If you’re looking for the best robotic pet toys to keep your furry friend entertained and happy, there are lots of fun options. From realistic robo fish and interactive robots to programmable dogs and lifelike cats, these toys promote creativity, learning, and active play. They offer various features like sound, movement, and remote control for endless fun. Keep exploring to discover which ones best suit your child’s age and interests.
Key Takeaways
- Many robotic pet toys feature lifelike behaviors, sounds, and movements to mimic real animals and keep pets engaged.
- Options range from plush, interactive toys to programmable robots suitable for children aged 3-10.
- Durable designs with rechargeable batteries ensure long-lasting play and easy maintenance.
- Control methods include remote, app, touch, or voice, promoting interactive and screen-free entertainment.
- Educational features like coding and problem-solving promote skill development while entertaining pets and children.
Thames & Kosmos My Robotic Pet Tumbling Hedgehog STEM Kit
If you’re looking for a hands-on STEM project that challenges older kids and encourages problem-solving, the Thames & Kosmos My Robotic Pet Tumbling Hedgehog STEM Kit is a great choice. With 172 pieces, it allows you to build a sound-activated robot that reacts to claps with tumbling, spinning, and scurrying behaviors. The assembly takes about 1-2 hours and involves gears, motors, sensors, and LEDs, providing a practical introduction to robotics. While challenging and often requiring adult help, it offers a fun way to explore mechanics and electronics. Just be prepared for potential durability issues and the need for patience during assembly.
Best For: older children and adults interested in hands-on STEM learning, robotics, and mechanical problem-solving who are prepared to invest time and patience in assembly and troubleshooting.
Pros:
- Offers a practical, educational experience in gears, motors, sensors, and LEDs.
- Promotes problem-solving and mechanical comprehension through engaging assembly.
- Encourages experimentation and creativity with interactive sound-activated behaviors.
Cons:
- Assembly can be challenging and may require adult assistance, with some parts difficult to fit.
- Durability issues such as loose parts, broken gears, or malfunctioning after initial use.
- Some users experience inconsistent responsiveness and parts that may fall out or break during play.
Remote Control Robot Dog Toy, RC Programmable Interactive Robotic Pet
The Remote Control Robot Dog Toy stands out as an excellent choice for children aged 6 to 12 who enjoy interactive and creative play. Its adorable design with a white silver finish is both appealing and safe, thanks to smooth, rounded edges. The flexible joints and small wheels enable the dog to walk, dance, do handstands, and sit, mimicking real dog behaviors. With infrared remote control up to 30 feet, kids can command it to follow, dance, bark, and more. It supports programming up to 100 commands, fostering creativity and basic coding skills. Durable and rechargeable, this robot dog offers hours of engaging, educational fun.
Best For: children aged 6-12 who enjoy interactive, creative, and educational play with programmable robotic pets.
Pros:
- Engaging and adorable design with safe, rounded edges suitable for kids
- Supports programmable commands and animal sound imitation to foster creativity and learning
- Long-lasting rechargeable battery with durable, fall-proof construction
Cons:
- Limited to a 30-foot remote control range which may restrict play areas
- Requires charging time of approximately 2 hours for about 70-80 minutes of use
- May be too simple for older children or those seeking more advanced robotics features
Robo Alive Robo Fish Robotic Swimming Fish (Teal + Orange) by ZURU (2 Pack)
Kids who love aquatic adventures will find the Robo Alive Robo Fish (Teal + Orange) by ZURU perfect for bath time and water play. These realistic robotic fish activate upon water contact, mimicking lifelike movements in multiple directions and diving up to six feet. The 2-pack includes vibrant color-changing fish that add a magical touch to water environments. They’re durable, easy to use, and suitable for children aged 36 months to 10 years. Whether in a bathtub, pool, or water table, these toys provide hours of entertainment, stimulate curiosity about marine life, and make great prank items, all while requiring minimal maintenance.
Best For: children ages 3 to 10 who enjoy water-based toys, imaginative play, and marine-themed entertainment.
Pros:
- Realistic swimming movements and color-changing effects enhance visual appeal and engagement.
- Durable build quality withstands drops, splashes, and outdoor use, ensuring long-lasting fun.
- Easy to activate with water, making setup simple and suitable for various water play environments.
