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Lego's new toy train is a STEM tool for preschoolers
Twenty years ago Lego introduced Mindstorms as a way to engage kids who were becoming more interested in video games and the internet than plastic building blocks. It was successful enough that the kits became a regular sight in robotics classes and competitions. Now the line is on its fourth generation, and it's been joined by other STEM-friendly Lego kits like Boost and Powered Up to bring tech skills to many different types of kids. Now Lego's educational division goes even younger with Coding Express, a set that will teach 3- and 4-year-olds the basics of programming while they construct a world of trains, picnics and wandering deer.
Lego's Powered Up kits are built for connected play
Lego's Boost sets are good for teaching the basics of code, but what about those who don't necessarily want to go that far? The company is accommodating them, too. It's launching a Powered Up platform that makes coding and connected play an option even if it's not the original intent. Only some sets will have full programing and mobile device control -- others will be powered or remote controlled, and some will be regular Lego kits with Powered Up support as an option.
Alexa becomes a playtime storyteller for Lego Duplo blocks
It's not just Amazon setting out to make Alexa kid-friendly. Lego has unveiled an Alexa story skill that guides younger children (aged 2 to 5) through playtime with Duplo blocks. Kids and their parents can walk through customizable stories themed around animals or vehicles with Amazon's voice assistant encouraging "constructive, exploratory and roleplay" experiences. It can ask them to build creatively and recognize colors, for example.
