Spot: An AI Toy Made to Encourage Kids to be "in the moment"

The Why

"Gadi Amit's studio New Deal Design has invented an Artificial intelligence-equipped toy to fight the "distraction economy" by nurturing children's attention spans."

"Being 'present' and 'in-the-moment' is a skill that can be taught, and studies find that it nurtures a sense of 'mindfulness' that incites self-confidence and self-awareness."

The How

Using its AI software, Spot recognises the object and voices a little monologue from it, incorporating information to suit children ages five to nine.

There's also a secondary function that comes into play at bedtime, when Spot uses its in-built projector to present a story woven around the day's discoveries.

Critical Comments

"How about parents go out with their kids and look at robins and have the kid ask their parents what a robin is? 

Jesus Christ, what a load of nonsense. You know what enhances focus skills in a child? Give him/ her a stick and some mud and some water and a limitless sense of time.

My Thoughts

While I imagine this product was created in good faith, this product is still putting a barrier between a child and nature. New Deal Design says that their product is a reaction to the distraction economy and even though this product aims to get children outside, it is still not facilitating an "in the moment" experience.

I question if there is a way for a product that gives feedback on general surroundings to facilitate an "in the moment" experience other than analog tools like a magnifying glass, shovel, or bucket. Those would at least be child led activities for exploration rather than curated short stories or prescribed imagination. In comparison to open ended play, the experience Spot provides seems hollow and unsuccessful in its goal to be present outside.

References

Spot toy by New Deal Design encourages kids to be “in-the-moment.” (2019, June 24). Dezeen. https://www.dezeen.com/2019/06/24/spot-toy-new-deal-design-artificial-intelligence/