Coding is the next generation of creativity for kids. Teaching commands to robots and electronics is a way of the future, and it’s never too early to teach kids how to be tech savvy. We’ve had hands on experience with coding toys for my older daughter, but the learning curve was high. Fisher Price, a leading name in children’s product from infant and up, has harnessed the power of teaching kids how to code in a much simpler context – a caterpillar that follows your commands.
The Fisher Price Codeapillar teaches preschoolers the basics of coding. Teaching little ones that one command may be to turn left, go straight, play a tune, or turn right – Codeapillar will happily oblige with a smile on his face! He even responds to a gentle head-tap. My two girls, ages 4 and 6, took turns changing the commands to see what Codeapillar will do next. The bright lights and music attracted my youngest who is 1, but doesn’t quite grasp the purpose of the toy. He loved watching Codeapillar light up and move.
The interactive design of the Fisher Price Codeapillar is just what kids need to understand the basics of coding, and what better way to learn than through play time! Codeapillar comes with 8 interchangeable command units, the main structure (the head) and two discs that can be used to play games. The discs are not necessary for the unit to work, but you can have your children test out their string of commands with Codeapillar to see where it ends up in relation to the discs.
Playing with Codeapillar was a fun family activity, but the real test in whether or not a toy is worth a purchase is how many times the kids will go back to the toy to play with it after the initial unboxing. My girls have been playing with Codeapillar for a week now, and each day they test their limits to see what they can have Codeapillar do next. In my opinion, the Fisher Price Codeapillar is a primary stepping stone to more advanced technological skills that my girls will learn as they get older.
The Fisher Price Codeapillar is available for purchase at Best Buy. Fisher Price has more toys in the Think & Learn product line that enhance technological learning. You can find out more by visiting Fisher Price.