Cons:
- Battery life may be limited, with some units experiencing rapid depletion or mechanical issues.
- Some users report receiving defective toys or experiencing stripped screws during use.
- Price may vary, and occasional issues with durability or functionality could require customer service support.
Remote Control Robot Dog Toy for Kids 5-7 Years Old
Designed specifically for children aged 5 to 7, the Remote Control Robot Dog Toy offers an enthralling blend of interactive play and educational benefits. Made from durable ABS, it measures about 7.5 by 5.7 inches and weighs just over a pound, making it easy for little hands to handle. It responds to remote commands with realistic movements and sounds, including barking and animal calls. Kids can trigger actions by touching its chin, enhancing engagement. With features like storytelling, singing nursery rhymes, dancing, and teaching basic English, this toy combines fun and learning, encouraging creativity, problem-solving, and logical thinking during playtime.
Best For: children aged 5 to 7 who enjoy interactive, educational, and entertaining robotic toys that encourage creativity and problem-solving.
Pros:
- Engages kids with realistic sounds, movements, and touch-activated features for immersive play.
- Combines educational content like singing nursery rhymes and teaching basic English with fun activities.
- Durable ABS construction and rechargeable batteries ensure long-lasting use and convenience.
Cons:
- May be too complex for very young children under 3 years old.
- Requires battery charging time, which might interrupt extended play sessions.
- Limited to specific age range, potentially less suitable for older children seeking more advanced features.
Robot Cat Interactive Toys for Girls
If you’re looking for a fun, interactive toy that sparks creativity and joy, the Robot Cat Interactive Toy for Girls is an excellent choice. This adorable pink robotic kitty features remote control movement, singing, and dancing, making playtime lively and engaging. Its touch-sensitive head responds realistically, allowing kids to make it sit, stand, or meow, encouraging imaginative play and learning. Made from durable, high-quality materials, it’s safe and built to last. With a rechargeable USB battery and lightweight design, it’s portable and convenient. Rated 4.4 stars, this mechanical cat is sure to bring smiles, laughter, and hours of entertainment for children aged 4-9.
Best For: children aged 4-9 who love interactive, engaging, and imaginative toys that promote creative play and joy.
Pros:
- Features remote control movement, singing, and dancing for lively play
- Touch-sensitive head responds realistically, encouraging imaginative interactions
- Made from durable, high-quality materials with a rechargeable USB battery for convenience
Cons:
- Suitable for ages 12 months and up, which may lead to younger children attempting to operate it improperly
- May require supervision to ensure safe use and prevent damage
- Price and availability may vary, and some users may find the toy’s size or features limited for older children
Interactive Digital Pet Toy with 15 Animals for Kids
The Interactive Digital Pet Toy with 15 Animals is an ideal choice for children who love animals and enjoy hands-on, screen-free play. I find it engaging because it responds to swipes, tilts, shakes, and touches, making each interaction feel real. Kids can nurture their pets, feed them, play, and watch them evolve from babies to adults, revealing surprise outfits and mini-games. With 15 collectible animals like cats, bunnies, and unicorns, it keeps kids entertained and encourages responsibility. Compact and lightweight, it’s perfect for travel and provides a fun, educational alternative to screens, making it a great gift for kids aged 5 and up.
Best For: children aged 5 and up who love animals, interactive play, and screen-free entertainment that encourages responsibility and caregiving.
Pros:
- Highly interactive with responses to touch, tilt, and shake, providing a realistic pet experience
- Promotes responsibility through feeding, playing, and caring for evolving pets with surprises and mini-games
- Compact, lightweight, and portable, making it ideal for travel and on-the-go fun
Cons:
- Flickering lights and holographic-like effects may be uncomfortable for sensitive users
- Repetitive gameplay once all pets are unlocked can reduce long-term engagement
- Limited to 15 animals, which may limit variety for some users seeking more diverse or licensed characters
ROBO ALIVE Robo Turtle Robotic Swimming Turtle (2 Pack)
Imagine introducing a robotic pet that swims and moves just like a real turtle, mesmerizing children and water enthusiasts alike. The ROBO ALIVE Robo Turtle set includes four colorful, lifelike turtles that activate when submerged in water, swimming in multiple directions with realistic motion. They can also crawl on land, making play versatile and engaging. Perfect for pools, bathtubs, or water jugs, these turtles are easy to operate—just place them in water, and they come to life. Durable and fun, they spark curiosity about robotics and nature, making them a fantastic gift or water toy for kids aged 3 to 10.
