A 3D Printed Synthesizer for Toddlers: Where Early Learning Meets Creative Technology

A 3D Printed Synthesizer for Toddlers: Designing Early Creativity Through Play

What if a toddler’s first toy wasn’t just for pushing buttons — but for composing electronic

music? Software engineer Alastair Roberts brings that idea to life with Alma, a fully functional 3D

printed synthesizer for toddlers. Designed as a playful introduction to sound, rhythm, and creative discovery, Alma bridges the worlds of product design, music technology, and

childhood learning.

With an onboard sound module, built-in speaker, and a child-friendly interface, the synthesizer works entirely on its own — no computer or cables required. It transforms the tactile curiosity of young children into a hands-on musical experience.

Turning Play Into Sound

Alma is built around a simple but powerful looping system. The device includes four colorful sliders, each controlling a note in a four-step sequence. Move the slider up, the pitch rises; move it down, the pitch lowers.

The loop plays continuously, meaning toddlers can experiment in real time — discovering patterns, rhythm, and sound relationships through intuitive play.

A set of knobs allows for further exploration:

• Tempo

• Volume

• Scale

• Pitch

• Instrument type

These controls introduce concepts of musical structure without requiring any prior knowledge.

On the front panel, a small OLED screen displays animations and feedback — including a dancing panda that “performs” each note, helping children visually understand how their movements affect sound.

A 3D Printed Body Designed for Little Hands

The synthesizer’s outer shell is entirely 3D printed, giving it a soft, rounded, toy-like quality.

The compact design fits comfortably in small hands while still offering the robustness needed for daily use.

Inside, Roberts created a custom printed circuit board to house the electronics — a significant achievement, considering he had no hardware experience prior to the project.

The device is powered by three AA batteries, making it portable and safe for children.

The playful pink color and clear layout reinforce a sense of invitation, encouraging toddlers to explore sound freely, without intimidation.

From Montessori Inspiration to Musical Innovation

The idea emerged from a Montessori-style activity board covered in switches, knobs, and lights. The tactile setup reminded Roberts of early electronic instruments — inspiring him to build a musical version designed specifically for children.

To create Alma, he taught himself:

• microcontroller programming

• PCB design

• CAD modeling

• 3D printing

• hardware assembly

What began as a personal challenge became a fully-functioning product — one he gifted to his daughter, sparking joyful musical exploration.

He now plans to produce a small batch of units and upgrade future versions with a more powerful microcontroller.

Where Design, Learning, and Sound Collide

Alma demonstrates a powerful idea:children understand technology best when they can touch, move, and manipulate it directly.

This 3D printed synthesizer for toddlers:

• nurtures curiosity

• strengthens motor skills

• introduces musical thinking

• encourages experimentation

• blends design and learning seamlessly

For designers, it’s a reminder that product design is storytelling — and the earliest stories shape how we interact with the world.

For parents, it offers a delightful entry point into creativity and auditory play.

And for anyone inspired by the intersection of sound, design, and education, Alma is a glimpse into a future where music technology becomes part of childhood imagination.

Written by Otávio Santiago, a multidisciplinary designer exploring the intersection of emotion, form, and technology. His practice spans graphic, motion, and 3D design, bridging digital and physical experiences.