With the help of the best coding programs for kids, you can set your children on a lucrative path early! What’s more, tools that focus on coding for kids are an excellent introduction to the world of programming!
Thanks to digital transformation, mobile applications, online and web-based platforms, and a large push towards digital solutions overall, it makes sense to pursue a career in coding. Even if that’s not the idea, a basic knowledge of coding and programming creates a lot of value, which is why so many are interested in teaching their kids the fundamentals. Even with a quick introduction, kids are more apt to return later or build interest in the technology.
So, coding for kids is a monumentally popular topic and there are many applications, websites, and tools available to make it happen. But not all beginner coding tools are made equal, especially when it comes to school-aged children. There are many free coding lessons for kids online, but not all of them are worth the time sink.
So, we took the liberty to find all the best coding programs for kids and grouped them for quick reference! Before we dive in, let’s explore what it means to learn to code.
Here’s a quick list, you can read more about them below:
What Does It Mean to Code?
“Coding” involves writing a programming language in either a development environment or a code editing program.
One common misconception is that coding or programming only applies to computers and similar technologies. While computers, servers, software, and similar platforms do rely on coding to work, they are not the only devices that do.
Almost everything with a digital component needs code to run, from smart cars and smart coffee makers to printers, game consoles, and beyond. Children might be interested to know that many toys rely on basic code, as well.
To put it simply, ‘code’ is the way we speak to computers and electronics, providing them commands, advanced instructions, and sometimes the wherewithal to make rudimentary decisions through logic. A programming language is what we use to speak to computers, and coding involves writing out that language, which essentially tells the system what to do. Computers use binary code behind the scenes to process data and make computations.
It is a bit more complex than that, but the more nuanced information is best saved for advanced lessons. For now, just understand that programming languages and ‘code’ are how we tell computers and devices what to do and how to do it.
How Do I Teach My Kids to Code?
Teaching kids to code is not as complex as one might think. Depending on their age, they’re probably not going to be working with computers directly. For younger children, including toddlers and pre-schoolers, many STEM toys will introduce the basics of coding. There are also videos, TV shows, board games, puzzles, and so much more.
We don’t recommend sitting children that young in front of a computer and monitor to do actual coding, but in the end, that’s entirely up to you!
As for older children, in grade school and above, there are many coding websites for kids, and also coding classes for kids online. There are also many games, mobile apps, and introductory coding tools available.
When and where they start is up to you. They’ll need to learn all about programming languages, what they are, what they do, and how they can be used with computers, software, and devices. Once they understand the fundamentals, they can begin coding tutorials and lessons, which we’re going to highlight later in our guide.
Note: Want to know what is the best coding program for beginners, regardless of age? There are a few options, but we recommend SoloLearn, M1m0, or CodeCombat.
What Is the Best Programming Language for a Child to Learn?
The first step is to decide what language(s) you and your kids should focus on. There are so many different programming languages, that choosing one can be daunting. Even more so when you’re talking about a child, with minimal exposure to these kinds of topics.
There is an overlap in regards to how the languages are used and various commands or functions they offer, but for the most part, each language has a separate purpose. While C, C+, and C# are all in the same family, they are used for different projects and might have different parameters between them.
The best programming language for kids, or anyone really, is and always will be the most interesting one from their perspective, or rather the language that stands out the most to them. To clarify, let’s say your kids are into mobile apps and mobile games, then languages centered around those platforms are the best starting point. That might include Android and iOS app development kits, or languages like Python, Java, and Kotlin.
Pro Tip: Minecraft fans may want to start with Java or JavaScript! Roblox fans should check out Lua!
If your children are into video games — PC or console — then learning something like C# would be a safe bet, or working with a more popular framework such as Unity or Unreal Engine would also be an excellent idea.
Some languages are easier to pick up and work with than others, but when all is said and done, it’s their interests that are going to help keep them focused and dedicated.
The type of learning resource you choose also matters. For example, the best way to learn Python could be any one of more than 50 methods. Choosing the one that best suits your needs, or your child’s needs, is the right way to go.
What Are the Best Coding Programs for Kids?
Divided into their respective categories, here are the best coding programs, websites, courses, and mobile apps for kids:
The Best Coding Programs for Kids
Scratch by MIT
- Paid: No | Free
- Platforms: Web, Mac, Windows, Linux
One of the best overall coding programs for kids, Scratch can be used online, or you can download the software to your computer for use offline. Kids will be able to create stories, games, animations, art, and more.
Alice by Carnegie Mellon University
- Paid: No | Free
- Platforms: Windows, Mac, Linux
Designed to be an educational tool for teachers, this application relies on a unique block structure to teach coding. Kids can create animations, story narratives, build games, and much more. The latest version even includes content from The Sims!
Blockly Games by Google
- Blockly Dev Portal
- Paid: No | Free
- Platforms: Web, Android, iOS
Blockly is a JavaScript library built to introduce coding concepts and make development simpler. The Blockly Games are pre-developed mini-games that introduce children to coding. The builder itself can be used on the web, Android, and iOS.
Kodu by Microsoft
- Paid: No | Free
- Platforms: Windows/PC, Xbox
This program teaches kids 3D game programming using easy-to-understand visuals. Children will improve creativity, problem solving, programming, and storytelling skills. The end goal is to make a game that can be played and enjoyed separately.
