Learning to code is now a critical part of kids’ development, especially when they demonstrate an interest in STEM subjects. But, the learning process for kids is quite different from their parents or teachers.
Parents and trainers should help kids develop programming skills by adopting techniques and methods that fit their daily routine.
Given the time kids spend on computer screens, it may be best to identify an approach that converts all those screen time into learning hours.
Below is a highlight of some of the best online coding classes for kids.
Most of these platforms are web-based. Kids can easily access them from anywhere via computers or mobile devices. The flexibility and availability make the learning process an integral part of their life.
#1 CodeMonkey
Codemonkey is one of the leading programming education platforms for kids. It teaches coding to kids using game-based coding classes for kids, giving them a basic understanding of programming and all that it entails.
Instructors, teachers, and parents using the platform for kids don’t need prior coding experience to get started. It is designed with the teachers and school in mind.
It provides an engaging learning environment with a curriculum ideal for kids in K-8 grades.
CodeMonkey’s mission is to provide an inclusive path for youngsters into the ever-expanding programming world. CodeMonkey has ensured that the platform is robust enough for schools and individuals to derive immense values.
Trainers can track students’ progress using the grade book and proficiency report. CodeMonkey also provides an avenue for more than one instructor to join the learning sessions.
Students are expected to subscribe to gain access to CodeMonkey. Subscription covers: Classroom Dashboard, Lesson Plans, mini Courses, Automatic Grading, Video Tutorials, Easy Roll-Out, Solutions for All Exercises, Single Sign-On, and Online Support
#2 Codecademy
Codecademy provides a versatile learning environment to programmers of all ages. It is a text-based platform with an appealing interface where kids can learn several programming languages.
Kids can learn python, PHP, Html, Javascript, C++, C#, and other languages within a single learning environment. Parents, teachers, and kids don’t need any prior coding experience to get started with Codecademy.
It comes with an integrated development environment that allows kids to test their code and see how it works.
In addition, articles are provided within the environment to help kids learn as they code along. Interestingly, CodeAcademy provides access to a community where students on the platform can interact and discuss their progress.
And parents can use the “career path” feature to equip the kids who demonstrate ingenuity in programming for a promising future.
Codecademy classes are primarily free. Payment is only required if there is a need for additional services like a customized learning program and personal instruction sessions.
#3 Tekkie Uni
From the get-go, Tekkie Uni has “kids” written all over it: from the user interface to the course offered on the platform.
One of the platform’s strengths is its ability to help kids develop holistic programming skills using a project-focused approach.
Tekkie uni uses a combination of projects and life classes to impart knowledge to kids.
The platform is ideal for parents and instructors who want their kids to acquire programming that’s geared towards creating things rather than programming knowledge. It can be used independently by kids and with the guidance of parents.
The design is akin to a physical class. Students are grouped into small units led by seasoned tech experts who are great instructors.
Beyond the training, Tekkie Uni offers features that allow students to interact and socialize on the platform: a skill they’ll need to build a successful career.
Every week, kids have access to a special, live Q & A session with an expert, where they get to share their experience and ask questions. Users can expect to pay anywhere from $50 – $100 per month to use the platform.
#4 Blockly
Unlike most learning platforms, Blockly is a rather robust developer tool that allows kids to master advanced programming skills.
It uses the drag and drop function to expose kids to structured approaches to programming. It is both online and offline: offering mobile versions for kids.
Kids are given puzzles to work on: depending on the aspects of programming they are working on.
The platform supports 5 programming languages: javascript, Python, PHP, Lua, and Dart. It provides a development environment where kids can interact with codes.
Everything with Blockly is open source, making it easy for instructors to adjust the platform and modify it to the kid’s learning.
The downside with blocking is that it requires several additional expertise that may be a little beyond the capacity of kids below age 7. It may be best used with teenagers.
#5 Unity
If you are looking for fun ways to get kids introduced to coding, Unity is a great choice.
It is a professional game engine that allows kids to create various quality graphics and game characters, 2D, 3D, and VR, and bring them to life with basic programming commands.
