Think & Learn Code-A-Pillar
© 2016 Fisher-Price, Inc.
3/4/2019 See Code-A-Pillar Twist Coding...for preschoolers? Sure, as long as you rethink your definition of coding. Our testers liked playing with this noisy bug for a while, although they grew tired of it quickly. How could it be better? If the bug could both process commands and move faster it would be more fun. Despite these issues, this toy makes the most basic form of programming very concrete. The Code-A-Pillar can pull up to 15 snap together segments, although only eight come with the starter kit. They can be combined in anyway move forward, left, right, or wait and play a tune. Once the links are in place, you press the "GO" button to execute the commands - a rather sluggish process. You can send the Code-A-Pillar a short distance (about 5 feet) mission, or place targets on the floor and try to see how close you can come to the goal. The base kit includes 8 segments plus the motorized head. Each part blinks and the head contains lights, sounds and blinking eyes. Two plastic targets are included (a start and a go). These targets have no function - a sticky note could do the same thing. Additional 3 segment expansion packs are sold separately for $15 each, as follows. Master Moves: Repeat the previous segment’s action 1-5 times, turn left 180 degrees and turn right 45 degrees. Silly Sounds & Lights command segments: Sleepy sound and light effects, wacky sound and light effects, and light up fun with music. Basic command segments: Forward 3 feet, turn left 90 degrees, turn right 90 degrees. This is the headline act for the series of "Think and Learn” toys. Runs on 4 AA batteries. See the Toy Fair introduction here: https://youtu.be/DoRdZOHyoA4
$50, Smart Toy
Teaches: STEM, coding
CTR Rating: 82%