Coding isn’t only for big kids, and the basics—like learning cause-and-effect and problem solving—don’t have to be mastered on a computer. These fun picks will get your child thinking like a real programmer.
By Michelle Crouch from Parents Magazine
1 of 7 If This, Then That
As simple as it gets! Color-match one of the figures to the correct spot on Kid O’s Myland Houseboat tub toy and a light goes on. Place the other correctly to sound the horn. 2 years+, $45.
2of 7
On the Right Path
The Learning Resources Code & Go Robot Mouseset’s changing board challenges kids to direct the critter to cheese. 5 years+, $60.
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Chain of Command
The Osmo’s Coding Game adds on to its iPad-based system. Your kid orders actions for a monster, then watches a story unfold. 5 years+, $49 plus $79 for Osmo Starter Kit.
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Bit by Bit
The Kano Computer Kit has your kid build the hardware and program the software. 6 years+, $150 plus $150 for screen (or use one at home).
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Wired to Be Charming
Free apps for iOS, Android, or Fire let kids turn Wonder Workshop’s Dot into a customized Magic 8 Ball and more. 6 years+, $50.
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Open-Ended Play
Your child commands the Mover Kit, from Technology Will Save Us, to light up when and how she wants. 8 years+, $75.
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Thinking Big
Coding that’s intuitive! Each part of the Fisher-Price Think & Learn Code-A-Pillar dictates an action. Pull it apart and reassemble in any order, then hit the go button to watch the creature follow each step. Use the arrow and star to set up a challenge. 3 to 6 years, $50.
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