Encourage STEM Learning and Robotics with the NEW Dash Robot @WonderWorkshop #TechToys @BestBuy

These past few weeks, my daughters have been raving to everyone they know about the fact that they actually have their own robot. I can’t say I blame them since the new Dash Robot by Wonder Workshop has also impressed me beyond measure. If you have a child with any interest in coding, robotics, or STEM learning in general Dash is an excellent way to foster that interest in a simple, fun, and engaging way. Dash is a real, actual robot that responds to our voices and can navigate objects.

What is the DASH Robot?

Dash is a real robot, charged and ready to play out of the box. Responding to voice, navigating objects, dancing, and singing. It’s a lightweight device shaped as 3 balls forming a triangular shape, with a blue and orange plastic exterior. It stands at about 7 inches tall and comes equipped with LED lights that light up as the robot is turned on. On the technical side, it contains three microphones, a speaker, four infrared transmitters, three distance sensors, and two robot receivers.

Dash has a limited vocabulary and can make a variety of sounds (of course, my daughter’s favorite sound is the strange burp). It stands on wheels and can move around as it’s directed. Additionally, Dash can hear and react to sounds and objects around it.

How Dash Works

Essentially, it can be described as a sort of remote controlled robot. More specifically, the robot is programed for use on your tablet or smartphone via Bluetooth. My daughter set it up on her Kindle Fire, but any of these will do.

There are 4 apps you have the opportunity to download in order to control and play with the Dash robot. The apps and functions are as follows:

Blockly
Take on coding challenges and make your own programs for Dash & Dot using Blockly. Transform Dot into an alarm, play tag with Dash, or use Dot to control Dash. Programming lets you turn your silliest or most ambitious ideas into reality.

Xylo
Conduct a musical performance for family and friends using Dash’s Xylophone! Remake your favorite tunes or channel your inner Beethoven to compose your own songs from scratch.

Path
Program Dash to follow a path at the racetrack, on a farm, or in the big city! Unlock special abilities, sounds, and animations as you go forth and explore. When you finish the challenges, try creating your own stories and obstacle courses around your room!

Go
It’s your mission to teach Dash & Dot how to play. Send Dash on missions to deliver messages, use Dot to act out storybook characters, and go out and explore the world together. Getting started is easy with Go.

Coding experience levels and age limit for Dash Robot

One of the best things about Dash Robot is the fact that there is absolutely no experience with coding or robotics necessary to get started. The apps are so easy to navigate – no more or less than most video games they play anyway.

Dash is recommended for ages 6 and older. My oldest is 7 and could easily navigate through the apps, though my 4 year old started to pick up on things through her big sis.

Limitations of Dash Robot

Currently, these 4 are the only apps available for use on Dash Robot, but I’m sure other updates will come in the future and you never know if more apps will be added eventually.

Also, the Dash Robot rides best on wood floors or flat surfaces, but can still move around some on our carpeted floors.

Where to buy Dash, Cost, and What is included?

You can buy a Dash Robot and other Dash Kids Tech products at Best Buy, retailing at $149.99. The package comes complete with the following:

• 1 Dash
• 1 Charging Cord
• 2 Building Brick Connectors

Again, you will have to provide your own compatible device (tablet, smartphone, etc) and any accessories are sold separately.

Have you tried Dash or other Dash Kids Tech Products? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!

Disclosure: I have been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free.