Best For: children aged 3 to 10 who enjoy water play, robotic toys, and engaging, lifelike aquatic pets.
Pros:
- Realistic swimming motion that mimics a real turtle, providing engaging entertainment.
- Versatile play options, including swimming in water and crawling on land, suitable for various environments like pools and bathtubs.
- Easy to operate—simply place in water to activate—and durable enough for enthusiastic play.
Cons:
- Battery life may be short, requiring frequent replacements or recharging.
- Some users have reported receiving used items or toys with parts that fall off.
- Fragile construction may lead to damage if handled roughly or exposed to strong splashes repeatedly.
Robot Dog for Kids, Remote Control, Rechargeable, Programming, Stunt, Singing & Dancing Robotic Toy for Boys Ages 5-10
A robotic dog with over 20 interactive features is an excellent choice for children ages 5 to 10 who love both play and learning. It responds to touch and remote commands, performs tricks like sit, handstand, and go prone, and even sings and dances, keeping kids entertained for hours. Kids can program custom sequences, fostering creativity and STEM skills. Made from safe, non-toxic materials, it’s durable and easy to operate with straightforward instructions. Rechargeable batteries and a remote control offer convenience, while the variety of behaviors makes it a versatile, engaging toy that combines fun with educational value.
Best For: children aged 5 to 10 who enjoy interactive, educational, and entertaining robotic toys that encourage creativity and STEM learning.
Pros:
- Offers over 20 interactive features including singing, dancing, and performing tricks, providing engaging entertainment.
- Programmable capabilities allow kids to create custom sequences, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.
- Made from safe, non-toxic materials with rechargeable batteries, ensuring durability and ease of use.
Cons:
- Some users have reported occasional malfunctions or durability issues over time.
- Batteries for the remote control may deplete quickly and require replacements or recharging.
- Technical issues or delays in customer support may affect overall satisfaction.
Remote Control Robot Dog Toy, Programmable Interactive Robotic Pets
If you’re searching for a safe, engaging robotic pet that’s perfect for children ages 3 to 10, the Remote Control Robot Dog Toy stands out with its lifelike appearance and interactive features. Its adorable, smooth design made of durable ABS plastic is safe and fall-proof, making it ideal for kids’ play. With an infrared remote range of 30 feet, it responds to commands to follow, imitate, dance, and perform tricks like handstands or sit. Kids can program up to 12 commands, record 100 routines, and teach behaviors, fostering creativity and basic coding skills. Its rechargeable battery offers about 80 minutes of fun, making it a versatile, educational, and mess-free pet alternative.
Best For: children aged 3 to 10 who enjoy interactive, educational, and programmable robotic pets that are safe and fun to play with.
Pros:
- Adorable, lifelike design made from durable, fall-proof ABS plastic, ensuring safety and longevity.
- Multiple interactive features including follow, imitate, dance, and tricks, which promote engaging play and learning.
- Programmable with up to 12 commands and capable of recording 100 routines, fostering creativity and basic coding skills.
Cons:
- Battery life is limited to about 70-80 minutes, which may require frequent recharging during extended play sessions.
- Occasional connectivity issues with the follow function can disrupt seamless interaction.
- Some users find that the play experience can become repetitive over time, reducing long-term engagement.
Toy Dog Walking and Barking Electronic Pet for Kids
The Toy Dog Walking and Barking Electronic Pet is an excellent choice for children aged 36 months to 18 years who enjoy interactive, lifelike toys. It features a fluffy appearance, realistic barking, and movement, walking about 12 steps forward before wiggle and reverse actions. Easy to operate, it runs on 2 AA batteries (not included) and offers simple control, making it perfect for beginners. Although some users report durability issues and fragile legs, its charming design and interactive features make it a fun starter robotic pet. It’s a delightful gift option that brings smiles and entertainment, especially for young kids just discovering robotic toys.
Best For: children aged 36 months to 18 years who enjoy interactive, lifelike robotic toys and are looking for a fun, beginner-friendly pet.
