Computer science is more than coding. It also involves physical systems and networks; the collection, storage, and analysis of data, and so much more. Computer science remains a quickly growing field, full of opportunity for students, with employment projected to grow 23 percent from 2020 to 2030.
Not only do the best computer science classes for kids teach students concrete technical skills they can use in their future careers, but also they broaden students' creativity and critical thinking skills. So discover some popular live online computer science classes for kids - including free coding classes. All of these award-winning classes are designed by professionals from Google, Stanford, and MIT, and use real-world technology and applications. Your student can even prepare to earn AP computer science credit!
Check out upcoming free computer science events for kids too, led by tech experts: past events have featured guests from Pixar, NASA, Intel, and more.
Discover the Best Computer Science Classes for Kids and Teens
From Artificial Intelligence, to robotics, and cloud computing, find a subject that will delight your child's unique mind and stir a new passion for them. Explore learning paths for students by grade level here: K-2 | Grades 2-4 | Grades 4-6 | Grades 6-9 | Grades 9-12. These classes all include:
- Quality Instruction: Do you remember the impact a great teacher had on your interest in a subject? Or alternatively, the way a not-so-great teacher made you lose your interest? Because teachers are so critical to students' learning, each of these classes is taught by an experienced and knowledgeable instructor who can effectively teach computer science concepts to children.
- Curriculum and Content: These classes are part of a comprehensive and age-appropriate curriculum designed by Silicon Valley veterans from Uber, Apple, Google, and more, that covers essential topics like coding, algorithms, and problem-solving in an engaging and understandable way.
- Interactive and Fun Learning: These classes incorporate interactive elements, hands-on projects, and fun activities to keep kids motivated and interested in learning computer science.
1. Scratch programming course
This fun computer science class uses Scratch, a platform developed by MIT, to teach fundamental coding concepts. Starting from the very basics, students will learn core coding concepts such as sequence, loop, and conditional. Your child will have a lot of fun and grow their creativity, as they build a new project in every session ranging from animations and games, to storytelling.
- Ages: Grades 2-5
- Class size: Max 5 students
- Class format: Live instruction
2. Minecraft engineering class
Harness your child's love of Minecraft to help them learn computer science! In this fun class, your child will learn how to incorporate a set of Redstone blocks to build light shows, automatic doors, and even flying machines inside Minecraft. They will also learn about real-world engineering and computer science. This class brings fun and learning to a whole new level for the creative young minds.
- Ages: Grades 2-5
- Class size: Max 3 students
- Class format: Live instruction
3. Minecraft modding class
Solve puzzles, build, and create games with fun coding in Minecraft. In this computer science class, kids start from the very basics of the coding concepts. They solve puzzles by coding an agent in the Minecraft game to move, take actions, and react to the environment. They are also given the opportunity to build open ended puzzles on their own. Students also learn core coding concepts including sequence, conditional, loop, and more.
- Ages: Grades 3-6
- Class size: Max 5 students
- Class format: Live instruction
4. Robotics class
This class is a great way for kids to experience how their code can bring an object to life - even though it's virtual! This robotics program introduces students to the basics of VEX Code and programming in 3-D. Students learn how to navigate robots through virtual worlds and complete exciting maze challenges! Also children find out how to make robots transport objects and see how these topics are important in real-world scenarios.
- Ages: Grades 2-4
- Class size: Max 3 students
- Class format: Live instruction
5. Cybersecurity class for kids
Learn all about computer security and how to use the internet safely! When students join this introductory class they'll explore a wide range of topics related to computer security, modern computers, and the Internet. This will be the most exciting cybersecurity class for kids with real-world applications, delivered through a combination of project and inquiry-based learning. We'll enjoy fun videos, games, and security tools, as well as building projects of our own.
- Ages: Grades 2-5
- Class size: Max 3 students
- Class format: Live instruction
6. Artificial intelligence course
Discover how self-driving cars, face recognition, and other advanced technologies with with Artificial Intelligence for kids. In this live online computer science course, kids get hands-on experience with cutting-edge artificial intelligence and machine learning products. They'll learn how AI works and see real-world AI applications, understand what AI can and can not do, and why, and even build their own AI system.
- Ages: Grades 4-7
- Class size: Max 3 students
- Class format: Live instruction
7. Data science class
Data science for kids reveals the ways the world is influenced by data. Does your child enjoy playing sports, winning video games, and watching YouTube channels? Well, all of them are powered by data! Companies such as Google, Amazon, and Netflix could not have achieved anywhere close to the level of success they have now, without a superb understanding and utilization of the data they have. Kids will learn to interact with fun and relatable data, learn core skills related to data science, see the world through data, and understand data, find insights, and tell compelling stories with data.
