Thames & Kosmos Andy: The Code & Play Robot – Screen-Free Coding Kit for Ages 4+

Screen-free coding that sparks curiosity

Meet Andy, The Code & Play Robot from Thames & Kosmos, a friendly, prebuilt companion designed to introduce preschoolers to coding without screens. Powered by three AA batteries, Andy is ready to roll right out of the box, inviting little learners to press large buttons on the top of its head to move, dance, and explore dynamic reactions to lights and sounds.

Two movement modes let Andy travel different distances, encouraging experimentation with direction and sequencing. When kids are ready to level up, the Go button lets them string together a sequence of up to 30 actions, turning spontaneous play into structured exploration.

What makes this kit engaging goes beyond movement:

• Built-in lights, sounds, and motion bring each coding step to life, providing tangible feedback.
• A smart collection of activities introduces basic robotics concepts through guided play.
• The full-color manual offers kid-friendly explanations and demonstrates how real-world robots operate.

There are also plenty of ways to extend the play. Use the nine included robot cards to guide Andy toward 27 imagined friends, checking off discoveries as you go. The manual explains different real-world robots and their functions, helping young learners connect play to concepts. For extra activities, two bonus games are available on the Thames & Kosmos website as printable add-ons you can use at home. You can even transform a living space into an obstacle course and program Andy to navigate it, turning playtime into a creative lab. The possibilities are endless, and the pace adapts to your child’s curiosity and timing.

Designed for preschoolers and early learners, Andy blends tactile control with imaginative play to support sequencing, memory, and early problem-solving skills. The experience is rich with colorful visuals, friendly sounds, and the satisfying click of the buttons, all without a screen. While outcomes will vary, this kit offers a pleasant, low-pressure path into basic coding concepts, with kid-friendly challenges that invite exploration and joyful discovery.