Passing the passion: bond, have fun with Toyota’s Kids Tech program

As dads, it is important for us not only to provide for our families but also to bond with our little ones.

On that note, pops — who are also car enthusiasts — can share their passion with their children through Toyota Motor Philippines’ kids technician program.

Here’s what tatays and tots can expect when they sign up for a day filled with fun and learning.

Registration, cost

To take part in the program, parents can contact Toyota Alabang, which is currently the only facility to offer the activity to kids aged four to 18 years. Here are their channels:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ToyotaAlabangIncOfficial
• Email: info@toyotaalabang.com.ph
• Website: https://toyotaalabang.com.ph/

Slots are limited, and spots can be quickly filled.

At the time of writing, the program — based on the available registration form — is offered in several packages, with the base bundle costing just P3,500. This includes a souvenir photo to take home, an event map, a nameplate, and some light snacks.

For P5,500, joiners (on top of the basic inclusions) can take home a toolkit and a technician’s overall (among other things), which they will use as they tinker with Toyota automobiles.

Briefing, program flow

During the day of the activity, the kids will undergo a quick briefing after suiting up. Then, they are grouped and sent to different stations where they will learn about vehicle safety and some automotive know-how.

First order of business was a demonstration of the Toyota Safety Sense with a Camry.

Then, the kids were brought to the seatbelt and airbag station. Here, the participants were taught how to secure themselves in their seats as well as the benefits of the said safety features.

They moved on to check out car windows and try the different technologies used to move the glass up and down.

One of the program’s exciting segments was when the young ones were allowed to peek under a Toyota Corolla Altis (while wearing a hard hat), which was suspended using a lifter. They identified underchassis components and were handed over a power tool (with supervision, of course), which they used to change a tire.

Next, they were asked to look into the engine bay of a Toyota Raize, where the instructors introduced some of the parts found there. They hopped inside the crossover and were made familiar with what can be seen on the dashboard.

Then, the tiny technicians were taught how to operate a scissor jack.

Soon after, the kids were treated to some time in the track where they operated remote-controlled cars. Dads can also take a shot at racing using the simulation rig situated in the workshop.

The participants, too, were taught about Toyota’s hybrid technology as they checked the bonnet of a Corolla Cross. A helpful crash course, as many of today’s nameplates are starting to spawn their new-energy counterparts.

Further, they got to try replacing an air filter as well as field stripping a windshield wiper. And while we’re on the topic of disassembling auto parts, the kids were given a go at deconstructing the cylinder head and taking out spark plugs.

And oh, they also got to remove (and replace) the front and rear bumpers of an old Toyota Corolla Altis sedan.

Bonding over bolts and gears

For the writer, the experience was more than just a mere excursion or an event to attend. It was a way for a father to bond with his son and pass on a passion for automobiles.

And while the things taught in the program — like operating a jack, replacing an air filter, and changing a tire — might be too much to grasp for a four-year-old, these will translate into useful skills for an older padawan.

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