4 Kids-Friendly Python on Hardware Projects for Hands-On Learning

Many parents consider using hardware as the most effective method for kids to learn Python. This approach not only fosters kids' interest in learning Python but also offers a tangible grasp of Python fundamentals. The article outlines four introductory Python on Hardware Projects tailored for kids, offering parents valuable support in helping their kids learn Python through hands-on hardware experiences.
 

LEGO® Game Controller (Age:10+)

The project is a simple two-player 2D arcade game called Pong. The entire game setup is built with a Raspberry Pi Build HAT, Lego Technic motor encoders, and wheels that connect to a monitor. Players knock the digital ball back and forth with paddles placed on either side of the screen.

Kids-friendly Python Projects - Lego Game Controller with Raspberry Pi

Pong is one of the earliest arcade video games, originally released in 1972 by Atari. It is a table tennis game featuring simple two-dimensional graphics. Players control paddles on each side of the screen, which they use to hit a ball back and forth.

The project explains how to configure and react to the motor encoders, which serve as controllers. Also included are instructions on how to make your Pong screen, as well as features such as the ball and paddles. The scores of each player are displayed on the screen. There are also tips on how to improve your project further, including several games that can be created using Lego Technic motors as controllers.

Hardware

• A Raspberry Pi computer
• A Raspberry Pi Build HAT
• At least one LEGO® Technic™ motor
• Assortment of LEGO®, including wheels ( LEGO® Education SPIKE™ Prime kit)

Software

• Python 3
• Build HAT Python library

About the detailed instruction and guide, please visit here.

Pong Game with Raspberry Pi for Kids' Python Learning

Comments

Along with the construction and coding of the controllers, kids will learn how to create a simple Pong-style game using Python. This is a good introductory project for kids looking to learn game coding, as Pong is a simple place to start and teaches some great fundamentals such as collision detection and player input detection.

Smart Water Planter (Age:10+)

This project helps kids solve the problem of forgetting to water their plants. In this project, children will use UNIHIKER, which is similar to a Raspberry Pi but has unique features. It comes with a 2.8-inch touchscreen that clearly displays data and commands like "water" or "stop"directly. The project will also use soil moisture sensors, relays, and water pumps, allowing kids to program in Python to gather soil data and control the pump to water the plants.

Python Hands-on Projects for Kids -- Smart Water Planter with Unihiker

UNIHIKER is a simple and easy-to-use single-board computer designed for kids’ Python learning. It has a 2.8-inch touchscreen, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. It comes with a light sensor, accelerometer and microphone, making it fun to use. Plus, it can connect with different sensors and devices, allowing kids to learn and do projects using Python programming.

Hardware

• Unihiker
• Analog Soil Moisture Sensor
• Easy Relay Module
• DC Water Pump
• 6xAA Battery Holder with DC2.1 Power Jack

Software

Built-in Python and pre-configured operating system and software stack. For detailed instructions and guidance, please visit here.

Comments

This is a good introductory project for kids to get hands-on experience with IoT. The Unihiker used in this project offers a different experience for kids and parents because it doesn't require installing an operating system like a Raspberry Pi. It comes with a pre-installed Python programming environment, making it very easy to use. This project is better suited for those who already have some experience with Python programming.

GPIO Music Box (Age:14+)

Who doesn’t love music? Kids like to enjoy the fun of music, and this project will excite them! This project helps kids create an engaging soundboard using four analog switches, a breadboard, and a Raspberry Pi.

Little experience is needed on the hardware side, with simple connections going to the breadboard and the Pi itself. Kids will use a simple Python script to assign various sounds to different buttons. Once finished, they can customize the buttons to play any music they want, add sound effects, or find a new use for their music box. There are even recommendations on how to take the project to the next level with further script suggestions. Connecting buttons to the GPIO pins of your Raspberry Pi instantly opens up your digital making to the world of clicky funtimes.

A Fun Raspberry Pi Project for kids - GPIO Music Box for Python Learning

Hardware

• A Raspberry Pi computer
• A breadboard
• Four (4) tactile switches (to make buttons)
• Five (5) pin-to-socket jumper leads
• Four (4) pin-to-pin jumper leads
• Speakers or headphone

Setting Things Up

Software

The latest version of the Raspbian operating system. About step-by-step Python programming, you can visit here.

Comments

Reasonably straightforward. There are a few components to assemble but neither the build nor software are complex. Moreover, it's actually a great introductory project for kids on python learning.

Robot Buggy (Age:14+)

Kids are always curious and excited about robots, seeing them as magical companions that can move and talk. When robots walk, dance, or complete tasks, the kids’ faces light up with joy. The following project is about how to build a robot buggy that kids can program to move around using simple Python commands. This buggy uses Python scripts, a motor controller board, and two motors to move the buggy, along with everything else needed to power the system.

Kids’ Python Learning Projects with Raspberry Pi - Robot Bubby
 

Hardware

• Raspberry Pi 3
• Motor controller board
• 2 × 3V - 6V DC motors
• 2 × wheels
• 1 × AA battery holder (for 4 AA batteries)
• 4 × AA batteries
• Ball caster
• Wire or jumper leads
• A USB Battery pack
• Screw driver
• Soldering iron and solder
• Wire strippers
• Small cardboard or plastic box and glue/tape

Software

• The latest version of the Raspbian operating system. For comprehensive instructions and support, please visit here. 

A Robot Buggy Moving around using Python Command

Comments

This project is very hands-on, requiring at least some experience in soldering and coding. While it is a relatively straightforward introduction to robotics for kids, having a basic understanding of programming is essential to ensure a smoother learning experience as they start working on robot programming.

Conclusion

These four introductory Python on hardware projects are great starter for kids to learn Python. They provide parents with clear ideas and guidance on how to help their kids get hands-on experience with Python coding. By working on these fun projects, kids can build a solid foundation in Python while also developing their creativity and problem-solving skills, which significantly enhances their interest in learning Python.