Experience with Lego Mindstorms and a 6-8 year olds?

[midnightwriter]

DS is turning 6 in a few weeks, and really wants one. DD (8.5) says she will help him...Are there levels that they can tackle with adult help without being terribly discouraged?

[HollyBearsMom]

My son took a lego mindstorm camp-thing this summer and he was 8.5. He LOVED it but he really appreciated the experienced help.  There are some intricate parts and you need to follow the instructions.  He could have done it on his own but I think there would have been a higher than normal level of frustration. The camp was for 8+ but they were lax and let some 6.-7 years old in and I could see they were a bit overwhelmed.

If your 8.5 year old is and experienced in LEGo and call follow instructions easily I say go it! It could be a fun project for them together!

[midnightwriter]

Thanks! This is great to know.

I'm looking now at owi robotics too, seems like a more typical stuff for a 6 year old. Like this one: http://www.owirobot.com/products/Binary-Player-Robot.html

Anyone tried Owi?

[nov05mama]

Have you looked into First Lego League? It would give the experience with robotics. They have a Junior First Lego League that's geared toward early elementary kids. 

[wendy23]

You might look at the Lego Education Wedo. I think those are easier to do on their own. If you go to lego.com/education you will find lots of great products. I think the Wedo is what they use for the Junior First Lego League which is for children under 9.

My son is 8 and can build anything and everything out of legos, but he does not really like the mindstorm. It is much more computer programming and not enough lego building for him. I put his away for a year, hoping he might be more interested later. 

[midnightwriter]

Thank you, I will check those out!

[NISAEM]

HI, MY SON WILL BE 9YRS OLD. HE IS REAALY INTO LEGOS. WHERE DID YOUR SON GO TO CAMP? WE ARE IN NEW YORK.

THANKS,

NISAEM