Computer Programming Resources for Kids

Nashville has so much to explore and see but there are just times when we can’t leave the house (like when we are stuck at home for that 8 AM to 5 PM window for the appliance repair man to come – I know you know what I’m talking about…..).

My kids are computer and game junkies (Minecraft, anyone?). So instead of just games I thought it would be great if my kids could learn something in their online play. There are lots of FREE resources that help kids learn to code and create their own games. Here is a list of online computer programming resources for kids to bookmark for the next rainy day. Click each number below to check out the programs directly.

1. Code.org

This is a great place to start and learn about all the possibilities there are out there for computer science. If your kids are looking at you like you are crazy with the idea of computer coding, show them the list of A list stars (will.i.am and Ashton Kutcher), politicians and industry experts that are supporting the movement. American kids need to learn to code!

2. Scratch

This is a FREE programming language that was developed by MIT geared at kids. Using commands that are similar to basic programming syntax you are given a cat to control, change and program. Check out this tour:

3. Code Academy

This site is a bit more advanced and could be used by teens and adults. You start coding as soon as you open the site. From there you can choose different learning “tracks” to learn different programming languages including JavaScript, Python, Ruby, PHP and several others.

4. Kahn Academy

A one stop shop to learn JavaScript, which is the language used to write websites. If you want to get your kids really excited tell them JavaScript is also the language that Minecraft is written in. 🙂

5. CodeHS

CodeHS is Free to start but does have a fee based membership to continue beyond the first module. For $25 a month you get access to all their course work. For $75 you get access to online tutors and help as you learn to program. Start with some of the free sites but if you have a serious geek (in a good way) in your house and no access to mentor geeks this may be a good way to go.

6. Stencyl

Stencyl is a FREE program that you can download to build your own game. You do not need to know any coding – you just drag and drop commands similar to Scratch. Once you complete your game you can even submit it to be sold in the iTunes App store or the Google Play store for Android.

7. Hopscotch

If you have an iPad, Hopscotch could provide hours of fun. It is an App that has similar drag and drop programming to Scratch. It is also FREE.

Do you have small kids and are looking at this and saying “this is to old for them?”. Load the next app on to your iPad and hand it to your preschooler – I’m sure you will be amazed!

8. Daisy the Dino

Daisy is the simple version of Hopscotch for the iPad. My 3 year old has been moving the drag and drop commands around to make Daisy walk, spin and jump. When she gets a little older she can use these skills to move into more complicated programs and eventually learn to code.

So next time you kids say “I’m bored!! There is nothing to do!” Turn on your computer and introduce them to coding. You never know – it may introduce them to a career. 🙂

Check out our site for more indoor fun and things to do in Nashville! There are even some free classes and workshops that kids can take to learn to code!

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Lauren is a transplant from Texas and has become a local tourist exploring the area with her two children. She loves to discover new places in Nashville to share with others.

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