Coding is important to learn not only because it cultivates critical thinking, creativity, and computational thinking skills, but also because it puts students on the path towards a lucrative career, with many options to choose from in a rapidly growing industry. So today, we'll share some of the the best coding summer camps for kids and teens in grades K-12!
Summer camps are a great way to learn how to code because they provide students with a fun experience over the long break, and students are able to conquer the material much faster with lessons every day. While there are excellent in-person camps, virtual coding summer camps offer the greatest flexibility for students to be able learn from the best teachers from all over the country, all from the comfort of their own home.
Discover The Best Coding Summer Camps
Explore award-winning coding camps created by experts from Google, MIT, and Stanford. This curriculum has been recognized by HulaFrog and parents worldwide as the Most Loved Virtual Learning program and won a Best of the year award from ActivityHero! See learning paths for students by grade level here: K-2 | Grades 2-4 | Grades 4-6 | Grades 6-9 | Grades 9-12.
Explore the best coding summer camps for elementary school kids
Learning coding is similar to learning a new language - the earlier you start the more you retain as you grow older. Check out the wide variety of camps geared towards elementary school kids in grades K-5.
1. Scratch Ninja
Scratch is the ideal way to introduce students to coding and get them more interested in how it works. In this fun interactive camp students learn the basics of how to code games and animations with drag-and-drop coding blocks! Students learn foundational coding concepts, and are encouraged to think critically and use their creativity while coding a special project in each session.
Format: Live online for 55 minutes per session
Best for: Beginner coders with no previous experience
Grades: 2-5
Prerequisite: None
2. Minecraft Redstone Engineering
Does your child enjoy Minecraft? If so, check this camp out! In this fun one-of-a-kind camp students learn how to identify and utilize the rare Minecraft element: Redstone - to engineer powerful inventions. In addition to engineering techniques in the world of Minecraft, students learn about real-world engineering concepts!
Format: Live online for 55 minutes a session
Best for: Students interested in Minecraft
Grades: 2-5
Prerequisite: None
3. Junior Robotics
Enjoy an introductory camp to robotics designed for kids. This VEX robotics camp teaches students how coding is used in robotics through fun, hands-on projects, and how robots can solve real-world problems. Students will be introduced to the basics of VEX Code and programming in a 3D virtual environment, and complete challenges in complicated virtual worlds with obstacles, using sensors. No physical robot is required for this class.
Format: Live online for 55 minutes a session
Best for: Kids that want to make something physical and enjoy smart devices
Grades: 2-4
Prerequisite: Students need to have completed Scratch Ninja 1 & 2
4. Minecraft Modding Quest
Built on top of the regular Minecraft game, Minecraft: Education Edition includes additional features to teach kids coding and problem-solving in an immersive environment where creativity and collaboration are encouraged. Our carefully designed online modding camp covers a broad set of coding concepts, from basic stacking commands to building complex structures and mini-games through coding. Build your own battle game that fights off zombies, and see who is better at the rock, paper, scissors game built you build in Minecraft!
Format: Live online for 55 minutes a session
Best for: Kids interested in Minecraft and game development
Grades: 3-6
5. Beginner Roblox Game Coding
This camp was designed to be an introduction to coding games in the ever popular Roblox gaming platform (with over 40 million games)! This specific Roblox coding camp is the only one of its kind to teach Roblox coding without the complicated game development tool Lua, which is most commonly used for Roblox coding. Students learn these skills through building multiple fun games in a supportive environment led by an expert teacher.
Format: Live online for 75 minutes per session
Best for: Kids that want to learn about Roblox
Grades: 3-8
Prerequisite: Completion of Scratch Ninja 4 or equivalent of advanced coding experience
Explore the best coding summer camps for middle school kids
Check out engaging and fun summer camps for kids in grades 6-8, for all skill levels.
6. Accelerated Scratch
Accelerated Scratch is a live online camp designed for the novice coder who is in grades 5-9. Studies have proven that students who are new to coding do better starting with block-based coding like Scratch. This class offers a series of compressed Scratch coding sessions that equip students with key coding concepts in just eight sessions, each with a fun project including games and animations.
