Seattle, a vibrant hub of technology and innovation, offers a fertile ground for young minds to explore the exciting world of coding during their summer break. With the city's rich landscape of tech giants and startups alike—home to industry leaders such as Amazon, Microsoft, and a thriving ecosystem of tech startups—coding skills are not just useful but essential for careers in software development, data analysis, and beyond. So encourage your child to dive deep into passions, discover new interests, and even prepare for college with the best Seattle coding camps!
Seattle Coding Camps This Summer
Seattle's diverse range of summer coding camps provides children with the opportunity to dive into everything from basic programming to advanced game design and robotics. These camps are more than just a way to pass the time; they are a critical investment in children’s futures. By engaging in these educational experiences, kids can make productive use of their summer, developing critical thinking skills, creativity, and a technological fluency that will serve them throughout their lives in an increasingly digital world.
1. Create & Learn's Coding Camps
Best for: Live online, small-group instruction (3-5 students) with a project-based learning curriculum designed by MIT and Google experts.
Create & Learn's award winning summer coding camps offer a unique and engaging opportunity for kids to dive into the world of technology and innovation. Designed with young learners in mind (ages 5-18) by professionals from Google, Stanford, and MIT, these camps cover a wide range of topics from basic programming and robotics to more advanced courses in artificial intelligence and game development - all using real-world applications. Taught by experienced instructors passionate about STEM education, the camps provide a supportive and fun environment for kids to explore their interests, develop critical thinking skills, and unleash their creativity through hands-on projects. Participants leave these online camps that run for 3-5 days, with a deeper understanding of how technology works and the confidence to continue exploring the digital world. Class highlights:
- Scratch Foundations, where most students start: Scratch Junior (K-2), Scratch Ninja (2-6), Accelerated Scratch (6-9)
- Artificial Intelligence: Python (Free intro available), AI Explorers (Free Intro Available), AI Creators, Create with ChatGPT
- Web Development: Modern Website Design with Wix, Build Your Web, Cloud Computing for Web Apps
Enjoy a free session to get started!
2. Coding with Kids
In-person (multiple Seattle locations) and Online
A structured "Coder's Ladder" curriculum that tracks progress over years (Ages 5-18).
Founded in Redmond, Coding with Kids has a strong local presence. Their summer camps use a multi-level curriculum that allows students to progress from basic Scratch to professional languages like Python, Java, and C#. They offer specialized tracks for Minecraft Modding and Roblox Game Development, ensuring that even the most play-oriented campers are learning core computational logic.
3. Tech Know How Summer Camps
In-person, Fun exercise and STEM, LEGO® robotics
Location: Alki, Mercer Island, Kentridge, Renton Prep
Started in San Francisco Bay Area, Techknowhow now runs multiple locations in Seattle areas. These in-person camps have more focus and are smaller in size, but also tend to have better quality compared as a result. Programs are mostly around LEGO® Robotics and Coding. Tailored for young learners aged 5-9, these camps offer an engaging introduction to engineering principles. Students will have the opportunity to build motorized vehicles and creatures, design their own video games using Scratch, and elevate their Minecraft skills. For those aged 10-14, the camps provide a deeper dive into robotics design and programming, along with the chance to start gaining programming skills in Java. Beyond the technical skills, these camps foster camaraderie and fun through team-building exercises, group games, and recess activities, allowing campers to connect and share their experiences in a vibrant, supportive environment.
4. Tech Revolution Summer Camps at University of Washington
In-person, large operations, rich options, June - August.
Location: Seattle University and University of Washington
Similar to iD Tech, Camp Tech Revolution® hosts camps around the country and runs camps at two Seattle locations this summer, from June 16th to August 22rd. It serves kids aged 6-16 with a variety of tech related camps, was developed by a leadership team with educational backgrounds from institutions like the University of Pennsylvania, The Wharton School, Columbia University, and Harvard Graduate School of Education, among others. The proprietary curricula cater to all levels of experience—from novice to advanced. With a diverse program that includes Robotics, Coding, Game Design, Minecraft, Roblox, AI, 3D Printing, and even Spy Tech, Camp Tech Revolution is designed to prepare young minds for the future in a fun, engaging environment. The staff-to-camper ratio is designed to be up 1:8 for a more personalized and enriching summer tech experience compared to other in-person camps.
