The Robot Garage

What's in the box: Each box typically holds a hands-on coding or robotics project, paired with video classes that walk children through the build and the programming.

The Robot Garage is a kids' coding and robotics learning center in Birmingham, Michigan. It runs in-person classes, events and birthday parties for the Metro Detroit area, and it also ships monthly subscription kits nationwide. The subscriptions are built around video classes that teach children coding and robotics. The company says the goal goes beyond technical skills, with programs meant to build confidence, problem-solving ability and a love of learning. Its in-person classes cover building and programming LEGO robots and coding and designing video games for children from Pre-K through 4th grade and older, so the kits likely follow a similar style of hands-on, guided project. The main draw is that the kits come from people who teach these subjects in a classroom every week, rather than from a toy company. The downside is that the site gives few details about the subscriptions themselves. It does not clearly say what each month's kit includes, which ages each plan suits, or how the video lessons are delivered. Families outside Michigan also miss out on the events and parties that make up much of what the company offers. If your child likes LEGO-style building and you want structured lessons at home, it is worth a look. Contact the company before subscribing to confirm the details.