Coding Languages For Kids
Coding is an essential skill for computer science, underpinning fields such as AI, robotics, game development, cybersecurity, and more. These applications all rely on coding to bring ideas to life. Each type of application often involves different coding techniques, and certain programming languages are particularly well-suited for specific tasks. For example, Python is widely used in AI and data science, while JavaScript is the go-to language for web development. Building a structured learning pathway in coding not only helps students establish a strong foundation, but also introduces them to the unique considerations and challenges associated with different applications. Our set of essential coding language classes equips students with the versatility and expertise needed to excel in various areas of technology. Empower your child to build the future today!
Free Coding Language Classes For Kids
Join free programming language classes for kids to begin learning some of the most popular languages. Elementary students will enjoy Scratch coding, middle school students will enjoy Accelerated Scratch, and high schoolers will get the most from beginning with Python.
In this free Scratch class, learn the basics of how to use the Scratch block-coding interface. Experience our fun live online class with an awesome teacher. Enjoy programs created by other students, and work together to build a fun game of your own!
In this free Python coding class, students will take their first dive into coding with Python. We will transition from block coding, which they learned in Scratch, to text-based coding. Students will learn how to animate and draw with Python, and will build their own story project to create a cool animation. Like all of our small group classes, this online Python for kids class is led by an experienced teacher. Join us, learn, and have fun!
How To Choose Programming Language Classes For Kids
The basic elements of most programming languages are very similar. For instance, they all have the concepts of variables, loops, conditional, and functions, etc. The reason why there are many programming languages is mostly because they are often more suitable for different use cases and/or may be developed with some historical context.
For young students, the first priority is to set a strong computational thinking foundation. We recommend that all students start with Scratch coding and we offer several Scratch coding options for different age groups. For students in grades 6 and above, we also recommend our Python class to everyone due to its broad applications, popularity, and ease of learning. Once students master Python, it becomes much easier to learn other programming languages.
When choosing additional coding languages beyond Scratch and Python, consider your specific interests or what you would like to build
- Thunkable: Ideal for gaining an understanding of how to develop mobile apps and cloud computing
- Java: Recommended for students preparing for the AP Computer Science A (AP CSA) exam and for those who want to learn object-oriented programming.
- HTML/CSS/JavaScript and Cloud Computing: Best suited for web development applications.
- C++: Great for students interested in robotics or USACO competition.
Live Online Classes | Best For Grades | Class Highlights | Grades 2-4 | Grades 4-6 | Grades 6-9 | Grades 9-12 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Scratch Ninja (Free Intro Available!) | 2-6 | An essential coding class for almost all grade 2-5 learners using Scratch, an MIT-developed platform, to create fun stories, games, animations, and more. | Foundation | Foundation | |||
Accelerated Scratch (Free Intro Available!) | 5-9 | Fast-paced introduction to coding using Scratch: build games, stories, and animations. Recommended for all middle-school beginner coders. | Foundation | ||||
Mobile Coding for Apps and Games | 5-10 | Create fun mobile apps and games with Thunkable, a powerful yet easy-to-use platform. Explore advanced topics such as cloud computing and networking. | Advanced | Foundation | Foundation | ||
Python for AI (Free Intro Available!) | 5-12 | Learn the most popular programming language in the real world, with focus on AI. Python is also the most suitable text-based coding language for students. | Advanced | Intermediate | Foundation | ||
Build Your Web | 5-12 | An introductory web development class that covers the essentials of HTML, CSS, and Javascript. | Intermediate | Intermediate | |||
Intro to Java Programming (AP CSA Aligned) | 6-12 | A rigorous introduction to the Java programming language that also meets AP Computer Science Java (APCSA) requirements. | Advanced | Advanced | |||
Cloud Computing for Web Apps | 6-12 | Build advanced scalable web apps using cloud computing, one of the most important innovations of modern computer science, with professional tools. | Advanced | Advanced | |||
C++ Essentials for Teens | 6-12 | Learn essentials of powerful C++ to unlock a world of possibilities for robotics, system software, and high performance applications. | Advanced | Advanced |
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These virtually taught classes are so engaging, my son really enjoys them and is so excited to show us the coding projects he has completed on all 3 levels of Scratch Ninja. We will definitely be signing him up for more classes and thoroughly recommend Create & Learn to other parents.
