Coding Toy is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Chromebook computers, and comes with free online projects and helpful reference cards. It's a great way to inspire kids' future careers in coding!
Key Features
- Real coding projects with hands-on circuits
- All-inclusive kit with LED lights, buttons, and speaker
- Compatible with block and typed programming
- Designed for kids aged 8+
- Provides a fun and educational coding experience
- Free online projects with video tutorials
Specifications
- Dimension: 3.50Lx2.00Wx0.10H
Pros
- Suitable for beginners with no coding experience
- Inspires future career paths
- Highly awarded by parent review organizations
- Comes with all necessary components and reference cards
Cons
- Not compatible with tablets or smartphones
- Small size may disappoint some users
- Initial lack of explanation about coding concepts
The Code Rocket Coding Toy is a fantastic tool to introduce kids to the world of programming. It offers a hands-on learning experience that combines building circuits with coding, making it engaging and fun. The kit includes all the necessary components and reference cards, while the online projects provide step-by-step guidance with video tutorials. Although it may be small in size, it packs a punch in terms of learning opportunities. Overall, this coding toy is a great investment that can inspire and cultivate an interest in coding for young learners. Whether they are beginners or have dabbled in coding before, the Code Rocket Coding Toy offers a rich educational experience that can ignite a passion for programming in kids.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Learning Resources Coding Critters Scamper & Sneaker is an interactive STEM coding toy designed for kids ages 4 and up. This screen-free toy allows children to code along with their first coding friends and embark on exciting coding adventures using a storybook. The set includes 22 pieces, giving kids endless coding challenges to design. In play mode, kids can simulate real pet responsibility by feeding, petting, and taking care of their interactive pets. With its focus on STEM learning, this toy helps kids build critical thinking and other essential skills. Whether it's for holidays, birthdays, or just because, this educational toy makes an ideal gift.
Key Features
- Early coding skills with screen-free storybook adventure
- Option to teach Scamper & Sneaker to fetch and more
- 22-piece playset for designing endless coding challenges
- Play mode simulates real pet responsibility
- Supports STEM learning for critical thinking skills
- Great gift option for various occasions
Specifications
- Color: Multi
- Dimension: 10.00Lx5.00Wx9.00H
Pros
- Bigger set than expected
- Magnetic pieces add excitement to play
- Has both coding and play modes
- Helps develop coding and problem-solving skills
- Ideal for kids who love cats and electronics
Cons
- Coding can be frustrating initially
- Alignment issues affect accuracy of movements
- Small wheels limit movement on carpet
- Doesn't work in some cases
The Learning Resources Coding Critters Scamper & Sneaker is a fantastic educational toy that introduces kids to coding in a fun and interactive way. With its engaging storybook adventure and interactive pet play mode, it keeps children entertained while they develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The set is larger than expected and includes magnetic pieces that enhance the play experience. However, coding can be frustrating at times, and the accuracy of movements may be affected by alignment issues. Additionally, the toy may not work in some cases, which can be disappointing. Overall, this toy is a great gift option for young coders and offers an excellent introduction to coding concepts.
Overall Score: 8/10
Introduce young children to the world of computer science with the Playz My First Coding & Computer Science Kit. This exciting science kit provides a hands-on learning experience by allowing kids to engage in fun activities such as creating binary necklaces, sorting races, pixelated pictures, and more. Without the need for a computer, this kit offers an interactive and educational way for children to learn about binary codes, encryption, algorithms, and pixelation. With over 30 tools, ingredients, and parts, and a colorful lab guide filled with pictures and information, kids will have hours of educational fun at home or in the classroom. Perfect for boys, girls, kids, and teens ages 6 and up, this kit is an excellent gift for birthdays or Christmas. Let your child's mind be engaged and watch their knowledge thrive!