Format: Live online for 55 minutes per session
Best for: Middle-school aged students who want to start coding
Grades: 5-9
Prerequisite: None
7. Mobile Coding for Apps and Games
This camp provides students with the skills to create their own unique mobile applications. Students will learn a variety of exciting skills including but not limited to design layout and UI, how to enable UI elements for event handling, how to use different mobile features like a touch screen, how to make multi-user apps, and much more! This is all achieved through building fun projects and games in a camp size of 2-3 students max, led by an expert teacher.
Format: Live online for 55 minutes per session
Best for: Kids that want to learn how to build mobile apps
Grades: 4-9
Prerequisite: Completion of Scratch Ninja 2 or equivalent coding experience
8. Create with AI: ChatGPT Secrets for Kids
This live online interactive course designed by experts from Google, Stanford, and MIT, helps students understand what ChatGPT is and introduces them to effective ways of using ChatGPT. Together with ChatGPT, students will plan something fun, honing their systematic and critical thinking skills while developing essential executive functions. Moreover, they'll learn how to use ChatGPT to enhance their writing abilities and unleash their creativity, enabling them to craft captivating storylines, and they'll master the art of delivering powerful messages through well-structured sentences. Students will also have the opportunity to code their very own ChatBot using this remarkable technology. Throughout the course, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the power of ChatGPT, its practical applications, and the ethical considerations associated with AI usage.
Format: Live online for 55 minutes per session
Best for: Kids that want to learn a new technology
Grades: 4-8
Prerequisite: None required, Scratch recommended
9. Modern Website Design with Wix
Does the student in your life ever talk about wanting to create their own websites? Create & Learn made this camp to teach students all the skills they need to build their own website with the leading free website building platform, Wix. This class covers a wide range of web design topics including how to structure your website, design your layout, choose color schemes, and create an online storefront. Websites can be used as a virtual portfolio, to showcase school or community events, help local businesses or nonprofits, and really anything you put your mind to!
Format: Live online for 75 minutes per session
Best for: Kids that want answers fast and live guidance to learn how to build their own websites
Grades: 4-9
Prerequisite: None, but Scratch Ninja and Canva for Kids are suggested
10. Python for AI
Master Python, an essential coding language, in a supportive environment led by an expert teacher. In this advanced coding camp, students will learn not only the advanced coding language of Python, but also the elements of Python that are most relevant to the increasingly-important field of artificial intelligence. Python is used by companies like Netflix and Google for web development, game development, building apps, machine learning, and much more!
Format: Live online for 55 minutes per session
Best for: Kids who want to learn a real-world programming language
Grades: 5-12
Prerequisite: Advanced Scratch Coding or Minecraft Modding experience
11. Coding with Roblox Studio in Lua
Does your child love Roblox and have prior experience coding Roblox games? If so, this class is a great fit to equip your child with advanced Roblox coding skills! Students will learn how to use the advanced scripting language Lua to create games, solve puzzles, and more in this fun class. Special skills like how to configure properties of objects like color and texture, how to create multi-player games, and how to create economies are just a few of the exciting features taught in this class.
Format: Live online for 70 minutes per session
Best for: Tweens and teens who are familiar with Roblox
Grades: 6-12
Prerequisite: Advanced Scratch Coding or Minecraft Modding experience
Explore the best coding summer camps for high school teens
Check out these award-winning, challenging, and diverse live online coding camps for high-school aged students.
12. Build Your Web
Learn the intricacies of how the internet works and how to contribute to the world wide web in this fun hands-on web building camp. Students will learn HTML and CSS, how to build websites with Javascript, and much more. If your teen wants to cultivate advanced coding skills through building websites this is the perfect camp for them!
Format: Live online for 55 minutes per session
Best for: Kids interested in building their own highly customized websites
Grades: 5-12
Prerequisite: Completion of Scratch Ninja 3 or coding equivalent
13. Data Science with Python and Pandas
Python and Pandas are a powerful combination of platforms that when used correctly provide students with superb data analyzation and drawing business insights. In this hands-on analytic camp students learn how to manipulate data. The ability to effectively analyze data and use it to inform decisions is a critical skill for a variety of professions including lawyers, doctors, engineers, entrepreneurs, journalists, and more.
