25 Best Free Online Classes for Kids: Coding, AI, Art, Game Making, & More

There are more free online classes for kids now than ever before, which can make choosing the right one challenging. Is the curriculum well designed? Will your child be engaged? What skills will they build, and how will they apply them?

Free online classes for kids fall into two useful buckets: live classes (a real live instructor, a scheduled time, a small group of kids on Zoom or a similar platform) and self-paced classes (videos, tutorials, or interactive lessons your child works through on their own schedule).

To make your search easier, we rounded up some of the best free online classes and activities for kids. Explore live and self-paced options covering coding, math, science, art, music, languages, life skills, and more. Kids can try a one-time activity, join an interactive class, or follow a longer learning program based on their age and interests. You can also explore our award-winning free coding classes for kids here.

How We Chose the Best Free Online Classes for Kids

We look through a diverse set of programs and considered each program’s educational value, age appropriateness, ease of use, class format, and ability to keep children engaged. We also looked for trusted organizations, clear learning goals, and activities that help kids actively practice new skills. Class schedules and availability may change, so parents should review the provider’s current information before registering.

Discover The Best Free Online Classes for Kids

Explore classes in computer science, math, baking, arts, and so much more. All classes are kid-friendly and free!

Compare Free Online Classes for Kids

Before we start on the details. Here is a quick comparison of programs and their focuses. Use the age and subject information to find an option that fits your child’s interests and learning style.

1. Create & Learn's Free Coding Classes

Help your child explore computer science, coding, AI and more through live introductory classes taught by experienced instructors in a small-group setting. Create & Learn’s award-winning programs have been recognized by organizations such as Minecraft Education, Meta, code.org, and ActivityHero. Students can try popular subjects including Scratch, Minecraft coding, Roblox, Python, and artificial intelligence for kids.

Ages: 5-18

Subjects: Computer science, coding, science, engineering, art

Format: Live online, small group 3-5 students max, experienced teachers

Popular class: Scratch Ninja, Minecraft Coding Quest, Python for AI

2. Computer Science Events

Enjoy free live online events for kids featuring speakers and technology experts from organizations such as NASA, Google, and other leading companies. Kids can explore artificial intelligence, robotics, space, and other state-of-the-art technologies. Families can join upcoming events or watch recordings of selected past events. Come find the magic in technology and have fun!

Ages: 5-18

Subjects: Technology, artificial intelligence, robotics

Format: Live online, experienced teachers; Plus, recording of past events

Popular class: Fun with Snap Circuits

3. Minecraft Coding - The Show Must Go On

Join this an unforgettable Minecraft coding adventure where your child can become the hero of the theater! In this new exciting live online coding class, guided by an expert instructor, children will explore programming concepts while having tons of fun in this Minecraft: Education Edition world. Find the show's missing star, unlock hidden gags, and interact with an ensemble cast using code. Help the Agent overcome stage fright as you solve coding puzzles backstage. Watch your coding skills shine in an epic final performance!

Ages: 8-12

Subjects: Computer science, coding

Format: Live online, experienced teachers

4. Khan Academy

A non-profit organization on a mission to prove free, world-class education to learners around the world, Khan Academy helps students grow their skills and meet grade-level standards. The classes are designed by a team of experts, including software engineers, program managers, and content creators, and offer a variety of subjects across grade levels.

Students can learn through instructional videos, practice exercises, quizzes, and mastery-based courses across numerous subjects and grade levels. The platform also provides progress-tracking tools and resources for parents and teachers.

Ages: 5-14

Subjects: Math, science, arts, humanities, reading, computing, economics, life skills, test prep

Format: Online videos

Popular class: Middle school Earth and Space science

5. ActivityHero

ActivityHero is a marketplace where families can search for online and in-person classes, camps, workshops, and activities from different providers. Parents can filter options by age, subject, and format etc. to find free online classes. Because individual providers manage their own listings, check the current schedule, price, location, and participation requirements before registering.

Ages: 5-18

Subjects: Art, math, science, baking, coding, music, yoga, writing, languages

Format: Various

Popular class: Chess Practice Tournament

6. Udemy

Udemy offers an extensive range of online courses, including a variety of free options that can be great resources for parents seeking educational enrichment for their kids. From coding and art to basic science and mathematics, Udemy’s courses cater to a wide array of interests and age groups, making learning both accessible and engaging for young minds. Most courses are self-paced, allowing students to watch lessons and practice skills according to their own schedules. Because individual instructors create their own courses, quality and age appropriateness can vary. Parents should help review the course description, ratings, and instructor background before enrolling a child.

Ages: 10-18

Subjects: Art, math, science, programming

Format: Online pre-recorded videos

Popular class: How to draw basics for kids and beginners

7. National Geographic Kids

Discover free games, videos, experiments, and articles that teach kids about science, animals, history, and more. National Geographic Kids is a great resource for short, engaging lessons that kids can read through and try on their own or with the help of a parent or teacher. While the platform isn't designed like a typical classroom experience, it offers hands-on learning opportunities for kids of all grade levels. For teenagers, National Geographic Education offers more advanced lessons and learning opportunities.