Key Features
- Fun and exciting way to learn about computer science
- Includes 30+ tools, ingredients, and parts
- Easy-to-use colorful lab guide
- Challenges the mind and improves test grades
- STEM educational set
Specifications
- Dimension: 12.20Lx10.10Wx2.80H
Pros
- Engaging and hands-on learning experience
- Loaded with value and educational content
- Easy-to-follow instructions
- Improves understanding of coding concepts
- Encourages interest in computer science
Cons
- Lack of information about computer interaction
The Playz My First Coding & Computer Science Kit is an impressive educational tool for children and teenagers. With its interactive activities and colorful lab guide, it provides a fun and engaging way for kids to learn about computer science concepts. The kit is loaded with value and offers hours of educational fun at home or in the classroom. While it could provide more information on computer interaction, it still manages to improve understanding of coding and spark interest in computer science among young minds. Overall, this is a fantastic gift for any child or teen interested in exploring the world of computer science.
Overall Score: 7/10
Introducing Dart the Chameleon, your twisting, twirling coding friend! This interactive early coding toy is designed to provide screen-free fun while helping kids develop coding and critical thinking skills. With Dart's 12-page full-color storybook adventure, children can solve coding challenges and guide Dart along black-line paths to reach his goal. This educational toy/gift from Learning Resources fosters important skills such as counting, sequential thought, and computational thinking. Whether it's for holidays, birthdays, or just because, the gift of Learning Resources toys always brings new learning opportunities. Ideal for kids ages 4 and up.
Key Features
- Interactive chameleon pet
- Solve coding challenges in a storybook adventure
- Teaches coding and critical thinking skills
- Builds screen-free coding skills
- Ideal for holidays, birthdays, and homeschooling
Specifications
- Color: Multi
- Dimension: 7.30Lx6.30Wx2.80H
- Size: Medium
Pros
- Engaging and interactive gameplay
- Encourages critical thinking and coding skills
- Ideal for kids who don't like computer games
- Chirps adorably
- Durable toy for kids of all ages
Cons
- Smaller than expected
- Overpriced
- Moves slowly
- Cardboard track pieces
- Book is made of paper
Learning Resources Coding Critters Go Pets Dart the Chameleon is a delightful early coding toy that offers interactive and educational fun for kids. While its size and slow movement may be a drawback for some, it still manages to engage children in solving coding challenges and developing critical thinking skills. The chirping sound adds an adorable touch to the play experience. The inclusion of a storybook adventure enhances the educational value of the toy, making it more than just a coding pet. Overall, this toy is a great gift option for young children who are interested in learning coding concepts and improving their computational thinking abilities.
Overall Score: 7.5/10
The imagiCharm is a STEM educational coding toy designed for kids aged 8-13+. This programmable accessory pairs with a mobile-based game to create and bring to life pixel art. It encourages self-expression as kids display their wearable original art creations. The imagi coding game allows children to create customized and colorful pixel art, which is then displayed on the imagiCharm in real-time through a Bluetooth connection. Kids can learn Python, the popular text-based programming language, in a fun and engaging way. The product has received positive reviews from various media outlets and provides a safe community for kids to interact with peers worldwide. Made by imagiLabs, a female-founded and award-winning Swedish company, the imagiCharm is a high-quality and educational gift for both girls and boys.
Key Features
- BRINGS CODE TO LIFE – Wearable pixel art creations
- MAKES LEARNING FUN – Learn Python programming language
- SAFE COMMUNITY – Engage with a moderated global group
- HIGH QUALITY – Made by imagi Labs, a female-founded company
- GIFTABLE – Perfect STEM gift for girls and boys
Specifications
- Color: Green
- Dimension: 2.09Lx0.67Wx2.09H
- Size: Small
Pros
- Encourages self-expression and creativity
- Safe and moderated global community
- High-quality construction and design
- Effective learning tool for Python programming
- Ideal STEM gift for kids
Cons
- Limited battery capacity for all-day use
- Issues with Bluetooth connectivity
- Processor capacity limitations for multiple threads
- Customer service response times could be improved
- Small pixel block size limits creative possibilities
The imagiCharm is a fantastic STEM educational toy for kids aged 8-13+. It combines creative expression with coding skills, allowing children to bring their pixel art creations to life. The device is well-made and durable, ensuring hours of fun and learning. While there are some limitations, such as battery life and connectivity issues, the overall educational value and enjoyment provided by the imagiCharm make it a worthwhile gift for young girls and boys interested in programming and technology. With its focus on self-expression, learning, and a safe global community, the imagiCharm is an innovative and engaging way for kids to explore the world of coding.