- Ages: Grades 4-7
- Class size: Max 3 students
- Class format: Live instruction
8. Beginner Roblox game development
The best way to start learning Roblox game coding! This class is designed for students to become equipped with foundational Roblox coding skills without having to use the standard and very complicated game development tool most commonly used for Roblox, Lua. Instead they will use a fun and simple to understand block coding experience - similar to Scratch, so they don't have to worry about typing syntax incorrectly. Students will learn important coding concepts such as if/then, loop, and variable in the context of Roblox coding, as well as how to have game elements respond to interactions from players such as clicks, movements, and more! They'll also make an awesome dodgeball game, multiplayer games, and even a game inspired by the highly popular infinity run game where players must turn, dodge, and jump to avoid obstacles and gain points.
- Ages: Grades 3-8
- Class size: Max 5 students
- Class format: Live instruction
9. Creating with ChatGPT course
Through several carefully designed projects, this interactive course helps students gain an understanding of the power of ChatGPT, what can be expected from working with it, and the ethics of using ChatGPT and AI. Students will learn how to plan something fun, complete Scratch coding projects, write storylines, and even code their own chatbot.
- Ages: Grades 4-8
- Class size: Max 5 students
- Class format: Live instruction
10. Python programming class
Python is a high-level coding language used by companies such as Netflix and Google, and it is also used for web development, game development, building apps, machine learning, and so much more. This live online class covers not only the basics of Python coding for kids and teens, but also puts a strong focus on the elements of Python that are most relevant to Artificial Intelligence, including data structures and libraries. Students will be introduced to object-oriented programming, and learn how to use Python classes and objects to complete more complex games and applications.
- Ages: Grades 5-12
- Class size: Max 5 students
- Class format: Live instruction
11. Web development class
Build your first web pages, and find out how the Internet really works. Kids and teens start to learn Javascript and build websites with dynamic content and that can respond to interactions from viewers in this fun class. Students will create web apps using Javascript, and learn how to build more complex web projects, from drawings and animations to online games.
- Ages: Grades 5-12
- Class size: Max 3 students
- Class format: Live instruction
For an easier introduction to website building, with less focus on coding, and a beginner-friendly drag and drop interface take Modern Website Design with WIX.
12. Mobile apps course
Create powerful mobile apps and games using intuitive block coding. Students and teens will learn the basics of the mobile programming environment and how to code their very own apps. And they will explore how to employ text, device sensors, and even the camera to build projects and games that involve image recognition, word games, and riddles!
- Ages: Grades 5-10
- Class size: Max 3 students
- Class format: Live instruction
13. Unity game development class
Learn Unity to build fun 2D and 3D games. Unity is the most popular game engine in the world, and is behind many of the most popular games such as Angry Birds.. Have you ever wondered how professionals develop games that have such sophisticated features and looks? They use game engines. This computer science course covers a wide range of topics from character control, coding (in C#), to asset management.
- Ages: Grades 6-12
- Class size: Max 3 students
- Class format: Live instruction
14. Congressional App Challenge Class
The Congressional App Challenge program, hosted by the members of the U.S. House of Representatives, encourages middle school and high school students to create and submit their original apps that solve a district-specific problem. The winning apps will be displayed in the US Capitol Building and featured on the House of Representatives’ website. These classes will mentor your student through building their app with WIX (website), Thunkable (for mobile apps), or HTML/CSS/Javascript.
- Ages: Grades 6-12
- Class size: Max 6 students
- Class format: Live instruction
15. Java programming (AP CSA Aligned) class
This rigorous Java class introduces students to software engineering and object-oriented programming and design using the Java programming language. This curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including the design of solutions to problems, the use of data structures to organize large sets of data, the development and implementation of algorithms to process data and discover new information, the analysis of potential solutions, and the ethical and social implications of computing systems. The class will also thoroughly prepare students for the AP CSA exams offered by the College Board.
- Ages: Grades 6-12
- Class size: Max 6 students
- Class format: Live instruction
An additional computer science class option for kids is Google CS First (projects and lessons for teachers and homeschooling parents to lead).
What is a good coding class for kids?
A good coding class for kids is based on a curriculum designed by experts in the field, and taught by a professional instructor. Good coding classes also provide hands-on experience, and use real-world applications. The best coding classes also ensure kids understand the concepts and logic behind what they're creating. Read all about the best coding classes for kids.
What age should I start learning computer science?
Children as young as 5 years old can start learning computer science. By age 6, a child's brain is at 95% of its adult weight already and has roughly twice as many synapses (connections enabling lightning-fast communication among neurons) as it will have in adulthood. About half of these synapses will be lost around age 20, if they are not used. That’s why learning during this period of your child’s life is so important. Programs such as Scratch Junior make it easy to get started with basic coding concepts.
Should kids learn computer science?
Kids should learn computer science because it's a great way to build their creativity and critical thinking skills. Without any messy environment or elaborate setup, students are able to push the boundaries of a virtual box by developing unique solutions. Critical and creative thinking are the keys to work and economic prosperity in the twenty-first century!
Explore Online Computer Science Classes Kids Love
Get started with the best computer classes today. These classes can be taken all year long, and make for a great after school activity, or weekend learning. There are also fun online summer camps and virtual winter break camps that can help your child learn computer science.
