For a programmed robot the Parallax S2 is a good choice. There's no assembly required, it does things out of the box, and it can be programmed (with the help of an adult to set things up) graphically.
An original blue Scribbler is pretty good too, and it also has a PhiPi GUI. Can often be found on Ebay for $25-$60. Stamp programming is easier than Prop programming, though still well beyond kindergarten level.
My kids loved the original blue Scribbler when they were that age. The built in line following and ambulance modes were real crowd pleasers. I haven't used the new S2 model, but I imagine it's better than old blue.
Right you are, Amanda. Your reminder just tipped the scales for me. I was debating hacking one of my vintage blue Scribblers to add a RoboVoice chip and a PING sensor, and now you've convinced me that would be a worthwhile hack. Just watching old blue wander around detecting object and asking "who put this here?", and other cutesy quips, is a must-do for me. Once I finish my "other bot" for the magazine.
Noted and added to my ever-lengthening "to do" list.
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-- Gordon
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Noted and added to my ever-lengthening "to do" list.