Format: Live online for 75 minutes per session
Best for: Kids who want to understand how to analyze complex data
Grades: 5-12
Prerequisite: Completion of Python for AI or equivalent experience
14. Unity Game Development
Did you know Unity is the most popular game engine in the world? If your child has ever wondered how professionals develop games with sophisticated features and design, this is it! This advanced game building camp covers a wide range of topics including how to navigate the Unity ecosystem to build 2D/3D games from scratch, complete behavioral and object scripting, and much more.
Format: Live online for 70 minutes per session
Best for: Students who want to learn game building
Grades: 5-12
Prerequisite: Basic knowledge of text-based coding such as Python, Javascript, or Java
15. AP Computer Science Principles (meets AP CSP College Board requirements)
In this preparatory class for the AP CSP Exam, students learn a broad range of fundamental exam topics including how to design and evaluate solutions, and how to apply computer science to solve problems through developing algorithms and programs. This class was developed by AP computer science educators and meets the requirements for the AP CSP exam as defined by the College Board.
Format: Live online for 70 minutes per session
Best for: Students who want to prepare for the AP CSP exam
Grades: 6-12
Prerequisite: Completion of Python for AI or equivalent coding experience
16. AP Computer Science Java (meets AP CSA college board requirements)
This rigorous Java class was adapted by Lead Curriculum Developer Jamila Cocchiola from the new Code.org AP CSA curriculum (certified by College Board) to better fit our online format and student needs. This class is a highly thorough introduction to Java programming and covers a wide range of topics like the design of solutions to problems, the use of data structures to organize large sets of data, and the development and implementation of algorithms to process data. These skills and many more are put into practice through fun project-based learning!
Format: Live online for 90 minutes per session
Best for: Students who want to prepare for the AP CSA exam
Grades: 6-12
Prerequisite: Completion of Python for AI or equivalent coding experience
How our coding summer camps are run
Summer coding camps are great for learning new skills in a condensed period of time. Choose from structured weeklong camps (four consecutive days) available in multiple time zones, with both morning and afternoon start times. You can even request a schedule. And don't worry, each camp page specifies any prerequisites and any needed hardware and software. Then show up for the Zoom lessons led live by an expert! Our camp instructors are our regular year-round instructors who have lots of experience teaching kids throughout the year. Each camp has a maximum of 5 students per instructor, which means more progress and more play. So students get to present their creations through each camp session. Once camp is complete, your student can celebrate with a personalized Certificate of Achievement to mark the milestone.
Also our summer coding camp programs are now more affordable than ever before! Not only are our camps longer than the typical ones offered, allowing for a more immersive and comprehensive learning experience, but also they cost about half as much as comparable programs. Our commitment to accessibility and equity in education is reflected in our reasonable pricing, because we believe that every student deserves the opportunity to explore and excel in the exciting world of technology education.
What parents and students can expect
Parents and students can expect quality coding classes with excellent instructors and personalized attention at Create & Learn's summer coding camps. The instructors are patient, supportive, and knowledgeable, making the camps fun and exciting for kids. The camps encourage creativity and problem-solving skills, and kids will learn coding concepts while working on coding exercises and projects. The small camp sizes provide an excellent learning environment, and instructors give personal feedback to both students and parents. Additionally, Create & Learn offers select free sessions that help parents and students choose the right camp at the right level.
Here's what a few parents have said about the camps:
"The curriculum was well designed and taught methodically. I was impressed that within a week, my children both became Scratch savvy. Most importantly, they developed a strong interest in coding, and continued to work on projects after class without being asked to do so."
"My 10 year old son tried the AI explorers class this Spring. As parents who work in tech, we realize that kids his age don't have the mathematical foundation to understand the algorithms. Our goal was to expose his to various applications and possibilities that AI can unlock. The course and the teacher did an excellent job covering a breadth of fun and relatable examples, including image recognition, training AI to play games, and creating music."
"I am very impressed with Create & Learn. The instructor is a wonderful teacher and so patient with my son. My son is exploring coding and learning how to create logical commands. Thank you for a great experience!"
Frequently asked questions about coding summer camp
For parents who are new to the world of coding and programming, the idea of sending their child to a summer coding camp can be overwhelming. But don't worry - we'll answer some of the most frequently asked questions by parents considering a summer coding camp for their child!