Buyer's Guide: Coding Toys for Kids
Coding toys are an excellent way to introduce kids to the world of programming in a fun and interactive manner. These toys not only enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills but also foster creativity and ignite a passion for technology. If you're looking to buy a coding toy for your child, here's a comprehensive buyer's guide to help you make an informed decision.
Factors to Consider
- Age Appropriateness
- Different coding toys are designed for different age groups. Consider your child's age and choose a toy that matches their learning and cognitive abilities.
- Ease of Use
- Look for coding toys that provide a smooth learning curve and are easy to use. Intuitive interfaces and simple instructions ensure that kids can quickly grasp the concepts without getting overwhelmed.
- Educational Value
- Ensure the toy offers educational value by teaching fundamental coding concepts such as sequencing, loops, and algorithms. Look for toys that promote logical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Engagement and Interactivity
- Interactive coding toys that engage children's interest through stimulating visuals, sounds, and challenges are generally more effective in keeping them engaged and motivated to learn.
- Versatility and Expandability
- Consider toys that offer scalability and can adapt to your child's growing skills. Select products that allow for expandability, such as additional coding challenges or modules to continue challenging and inspiring your child.
- Quality and Durability
- Assess the overall build quality and durability of the coding toy. Look for sturdy construction and safe materials to ensure the toy will withstand the enthusiastic play of young learners.
- Reviews and Recommendations
- Read reviews and seek recommendations from other parents or educators to get an idea about the coding toy's effectiveness and longevity. Real user experiences can provide valuable insights into the toy's pros and cons.
Frequently Asked Questions about 10 Best Coding Toys For Kids for 2023
Coding toys are available for various age ranges, starting from preschoolers to teenagers. There are options for every age group, ensuring an appropriate learning experience.
Absolutely! Many coding toys are designed specifically for beginners, assuming no prior coding knowledge. They provide step-by-step instructions and interactive tutorials to teach basic coding concepts.
Yes, coding toys now come in different forms, including screen-free options. Some use physical pieces or cards that kids can manipulate, allowing them to learn coding concepts without the need for a computer or tablet.
Coding toys promote numerous essential skills, including problem-solving, logical thinking, creativity, sequencing, pattern recognition, and computational thinking. These skills are valuable across various fields, extending beyond coding itself.
Absolutely not! Coding toys are suitable for all children, regardless of their gender. These toys encourage inclusivity and offer learning opportunities for everyone, helping break gender stereotypes in the world of technology.
Yes, coding toys are an excellent supplement to homeschooling or classroom learning. They can reinforce coding concepts taught in formal education, provide hands-on experiences, and enhance engagement through interactive play.
Not at all! Coding toys come in a range of prices to suit different budgets. There are affordable options that offer quality learning experiences for kids, ensuring that coding education is accessible to a wider audience.
Absolutely! Coding toys often encourage collaboration and group learning. They can be enjoyed solo or in a social setting, promoting teamwork and cooperative problem-solving among siblings or friends.
While some coding toys are language-specific, many focus on teaching fundamental concepts that apply to various programming languages. These toys lay a solid foundation that can be easily built upon when kids progress to more complex programming languages.
Not at all! While coding toys are an excellent way to introduce kids to programming, they also cultivate skills that are valuable in various fields such as problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration, making them beneficial regardless of future career paths.
