Within the program are the building instructions for the 12 main Lego WeDo models. It is suitable for children aged 5 to 11+, however older children (12, 13, 14 years) really enjoy its simplicity and can create surprisingly complex algorithms with it.

It is used to control the WeDo motors and sensors (and your computer’s built in sound sensor) as well as enabling the user to add sounds, backgrounds and text. Version 1.2 has the simple drag and drop programming format that is clear and instinctive.

This kit still has a lot of fans so selling it shouldn’t be a problem. Overall the models are simpler, there are less pieces and the pictures are more child friendly. I would still recommend this kit for younger children aged 5 years to 7 years before moving onto the WeDo 2.0.

They can be mended using a soldering iron, a Youtube video shows you how, but they are only £6 from Lego. Some people tape the wire to the side of the motor to stop it getting yanked. Unfortunately the wire going into the motor is not very strong so be careful not to pull it. A nice cheap addition are the twin LED lights from the power functions range which can be controlled using the WeDo software. Lego produced an extension kit (see below) which added some quite challenging models but you will need to buy another software disc to access these instructions. You may be able to pick one up second hand from Ebay but you will need to buy the software separately – and it only works on a laptop. Still lots of fun, full of great activities and cool models to help you learn about programming and engineering.

One of the main differences from the newer 2.0 is that this kit is connected to the computer by a wire (tethered) where as WeDo 2.0 is connected by a Bluetooth connection and is therefore ‘wireless’. It is being discontinued at the end of 2017. The original Lego WeDo launched in 2009, renamed Lego WeDo 1.0 after the new 2.0 kit was put on sale.

Lego wedo sensors