SpheroBolt - Coding Robot Ball - Beginner to Advanced Programming - Ages 8+ - Learn to Code 3 Ways: Draw, Blocks, Javascript - Programmable Sensors - LED Matrix - Durable and Waterproof Design

I love using Sphero robots in my third grade classroom. The BOLT is a great addition to our Sphero STEM collection, joining our current lineup of BB-8, BB-9E, and a SPRK+.HARDWARE REVIEWBOLT is just as durable as the SPRK+, but it has some upgrades that make it my new go-to for demonstrations. Sphero upgraded the battery life on the BOLT, minimizing worries that the battery might during a longer STEM project. I used it during my 90-minute Wednesday lab, starting with a full charge, and it was still rolling when we lined up for the buses at the end of our lab. The LED matrix is an update on the color-changing SPRK. Now the kids can program in things like text and simple images to give the BOLT some character.There are also new sensors for things like light, magnetic north, and infrared that I haven’t had time to play around with yet. I do think my kids will have fun with the light sensors; and I look forward to using them to add another layer of complexity for my students who easily master basic blocky programming.SOFTWARE REVIEWThis robot is compatible with the existing Sphero apps. You won’t have any nasty surprises if you change from an older robot to a BOLT.As an elementary teacher, the Sphero Edu app is one of my favorites to introduce coding. The kids program the robot using blocky, which is a great intro to coding and children pick it up very quickly. I teach 8 and 9 year olds, so it can be challenging to find a starting point for computer science that is on their level and engaging. The hands-on nature of these robots keeps them entertained and excited for the whole lesson. My kids love to design challenges for one another and I love watching them try to problem solve and work together.

This is cool to mess around with regardless of your age. Could even be a good family time investment. Good learning experience.

From the second BOLT arrived on my door step I was excited to see what Sphero had placed in its latest product. I opened the package and found a BOLT, charging cable, dock, compass/clock, and of course stickers! I then downloaded the Sphero EDU app to play around with the new LED Matrix that is fully programmable and it allowed me to create emojis and all sorts of fun creations. I then played around with the block based programming and created a fun program for BOLT to follow. I also downloaded the Sphero Play app and it allows you to play mini games, change LED matrix colors, and drive. There is so much you can do with BOLT!

My 10 year old grandson loved this sphere. Rolls easily on hardwood floors.

This is a fun little programmable sphere. The remote works well but the app can be a little confusing at first. The tutorials are so so. I believe they could more understandable. That being said, it has a lot of upside and the programming logic is done well.

Awesome toy for your tech minded kids. And a creative way to use a tabket

My daughter is really enjoying this product. She is able to perform simple coding.

This is the coolest toy ever. I needed this when I a kid.