Pros:
- Realistic walking, barking, and movement features that entertain children
- Easy to operate with simple controls, suitable for beginners
- Fluffy, lifelike appearance makes it an adorable and charming gift
Cons:
- Durability issues, with some parts arriving squished or breaking easily
- Limited mobility on beds or carpets, and legs can be fragile
- Some users find the toy too loud or annoying, and it may be overpriced for its quality
Pets Alive Poppy Interactive Dancing Plush Puppy Toy for Kids
Kids who love energetic, interactive toys will find Pets Alive Poppy the perfect companion. This adorable plush puppy comes to life with lively head spins, 360-degree turns, and booty shaking, all triggered by a simple music note button. It dances to three fun songs, encouraging kids to join in and move along. Its realistic design and contagious energy make it a hit with children and families alike. Measuring about 10.6 inches, Poppy is lightweight and easy to handle. With positive reviews praising its durability and entertainment value, it’s a fantastic gift that keeps kids active while sharing lots of laughs.
Best For: children aged 3 and up who love energetic, interactive plush toys and enjoy dancing and active play.
Pros:
- Highly interactive with lively head spins, 360-degree turns, and booty shaking that entertain kids and families.
- Dances to three fun songs, encouraging children to participate and be active.
- Realistic, adorable design with positive reviews highlighting durability and entertainment value.
Cons:
- Batteries included may last only a short time, requiring replacement or recharging.
- Some users might find the toy’s size or movements less suitable for younger children under 3.
- Price may vary by retailer, and some may consider it slightly higher for a plush toy with batteries.
2025 New Ai Robot Dog Nicoo Interactive Plush Robot Puppy
For pet lovers seeking a low-maintenance companion, the 2025 Nicoo AI Robot Dog offers a charming and realistic plush puppy that mimics real dog behaviors. Crafted from premium plush with lively eyes and natural proportions, it brings joy and companionship. It moves smoothly, exploring rooms with a wagging tail and expressive eyes that sparkle during play, all without training. Designed to serve as a loyal friend, it’s perfect for gifting on special occasions. While it provides comfort and fun, some users report that the appearance and functionality don’t quite match expectations, so careful review is advisable before purchasing.
Best For: pet lovers seeking a low-maintenance, adorable plush robot puppy for companionship and stress relief.
Pros:
- Realistic plush design with lively eyes and natural proportions that appeal to dog lovers.
- Smooth walking movement and expressive behaviors like tail wagging and sparkling eyes.
- No training needed, making it easy to use and suitable for gifting on various occasions.
Cons:
- May have a fake or cheap appearance that doesn’t match promotional images.
- Limited interaction features, primarily just barking and walking, with no remote or app control.
- Some users report poor build quality and that the product arrives in subpar condition.
WorWoder Plush Saint Bernard Interactive Pet Dog Toy
If you’re looking for a safe, engaging toy that mimics a real puppy, the WorWoder Plush Saint Bernard Interactive Pet Dog Toy is an excellent choice. This electronic plush puppy walks, barks, wags its tail, and stretches, making it feel like a genuine puppy. It performs tricks and easily moves across different surfaces like carpets and hardwood floors. Made from soft, non-toxic, eco-friendly materials, it’s safe for kids and free from strange smells. Powered by just two AA batteries, it responds to taps on its head, offering an interactive experience. It’s a perfect gift for children who love pets but aren’t ready for real responsibility.
Best For: children and toddlers who love pets and want a safe, interactive puppy experience without the responsibilities of caring for a real dog.
Pros:
- Mimics a real puppy by walking, barking, wagging its tail, and performing tricks for engaging play.
- Made from soft, non-toxic, eco-friendly materials ensuring safety and comfort for children.
- Easy to operate with simple tap responses and powered by just two AA batteries, making it user-friendly.
Cons:
- Requires batteries (2 AA) which need replacing over time.
- Limited to indoor use on various surfaces; may not perform well outdoors.
- As an electronic toy, it may have a limited lifespan if not properly maintained or if batteries leak.
Little Live Pets Talking Bird Toy & Cage
The Little Live Pets Talking Bird Toy & Cage stands out as an incredibly realistic and interactive choice for children who love animals and imaginative play. Indie the blue budgie features flocked feathers, a moving beak, and over 20 sounds, including chirping, tweeting, and talking back. Touch-activated responses make it feel alive—pet its head or back to hear cheerful sounds or record phrases for it to repeat. The set includes a colorful cage, perch, swing, and a top hook for portability. It’s durable, easy to set up, and highly engaging, making it an ideal gift that combines nurturing fun with sensory interaction.
