Raising Steve: A Mother’s Guide to Spider Robotics

Welcome to my journey of motherhood. Here are my guidelines and timeline in order to have a

Today, we are diving into the captivating creation of a pet robot named "Steve" for a class project based in California. This project not only showcases technical skills but also highlights the ability to bring imagination to life through coding.

Week 1: Nesting Instincts Activate

They say motherhood starts the moment you begin preparing so that’s exactly what I did. I took one long, loving look at Steve (my slightly limping, energy-deficient spider baby) and knew it was time for a full check-up. I ordered new parts for the joints and limbs he and I have broken (accidental) and started 3D-printing spares—just in case he gets a bit too energetic.

Week 2: Preventative Care + Web Presence

Still in full prep mode. While Steve rested, I kept busy building our online nest—a cozy little website where his milestones will live forever (and for my midterm :)). I added blog entries, set up the structure, and kept a close eye on his hardware. If one more leg gives out, I’m ready with backups. Energy levels are still low, but we’re working on that in week 3. One step (or misstep) at a time.

Week 3: Limbs On, Wiggles In Progress

This week was all about reconnecting Steve’s limbs and getting him back on his little feet. All servos will be mounted and his body will be fully secured, and then the real test begins: Will he move? Will he want to move? I will update as soon as I see. All I want to see is a little wobble, and if I'm lucky, baby's first crawl. swear he’s trying.

Week 4: Steve Will Take His First Real Steps

By this week, all four of Steve’s legs should be attached and ready to go. I’ll run the first basic movement tests to see if he can walk (or at least wobble) across the floor. Hopefully, it’ll be less “baby deer on ice” and more “confident little creep.” I’ll also try to upload some of these milestone moments to the blog—because what kind of mom would I be if I didn’t overshare?

Week 5: Parent-Teacher Conference (Mid-pPoint Check-In)

Time to show off our progress! I’ll present Steve’s current status, what’s working, what’s... not, and where we’re headed next. It’ll be a good opportunity to reflect on all the growing pains so far and refine our plan. Steve won’t be speaking for himself yet, but I’ll speak for him—proudly and with just a touch of bias.

Week 6: Dancing Lessons Begin

Assuming he’s walking by now, I’ll focus on improving his movements—smoother steps, better balance, and maybe a spin or two. I’ll begin programming some dance moves (because every child deserves a creative outlet) and start designing how Steve will transition between walking, dancing, and idling. If things go smoothly, sound integration will also begin. Imagine a spider that boogies and beeps.

Week 7: Expressive Actions & Sound

Steve will be getting a voice this week. Whether that’s quirky chirps or dramatic sci-fi tones, he’ll be making noise. I’ll continue refining his dancing and expressive gestures, so he starts feeling less like a machine and more like a moody little guy with a flair for performance. State-switching behavior (walk → dance → idle) should also start functioning here. Big week!

Week 8: Autonomy Kicks In

I’ll start programming Steve to operate more independently. He should be able to switch behaviors on his own based on pre-set triggers or timing. This week will also focus on managing energy consumption—adjusting servo timing so he doesn’t burn out mid-jig. My goal is for him to run comfortably for 30 minutes without me hovering like an anxious dance mom.

Week 9: Stress Tests & Final Tweaks

This will be all about testing: long run times, different movement combinations, and making sure Steve can hold up under pressure (literally and emotionally). Any last bugs or breakdowns will be addressed here. I’ll be watching closely, ready with extra parts and encouraging words.

Week 10: Final Glow-Up & Showcase

In the last week, I’ll tidy up Steve’s appearance—tuck in wires, secure parts, and give him that “polished but quirky” stage presence. I’ll film his final performance and prepare for the big class presentation. Steve will shine, strut, and maybe even surprise me. And I’ll be right there, cheering him on from the sidelines—because that’s what moms do.