In an innovative move, Israel’s Education Ministry is introducing a first-of-its-kind initiative to integrate robotics into kindergartens nationwide, as reported by Maariv. The pilot phase will launch in approximately 500 kindergartens, marking a transformative step in early childhood education. Developed by the ministry’s Early Childhood Education Division, the program aims to equip young learners with technological skills typically introduced at later stages of education.
“We’re not just teaching children to play with robots – we’re preparing them for the world of tomorrow,” said Orna Paz, head of the Early Childhood Education Division. “When a four-year-old learns to program a small robot to follow a path they designed, they gain more than just technological skills. They develop logical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and teamwork.”
Interactive Learning Through Robotics
The program encourages hands-on learning, with children designing and constructing tracks for robots, solving puzzles in groups, exploring basic programming concepts through play, and even creating robotic theater performances. Special projects, such as The Journey from Home to Kindergarten, use robots to navigate neighborhood maps, making learning both interactive and engaging.
This initiative is part of the ministry’s broader Year of Artificial Intelligence in Education, which Education Minister Yoav Kisch is set to unveil. The robotics program serves as a cornerstone of this effort, laying the groundwork for integrating advanced technology into schools from an early age.
Laying the Foundation for an AI-Driven Future
Dr. Meirav Turgeman, head of the Kindergarten Division, emphasized the program’s transformative approach. “This is not just another curriculum – it’s an entirely new way of teaching young children. Robots are tools that allow us to introduce complex concepts in an engaging and playful manner,” she explained.
Beyond robotics, the program focuses on equipping children with foundational skills for future engagement with artificial intelligence. A key component is training kindergarten teachers to seamlessly integrate technology into daily learning experiences.
“This is the first time the Education Ministry has developed a structured program based on the pedagogy of the ‘kindergarten of the future,’” Turgeman noted. “Previous robotics programs were designed by external organizations and focused on basic technical skills like simple programming. This time, we’re emphasizing knowledge, values, and broader skill development.”
The program goes beyond coding, fostering critical thinking, creativity, imagination, communication, and collaboration. “Robotics is a tool to develop life skills in a rapidly evolving technological world while ensuring personal expression and interpersonal skills,” Turgeman added. Teachers are also equipped with AI-based tools to create personalized learning activities tailored to each child’s needs.
Education Minister Yoav Kisch: “Starting Young to Build the Future”
Education Minister Yoav Kisch highlighted the initiative’s broader vision. “This new kindergarten program exemplifies our ministry’s approach to technology and innovation in education – starting from early childhood in a way specifically designed for young learners. Friendly robots teach through play and experience, making learning both fun and impactful.”
He added, “The program aligns with the Year of Artificial Intelligence in Education, which we are launching today. Building a solid educational foundation from kindergarten onward is key to preparing Israeli pupils for the world of tomorrow. The pilot in 500 kindergartens is just the beginning.”
Teachers and Students Embrace the Program
The initiative is tailored to early childhood education, with trained teachers facilitating learning experiences to ensure relevance and engagement. Revital Dovrah, director of Masa HaPele kindergarten in Rishon Lezion, shared her experience: “Playing with robots in kindergarten encourages curiosity, creativity, and technological thinking while developing cooperation and problem-solving skills. It’s an exciting new way to explore the world.”
Young participants are already embracing the program with enthusiasm. Sharon, a pupil in the program, said, “We’re learning how to move the robot using commands, and we even played bowling with it by knocking down cups.”
Eitan, another participant, added, “We learned to give the robot instructions, and then we teach it what to do based on the commands. The best part is when I succeed!”
This groundbreaking initiative represents a significant step toward preparing Israel’s youngest learners for a future driven by technology and innovation.
