CALABOT “The DIY Robot for Children” Review (& Giveaway Ends 10/26)

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ABOUT:

Calafant, the German toy maker specializing in cardboard kits for children, has launched a new item this year: CALABOT, the DIY robot for children 4 – 7.  This 2.5 feet tall robot comes with a built-in backpack and pockets in the front (to transport LEGO people in our testers’ case), the arms move, and the whole “machine” is built to delight little engineers.

The kit comes with pieces made from recycled cardboard that are pre-cut and pre-punched. You don’t need any other tools, scissors or glue, as everything fits together with a clever slot and groove system.  The best part is to decorate your robot with paint, stickers and more. The manufacturer suggests incorporating items from around the house, such as cable pieces, foil, disposable cups, old CDs and other cool, techie stuff.

The CALABOT is a unique gift for any little tinkerer, and it makes a great project to enjoy with your child.  Not only is it fun to build this item with your children, it’s even more fun to see your children express their ideas by decorating and playing with the “Calabot”. This robot doesn’t come with batteries, lights and built-in motors. It’s a refreshing take on an old-school idea: doesn’t just watch, do something! Do something creative.

MY THOUGHTS:

Calabot is something so simple yet so much fun!  My boys love cardboard boxes, they love to build so of course Calabot was going to be a hit with them.  It is a cardboard robot that is built without scissors or glue, just fit the perforated flaps together!  I will add though that for young kids, adult assembly will make for a much nicer robot assembly.

Before assembly though I recommend painting, drawing or decorating your Calabot as it is much easier to decorate before it is totally assembled. Although stickers and final touches are of course easily done once assembled.  Assembly takes about 45 minutes and everything fits together nicely, there are just a lot of flaps to fold in and insert all over.  The cardboard is pretty durable and sturdy but obviously this robot is not plastic so rough play will break it down after awhile.  The instructions are great though as each step is a picture showing what to do.  Overall, Calabot is a great craft activity that will keep kids busy for hours designing and then buuilding and then they can of course play with it afterwards or display their over two feet tall creation!

BUY IT:  The Calabot is available at Amazon.com and at www.CreativeToyshop.com. MSRP $25.

WIN IT:  (1) US winner will receive a Calabot DIY Robot Kit ($25 value)

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Mom and More Disclosure: I was sent this product to review in exchange for my honest opinion. Please see my Disclosure Policy.

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.