Amanda E.
Create & Learn Parent
Amazing instructor. Can really keep my daughter engaged in a fun way. Thanks to Create & Learn my daughter's tech scores have skyrocketed at school.
Bhavi P.
Create & Learn Parent
Amazing virtual classes that taught my son about coding. He has taken 3 classes and he loves them all. They have some really good programs. I would definitely recommend this website and I plan to sign him up for more classes.
LM P.
Create & Learn Parent
What Are Popular Programming Languages For Kids?
Scratch, developed by MIT Media Lab, is the most popular platform for introducing kids to coding. Beyond that, the top programming languages in the industry, Python, Java, Javascript, and C++, are also the most popular ones for young students.
Scratch, introduces kids to programming in a fun and accessible way through its visual, drag-and-drop interface. It allows children to create games, animations, and stories while learning essential coding concepts such as loops, conditionals, and variables. The block-based approach lets students focus on creativity and problem-solving without the frustration of managing the syntax required in text-based programming languages, making it an ideal entry point for young learners.
Python, introduces kids to text-based programming in a beginner-friendly way, thanks to its simple syntax and readability, making it easier for students to transition from block-based coding to writing actual code. We recommend our Python class to all students in grades 6 above. In addition, Python can be used for AP CS Principle and also make it a lot easier to Java later on for AP CSA. Last but not the least, Python skills can help students deliver successful science fair projects or high school internships.
JavaScript helps students expand their coding skills, especially in web development. While Python is great for learning core concepts and backend tasks, JavaScript enables them to create interactive, dynamic websites that can respond to user input, like building interactive games or adding animations to web pages. It’s the language that powers most of what we see and use online, making it essential for those interested in creating user-friendly web experiences.
Java plays an important role in teaching kids advanced programming concepts, especially for large-scale applications. Java is also the language of choice for the AP CSA exam hosted by the College Board. While Python and JavaScript are great for beginners and web development, Java is essential for understanding object-oriented programming in depth, which is crucial for building complex systems. For example, Java is widely used in Android app development and enterprise-level applications, like banking software and large data systems.
C++ introduces students to more advanced programming concepts, particularly in areas requiring high performance and control over computer hardware. Learning C++ allows students to understand memory management and optimization, making it essential for those interested in advanced gaming, robotics, or systems programming. For students who are interested in USACO competition, C++ is also the language of choice for silver level and beyond.
Learn more about the best programming languages for kids.
Programming Careers: Imagine Your Child's Future
Your child could become a Cloud Software Engineer working on Amazon Web Services (AWS), the largest cloud infrastructure in the world. In this role, they would build and improve the systems that power websites, apps, and businesses globally, helping to keep them running fast and securely.
How about becoming a Software Engineer working on Instagram's user experience?! Your child could write code to design and improve features like filters, stories, and messaging, making the app more fun and interactive for billions of users around the world.
Imagine your child as a Cybersecurity Engineer, protecting people's sensitive information and keep transactions secure. Your child could solve puzzles, find vulnerabilities, and write code to develop security systems that prevent hackers from stealing data or breaking into Visa's payment networks.
Learn Coding Languages For Kids: Projects and Tutorials
Enjoy fun Scratch exercises to master Scratch and be equipped to tackle more advanced projects in the future - flying, changing colors, noises, and more!
Try your hand at creative, educational, and fun Python projects. Draw patterns, create a choose your adventure game, and more.
Learn how to create a very simple riddle app using Thunkable, the mobile app programming language.