School-Age
FromRobotics for Young Children,
Ann Gadzikowski
What to have
For this activity, you’ll need the following materials:
- a broken robotic toy
- extra batteries
- screwdrivers of various sizes
What to do
When a robotic toy stops working properly, invite the children to create a robot hospital. The children may enjoy creating a welcoming hospital-like environment that’s similar to a human hospital, with a soft blanket or bed on which the robot can rest. The children may also enjoy using dramatic play props, such a doctor’s coat and toy stethoscope, to pretend that they are taking care of the broken robot as a doctor would care for a patient in a hospital. With any battery-powered toy, a weak or dead battery is often the cause of a malfunction. If you have extra batteries that are the right size for this particular robotic toy, suggest that changing the battery is an option, and invite the children to help you try to fix the toy. In most cases, a Phillips screwdriver will be the only equipment you need to change the battery. The manufacturer’s website may provide specific details about what type of battery is needed and how to change it. Young children will probably not yet have the dexterity to assist with the tools, but you can give them turns to help by holding a flashlight or handing off the tools while you or another adult changes the battery.
Why
Children will learn to care for machines and to diagnose issues with their functionality.
For more activities check out
Robotics for Young Children: STEM Activities and Simple Coding
By Ann Gadzikowski Copyright 2018 School-Age