Robots have now found their way into many parts of everyday life. Teachers are discovering that encouraging children to build their own robots brings not only enjoyment but also a strong learning opportunity.
It allows youngsters to develop early interest in STEM subjects, preparing them for more serious studies later on. But how can one make a robot right from home?
You don’t need to worry about complexity when it comes to building robots at home. Here are three straightforward types of DIY robots that parents and their children can easily put together.
Walking Robot at Home (Photo: Walking Robot/Getty Images)
1. The “Bristlebot”
A bristlebot is a small and simple robot that your children can easily assemble at home using the bristle part of a toothbrush.
After cutting off the bristle end, you simply attach a small pre-wired motor along with a coin cell battery. Although it is quite simple to create, the joy and sense of achievement it gives children make the activity worthwhile.
2. A Rolling Robot
Compared to a bristlebot, building a rolling robot demands a bit more effort and extra materials. However, the excitement it brings at the end makes it well worth it.
Parents are advised to assist their children, especially with tasks that involve using tools like drills. It is also wise to wear protective goggles to ensure safety throughout the project.
3. Makeblock mBot Ranger
The mBot2 Ranger is a programmable educational robot perfect for learning robotics, AI, and coding skills. Designed to offer three transformable forms—RC robot car, tank, and self-balancing vehicle—it works perfectly on different surfaces like floors, grassy fields, hillsides, sand, and more.
Thanks to its user-friendly graphical programming interface and support for Python, students and hobbyists can easily sharpen their STEAM skills.
Equipped with durable sensors, a strong metal structure, and intelligent AI features, mBot2 Ranger provides a fun and interactive experience for anyone keen on robotics and automation.
4. A Rowing-Boat Robot
If you are tired of seeing robots only moving on land, then a rowing-boat robot offers something fresh. Powered by a DC motor and two batteries, this robot can actually float and move on water.
It is a fantastic idea for children to build this kind of robot with their friends during the summer holidays and enjoy racing them in the pool. A step-by-step video is available to guide you through making your own rowing-boat robot.
DIY Rowing Boat at Home (Photo: DIY Rowing Boat/Twitter)
While the robots mentioned earlier are enjoyable and easy for families to build, they sometimes leave children wanting more due to their basic structures.
For parents whose kids are ready for more challenging activities, several advanced kits offer intricate construction projects that demand higher hands-on skills and promise greater satisfaction.
5. Makeblock mBot2 Rover Robotics Kit
The mBot2 Rover stands out as a fantastic introductory STEM kit crafted for young robotics lovers eager to head into programming and engineering.
With the ability to handle various terrains and execute turns at preset angles, this robot brings plenty of enjoyment for children both indoors and outdoors.
It works hand in hand with the Makeblock App, a robust software that empowers kids to control the rover effortlessly or adjust preset controls however they like.
Through this, children gain knowledge of robotic systems, basic electronic components, block-based programming, logical thinking, and design.
6. UBTECH UKIT Beginner
UBTECH UKIT Beginner serves as a fine starting point for primary school pupils to learn about robotics and coding. Specially designed for young students, this kit, combined with a well-structured curriculum, delivers exciting STEM education.
It fosters computational thinking and problem-solving abilities, particularly suited for elementary school learners. Using UBTECH Education’s special uKit EDU app, students easily assemble and program their projects through block-based coding.
It is best used in groups of two to four students, making it an excellent tool for building teamwork and collaboration skills among kids.
7. LEGO Spike Prime
SPIKE Prime is a creative package that combines LEGO bricks, a programmable Hub with several ports, sensors, and motors, all controlled by the friendly SPIKE app based on Scratch coding.
The kit features LEGO Technic elements that allow the creation of different models like humanoid robots, rovers, and even musical instruments like guitars. Students can programme these creations through the easy-to-use Spike App, offering opportunities for both beginners and more experienced users.
It builds creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills by enabling students to design, build, and program a wide range of robotic projects.
8. Clic Bot
Clic Bot focuses on simplicity and flexibility by allowing users to easily snap together different components to form numerous robotic designs. Promising the possibility of creating up to a thousand variations, ClicBot provides ample room for creativity.
With many modules and customisation options, users can learn programming while enjoying the construction of personalised robots.
The platform contains motors, sensors, and a main control unit, all designed for user-friendliness, so anyone can quickly assemble their creations without needing complicated tools or specialised knowledge.
9. mBot Mega: Remote Control Robot
mBot Mega separates itself from other kits by being an omnidirectional remote-controlled car capable of full 360-degree rotations and sideways drifting.
It boasts a variety of sensors such as an infrared obstacle avoidance sensor, a line follower sensor, a crash sensor (limit switch), and an RGB LED module, giving it the ability to react intelligently to its environment.
At the heart of this machine is the powerful MegaPi controller, which handles sensor data and runs complex programs with ease. Suitable for children aged 12 and above, kids can complete the exciting building process within just 30 minutes.
It supports Scratch block-based programming, helping users choose the most comfortable way to learn coding while building thrilling projects.
10. DJI Robomaster S1
DJI, a top company known for drones and camera technology, developed the RoboMaster S1 to teach students about robotics through hands-on experience.
DJI RoboMaster S1 Robot (Photo: DJI/Alamy)
RoboMaster S1 comes with a modular design, allowing users to add different parts and accessories as they please. Outfitted with an HD camera, infrared sensors, and a gyroscope, this robot can react dynamically to its surroundings.
RoboMaster S1 reflects DJI’s dedication to encouraging young minds to take an interest in science, technology, and engineering through exciting and educational tools.
11. Tudao Robotmaster
Tudao Robotmaster was created by a team of professors and has received many positive reviews from users. Designed with children aged 5 to 12 in mind, Tudao Robotmaster aims to make coding and programming both simple and enjoyable for kids.
One of its standout features is its flexible design: using 370 separate pieces, children can assemble more than 100 different shapes, promoting creativity.
The components are even compatible with LEGO sets. It also supports Scratch block-based programming, making it easier for children to step confidently into the world of coding.
