Ready to get started with kids coding? We know it can be overwhelming deciding where to begin, and you probably don't have time to research every possible option. So today we'll guide you through some of the best kids coding languages, classes, highly-regarded platforms, free apps, engaging games, and even expert-written books. Many of these kids coding resources are even free!

We hope this helpful guide will provide everything you need to begin your kids' coding adventure, no matter whether they're in elementary, middle, or high school, there are expert-recommended options that will cater to their distinct needs. Kids can even earn coding certificates in cutting-edge applications. Keep in mind, it's possible that a combination of these programs will provide your student with the best experience. Let's jump right in!

Get started with award-winning free coding classes led by US-based engaging experts and designed by professionals from Google, Stanford, and MIT.

Kids Coding: Everything You Need To Know

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Kids Coding Languages

Children and teens typically start learning programming using either Scratch or Python. In both languages, code is written (or constructed in the case of Scratch) in a way that is similar to English, which can make it easier for beginners to learn. A big selling point of Scratch is that it is incredibly friendly for visual and kinesthetic learners. The blocks are color-coded and designed to move easily on the screen. So a tricky Python concept like “nesting code,” for example, is more accessible in Scratch.

Sometimes teens will also begin with Javascript. However Python is known for being one of the more human-centric languages, and “reading” the code will be easier in Python than in Javascript. Also consider what your teen is most interested in creating. If they're drawn to data science or software development go with Python; if they want to make apps and websites, try Javascript.

Unlike Scratch, Python and Javascript are written languages, meaning children type out all their code. Typing is often more of a natural barrier for many children: there is more room for errors and the coding syntax can be a higher initial hurdle.

Overall, tor those who are in middle school or younger, or who want a more fundamental onboarding path, that doesn't require much additional work outside of class, we recommend starting with Scratch. For those who want to jump right into a real-world programming language, Python is the better fit.

Coding for 11 year old programming language chart

So now that you know which coding language your child might enjoy pursuing, discover the best way for them to learn.

The Best Way to Learn Kids Coding

You've probably considered downloading an app, sorting through YouTube videos, or buying some books for your student. Which are all great ways for kids to learn coding. However you've probably encouraged your child to do this before, and maybe they're consistent for a few days, and then eventually drop it.

There are undoubtedly so many online resources and platforms where your child can get information and knowledge about how to code for free. But what happens if they get stuck on a line of code, learn outdated information, or find all it too overwhelming or confusing? They probably won't stick with coding, and they might never want to return to it. The opportunity to foster their passion for computer science might flash by in the blink of an eye!

As the chart below reveals, there are many options for learning kids coding. Live classes offer some of the most compelling benefits when comparing some key factors such as supportive help, interactivity, and thoughtful accurate learning paths that set students up for success.

Green = Most do, Yellow = Some do
Green = Most do, Yellow = Some do

Live online classes are a great solution for helping your student explore computer science and discover how it aligns with their interests. They are likely the best shot your student has at gaining real coding skills soon, because passionate teachers will hold students accountable and support them. In addition, live online courses adapt the material to kids' learning styles, they help students when they run into tough problems with their code, and they taking the 'thinking' off your plate with a carefully designed curriculum - so you don't have to plan your student's next step or worry that the content will be out of their reach and overly frustrating.

Learning quickly and accurately in live online classes and camps will best equip your student to gain valuable computer science skills. They are an investment, but they don't have to be forever. For example, here at Create & Learn, you can pick and chose the classes your child enrolls in based on their schedule and interests: which can easily match your child's preferred time engagement and growing passions.

Of course, there's not just one solution for learning something new. Pairing live online classes with additional materials, such as free online websites and apps that encourage self-discovery, is a great way to round out your student's coding education. We'll share some of the highest rated options in each category below.

The Best Kids Coding Classes

Let's explore the best kids coding classes to find the right fit for your student. Create & Learn is an award-winning kids coding classes platform for children and teens in grades K-12 who want to learn to code and are looking for a comprehensive and well-regarded program. We offer 35+ online computer science classes and camps led live by US-based expert instructors with an average of 10 years of experience. With a systemic learning path for every age and interest, your student will discover their love for computer science in a safe, collaborative environment.