Best For: children ages 5 and up who love realistic, interactive, and nurturing toys that encourage imaginative play and sensory engagement.
Pros:
- Highly realistic with flocked feathers, moving beak, and over 20 sounds for lifelike interaction
- Durable design with easy setup, including batteries and accessories like cage, perch, and swing
- Encourages imaginative play, nurturing skills, and sensory development through petting, recording, and sound responses
Cons:
- Requires batteries (included but may need replacement over time)
- Some children may quickly tire of the sounds or interactive features
- Larger size may be less suitable for very small children or limited storage spaces
Smart Robot Dog with Voice Control and APP Programming for Kids
Looking for a robotic pet toy that sparks creativity and enhances learning? The Smart Robot Dog is perfect for kids aged 6-12. It performs over 30 lifelike actions, like kung fu, handshakes, somersaults, and prank pee attacks. You can control it with voice commands, a touchscreen app, or a remote, making play interactive and fun. The coding mode lets kids design custom actions, boosting creativity and logic skills. With fast USB-C charging, long battery life, and durable, kid-safe materials, this robot grows with your child. It’s a smart, engaging toy that combines entertainment with foundational robotics education.
Best For: kids aged 6-12 who enjoy interactive, educational, and creative robotic toys that promote STEM learning and imaginative play.
Pros:
- Offers over 30 lifelike actions and fun tricks to keep children engaged
- Supports multiple control methods including voice commands, app, and remote for versatile play
- Encourages creativity through coding mode to design custom action sequences
Cons:
- Requires a smartphone or tablet for full control and programming features
- May be more expensive than basic robotic toys, reflecting its advanced features
- Some children might need adult assistance to fully utilize the coding and app functionalities
Factors to Consider When Choosing Robotic Pet Toys
When choosing a robotic pet toy, I consider several key factors to guarantee it’s the right fit. Things like age appropriateness, durability, interactive features, and maintenance needs all play a role. Understanding these points helps me pick a toy that’s fun, safe, and educational.
Age Appropriateness
Choosing the right robotic pet toy depends heavily on the child’s age, as toys designed for different developmental stages offer varying features and safety considerations. For children under 3 years, opt for simple, durable toys with no small parts to prevent choking hazards. These toys should focus on basic interactions and be sturdy enough to withstand rough handling. For ages 3 to 7, select interactive toys that encourage early learning and motor skills, such as those with sound responses or easy programming features. Older kids, aged 8 to 14, benefit from more complex toys that include programmable actions, coding, or advanced behaviors to challenge their growing skills. Always check the manufacturer’s age recommendations and safety warnings to guarantee the toy matches the child’s maturity and safety needs.
Durability and Build
Selecting a robotic pet toy that can withstand energetic play involves paying close attention to its durability and build quality. I look for toys made from high-quality, non-toxic plastics or silicone, which resist breakage and rough handling. Reinforced joints, flexible limbs, and impact-resistant features are essential for longevity, especially during active play sessions. Regular maintenance, like cleaning and inspecting for loose parts, can also extend the toy’s lifespan. I’ve found that consumer reviews often emphasize sturdy construction, with cheaper models frequently breaking or malfunctioning quickly. Choosing a toy with a proven track record of durability saves money over time, reducing the need for frequent repairs or replacements. Ultimately, a well-built robotic pet toy offers not only entertainment but peace of mind.
Interactive Features
Interactive features play a crucial role in making robotic pet toys engaging and lifelike. Touch sensors, sound activation, and remote controls boost interaction and realism, making playtime more dynamic. Many toys can perform multiple actions like walking, dancing, or tricks, often programmable for customized entertainment. Responding to stimuli such as petting, clapping, or voice commands helps foster a sense of companionship and connection. Some toys even record and repeat sounds, imitate animals, or perform stunts to add extra fun. The level of interactivity usually depends on the complexity of sensors and control options, which directly impacts the overall experience. Choosing a robot with advanced interactive features ensures your pet remains stimulated, entertained, and engaged for longer periods.