5. Kids Science Labs Camp
In-person, Creative science and engineering for younger innovators (ages 4-12), June - September
Locations: South Loop, Northbrook, Seattle, Roscoe Village
Looking for a STEM camp to inspire your coder? Check out Kids Science Labs' creative and engaging science camps, perfect for young innovators aged 4–12. Each year, they introduce original weekly themes, crafted by their team of full-time scientists, engineers, teachers, and artists, to foster a deep, playful learning experience. From building motorized LEGO® devices and designing cities of the future to exploring cool chemistry and the secrets behind everyday gadgets, camps are designed to spark curiosity and encourage a hands-on approach to learning. These science summer camps are held from the second week of June through the last week in August at various Kids Science Labs locations in the Seattle area. With flexible scheduling options—including full-day, half-day, and extended day programs—and the ability to register for multiple weeks with significant discounts, the camps offer convenience and adaptability to fit your family's needs.
6. DigiPen
In-person, focusing on animation, game design, and sound design.
Location: 9931 Willows Road NE Redmond, WA 98052
DigiPen Academy, a trailblazer in creative digital education, offers an array of programs that equip high school students with the skills needed for in-demand careers in art, animation, game design, video game programming, data analytics, and music and sound design. The academy's rigorous academic programs are a stepping stone to successful college applications, with graduates frequently continuing their education at elite institutions like DigiPen Institute of Technology, Berklee College of Music, and Carnegie Mellon University, among others. DigiPen's programs, including the four-week Pre-College Summer Programs and the year-long WANIC Skill Center Programs, offer students from grades 11 and 12 the chance to earn Advanced Placement credits and engage in project-based learning that mirrors real-world challenges. This hands-on approach ensures that students not only learn but apply their knowledge in team settings, fostering growth in confidence and skill.
7. Creative Coding Summer Camp
In-person, Ages 8-12, Small groups
Location: 4649 Sunnyside Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103
Rediscover the joy of learning at Creative Coding's summer camps, back in person at the Good Shepherd Center. Since 2013, they've revolutionized coding education for kids by empowering them to create and share their own video games and animations. Designed for 8-12-year-olds, these camps offer a magical blend of creative freedom, friendly collaboration, and high-quality instruction that you won't find in large, institutional camp settings. These summer camps stand out because they prioritize fun, creativity, self-teaching, and persistence through "The Creative Coding Method," developed by their "Founder Dad" Eric Fredrickson. This method ensures that learning is always engaging, with each class posing the challenge: "What do you want to make?" This approach not only spurs your child's imagination but also equips them with the resilience to overcome obstacles and the skills to teach themselves.
8. Pacific Science Center Summer Camps
Offer a mix of general STEM and specific coding tracks (Grades PreK-8).
Location: Multiple locations throughout Seattle area.
The Pacific Science Center (PacSci) offers some of the most popular local camps in the Puget Sound. Their coding tracks often include hands-on work with Code Monkey, Scratch, and robotics. Beyond the computer lab, campers have access to the Science Center's exhibits, making it a well-rounded experience. These camps fill up very quickly due to their high reputation and member discounts.
9. University of Washington Robinson Center Summer Programs
In-person (UW Seattle Campus)
For Gifted and highly motivated students seeking academic rigor (Grades 5-9).
The Robinson Center at the University of Washington is renowned for its programs for highly capable youth. Their Summer Discovery (grades 5-6) and SPARK (grades 7-8) programs offer fast-paced, deep dives into complex subjects. Coding-adjacent tracks often focus on logic, advanced mathematics, and introductory computer science, taught by university-level instructors. These programs are ideal for students who want a taste of the college experience on a major research campus while engaging with peers who share their passion for high-level intellectual challenges.
Enjoy Seattle Coding Camps for Kids and Teens
As summer approaches, Seattle's coding camps present an invaluable opportunity for young learners to gain a head start in the digital age. By participating in these specialized camps, children not only sharpen their technical abilities but also cultivate essential life skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and perseverance. Whether your child is a budding programmer or just starting to show interest in technology, a summer coding camp can be a transformative experience that equips them with the tools to navigate and succeed in our technology-driven world!
Explore Seattle coding classes for kids for year round learning.