Fun Summer Projects
Image by Jie Qi at Chibitronics
There are many ways to learn technology while playing. Here are technologies and resources you might want to find online this summer.
Chibitronics
Chibitronics let you create, craft, and code electronics with paper, fabric, and other non-electronic materials. You use copper tape and stickers that contain circuits to create designs and messages like a cute robot card that lights up when you press its heart.
The STEM Starter Kit is a great place to start. The kit includes an illustrated Circuit Sticker Sketchbook to guide you though five circuit concepts including parallel circuits, switches and resistance-based sensors. The sketchbook becomes a useful reference as you create more projects. The best part? There is no soldering required, no clips, no wires. Simply combine stickers, copper tape, and materials.
Bitsbox
Kids learn to code by making games on the Bitsbox.com website then play them on their phone or tablet. Games are clever with fun graphics. Kids can tweak code once they become comfortable with code. Boxes with new games delivered monthly.
Crumble
This is an easy to use controller board, like the BBC micro:bit, that lets you use alligator croc clips instead of solder and Scratch-based software to program the board, LEDs, and other attachments. Connections also can be made with conductive thread for wearable technology projects or soldered. This makes the Crumble a flexible way to try out different ideas. They also offer build it yourself kits. Shipping from UK to the US also was quick.
Computing at School
Don’t want to mess with electronics? The Computing at School, Teaching London Computing, and Barefoot Computing websites have resource pages with puzzles and projects where you can learn computer science concepts. Great for all ages, including young children in some cases.
Learn More
Chibitronics
http://chibitronics.com
http://chibitronics.com/craft-guide/
http://store.chibitronics.com/collections/all/products/chibitronics-chibi-lights-led-circuit-stickers-stem-starter-kit
https://colleengraves.org/2016/05/01/chibitronics-paper-circuits-circuitgirls-and-aiding-girlsintech/
Bitsbox
Crumble
http://redfernelectronics.co.uk/crumble/
http://www.redfernelectronics.co.uk/crumble-getting-started
Computing at School
http://computingatschool.org.uk
Teaching London Computing
https://teachinglondoncomputing.org
Barefoot Computing
Author
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