Robotics Programs for Kids
Explore robotics through hands-on learning at iEXCELL. Students build, code, test, and problem-solve while developing an understanding of science, programming, technology, and engineering through experimental and real-life projects.
Learn. Build. Code.
Learn About Robots, Coding, and Engineering Principles
Robotics is the understanding of science, programming, technology, and engineering concepts through various experimental and real-life projects. iEXCELL offers a wide range of robotics classes that explore not only diverse types of robots, but also engineering principles, creative thinking, teamwork, problem-solving, pseudocoding, and coding.
Robotics classes break down complex STEM concepts into hands-on lessons for kids of all ages. Students as young as 5 years old can use LEGO® bricks to build models and bring them to life while learning valuable teamwork and communication skills.
Robotics programs at iEXCELL include:
● Wonder Robotics Dash & Dot
● LEGO® WeDo 2.0
● LEGO® Mindstorms EV3
● LEGO® SPIKE Prime
Hands-on STEM Learning
An Easy Way to Comprehend Science and Technology
Robotics gives students an engaging, hands-on way to understand science and technology. Instead of only learning concepts from a book, students can build, program, experiment, test ideas, and see the results of their work firsthand.
Through robotics, students develop skills in coding, engineering, problem-solving, critical thinking, creativity, teamwork, and communication. Each iEXCELL robotics program offers a different way for students to explore these concepts based on their age, experience, and interests.
Our Robotics Progran
Build Skills Through Coding, Engineering, and Creative Problem-Solving
Wonder Robotics Dash & Dot
iEXCELL's Dash & Dot robotics program is an introductory robotics program that helps younger students develop STEM skills. Students learn fundamental processes relevant to the 21st century while gaining early experience with programming and robotics.
Students send commands to the robots to move, sing, dance, flash their lights, respond to voices, make sounds, and even tell a story. These interactive activities make programming approachable and engaging for young learners.
LEGO® WeDo 2.0
LEGO® Education WeDo 2.0 is an intuitive, hands-on solution designed to develop students' curiosity and confidence as they solve real-life problems through engaging STEM projects.
Using LEGO® WeDo 2.0 sets, students are guided through building, coding, problem-solving, and testing simple motorized projects to model and investigate real-life problems.
LEGO® Mindstorms EV3
LEGO® Mindstorms EV3 brings together LEGO® bricks, programmable technology, coding, and STEAM learning activities to help students of different learning levels build confidence and critical-thinking skills.
Students can develop their curiosity, confidence, and computational thinking while gaining a deeper understanding of design, engineering, and coding concepts.
LEGO® SPIKE Prime
LEGO® SPIKE Prime is a next-generation learning system from LEGO®. It combines colorful building elements, easy-to-use hardware, and an intuitive drag-and-drop coding language based on Scratch.
From introductory projects to nearly limitless creative design possibilities, SPIKE Prime helps students develop essential STEAM and 21st-century skills needed to become the innovative minds of tomorrow — while having fun.
Award-Winning Robotics
Recognitions Through 2023
iEXCELL students have earned numerous robotics awards and advanced to sectional and state-level competitions over the years.
2023
● Robot Design Award — Advanced to Sectionals
2022
● Regional Winner — Advanced to State
2019
● Champions Award — State
● Champions Award — Advanced to State
2018
● Best Project Award
● Best Innovation Award
2017
● Best Project Award — State
● Best Project Award — Advanced to State
● Best Robot Design Award — Advanced to State
2016
● Best Robot Design Award
● Best Rookie Team Award
● Regional Winners — Advanced to State
● Best Project Award
2015
● Champions Award — Advanced to State
● Best Rookie Team Award
2014
● Best Robot Design — Advanced to State
2013
● Best Robot Design Award — Advanced to State
● Best Rookie Team Award
2012
● Best Rookie Team Award — Advanced to State
● Champions Award — Advanced to State
2011
● Best Rookie Team Award
These recognitions demonstrate how iEXCELL students have applied their robotics, engineering, coding, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in competitive environments.
Robotics FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions About Robotics at iEXCELL
What age groups are the robotics programs designed for?
iEXCELL structures its robotics instruction using ability-based grouping rather than strict age cutoffs. Students are placed based on their current skill level and learning readiness, which means a younger student who is ready for a challenge will not be held back, and an older beginner will not feel out of place. The program uses a free placement test to determine the right starting point for every new student before classes begin.Which robotics platforms and tools will my child use in class?
Students work with a progression of industry-recognized platforms depending on their level. Entry-level learners typically start with LEGO WeDo 2.0, then advance to LEGO EV3 Mindstorm and Spike Prime. Wonder Robotics, which uses Dash and Dot robots, is also part of the curriculum. Coding instruction is Scratch-based throughout, and classes incorporate Lego Education Hubs. The goal is a natural skill progression rather than jumping straight to the most advanced tools.How is iEXCELL's robotics instruction different from a self-paced app or video program?
Every robotics session at iEXCELL is led by a live teacher, either in-person at the Bloomington facility or through real-time virtual instruction. Students are not watching pre-recorded videos or advancing through software modules on their own. Classes run in small, ability-based groups or as 1-on-1 sessions, so teachers can respond to each student's specific questions and challenges as they come up. This live, teacher-led model is a deliberate choice and a core part of how iEXCELL has operated since 2006.Can my child join the robotics program if we live outside Bloomington or have moved out of state?
Yes. iEXCELL offers live virtual classes that run in real time through online conferencing. Roughly 10 to 15 percent of the current student body consists of families who have relocated to other states but continue their enrollment remotely. The virtual format mirrors the in-person experience in terms of teacher interaction and curriculum, making it a practical option for students in Champaign County or anywhere outside McLean County.Is there a contract or long-term commitment required to enroll?
No long-term contract is required for enrollment at iEXCELL. The program is designed so that the quality of instruction is what keeps families returning, not a contractual obligation. New students start with a free placement test to identify their current level and the best path forward, which also gives families a low-barrier way to experience the program before committing to ongoing sessions.What coding language is used in the robotics curriculum?
The robotics curriculum uses Scratch-based coding as its primary programming approach. Scratch is a widely recognized, block-based coding language that introduces students to core programming logic in a visual, intuitive way. As students advance through the platform progression, from LEGO WeDo 2.0 up through Spike Prime and EV3 Mindstorm, their coding skills develop alongside their hardware and engineering knowledge, building a well-rounded technical foundation.How does iEXCELL determine which group or session format is right for my child?
Every new student takes a free placement test before their first class. This evaluation identifies where the student currently stands academically and technically, and it helps instructors assign them to the right group or recommend 1-on-1 sessions. iEXCELL uses ability-based grouping rather than grade-level sorting, which means students are always working at a level that challenges them without overwhelming them. The placement test is provided at no cost and carries no enrollment obligation.