Ages: 5-12

Subjects: Science, history, geography

Popular class: Amazing Animals

8. iRobot Education

Future programmers rejoice! iRobot Education is the place for learning about robotics, computer science, coding, and more. The online classes are designed for the platform's robots and use storytelling to teach students how to program. From creating flower shapes to space adventures, the classes revolve around short 5-15 minute video explanations and offer resources for helping students solve the problems at hand. For little learners, the platform offers activities and stories to build a foundation in robotics.

Ages: 5-18

Subjects: Robotics, coding, programming, science, art, English language arts

Popular class: Sample Curriculum

9. GoNoodle

GoNoodle offers short movement, mindfulness, dance, and educational videos commonly used by elementary schools and families. Kids can stretch, dance, practice calming strategies, and take active breaks between academic lessons. Students watch short 1-5 minute videos to learn about topics like composting, creating healthy routines, and coordination. Then, they can do an activity to test their knowledge of what they learned.

Ages: 3-12

Subjects: Health, music, science, social studies, English language arts, reading, Spanish

Format: Online pre-recorded short videos

Popular class: Melting

10. MoMath

If your student has shown interest in mathematics or simply needs to work on fundamental skills, the National Museum of Mathematics, also known as MoMath, offers online and in-person classes for kids of all ages. Review MoMath’s current event calendar to identify online programs and confirm their ages, schedules, and registration fees. Classes marked as "free" are free to all, while the other classes charge a fee to attend—but free spots have been set aside in every paid class for families in need. Families can also explore the museum’s videos and activity resources when a suitable live session is unavailable.

Ages: 3-21

Subjects: Geometry, arithmetic, discrete mathematics

Format: Large Online or in-person classes

Popular class: Math Gym

11. Outschool

Outschool is an online learning marketplace where independent teachers list live, self-paced, and one-on-one classes for children and teens. Subjects range from core academics to art, games, languages, technology, health, and unusual special interests. Outschool also lists selected free community activities and workshops. Availability changes throughout the year, so families should check the current listings, membership requirements, class price, schedule, and age range before enrolling.

Ages: 5-18

Subjects: English, social studies, art, games, health and wellness

Format: Online or in-person classes

Popular class: See some upcoming free classes

12. Sawyer

Sawyer allows families to browse classes, camps, and activities offered by independent education and enrichment providers. Depending on current availability, families may find online activities in coding, visual arts, performing arts, music, languages, and other subjects. The class schedule is organized by date, so you can see what classes are available today, this coming week, or several months out.

Ages: 3-21

Subjects: Arts, music, computer science, reading, languages, technology, science

Popular class: 3D Design Studio

Explore Free Live Online Classes for Kids

There are many free online classes to choose from, so we rounded up several recommendations covering coding, game development, and artificial intelligence that sure to engage kids and help them build lifelong skills.

13. Beginner Roblox Game Coding

Discover what it is like to create a Roblox game in this live introductory coding class. Students learn how to set up Roblox Studio and use its design tools to build an interactive Obby with different shapes, colors, and materials. Along the way, they explore foundational game-development and coding concepts.

Grades: 3-8

14. Python Coding

In this free introductory Python coding class, students will take their first dive into coding with Python. They learn how Python can control drawings and animations and then apply their new skills to create an animated story project.

Grades: 5-12

15. AI Explorers

From R2-D2 in Star Wars to Transformers, artificial intelligence (AI) and robots have fascinated children for generations. Now AI is more pervasive than ever and is closer than ever to impacting many parts of our lives. In this live online session, students explore interesting real-world AI applications with hands-on exercises. The experience helps kids understand what AI can do and encourages them to think critically about how the technology is used.

Ages: 9-18 years old

16. MADE Class room By Museum of Art and Digital Entertainment (in person)

Animations play an important role in how we tell and share stories. From movies like Wall-E to those like Spirited Away, animated films have a way of connecting us and helping us build community! Bring your imagination to life in this Afterschool Studio by learning how to create 2D animations! In this class students will design their own stories, animate them, and learn how to share them with their friends and families.

Ages: 8-13

Online classes are great for learning new skills and creating structure, but activity classes are a great way for kids to apply what they learned in school.

Discover Free Self-Paced Online Activities for Kids

These self-paced online videos, lessons, and projects allow kids to express their creativity, practice new skills, stay active, and explore subjects that interest them. Most can be completed at home on a flexible schedule.

17. How to Draw Dynamic Poses

Students can let their inner cartoonist loose in this free online video class about drawing dynamic poses. An intro to the Winged Canvas Cartooning & Anime class, this video explains how to create natural-looking poses by creating a classic manga character. For in-depth steps, you can register for the paid cartooning for kids class.