- What age range is the camp designed for? Each camp lists the appropriate students' grade level - they range from kindergarten through grade 12.
- What is the curriculum or syllabus of the camp? The curriculum for each class is designed by Silicon Valley tech vets, such as professionals from Google and Apple, and educators from ivy league schools such as MIT and Stanford. It was created with kids in mind, with a focus on an inquiry-based learning approach that empowers kids to be active participants. Our curriculum has been recognized for excellence by Meta, SMASH, Minecraft Education, HulaFrog, and ActivityHero. Learn more about our curriculum here: Grades K-2 | Grades 2-4 | Grades 4-6 | Grades 6-9 | Grades 9-12
- Who are the instructors and what are their qualifications? Our instructors are all US-based, and pass a safety screening, in addition to needing at least 3+ years of teaching experience and certificates in their fields. They also undergo extensive training in the subjects they teach.
- What is the student-to-instructor ratio? Our camps have 5 students (at the most) to one teacher. You can also request a private camp, for just your student and a teacher.
- What is the duration of the camp and how long are the classes? Each camp is 4 days, and each daily session is 55-75 minutes long.
- What equipment or software will the students use during the camp? Each camp lists the hardware and software students will need ahead of time.
- What is the cost of the camp and are there any additional fees? Each camp costs a flat rate fee, and there are no additional fees. In some instances if the software isn't free and you don't already have it, you'll need to pay a fee for that - for example the Procreate app for iPad costs $12.99, which your student will need to enjoy the Procreate camp.
- What is the cancellation policy? You can reschedule your camp up to 7 days prior to attending. There's also a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
- Are there any prerequisites or prior knowledge required? Each camp lists its prerequisites. Students new to computer science can start with the camps that require no prerequisites, including Scratch Junior, NASA Science, Digital Art, Scratch Ninja, Accelerated Scratch, Minecraft Engineering, Canva Design, Wix Modern Websites, or Python for students in grades 6+.
- What types of projects or activities will the students work on during the camp? Students will work on projects in every camp session. For example a website for a club, a mobile app, a cool interactive Pokemon game with a ball, a wizard tag game, animations with moving and talking characters, a Roblox obby, customize a jungle adventure, and much more.
- Will the students receive any certification or recognition upon completion of the camp? Yes, students will receive a certificate.
- What is the process for communicating with parents during the camp? Teachers send an email after each class including information regarding what students learned, and they also post homework assignments to the online portal. If parents have any questions they can reach out to our Customer Service team (support@createandlearn.us) or their teacher at any time via email.
- What measures are in place to ensure the safety and well-being of the students? All of our teachers have passed a safety and background check. In addition our classes are not recorded to ensure students' safety, and student registration data is stored safely as well.
Discover the benefits of attending coding summer camp
From top tech companies like Google and Apple to successful startups like Airbnb and Dropbox, many of today's leading companies were founded by individuals who started coding at a young age. With summer coding camps, kids can develop valuable skills that will benefit them for years to come, and even lay the foundation for a future career in technology. Let's take a closer look at some of the benefits of attending a summer coding camp, and how it can set kids up for success.
- Exposure to new programming languages, technologies, and tools
- Hands-on experience with coding projects and challenges
- Networking opportunities with other aspiring programmers and industry professionals
- Mentorship and guidance from experienced coding instructors
- Development of problem-solving and critical thinking skills
- Potential to improve job prospects and career opportunities in the tech industry
Get Started with the Best Coding Summer Camps for K-12
Finding the right summer coding camp for your child can be an exciting and rewarding experience. By considering factors such as the camp's curriculum, instructors' qualifications, class size, and teaching approach, you can help ensure your child has a positive and enriching coding camp experience. It is also essential to involve your child in the decision-making process and encourage them to explore their interests in coding. With careful research and planning, you can find a summer coding camp that provides their child with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in the exciting world of technology. Get started discovering the magic in technology with our free coding classes today.
Looking for more ideas for coding summer camps? Explore all of our award-winning summer online coding camps and find the best fit to equip your child with the right coding skills today! Want to learn how to make the most out of your summer coding camp? Read how to have a great virtual summer camp experience!
