Can you teach a 5-year-old how to think like a computer programmer? The makers of the Matatalab Pro Set ($229) think so—and that kids can learn the basics of coding without ever looking at a screen. To program the Pro Set’s miniature robot, kids place small “coding blocks” that each represent a simple command—for example, a block illustrated with an arrow pointing to the left tells the robot to turn left—on the set’s control board. After stringing together a set of actions, they press the start button and watch the robot carry out the instructions. —Nadia Suleman
Buy now: Matatalab Pro Set
More Must-Reads From TIME
- Who Will Be TIME's Person of the Year 2023?
- Why Cell Phone Reception Is Getting Worse
- The Dirty Secrets of Alternative Plastics
- Column: It's Time to Scrap the Abraham Accords
- Israeli Family Celebrates Release of Hostage Grandmother
- In a New Movie, Beyoncé Finds Freedom
- The Top 100 Photos of 2023
- Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time