Grades: 4-12+

18. From Mindless to Mindful

Teach kids to calm down from the chaos of school and life with this GoNoodle guided meditation activity. The short video helps kids practice mindfulness so they learn to focus their attention in the present moment.

Grades: 1-5

19. NASA's Space Jam

Create a solar system that really rocks! Learn about music, astronomy, and coding in this self-guided activity (no coding experience required). In this self-guided activity, students program planets to make music, creating your own musical solar system, complete with spacey melodies.

Grades: 2+

20. Two Truths & AI Game

Two Truths & AI is an interactive digital literacy game for grades K–12 that teaches students to identify AI-generated content and develop critical media literacy skills. Rather than believing everything they see online, kids practice questioning images, checking details, and thinking critically about whether digital content is authentic.

Grades: k-12

21. Ms. Rachel's YouTube

Enjoy baby and toddler learning videos with a real teacher, Ms. Rachel who has a masters in music education from NYU. Ms. Rachel uses techniques recommended by speech therapists and early childhood experts to help children learn important milestones and preschool skills. Kids will get moving through fun nursery rhymes and kids songs videos.

Ages: 3+

22. Cosmic Kids Yoga YouTube

Movement is the best way to bring stories to life for kids. Watch fun yoga and mindfulness videos for kids aged 3 to 9, presented by Jaime. Go on 50+ yoga adventures including the Trolls, Frozen, Star Wars, Minecraft and Moana specials, and more.

Ages: 3+

23. Museum of Modern Art's Free Online Classes

Immerse your student in ideas and help them see their world in new ways through art. In MoMA’s free Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) on Coursera, you will hear directly from artists and designers, look closely at works in our collection and exhibitions, and join a global community of learners unlike any other. Enroll any time and complete the course at your own pace.

Ages: 10+

24. Disney Parks Drawing Lessons

Disney Parks Blog's drawing lessons offer a delightful and creative outlet for kids, blending the magic of Disney with the joy of learning to draw. These free online YouTube videos, led by Disney artists, guide children through easy-to-follow steps to bring beloved Disney characters to life on paper. Parents looking for engaging, no-cost activities will find these lessons particularly appealing as they provide a unique opportunity for kids to develop their artistic skills while connecting with the enchanting world of Disney, whether it's sketching Mickey Mouse, Elsa, or any other favorite character.

Ages: 8+

25. Duolingo Language Lessons

Duolingo is a fun, free app for learning 40+ languages through quick, bite-sized lessons. Kids can practice speaking, reading, listening, and writing to build your vocabulary and grammar skills. Designed by language experts and loved by hundreds of millions of learners worldwide, Duolingo helps students prepare for real conversations in Spanish, French, Chinese, Italian, German, English, and more.

Ages: 8+

Have a future programmer on your hands? You can discover the best STEM classes for kids here.

Frequently Asked Questions about Free Online Classes for Kids

What are the best free online classes for kids?

Free online classes span a wide range of subjects, including coding, math, science, art, music, and languages. Top options include live introductory coding sessions from Create & Learn, comprehensive academic courses on Khan Academy, language lessons on Duolingo, and creative arts programs through MoMA and Disney Parks.

How do I choose the right free online class for my child?

To find the best fit, consider your child's age, interests, and learning style. Look for programs with well-designed curricula and interactive elements. You can filter options on platforms like ActivityHero and Sawyer by subject, age group, schedule, and class format (such as live Zoom sessions versus self-paced video activities).

Are free online classes for kids actually high quality?

Yes, many free classes are designed by experts and highly recognized organizations. For example, Khan Academy's courses are built by software engineers and educators, Create & Learn's coding classes are award-winning and recognized by Minecraft Education and Meta, and MoMA offers university-level art courses on Coursera.

What are the best free coding and computer science classes for kids?

Excellent free options include Create & Learn's live, instructor-led introductory classes in Scratch, Python, and Roblox. Other great resources include iRobot Education's robotics lessons, Microsoft's themed coding activities, and self-guided projects like NASA's Space Jam.

Where can kids attend free live events with speakers from NASA and Google?

Create & Learn hosts free live Computer Science Events featuring guest speakers from top organizations like NASA and Google. These interactive sessions introduce kids to cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and robotics, and recordings of past events are also available to watch for free.

What are the best free online art and drawing classes for kids?

Creative kids can learn to draw beloved characters through Disney Parks' YouTube drawing lessons led by professional artists, or practice manga-style sketching with Winged Canvas's dynamic poses video. For older kids, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) offers free, self-paced courses on Coursera.

What free online math classes are available for students?

Khan Academy offers a comprehensive, expert-designed math curriculum for grades K-12 to help students meet grade-level standards. Additionally, the National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath) offers free online sessions, including their popular "Math Gym," with free spots reserved in paid classes for families in need.

Join The Best Free Online Classes for Kids

Bookmark the classes, fun activities, homeschool classes, and Zoom meet-ups that are just right for your students, and share the curriculums to get them excited to learn something new.

Up next, begin fun online learning with simple beginner coding exercises for kids.