Kids can learn how to make games with Scratch, Minecraft, and Roblox, design websites with Wix, master a powerful real-world programming language Python, and even take AP Computer Science classes that meet the College Board requirements.

All of the classes' curricula are designed by professionals from Google, Stanford, and MIT, so kids build cutting-edge, real-world skills using the best technology. Cool hands-on projects, relatable real-life examples, and lively teachers keep computer science exciting. Furthermore, children get personalized instruction and support as they learn to code, because of the small group class format (typically 3-5 students). Your student will also earn a certificate upon class completion. Unlike other coding class programs, rather than being told a set of code text to copy and paste, in these classes, kids learn the underlying logic behind coding, and they're encouraged to express and build their creativity along the way with many options for applying their own unique spin to projects.

To help kids explore their passions at no cost, Create & Learn offers select free introduction coding classes in which kids build games, and start learning essential coding concepts. The most popular beginner class, and the one most students chose to start with, is Scratch Ninja because it uses a block-based programming language, specifically designed to help kids learn coding. Kids are able to use different blocks to program games and animations very quickly, which provides a rewarding feedback loop.

Create & Learn classes have been recognized and awarded by Minecraft Education, Meta, HulaFrog, ActivityHero, and SMASH. Parents have found the classes to be very effective for their children, and have rated the platform as 5-stars on Facebook. Beyond that, students have enjoyed over 1 million learning hours with the company. The company also provides a full satisfaction guarantee for their classes.

Some of the challenges of kids coding with Create & Learn are that after the introductory classes, classes need to be purchased; you'll need to find a date and time that works for your student's schedule because classes are live; and your student is automatically matched with an expert teacher - though you can request others.

Elementary School Kids Coding Live Classes (Ages 5-10)

The best live online coding class for your elementary student to start with is likely Scratch Ninja (or Scratch Junior for those in grades 2 and below). From the basics to advanced concepts, in this live online class, students learn core coding principles such as sequences, loops, conditionals, and variables, while building animations, interactive games, and storytelling projects. With our unique approach, your child will develop computational thinking, creativity, and critical thinking skills.

If your child loves Minecraft, Minecraft Engineering could be the better place to begin. In this engaging class, kids will learn to harness the power of Redstone to build light shows, automatic doors, and even flying machines, all while exploring real-world engineering and computer science concepts. From power sources to circuits, switches to sensors, this class covers it all. Join this live class for a fun-filled journey where your child's Minecraft creations evolve into wonders of engineering, fostering STEM learning, creativity, and endless enjoyment.

Elementary school children can progress to building Pokemon games and coding smart devices.

You can further explore recommended curriculum to follow here: Grades K-2 | Grades 2-4 | Grades 4-6

Middle School Kids Coding Live Classes (Ages 11-13)

Middle schooler tweens will enjoy beginning with Scratch as well. But this Accelerated Scratch class is more fast-paced than the elementary version.

The best way to start game development is with this first-in-kind Roblox coding class that uses user-friendly block coding (similar to Scratch). Kids will get introduced to the basics of Roblox coding through the creation of fun games, and learn foundational skills and important coding concepts. Students complete a fun dodgeball game, learn about clones for creating multiple game objects, and even explore the creation of multiplayer games with friends.

Students can also progress to designing websites with Wix, and even learn how to harness the power of ChatGPT.

You can further explore recommended curriculum to follow here: Grades 6-9

High School Kids Coding Live Classes (Ages 14-18)

High schoolers are likely to enjoy this Python class first. 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. Students will progress from beginner to advanced programing elements of Python such as dictionaries and files, and learn how to employ Python’s powerful modules to build games, stories, and real-world data projects.

High schoolers can progress to conquering an AP CSA-Aligned Java class.

You can further explore recommended curriculum to follow here: Grades 9-12

The Best Free Kids Coding Apps and Websites

Now that you've found the right class to join, we'll explore the best free kids coding websites including platforms and apps to use as supplemental material to support your child's computer science journey! From an entry level playful app to interactive self-guided tutorials, find the right tools and resources for your student's learning style and interest. We'll take you through the basics of each platform, and explain why each is a good fit for kids coding. We'll also reveal what studies have shown about the programs' effectiveness. And we'll share some challenges students might face with each particular platform.

1. Scratch Website: Elementary School (Ages 5-10)

Scratch is a great option for kids, ages 8 and up, interested in learning how to code because it is specifically designed for kids and beginners. It's a free, online kids coding platform developed by MIT media lab that uses a block-based programming language. Which means that instead of typing out lines of code, children can drag and drop pre-written blocks to create programs. This makes it easier for students to learn the fundamental concepts of programming in a more visual and interactive way.

Scratch has been very successful in helping kids learn to code. Today it is used by millions of kids around the world, who have used it to create their own games, animations, and other interactive programs. Scratch has also been recognized as an effective educational tool by numerous organizations, including the National Science Foundation and the European Schoolnet.

Scratch kids coding

There have been several studies that have investigated the effectiveness of Scratch in helping kids learn to code, such as "The Effects of Scratch-Based Game Development on Students' Problem-Solving Skills" by B. Özmen and M. Arslan (2017). Some of the key findings from studies include:

  • Scratch can help kids develop important computational thinking skills, such as problem-solving, logical reasoning, and design thinking.
  • Scratch can be an effective tool for teaching kids programming concepts, such as loops, variables, and conditional statements.
  • Scratch can foster creativity and collaboration among kids, as they can use the platform to create and share their own interactive games, stories, and animations.
  • Kids who use Scratch may be more likely to continue learning about computer science and pursue related fields in the future.

Some of the challenges of learning to code on Scratch are that kids need to be self-motivated; it can be intimidating to start with a blank page and no guidance; there's no expert source to ask questions to; and Scratch has a moderation system in place to flag and remove inappropriate content, but it is possible for inappropriate or offensive material to slip through the cracks. Also as with any online platform, there is a risk of bullying and harassment on Scratch. It is important for kids to be aware of this risk and to report any inappropriate behavior to a trusted adult or to the Scratch team.

Finally, Scratch allows users to share their projects and interact with other users through the Scratch website. While the platform has safeguards in place to protect users' personal information, it is important for kids to be aware of the potential risks of sharing personal information online. Create & Learn offers an Internet Safety course that can help equip your child for navigating the Internet safely across all sorts of sites and applications. We also have tons of free Scratch tutorials your student can explore for inspiration of what to create on the Scratch platform.

Best for: Kids ages 8+ that want to experiment and learn on their own.

2. Code.org Kids Coding: Elementary School (Ages 5-10); Middle School (Ages 11-13); High School (Ages 14-18)

Code.org is non-profit organization founded in 2013 by twin brothers Ali and Hadi Partovi that aims to promote computer science education and make it more widely available to students around the world. The organization offers a variety of resources and tools to help kids learn to code, including interactive tutorials and projects, as well as curriculum resources for teachers.

One of the things that sets Code.org apart from other platforms is its focus on making computer science education accessible to all students. The platform offers a range of resources for different age groups and skill levels, and it provides materials in multiple languages to make it more inclusive. Code.org also emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the tech industry, and it aims to promote equal access to computer science education for students from underrepresented groups.

Code.org is probably most well known for its annual Hour of Code event. Hour of Code aims to introduce students to computer science and encourage them to learn to code, and takes place during Computer Science Education Week (usually in December). Teachers and students can pick from hundreds of online tutorials and activities - each of which only take one hour to complete, giving students a taste of the fun and reward process of learning to code. According to Code.org, over 10 million students participated in Hour of Code in 2019, and the event has reached a total of over 1 billion students worldwide since it was first launched.

Code.org kids coding

Code.org is also highly regarded in the education community and has received endorsements from organizations such as the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) and National Science Teachers Association (NSTA).

Similarly to Scratch some of the challenges of learning to code on Code.org are that kids need to be self-motivated; it can be confusing about where to start among the many tutorials; there's no expert source to ask questions to. We've pulled together a few fun games kids can try on Code.org.

Best for: Parents and teachers to get ideas for tutorials for kids to try.

3. Raspberry Pi Foundation: Middle School (Ages 11-13); High School (Ages 14-18)

This is a great option for kids who want to start coding physical items right away. The Raspberry Pi Foundation is a UK-based charity that aims to promote the study of computer science and related subjects, particularly among young people. To achieve this goal, the foundation developed the Raspberry Pi, a small and affordable computer that is designed to be easy to use and learn with. It's similar to the Micro:Bit.

The Raspberry Pi is a great platform for kids who want to learn to code because it is versatile, affordable, and easy to use. It can be used to learn a wide range of programming languages - including Scratch, Python, and Unity - and can run a variety of operating systems, making it a flexible tool for learning to code. The Raspberry Pi is also very affordable, especially when compared to other computers, which makes it accessible to a wider range of students.

The Raspberry Pi Foundation provides a range of resources and tutorials for free, online, in up to 30 languages to help kids get started with the platform. There's a series of free, instructor-led videos called Digital Making at Home. And an online projects that are completely free, can be completed in no more than an hour, and include step-by-step instructions. Children can also start coding today on Code Club World, their free online platform where young people ages 9 to 13 can learn to make stuff with code. Plus there is a large online community of Raspberry Pi users who are willing to help and share their knowledge with others.

Raspberry Pi Foundation

The Raspberry Pi Foundation is also highly regarded in the education community and has received endorsements from organizations such as the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE).

Some of the specific challenges that kids may encounter when learning to code with the Raspberry Pi include that it's actually hard to get a Raspberry Pi device (they tend to be back ordered); and students may find it challenging to set up and configure the Raspberry Pi so it may be helpful for students to have guidance or support from an experienced mentor or teacher when getting started with the platform.

Best for: Kids ages 8+ who want to learn to code a physical item and bring it to life.

4. W3 Schools: High School (Ages 14-18)

With its user-friendly interface and extensive content, W3Schools is a valuable resource for students looking to acquire coding skills. The W3Schools platform is an online educational resource that offers a wide range of tutorials, interactive exercises, games, and even certificate programs to help high schoolers learn coding. It provides comprehensive coverage of various programming languages and web development technologies.

One of the key benefits of the W3Schools platform for high schoolers is its accessibility and self-paced learning structure. Students can access the platform from anywhere with an internet connection, allowing for flexible learning according to their schedule and pace. The platform offers clear and concise explanations, along with practical examples, to help students grasp coding concepts effectively. Furthermore, W3Schools provides interactive coding exercises that enable students to practice and reinforce their understanding and engage in hands-on coding activities immediately.

W3Schools is a self-paced learning resource, which means it does not provide personalized guidance or individualized feedback tailored to a learner's specific needs. In addition, W3Schools focus on providing code snippets, examples, and explanations but may sometimes lack the broader context and real-world application of concepts. And since W3Schools has been around for many years, some of its content may not be regularly updated to reflect the latest coding practices, languages, or industry standards. This can lead to learners acquiring outdated information or techniques that may not be relevant in current coding environments.

W3 schools

Best for: Older students that can hold themselves accountable to learning and are resourceful enough to solve problems on their own when they run into code issues

5. Daisy the Dinosaur App: Elementary School (Ages 5-10)

Designed for kids ages 6+, Daisy the Dinosaur is a free iOS app that was created to be user-friendly and easy to learn, particularly for children. The app has a simple interface, so that even kids with no prior programming experience can pick it up right away.

Daisy the Dinosaur is a great platform for kids who want to learn to code because it is highly interactive and engaging. The platform uses a visual programming language (similar to Scratch), which means that kids can see the results of their code as they create it.

Daisy the Dinosaur kids coding app

In a study on the effectiveness of Daisy the Dinosaur, "Learning to code via tablet applications: An evaluation of Daisy the Dinosaur and Kodable as learning tools for young children" the authors conclude that participants improved in their knowledge of Daisy commands (i.e., move, grow, jump) and Kodable gameplay (i.e., placing arrows in the correct sequence to move a character through a maze), but did not improve in their ability to verbally explain what coding is. Furthermore the results suggested that young children can learn foundational coding skills via apps, especially when the apps are appealing to children.

The app's parent company, Hopscotch, is also highly regarded in the education community and has received endorsements from organizations such as the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) and was on ABC's Shark Tank.

Daisy the Dinosaur is only available on iOS devices (such as iPhones and iPads). This may be a limitation for kids or educators who prefer to use other types of devices or platforms. Plus depending on their level of experience, kids may find it challenging to navigate and use a touchscreen device to create their projects. So it may be helpful for kids to have guidance or support from an experienced mentor or teacher when getting started.

Furthermore, Daisy the Dinosaur is designed to be a simple and introductory programming platform, and as such, it has limited functionality compared to more advanced coding languages and platforms. Many students may find that they quickly outgrow Daisy the Dinosaur and want to move on to more advanced tools.

Best for: The youngest students that want to dabble with a fun introduction to coding (and have parents with Apple devices).

Best Free and Paid Kids Coding Games

Thinking games could be a good way to motivate your student? Let's explore some popular coding games and free coding games, from car racing to bite-sized challenges and puzzles, there are some great options - ordered by age.

1. ScratchJr / Scratch

  • Format: App & website
  • Pricing: Free
  • Age range: 5 and up

Perfect for ages 5–7, ScratchJr introduces computational thinking and coding through interactive stories, games, and easy to navigate interfaces in a free app. Kids can create characters and animations however they like and then use programming blocks to continue the story. Make it move, dance, change colors — whatever your child can dream up, they can do it!

Play Now

Older kids will enjoy starting with the Scratch website instead, mentioned above. Check out some simple beginner Scratch exercises for your student to start their practice with or the best Scratch games to make.

ScratchJr

2. Code Karts

  • Format: App
  • Pricing: Free with in-app purchases
  • Age range: 4 and up

Code Karts introduces pre-coding to children from the age of 4 through a series of logical puzzles presented in the form of a raceway. With over 70 levels, a variety of puzzling obstacles, and two different game modes, there’s no shortage of educational content for kids to enjoy.

Play Now

3. Coding for Kids - Code Games

  • Format: App
  • Pricing: $4.99/month or $39.99/year
  • Age range: 6-8

This award-winning app teaches coding with 200+ fun games like firefighting, popping balloons, or playing a dentist. There are 1000+ levels that teach basic programming concepts including loops, functions, arrays, and many more.

Play Now

Code Games App for Kids

4. LightBot

  • Format: App
  • Pricing: $2.99 for app
  • Age range: 9 and up

LightBot is an interactive coding game that presents users with various puzzles to solve by issuing commands, all the while fostering an understanding of fundamental programming concepts. With a plethora of 50 distinct levels, this engaging game is guaranteed to captivate children for an extended duration. Additionally, LightBot Jr. offers a simplified version specifically tailored for children aged four to eight, ensuring accessibility and age-appropriate challenges.

Play Now

5. Mimo

  • Format: App
  • Pricing: Free with paid upgrade available
  • Age range: 15 and up

This app won Google Play's Editor's Choice, and provides a learn-to-code experience very similar to Duolingo. It helps kids build apps and websites, or become a developer with daily goals, streaks, and achievement badges. When you install Mimo, you get access to free coding lessons in Python, Javascript, and HTML. Plus, get a certificate to showcase your coding skills.

Play Now

6. Swift Playgrounds

  • Format: App
  • Pricing: Free
  • Age range: 15 and up

Swift Playgrounds is a free app offered on Mac and iPad to help kids learn the Swift programming language used to build Apple apps. The app starts with a “Fundamentals of Swift” lesson where kids learn to write code to control a character. Then they can move on to different levels and challenges, and even control connected devices like a robot.

Play Now

Some additional resources are also available on CodeWizardsHQ, Tynker, Mommy Poppins, and Coder Kids. Still on the hunt for more resources for your student?

Explore Kids Coding Books

Learning coding with books can be particularly helpful for students who prefer a self-paced and independent learning approach. Books are also a great solution for distraction-sensitive learners and those with limited internet access. So here we've compiled some of the top coding books for kids and the best coding books for teens.

1. My First Coding Book

My First Coding Book is a hands-on introduction to offline coding. It has puzzles, mazes, and games that teach basic coding concepts. Kids ages 5-7 will develop critical thinking and logic skills while exploring this book. This guide walks them through the decision-making process while explaining concepts they are completing.

2. Code Your Own Games! 20 Games to Create with Scratch

Check out this step-by-step book with instructions on how to build your own games using Scratch. Kids ages 6-11 will enjoy this book because they can make up to 20 popular games from Snake to Brick Bouncer. Also, the book moves up in difficulty, but maintains easy to understand explanations and instructions.

3. Coding for Kids: Python

This book offers many well-scaffolded projects for beginner Python coders, and also helps students learn critical techniques like how to debug a program. It walks aspiring coders through everything they need to get started, from downloading Python and choosing an IDE to progressively more difficult coding lessons that cover core concepts. There are even challenges at the end of every lesson for kids who want to push themselves a little bit further.

4. Problem Solvers: 15 Innovative Women Engineers and Coders

One of the greatest ways to inspire young coders is to show them examples of how others have succeeded. Released earlier this month, Problem Solvers details the lives of fifteen inspirational STEM stars who have contributed to the world of science and programming. Not only are these women incredibly smart and accomplished, but also they demonstrate grit in overcoming many, very real challenges. This book is great for students of all ages and genders, but will probably be most suited to middle schoolers

You can also explore Roblox coding books and Python books for more inspiration.

Explore Kids Coding Videos

Video resources can be a great place to start to help your child learn programming. Videos provide a visual learning experience, and can also be easily stopped and started, so they're a great solution for kids with busy schedules and who enjoy tinkering on their own. Here are a few fun options.

1. Scratch YouTube Video Channel

This is the official YouTube Channel of Scratch, and regularly shares resources and stories about Scratch, including tutorials for how to program your own interactive stories, games, and animations. Try some of the fun challenges on the Scratch channel including: how to make a story and how to make a jumping game. The channel also features live create-alongs from time to time which are worth watching out for!

Level: Beginner; Best for: Ages 8+

2. Code.org Videos

Code.org's YouTube channel provides tons of computer programming videos ranging from videos revealing all sorts of possible professions in computer science from the experts themselves, to thorough series on how computers, the internet, and AI work. There is also a wide range of CodeBytes tutorials to choose from, which are filmed versions of their previously live, interactive computer science mini lessons. We recommend watching popular videos on: What is the Internet? and Design Apps for Good, to learn the basics of designing a simple app in AppLab that you can immediately share with others - to get started.

Level: Intermediate through advanced; Ages: 11+

3. Khan Academy Computer Science Videos

Khan Academy's video tutorials provide education on coding principles and problem-solving techniques. Their computer science series is focused mostly on the Python programming language. Start with an Introduction to Data Types and Variables, before moving onto Python for Loops. Eventually, you'll be able to tackle exercises such as Writing a Sorting Function.

Level: Intermediate to advanced; Ages: 15+

4. Create & Learn's Videos

The Create & Learn YouTube channel has a fun series of videos on using Scratch coding to make all sorts of games and add-ons to any project. Watch this getting started with Scratch video tutorial, and then help your student make falling snow. before progressing to make a PacMan game. Kids can also find out how to start Minecraft coding using the free Minecraft Education Edition, and learn how to code a house in Minecraft. Your student can also enjoy learning all about computer science careers from the expert talks series, including speakers from Intel, NASA, Google, Pixar, and more.

Level: Beginner, Best for: Ages 8+

Explore more programming videos for kids here.

How to Pick the Best Kids Coding Resources For Your Student

Here are some important considerations to keep in mind as you evaluate the best coding resources for your student, regardless of the format you prefer:

  1. Age-appropriateness: Make sure the program is suitable for your child's age and level of development. Starting your child on something too challenging is likely to dissuade them from continuing.
  2. Ease of use: Look for programs with a user-friendly interface and clear instructions. And programs that match your child's schedule and availability.
  3. Content quality: Consider the level of expertise of those who designed the curriculum. Check out reviews and ratings to make sure the program provides high-quality content that is engaging and educational. Also note the safety features of the platform.
  4. Variety of languages: Consider whether the program teaches a variety of programming languages, or just one - as you don't want any barriers to easy continuation.
  5. Support resources: Look for programs that offer additional resources, such as forums, video tutorials, or live expert guidance, to help kids learn and troubleshoot as needed.
  6. Project-based learning: Consider programs that offer project-based learning opportunities, where kids can apply their coding skills to create their own projects.

