The best coding books for kids help children learn a fundamental skill to prepare for their future and provide interactive features to ensure kids have fun. Supplementing learning to code with books is a great resource, because kids can progress at their own pace and dig even further into specific skills. So whether you're looking for the perfect gift for your favorite teenager who loves gaming, or to help your daughter explore her passion for data science, there's a book that's a good fit!

Discover helpful books, including those designed for beginners, picture books, and more below. To learn how to code with live expert instruction in a fun class, explore the best coding classes for kids. Most beginners start with this award-winning Scratch coding class designed by experts from Google, Stanford, and MIT:

These books provide a variety of approaches to learning coding, from game development to web design to hardware projects, ensuring there's something to engage every young coder. In addition, we've included a mix of story-based learning, visual programming, and hands-on coding projects, making these books ideal for kids of various ages and interests.

1. "Hello Ruby: Adventures in Coding" by Linda Liukas

First, something for our littles! This book is an excellent introduction to coding for younger children (ages 5-7). It uses a story-based approach to teach basic programming concepts and computational thinking. Ruby, the main character, embarks on various adventures that subtly introduce kids to coding principles.

    • Engaging storyline and colorful illustrations.
    • Activities and exercises at the end of each chapter to reinforce learning.
    • Focus on problem-solving and creativity.

2. "Python for Kids: A Playful Introduction to Programming (2nd Edition)" by Jason R. Briggs

Targeted at kids aged 10 and up, this newly revised 2nd Edition introduces the Python programming language using modern Python 3 standards. Python is an incredibly versatile, industry-standard language that remains the perfect starting point for beginners thanks to its clean, readable syntax.

  • Features fully updated code, refined explanations, and modern practices.
  • Provides playful projects, from drawing with Turtle graphics to coding full-fledged 2D games like Bounce! and Hunter.
  • Breaks down fundamental computer science concepts such as loops, conditional statements, and functions into digestible, kid-friendly steps.

3. "Coding Games in Scratch: A Step-by-Step Visual Guide to Building Your Own Computer Games" by Jon Woodcock

This visually striking guide is tailor-made for kids aged 8-12 who want to build their own interactive games using Scratch. Fully updated to utilize the Scratch 3.0 interface, it teaches critical computational thinking through hands-on game design.

  • Uses highly visual, step-by-step instructions with clear screenshots to map out every single code block.
  • Guides kids through designing classic arcade-style games, platformers, and puzzles.
  • Fosters logical reasoning, spatial awareness, and creative storytelling through digital media.

4. "Girls Who Code: Learn to Code and Change the World" by Reshma Saujani

Aimed at girls aged 10 and up, this book combines inspirational stories of women in tech with coding tutorials and exercises. It's designed to encourage girls to explore coding and see its potential to create positive change.

    • Real-life stories of women in technology.
    • Easy-to-follow coding exercises and projects.
    • Focus on problem-solving and real-world applications.

5. "DK Workbooks: Coding in Scratch: Games Workbook" by Jon Woodcock

Perfect for absolute beginners aged 6-9, this workbook provides an accessible entry point to block-based programming using the Scratch 3.0 platform. Block based programming is a great starting language for beginners or young coders, as it allows users to focus on logic versus syntax. This book's highly visual layout breaks down complex logic into small, bite-sized tasks.

  • Features interactive offline activities and hands-on online coding challenges.
  • Includes dedicated parent notes, a glossary of terms, and helpful solution keys to guide young learners.
  • Builds a strong foundation in essential logic patterns, animation, and game mechanics through play.

6. "Get Coding! Learn HTML, CSS & JavaScript and Build a Website, App, and Game" by Young Rewired State

Designed for kids aged 9-12, this book teaches the basics of web development using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. It guides kids through creating their own website, app, and game. This is a great book for students who want to learn more about how their favorite websites work, or want to have more of a design experience with coding.

    • Comprehensive introduction to web development.
    • Step-by-step projects with clear instructions.
    • Fun and engaging challenges to reinforce learning.

7. "Adventures in Raspberry Pi" by Carrie Anne Philbin

Aimed at kids aged 11-15, this thoroughly updated 3rd Edition serves as an outstanding, project-based introduction to hardware hacking and programming using the Raspberry Pi 3. It bridges the gap between pure code and real-world physical computing.

  • Covers modern Raspberry Pi hardware setup, basic system navigation, and command-line instructions.
  • Walks kids through diverse creative projects, including coding music with Sonic Pi, drawing vector graphics, and manipulating Minecraft worlds.
  • Teaches the fundamentals of both Python programming and electrical engineering in a non-intimidating way.

How To Use The Best Coding Books For Kids

How do I start teaching my child to code?

In order to start teaching your child to code, make sure they are excited but try not to overwhelm them. Pick material - including books and courses - that are on their level. You want to build their confidence as they start to learn to code.

Starting out with an introductory book or online class is a great way to begin. Scratch coding for kids is one of our most popular classes for beginners. Learn more about how to teach your child to code here.

Is coding good for kids?

Coding has become one of the most important skills kids should learn for their future. Coding strengthens logical thinking, problem solving, and creativity skills. When students learn to code, it not only gives them a better chance at success, but also allows them to understand the technology around them. Coding takes a lot of trial and error, even for the best coders! So, it also improves children's resilience skills since they will need to overcome challenges and fix code that may not work. Learn more reasons why coding is good for kids.

Enjoy Kids Coding Books Your Student Will Love

When deciding which coding books to get for your child, consider their age, interests, and current knowledge level. Books with visual instructions and hands-on projects can be particularly engaging. Complementing books with live online classes is beneficial as books provide a structured, self-paced learning path, while online classes offer real-time interaction and personalized guidance. This combination ensures a well-rounded learning experience, fostering both independent problem-solving skills and collaborative learning opportunities. Balancing these resources can maximize your child's coding education.

Next check out a fun Scratch tutorial for kids or join our free Scratch class: