Tech Will Save Us designs wearable for children to make and code

Technology Will Save Us has designed a wearable device that children can make and code themselves to spark “imagination and play” through movement-based activities.

Mover Kit has been developed on the understanding that children learn best when they are motivated by something other than coding, according to Technology Will Save Us, which specialises in designing for children.

Designed with 300 children

The Mover Kit has been co-designed and tested with 300 children, a process which showed that kids were most excited about technology they could wear and that responded to activities.

The consultancy says the device will teach kids about programming, electronics and problem solving through “computational thinking”.

Move Kit is made up of coloured LEDs, a printed circuit board, a rechargeable battery and a motion sensor and compass (accelerometer and magnetometer).

A snap band can be attached to the wrist, a scooter or bike, “or even the dog” and there will be an online “make platform” with examples of projects to provide inspiration on what to do with the device.

Gender gap

Addressing the gender gap in tech is a further motivation for the Technology Will Save Us team.

In the 2014 Digital Makers Report, NESTA found that “76% of girls are interested in digital making, but less interested in learning about technology for its own sake”.

Technology Will Save Us co-founder Bethany Koby says: “Girls who might want to get involved in making with digital technologies are being left behind.

“We are on a mission to spark the creative imagination of all young people using hands-on technology. Our award winning make it yourself kits and digital tools help kids, and the adults that love them, to make, play, code and invent using technology.”

Mover Kit is being crowdfunded and you can find out more here.