Experts Recommend Getting Started with Kids Coding

The growth of Computer Science career opportunities will continue to be among the highest in the coming decades. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer occupations are projected to grow about 3 times as fast as the average between 2019 and 2029. 67% of all STEM jobs are actually in Computer Science specifically. The top 3 best paying jobs that are in demand are all computer science related, and 4 of the top 10 best jobs in America are also computer science jobs.

There are a number of reasons why experts believe kids should learn how to code. Some of the specific benefits of learning to code for kids include:

  • Problem-solving skills: Learning to code requires logical thinking and problem-solving skills. These skills are valuable in a variety of fields and can help kids excel in other areas of their education and in their future careers.
  • Creativity: Coding is a creative activity, because it allows kids to design and build their own programs and projects. All of the different possibilities, variations, and challenges help to encourage right and left brain thinking, and inspire kids to think outside the box.
  • Confidence: Learning to code can be a challenging and rewarding activity, and as kids learn and master new skills, they may develop a sense of accomplishment and confidence in their abilities.
  • Future-proofing: Coding is a rapidly-growing field, and experts predict that jobs related to computer science and technology will be in high demand in the future. In general, STEM jobs are expected to grow 10.5% between 2020 and 2030 compared to 7.5% growth for non-STEM jobs. This equates to 1 million more job openings over 10 years! Learning to code can help kids prepare for these types of careers and give them an advantage in the job market.

So try out a few different kids coding programs to see which one your child enjoys the most. It's also important to encourage your child to persevere and be patient as they learn to code, as it can be a challenging but rewarding process. Happy coding - we hope to see you in class soon!

Learn More About Different Areas of Computer Science

With the rapid growth of demand for computer science skills in the work force, there is a strong need for more students to be educated about the huge career opportunities available in technology fields. A technology career is not a singular thing: Students with many different skills and interests can build successful careers in technology!

A common misconception is that computer science is the same as coding. Many parents and students don’t realize the field of computer science includes many different areas such as AI, Data Science, robotics, game development, UI/UX design, and cybersecurity, that may interest their child.

Just to name a few examples, students who like art and design might find UI/UX design interesting; those who enjoy tinkering and building things may enjoy robotics; students who love biology and medical science will find powerful CS applications in diagnostic and patient care, and sports fans will find sports data analytics fascinating. Explore more below:

AI for kids: While ChatGPT has captured people's attention with its impressive intelligence lately, AI and Data Science have been used in many aspects of our lives for years, powering personalized recommendations on Netflix and YouTube, virtual assistants like Siri and Alexa, self-driving cars, and a lot more. Learning AI and data science provides a dynamic way for kids to develop essential skills that can pave the way for rewarding careers in any industry. Explore what AI and data science have to offer!

AI industry

Game coding: With games like Minecraft and Roblox becoming a favorite pastime for so many kids, the first things that come to mind in terms of the game industry are companies that create games. The opportunity for students in this area actually goes far beyond that. By the end of 2022, the game market size has already exceeded $200 billion dollars per year and is expected to be more than $600 billion by 2030. Creating a successful game involves much more than just designing the game components that players can see. Learn more.

Game coding industry

Robotics: Self-driving cars, rovers exploring Mars, and robots capable of making fancy parkour jumps are all making the rapidly growing field of robotics more exciting every day. Because of its hands-on nature, robotics is also one of the best areas for kids to start learning technology and coding, before expanding into many other areas. Explore what robotics has to offer!

Robotics industry

Digital design/UX for kids: Opportunities are abundant for art loving students! From websites and mobile apps to digital assistants and smart home devices, UX design is everywhere. It focuses on understanding users' needs and creating interfaces that are intuitive, easy to use, and enjoyable. As a result, learning UX design can be a valuable skill for kids who are interested in technology, design, and psychology. Start young with Budding Digital Artists, then learn Canva - the most popular design tool, and finally explore the fascinating world of designing websites.

Graphic design for kids

In short, computer science jobs are everywhere - you may not even realize fields like medicine, government, or film need skilled computer science majors. Explore computer science careers here, and help your child learn all about computer science today.