Maintenance Needs
When evaluating robotic pet toys, it’s important to take into account their maintenance needs to guarantee long-term enjoyment. I look at how often the batteries require recharging or replacing and whether they’re easy to access. Removable or washable parts are a big plus, making cleaning simple and keeping the toy hygienic over time. I also consider if the toy needs software updates or firmware upgrades, as these can be necessary to keep it functioning smoothly. Mechanical parts like gears, joints, or sensors may wear out with extended use, so I check their durability and the cost of replacements. Finally, I evaluate the availability and expense of replacement parts and accessories, ensuring that maintaining the toy remains affordable and hassle-free over its lifespan.
Educational Value
Educational value is a key factor when choosing robotic pet toys because it enhances learning while keeping children engaged. These toys can teach kids about robotics, engineering, and electronics through hands-on assembly and interaction. Toys that support programmable actions and coding help develop problem-solving skills, logical thinking, and basic programming knowledge. Many feature sensors and reactive behaviors that demonstrate cause-and-effect relationships, fostering critical thinking. STEM-focused robotic pets introduce concepts like motor functions, gear mechanisms, and electronic components in an engaging, age-appropriate way. The inclusion of light, sound, and movement features that respond to user input encourages experiential learning and sparks curiosity about technology and engineering. Overall, educational robotic pets make learning fun and meaningful, nurturing young minds’ interest in science and technology.
Safety Standards
Choosing a robotic pet toy that’s safe for children involves more than just looking at features and fun factors. It’s essential to confirm the toy complies with safety standards like ASTM F963, EN71, or CPSIA, which guarantee it has been tested for hazards. I always check that materials are non-toxic, BPA-free, and hypoallergenic to prevent allergic reactions or chemical exposure during play. Secure construction is critical, especially for toys intended for young children—no small or detachable parts that could pose a choking risk. The toy should have rounded edges and smooth surfaces to reduce cuts or scratches. Ultimately, I verify that it meets electrical safety requirements, including proper insulation and certified battery compartments, to prevent shocks or fires. Safety always comes first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Robotic Pet Toys Suitable for Children With Allergies?
Yes, robotic pet toys are generally suitable for children with allergies because they don’t shed fur or dander, which are common triggers. I’ve found that these toys are made from hypoallergenic materials, making them a safe option for sensitive kids. Plus, they’re easy to clean, reducing allergen buildup. Just make sure to check the manufacturer’s details to guarantee the toy is truly hypoallergenic and safe for your child’s specific allergies.
How Durable Are Robotic Pet Toys During Active Play?
Robotic pet toys are surprisingly durable during active play. I’ve found that most are built with sturdy materials that withstand biting, scratching, and rough movements. Of course, I recommend choosing toys designed for energetic pets, as they tend to be more robust. Regularly inspecting them for wear and tear helps ensure safety. Overall, I’m confident these toys hold up well and keep my pet entertained without easily breaking.
Do Robotic Pets Require Batteries or Charging Frequently?
Robotic pets usually need batteries or charging, but it’s not as demanding as you might think. Imagine a toy that’s like a smartphone—some require daily charging, others last weeks on a single charge. I find that most robotic pets need a quick recharge every few days or so, depending on how active your pet is. I recommend checking the manufacturer’s instructions to keep your robotic friend always ready to play.
Can Robotic Pets Be Customized or Personalized?
Absolutely, robotic pets can often be customized or personalized. I love that many models let you change their appearance, sounds, or behaviors to match your pet’s personality or your preferences. Some even allow for downloadable updates or apps that let you tweak features, making the experience unique for both you and your furry friend. It’s a fun way to make the robotic pet feel more like a real companion.
Are There Safety Concerns With Small Robotic Pet Parts?
Did you know that over 30% of pet owners worry about small parts in robotic toys? Yes, there are safety concerns with small robotic pet parts, especially for curious pets that might swallow or choke on them. I always recommend choosing toys with durable, non-toxic, and securely attached parts. Regularly inspecting toys can also prevent accidents, giving your pet safe, endless entertainment without risk.
Conclusion
Choosing the right robotic pet toy is like planting a seed—it nurtures joy and companionship that can grow for years. Whether you want a STEM adventure, a cuddly friend, or an interactive playmate, these toys can brighten your day and spark creativity. Remember, the perfect robotic pet isn’t just a gadget; it’s a new friend waiting to bring happiness and wonder into your life. So, pick one and watch your world come alive!