Besides the platform where the kids practice their programming skills, Unity offers specialized programming classes targeted toward helping kids develop the creativity and skills needed to attain excellence as programmers.
The courses feature engaging videos and assignments to give kids the fundamental knowledge that would help them navigate Unity’s complex user interface and provide them with the knowledge of the tools.
Kids using Unity are exposed to C# from the early stage of their learning. The advantage is that C# is one of the most versatile programming languages globally today, giving the kids an edge over their friends starting out in more streamlined languages.
Again, learning C# early in life helps kids create the skills and mindset needed to manage robust programming projects.
And Unity is free to use for the learning program. Students and instructors are split into groups where they learn and work on projects together.
#6 Scratch
The first step is to have your kids join the scratch platform. If they are too young to do this themselves, instructors can help them set it up because it may require them to input their email address which kids may not have at a certain age.
Scratch is not just a learning platform it is also a community for young minds where they can collaborate and work on projects together. It is more self-paced learning.
It means that students who learn best under supervision may find it difficult to maximize the use of the platform.
Scratch is a project of the MIT media lab. It uses graphical blocks similar to Blockly where kids work on projects by stacking blocks of codes together. Kids have unlimited access to all scratch features for free.
The only downside of scratch is that it has its own programming language. Kids don’t learn any other language from the platform, which may limit their ability to transfer their skills and knowledge to future projects on other platforms.
#7 Minecraft Modding Quest
Kids that love playing Minecraft would love this option. The platform is built on the Minecraft games but it integrates features that teach kids how to code.
The training covers a variety of coding concepts that would get kids started in their programming experience.
The focus is on igniting a passion for creativity, collaboration, problem-solving, and imagination in kids. Training on the platform may cost between $50 to $100 for an hour class.
#8 Code Monster
Code Monster is regarded as one of the most interesting for kids to learn to program. The approach on the platform adopts a simple concept where a monster provides interactive instructions on how to modify the codes on the screen.
The platform targets the age range of 9 to 14. It is usually ideal for kids in the preteen to the early teen ages.
It is a self-paced learning platform with no need for supervision. Lessons are categorized in order of difficulties.
Besides, kids can jump in at the levels that fit their proficiency. It is free to use and can be viewed on any device.
The downside, however, is that the interface may not be as fascinating as some popular platforms available on the internet. However, the freemium package makes it affordable for all users.
#9 CodeCombat
CodeCombat leverages the power of interactive gaming to teach kids how to develop their own code.
The platform introduces the concepts of JavaScript and python to kids by allowing them to play competitive games with lines of code.
The interesting thing about CodeCombat is that it provides both instructor and learner with different interfaces.
While students have the interface where they play to learn, instructors have an interface where they monitor the progress of their students.
It is quite easy to get started with CodeCombat. Parents and teachers can initiate the use of the platform by creating an account, setting up the class, adding the student, and monitoring their progress.
CodeCombat charges a fee for the use of the platform. However, the price varies with the requirement of users. It is best to reach out to them and discuss specific needs.
#10 CodeWars
Coder offers a programming learning platform for kids of all ages. The goal is to teach kids how to position themselves for a career as programmers.
It supports over 55 programming languages, making it one of the most versatile learning platforms available online.
Parents can convert their kids’ Screen Time to learning time by allowing their kids to spend time with other kids from around the world using CodeWars. Kids start by taking the initiation challenge where they
The platform is graded from beginner to master where kids engage in coding challenges and exercises called “kata”.
Each of the challenges targets coding skills that the kids have to develop at that level of expertise. The platform is intuitive and anyone can get started, no matter their age.
Parents and instructors can get started with a fee of $9.99 per month.
#11 Code Avengers
Code Avengers is more tailored toward kids who want to pursue a career in computer science.
Unlike other platforms that help kids acquire a general knowledge of programming, Code Avengers help kids structure their learning to provide a guided path towards a predictable future.
