Computer Kit for 9 year old grandson

snaithg

Our 9 year old grandson is showing considerable interest and aptitude in all things computers and computer coding. We would like to buy him something that would encourage his interest and enthusiasm even further. We thought that a computer kit such as a Kano, based around a Raspberry pi is a possible way forward.

What do others think?

Any thoughts and suggestions? .......


Graham.

noiseboy72

What's he done so far? I found starting with an Arduino and a range of sensors was a great starting point, as I could write simple code that did things! I've made simple alarms, weighing and counting scales, a scanning room "radar" with a servo and ultrasonic module and a white line follower. Programming is via IDE - a simple interface while the boards and sensors are all very cheap.

Raspberry Pi is a great platform, but it depends what he enjoys programming. You can do some pretty slick mini games and that sort of thing, but I would suggest this might be beyond most 9 year olds. Most other sensor based stuff can be done on an Arduino for a lot less money and a simpler interface.

snaithg

I've just been studying the Arduino range of computer kits etc., it certainly looks very comprehensive and offers an extensive range of components and options. Very impressive!

What does "Elegoo" bring to the party? Does it complement Arduino or is it a competitor although it appears to integrate with the Arduino system.

You may be right, Arduino looks to be a better option than Kano for our grandson, at least in the early days. We can always look at Raspberry Pi based systems such as Kano etc. later on if he shows any interest.

Am I right in thinking that he will need a laptop or something similar to program and customise these systems?

Thanks Noiseboy72,

Graham.

snaithg

In these days of the internet and online shopping does anyone know where it is possible to physically see and "fondle" the kind of things being discussed above, computer kits etc. etc..

I can't think which (physical/real) shops that still remain on the high street and out of town shopping centres, would sell such items.

We live in the South Herts area; Watford, At Albans, Borehamwood and thereabouts.

Thanks,
Graham.

EndlessWaves

Arduino/Pi etc. is often a hardware focused community. They tend to be used as controllers for hardware projects.

Very few people would attempt a purely software project (e.g. developing a phone app) on an Arduino/Pi system.

I've no experience in interesting nine year olds in technology so I can't suggest which way to go, but computing is a very broad field and different tools and systems are used in different areas so there is a very broad range of stuff to pick from.

noiseboy72

There are various Arduino type systems around, but some require specific code, so there's less example software around.

I think with the demise of Maplin you will struggle to see these in the flesh, but there's plenty of sellers of full kits on Amazon, ao you could order one and easily send it back if not right.

And yes, you would need a laptop to program an Arduino. In fact any pc with usb will do.

Raspberry pi does not need an additional pc, but they are very useful for reloading the os and downloading additional resources.

snaithg

Thanks EndlessWaves.

We see him/us initially developing simple hardware/software projects such as remote control of model vehicles, machines and other devices along with the use of sensors etc to experiment with basic automation and coding. We will probably build on that foundation to develop ever more complex projects and app coding.

Graham.

snaithg

Thanks noiseboy72.

I think that we will initially go with an Arduino as per your recommendation. If he builds/maintains a strong interest in computing we could then investigate moving to other platforms and systems.  I can always take it off him and play with the system myself if he does lose interest!

Money is not really an issue at this level so I will probably look to getting one of the more advanced Arduino kits along with a few accessories and add on bits and pieces.

I was going to purchase from Amazon anyway, so as you say, I can always over order on some of the items that I am unsure about and return any unwanted/uneeded stuff. It would still be nice though to be able to assess the equipment before purchase. I miss this aspect of traditional shopping with the move to Online Shopping!

Thanks,
Graham.

brydo666

Hi Graham,

I had something else to contribute that would also answer this question you've asked. There are a number of coding clubs called Coderdojo that run throughout the UK (Or Coderdojo Scotland north of the border). I've mentored at some of these before and think they are perfect for your grandson if there is one nearby.

They provide a number of paths to go down, or if resourced well they'll support your grandson with his own path. The mentors there will do all they can to encourage development and answer a wealth of questions that you and his parents may not be able to - there is also a social element where he'll connect with others sharing the interest, a real variety of kids from those highly sociable and participate in various recreational activities to those highly introverted that don't want to speak to anyone and stay in a dark room - the mentors at Coderdojo will work with them all the same way.

It's free too! I wish such things existed when I was younger and hope my children show an interest in them also.

Happy to address any questions you have, I can recommend some great books from Amazon if you'd like to do everything independently at home.

Cheers,
Chris.