Personally, I find this example of 'progress' creepy rather than empowering. It may be interesting that a robot can be programmed to elicit social behaviour from a young child, but is this really a useful or desirable tool?
Surely, we want children to learn to socialise with each other - with fellow unpredictable, but real human beings - rather than a piece of technology. And it should be warm, responsive adults who care for children and model desirable behaviour.
Children don't need a computerised companion, either as a teacher, a friend or a toy. A simple teddy bear or doll can be the subject of the most imaginative play.
I saw an advertisement in a Sunday supplement for a robot that would vacuum a room by itself. This is a suitable and productive use for new technology. A toddler-sized robot that children start to hug just seems very sad! We must have more well-qualified and loving practitioners in our nurseries - a robot will never be a cheap substitute to fill the gaps.
Next week, don't miss the first part of our collectible, pull-out series on child development by leading expert Maria Robinson. Maria will be focusing on the personal, social and emotional aspects of development in the first five years of life. The pull-out will run in the fourth issue of each month, building up into an indispensable resource for all practitioners and managers.