The courses are structured from junior to expert, where kids of age 5-14 are grouped in the junior category and kids of 15+ are in the pro category. Code Avengers uses real problems to teach kids how to master programming.
Kids have total control over their learning pace and can jump in and out of any aspect of the course. Parents and instructors also have the EDU interface where they can sign up and monitor the progress of students.
They can also provide all the needed support to help create a more structured learning path for kids. Parents can expect to pay anywhere from $25 per month to $240 per annum.
#12 Kodable
Kodable is a class-centered programming platform that uses a gamification approach.
It is ideal for kids between the ages of 4 to 11. Kids learn the fundamentals of programming by playing various levels of codable games coupled with a well-rounded curriculum.
Parents or schools create the class code or a pro membership code and provide it to the kids. They use the class code to access the platform and try their hands at the games on the platform. And the interface is easy to use and kids-friendly.
Kodable also provides Android and iOS apps for mobile accessibility. The prices of Kodable depend on the kind of subscription selected. However, parents can expect to pay as much as $150 for lifetime access to the platform.
#13 Swift Playgrounds
Swift is a programming language developed by apple. It is used to create applications that run on Mac and Apple devices.
Swift playground is designed to provide a fun learning platform where kids can learn to code in swift. However, the platform is not only tailored for kids. Anybody can take advantage of the platform.
It is designed to make programming easy to learn and fun. It requires no prior programming experience. Users only need to download the platform, and they are ready to go.
The platform uses the puzzle-solving approach to introduce beginners to fundamental concepts of programming.
Swift Playgrounds is ideal for kids of 7+. It’s completely free and self-paced. Plus it is available in over 10 languages.
#14 LightBot
LightBot is not entirely online-based because it offers app-based mobile coding programs where kids can play around with some lines of code. It is a great substitute for those endless hours that kids spend on mobile devices.
The idea is to make kids learn programming by solving puzzles using programming fundamentals.
Kids have to use programming fundamentals like loops, conditionals, sequencing, etc, to arrive at the answers to puzzles.
The upside of LightBot is that kids have fun while learning to code. The feeling of being confined into a learning environment is totally eliminated.
The platform is specifically targeted at first-time coders, making it ideal for kids of all age ranges. Lightbot is priced at $2.99 for full access.
#15 Pluralsight
You know you want your kids to learn how to code, but you don’t know where to start or how to help them get started: Look no further. Pluralsight is one of the oldest learning platforms for programmers.
Plural sight is one of the most versatile programming learning platforms on the internet.
It offers hundreds of courses for virtually all programming languages in the world today. Plus it also offers courses that are not directly enshrined in coding: people skills, team building, etc.
Although Pluralsight is ideal for learning to code, the academic feel of the platform may not appeal to kids that desire a fun way to learn to program.
Therefore parents and instructors must have a hand-holding time with the kids to help them get comfortable with the platform.
Pluralsight offers a free trial, but parents can expect to pay anywhere from $29 per month for full access to the platform.
#16 CogniCoder
CogniCoder is a project powered by the University of Southern California computer science department. The concept is to help develop young minds by providing them with tools that help cognitive development.
The platform offers online coding classes, where kids can learn to improve their rational thinking and problem-solving skills.
It provides kids with the knowledge they need to tackle real-world problems using languages like python, java, web programming tools, etc.
Parents and instructors looking for a more structured way to help their kids learn to code would find CogniCoder useful.
It provides a holistic curriculum that includes cyber security, and the courses are properly structured to guide kids from beginner (level 1) to pro (level 4).
At the end of the course, parents can acquire the certificate for $75 to $175.
#17 Khan Academy
Khan Academy is one of the most popular programming learning tools on the internet. If you are looking for a way to cut your cost and teach your kids about programming for free, Khan Academy is the way to go.
The best part of Khan Academy is that kids can use it independently without the influence of their parents or instructors. It runs like an online book with various sections dedicated to an aspect of programming.
Each section features a training video explaining the topic treated in the section and in the end, kids are given exercises to assess students’ knowledge.
