[Ad-gifted] My husband speaks a range of languages but as a software developer, they’re not often understood by the average person. So you can imagine his delight when we were sent Artie Max from Learning Resources to review – a new friend he could talk Java Script with without the other person’s eye glazing over!
The Artie Max is a STEM gadget that aims to creatively teach kids to code. Living in a technological age and being able to get to grips with coding and digital software is increasingly important so we loved the idea and were excited to bring it to life.
Artie Max draws in six major coding languages including Java Script, Python and C++ allowing kids to learn the latest STEM skills using advanced beginners, intermediate and advance coding methods. It features built-in WiFi for a direct connection, eliminating the need for internet access and also provides the opportunity for kids to bring creative coding to the drawing table.
Inside the box you will find:
1 x Artie Max
3 x Colour felt tip pens
1 x User guide
1 x Micro USB
What we loved
We loved the remote control element as it enabled us to get to grips with commands and we could have a play around before tying any of the tutorials. Watching the robot spring to life was especially exciting. We loved the facial features as it looked really cute and playful and added to its character.
We used an ipad to set up the robot as it advices against using a phone as you need a larger screen and we found this to be fine to use. If you wanted a larger screen to code off – my husband uses two though I think that would be a bit over the top at this stage – a laptop would work just as well.
What we didn’t like
The set up was a rather clunky and we resorted to watching a YouTube video rather than relying on the guide. Once you do get up and running it’s a lot of fun though you’ll need a completely flat surface for the robot to glide over. Our wooden table has lots of knots and texture which would occasionally inhibit movement.
Final thoughts
My children aged 6 and 10 were excited to try out Artie Max but soon got bored and irritated at the firmware updates. Once we did get it up and running it was a lot of fun and I’ll definitely be encouraging my children to keep trying to get to grips with it independently as I love the concept. My husband also enjoyed it and can see the value in it as an educational tool but again would agree there are some WiFi connectivity issues to overcome before it can be properly enjoyed and useful.
How much is it and where can I buy it?
Artie Max is available to buy directly from Learning Resources for £115.
About Learning Resources
Learning Resources is the home of award-winning toys, games and teacher essentials for children aged 18 months – 12 years. Over the last 25 years, their extensive range has grown to cover hands-on resources for Literacy, Numeracy, Science and Early Years. They understand the importance of learning through play and offer toys and games that positively influence children’s growth and development.
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* We were sent Artie Max in return for a review. All opinions are our own.
6 comments
As a parent, I’m always on the lookout for educational gadgets that make learning fun and engaging for my kids. Your detailed review and insights have given me a great understanding of what Artie Max has to offer, and I’m excited to check it out for my little ones.
That’s good that it was fun after the whole set up. I know I get impatient so having to watch a video to see the set up and doing updates would probably bore me x
My son learned how to code at early age! Such a great fun way to start!
Kids can learn to life through creative drawing activities with this gadget. I think its worth trying. thank you
I always find youtube videos for set up are better optons! I love this idea to get children into coding and understanding robotics. What a cool toy.
Beautiful review. Hopefully the company would take the pluses and minuses from an active user as a pro-active feedback.