Twine
- Paid: No | Free
- Platforms: Web, Windows, Mac, Linux
Not necessarily designed for children, but suitable for older kids, Twine is an interactive storyboard. By using conditional logic, images, variables, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript you can customize stories. You don’t have to use code, but the option is there when you’re ready.
The Best Online Coding Classes for Kids
Khan Academy
- Paid: No | Free
- Platforms: Web, Android, iOS
Khan Academy is one of the best online course centers for children who wish to learn to code, and it’s free! All lessons can be accessed from a web browser, or either the Android or iOS apps. Most lectures are delivered through an interactive video, and geared towards kids in grade 6 and above.
Tynker
- Paid: Yes | Subscription
- Platforms: Web, Android, iOS
Designed for kids ages 5 up to 17 years old, each group is delivered a unique experience. From 8 to 13, for example, children get to use a drag-and-drop coding interface to build games, apps, and play. For ages 5-7, the activities are much simpler and teach coding logic and problem solving.
CodaKid
- Paid: Yes | Subscription
- Platforms: Web
Available in over 7 languages, this coding platform was built from the ground up to teach children the fundamentals and then move to more advanced programming techniques. There is even a lesson on making your first game in Roblox Studio!
Code Avengers
- Paid: Yes | Subscription
- Platforms: Web
Meant for children ages 5 to 14, this online curriculum introduces popular languages like Python, HTML, JavaScript, and more. Every course starts with an introduction, and walks students through intermediate to advanced level content. The lessons are presented in a fun, creative way to keep kids interested.
CodeWizardsHQ
- Paid: Yes | Subscription
- Platforms: Web
Set up like traditional courses, there are three categories for grades 3 to 5, 6 to 8, and 9 to 12. Students get 1:1 lessons with instructors, including live and online chats. It takes things a bit more seriously, and sets kids on a path to a future internship with a tech or IT company.
The Best Coding Websites for Kids
Code.org
- Paid: No | Free
- Platforms: Web
This non-profit organization offers lessons for kids from ages K to 12 years old. The courses include video tutorials, hands-on exercises, and live guidance. Children will learn how to make games, websites, and be creative with code.
CodeCombat
- Paid: Yes/No | Subscription/Free
- Platforms: Web
Note: The core levels of Code Combat are all free to play. As you get into the more advanced lessons, a subscription is necessary.
Code Combat is a neat coding environment that teaches kids how to write and work with programming languages, all while playing an interactive game. They can level up, fight enemies, collect gear, and much more! It can be played solo, or teachers can offer children a class code to play as a group.
CodeMonkey
- Paid: Yes | Subscription
- Platforms: Web, Android, iOS
For grades K to 8, Code Monkey offers a variety of bite-sized online courses with a ‘gamified’ approach. Most courses include fun and quirky games that kids play, which ultimately teach them the fundamentals and beyond. The courses are available online or via mobile apps.
Code Monster by Crunchzilla
- Paid: No | Free
- Platforms: Web
This simple coding platform is for older children, pre-teens and above. They can access the platform within a browser and write syntax while following brief tutorials. Even though it’s web-based, once the browser has loaded you don’t need an internet connection to continue working.
Gameblox
- Paid:
- Platforms:
Another wonderful tool from MIT, specifically the STEP lab, this block-based coding tool teaches kids using a drag-and-drop interface. They get to build games, which are fully playable after, all while learning popular languages. It’s a solid introduction to game design too.
The Best Coding Apps for Kids
Sprite Box
- Paid: Yes | $4
- Platforms: Android, iOS
Kids love to play games, so why not teach them some coding while they’re playing a game? It’s a popular approach, but none do it quite like Sprite Box. It’s for all ages and teaches parameters, sequencing, loops, basic syntax, and much more.
Hopscotch
- Paid: No | Free
- Platforms: iOS
Developed for ages 10 to 16, this free app will teach kids how to code within a proprietary canvas. They can also share their creations with the community, download others, and play all within a sandbox-style environment.
Lightbot
- Paid: Yes | $3
- Platforms: Android, iOS, Amazon App Store
This puzzle game and mobile app will teach kids all about programming logic. They’ll learn about concepts such as conditionals, sequencing, recursive loops, overloading, and much more.
Swift Playgrounds by Apple
- Paid: No | Free
- Platforms: Mac, iOS
Available for Mac and iOS devices, including the iPad, this fun experience teaches children the basics of Swift — the primary language for Apple’s ecosystem. Moreover, many toys are compatible with the platform like LEGO, Sphero, and more.
codeSpark
- Paid: Yes | Subscription
- Platforms: Web, Android, iOS
Welcome to the world of Fooville, where kids can develop important life skills, learn to code, and much more. CodeSpark’s unique platform is playable on Android and iOS devices, including the iPad. It’s a lot of fun, and an excellent starting point for all ages.
The Best Coding Toys for Kids
In addition to online courses, websites, and apps, there are also many toys that will teach children how to code while they play. Here are just a few notable coding toys:
- Wonder Workshops Dash and Dot
- Bitsbox
- Osmo Coding
- ThinkFun Code Master Programming Logic Game
- Kano Computer Kits
Now You Can Teach Your Kids to Code!
These coding programs for kids, websites, and online courses will introduce your children to the world of coding.
If would like to learn how to code, we have many free tutorials right here at CodeConquest.
Disclosure of Material Connection: Some of the links in the post above are “affiliate links.” This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will add value to my readers.
