This activity set provides a fun and interactive introduction to coding concepts, as Colby, the programmable mouse, races through a maze to find the cheese. Using an activity card, kids build a maze out of plastic grid pieces, wall, and tunnels (the cheese is the prize at the end!). Next, they use coding cards (with directional symbols) to plan a step-by-step path through the maze. Finally, they program the sequence of steps into the robot mouse, and then watch Colby race toward the cheese!
Kids can follow the mazes presented on the activity cards, or build their own maze!
Recommended for ages 5+
Discovery Kits can be reserved in the catalog for pickup at any PPLD location. They check out for seven days but can be renewed as long as there are no holds.
Due to the size of the kits, all Discovery Kits must be returned to library staff at the main desk during regular business hours. Please do not return this item to a book drop.
Playing and experimenting with the Code& Go Robot Mouse Activity Set will encourage users to do the following:
First, unpack the pieces. Start by taking a close look at the mouse. Identify the color and function of each of the mouse's buttons (these are listed in the "Basic Operation" section of the Activity Guide). The "Power/Speed" button is on the bottom of the mouse. The rest of the buttons are on Colby's back:
Reinforce that green button means go- it tells the mouse to perform an action.
Set the mouse on the floor or a table, Let the child try moving the mouse forward by pushing the blue arrow once (FORWARD) and the the green button. Explain that the mouse moves forward in the direction its nose is pointing. Let the child explore the other directional arrows, one at a time.
Remember to press and hold the yellow button to clear the mouse's memory after each command. While practicing this new skill, children need to see each command in isolation. Pressing CLEAR before entering new steps will ensure the mouse moves exactly as programmed.
If the child easily grasps this child (correctly programs the mouse to match the coding string), try adding 1-2 more spaces between the mouse and cheese, placing additional maze walls on the grid, or integrating a turn for the mouse to make before reaching the cheese. Multi-step sequences can be very difficult for young learners to remember, although the coding cards help. Begin with short series of moves, before gradually adding in turns and building different maze configurations. Most of all, keep it fun!
