Popular Coding Programs and Toys for Kids

When it comes to computers and gaming, many kids no longer want to just play the games; they want to create and control them. To do this they need to learn how to code. Coding doesn’t have to be a difficult skill that seems too hard to learn. It can be an enjoyable one that kids can learn with the help of different programs and toys. Let’s take a look at some of the more popular ones out there.

Scratch

Scratch is a free educational programming website that’s geared towards kids. It’s easy-to-use with its visual blocks to help kids get a handle on game development and graphic design. These skills are also ones that kids can learn at programs offered at MakerKids. Coding classes focus on character development and the techniques used to make characters and storylines come to life. Kids not only learn the technical aspects, but also how to work with others and share ideas to make their projects come to life. Scratch boasts an online community of over 15 million registered users. Kids can learn to code and build projects and share them with other players online.

Code.org

Code.org is often recommended for beginners ages 4-15 and is also a free online program. It offers online tutorials at all levels so it’s friendly for different age groups. There are even exclusive videos by Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg.

Ozobot Bit Coding Toy Robot

If your child is into toys and gadgets, the Ozobot Bit Coding Toy Robot may be a great choice to help teach coding. This robot is tiny (can fit in your pocket) but is mighty as it teaches many STEM skills. Add the program to your computer or mobile device then load your code to the robot by holding it to your screen. Kids love it because it helps bring coding to life.

Piper Coding Toy Computer Kit

The Piper Coding Toy Computer Kit is a favorite because it teaches kids how things work and why coding does what it does. It comes with a wooden hand-crafted computer case to store the technology. It uses interesting storylines, building, and a Raspberry Pi Edition of Minecraft to teach engineering and programming.

All of these programs and toys are great supplements to one-on-one learning that children can get at coding classes at MakerKids. MakerKids has experienced mentors that teach kids coding at afterschool programs and at various camps. Kids will learn skills such as character development, storyboarding, and animation as they develop the techniques needed to code their own game. If you would like to learn more about the coding programs offered at MakerKids as well as other programs, contact us at 1-844-MAKERKIDS or check us out online.