The platform’s downside is that the courses are not arranged in any particular order. Kids can delve in and out of courses as they see fit, which may affect their learning progress.
It is best to have an instructor around to help them create a learning plan and show them how to move from one topic to another.
Although Khan Academy is free, users are encouraged to donate some amount to the platform to help finance it and keep it running for the good it does to mankind.
#18 Code for Life
If you have heard about gamification, then you have an idea of what code for life brings to the table. It removes the boredom that comes with learning to code and uses the game approach to impact programming knowledge for kids.
CodeForLife’s mission is to help teachers and families raise the next generation of computer scientists and the platform has not failed to deliver on this promise.
The platform is designed to accommodate as many students and instructors as possible, which makes it ideal for use in schools and other learning environments.
Kids using the platform are first introduced to Blockly, where kids get introduced to python programming via gamified activities. Interestingly, CodeForLife is free to use for everyone for however long you wish.
With over 350 thousand users worldwide, it leverages an open-source approach to keep the platform alive and constantly evolving. The curriculums are aligned to the UK standard.
#19 CodeMoji
CodeMoji is a platform where kids and teens acquire programming knowledge via fun activities. In reality, this statement tag is not far from the truth.
CodeMoji is designed to help passionate kids bring their passion to life by interacting with various levels of programming problems.
It features various sets of problems that kids can play around with and gain insight into what coding really entails.
In addition, instructors can also create accounts on the platform where they assign assignments to students using CodeMoji.
CodeMoji is more effective for teaching kids how to program for the web. It exposes kids to HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Their progress is tracked using the inbuilt analytics tools on the platform and instructors can monitor the strength and weaknesses of their students.
CodeMoji is not only limited to personal use, schools and study groups can use the platform to help students acquire programming as there are features of the platform that support this.
Students can access over 500+ lessons on the platform for just $15 per month.
#20 CodaKid
CodaKid is one of the most versatile learning platforms for kids. They provide a huge collection of programming languages to help kids try their skills and stick with the ones that work for them.
CodaKid is a more balanced platform that offers a combination of self-paced and course-based learning for kids, making it ideal for kids with different learning styles.
Another interesting feature of Codakid is the standard Development environment they provide.
It helps kids gain a feel of what it means to code in real life. Even though the IDE may be a little too advanced for kids, it provides them with the exposure they need to develop a mindset that’s appropriate for their career as programmers and STEM protegees.
CodaKids believes that the best way to help kids learn to code is by providing them with projects to work on.
The platform is ideal for kids age 6 and above. In addition to the self-paced platform, Codakid provides mastery methods where qualified instructors meet with kids every week.
Parents may have to pay $25 per month or $249 per year to gain access to the platform.
#21 iD Tech
Programming for kids should not always be about the basics. There should be opportunities to test their skills with apps that can be deployed in real life. It is what iD Tech helps kids accomplish.
It offers virtual Tech camps for kids and teens where they learn several aspects of programming, including game development, 3D modeling, app development, and lots more.
To put a mix of fun into the experience, kids also learn how to create the raining MINECRAFT projects which give them a feel of the modern programming space.
iD Tech is not only streamlined to programming knowledge alone, kids are exposed to platforms that could maximize their skills including MAYA, Youtube, Unity, etc.
iD Tech is ideal for kids of all ages and learning competencies. With just an investment of $49, parents and instructors can help their kids and students start their journey towards becoming a programmer to recon with.
Wrapping Up
Screen Time should not be a threat to the success of your kids, it should rather be an opportunity. If that time is well utilized, parents and tutors can help kids and teenagers forge a promising future for themselves. One way to achieve this is by exposing kids to the value of some of the Best Online Coding Classes for Kids.
Changing their minds might not come that easy. Kids love to be independent, and they prefer to have free time rather than being engaged in tasking activities.
However, the moment you make them understand that these platforms are mostly fun and the value of the skills they’ll develop, you will help them make up their mind.
Sometimes, you may need to combine some of these platforms to help your kids get the best value. Programming skills not only help prepare kids for the future but also influences how they see the world.
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