Ask HN: Best programmable robot for kids? Christmas gift

[realPtolemy]

I’m thinking about buying a programmable robot kit for my brother’s kid this Christmas. There seem to be a couple of alternatives out there, but it shouldn’t be too complex (target age = approximately 8 years old).

Which kits do you, the readers of HN recommend?

[h2odragon]

If its a kid who already takes their toys apart, a kit might be good. something like this: https://www.sparkfun.com/products/19520

Otherwise i'd suggest something more towards "programmable R/C", maybe a mini drone and find a software suite that can run it through programmed courses. No idea what that world is now, personally.

[realPtolemy → h2odragon]

Thanks! Appreciate the recommendation and tip!