The impact of technology and it’s ever-growing importance in shaping our surroundings means coding is a valuable skill for any child to learn. Not only does programming prepare children or teenagers alike for a future career in computer science, but it also improves their problem-solving skills and logical thinking abilities. Even educational boards recognize the importance of coding, such that 30+ states across the US have added coding to school curriculum.
Coding is a creative way for kids to express their ideas and thoughts. Although, it’s not something that can be easily taught by a parent or teacher with no previous coding experience. Fortunately, there are plenty of coding websites and classes out there that can teach kids for free or at a low cost. Here are some of the best coding classes, websites and courses for kids.
Best Online Coding Classes For Kids
1. iD Tech
iD Tech offers in-person and online coding lessons with programs all across the United States. They’ve been helping thousands of children learn to code for almost 20+ years.
With iD Tech’s coding lessons, students learn essentials skills like how to problem solve and critical thinking, plus technical skills like creating their own games, building websites and how to create mods. The classes are suitable for younger students as young as 7 and older kids up to 19 years old.
Whether you’re looking for a place where students can learn python and several other programming languages, HTML & CSS, build games and much more, iD Tech is the perfect place for them.
2. CodeWizardsHQ
CodeWizardsHQ provides students ages 8-18 with live online coding classes from their expert instructors. Programs offered are separated into elementary, middle, and high school levels. A structured curriculum builds on each course so that students obtain a complete coding education.
It’s an excellent choice for beginners as no previous coding experience is required. All that’s asked from kids is the curiosity and interest in wanting to learn everything that can be done with programming.
Homework help and teacher office hours offer student assistance outside of class. Some of the programming languages taught at CodeWizardsHQ include Scratch, Python, JavaScript, Java, HTML/CSS, and more.
3. Code Advantage
Code Advantage is one of the top players for live classes for kids ages 6-13. They have project-based curriculums for children of different ages and interests. With a mission to inspire children to be more innovative and increase their imagination, the classes provide entertainment and education for young students.
They offer courses in a wide range of topics, so kids learn topics like game design, robotics, Minecraft, scratch, and much more along their coding journey. All their instructors have a tech background and also previous experience teaching. They also offer private online coding lessons to provide a completely customized experience for your child and set them up for success.
4. CogniCoder
CogniCoder offers kids coding courses in various subjects ranging from Java, Python, Scratch, cybersecurity, and much more. The classes are specifically created and organized by instructors from the USC Computer Science department. Apart from simply learning to program, it’s taught in a fun manner and it shows them how computer science can be used to solve real-world problems.
The Zoom class sizes remain limited to a small group of 4-10 students, so that everyone receives the necessary attention and instruction to succeed. Most programming classes are two weeks long and offered for specific grades and varying difficulty skill sets.
Through the different difficulty levels, the program incorporates more advanced programming principles as kids transition through different courses. The classes provide comprehensive and interactive sessions to teach children how to code, develop and design.
5. Code Academy
Code Academy has a unique system they’ve developed to teach children how to start coding for free. Depending on what you want your child to learn, you can select from a group of courses based on their interests. Students will slowly advance based on the path they choose and receive instant helpful feedback regarding their code. They provide quizzes to tests the knowledge you’ve learned and also help you test what you’ve learned by dealing with real-world projects.
Kids learn everything regarding web development and computer science in general. While they have free coding courses, there is an option to pay for more advanced courses. Code Academy’s PRO path might just be worth the cost as they get access to live advisors and can create an online portfolio of their final projects to help build a resume.
6. BYJU’S FutureSchool Summer Program
BYJU’S FutureSchool Summer Program, in partnership with NASA Astronaut Scott Kelly, offers summer coding courses for children.
Younger students will get the opportunity to create space-based games and apps while enhancing their coding skills. The program offers two different courses that differ in length — a 6-week option and a 12-week option. There are different focuses on app & game development and space technology, so your child can choose which one they’re more interested in. The coding program runs all the way to August 31st, perfect for those looking to get a late start in the summer. If your kid has an interest in space and programming, this is the perfect opportunity for them.
Apart from the classes, students can also participate in webinars instructed by Scott Kelly. There they can learn about his career experiences and learn how to get to his position from the expert himself.
7. Create & Learn
Create & Learn provides top virtual kid’s coding classes created by experts from top companies and leading universities like Harvard. Students from all around the world in grades k-12 are taught by U.S. teachers. There is a limit of 5 students per class to ensure they get sufficient attention.
Students can select over 25 various computer science topics. This includes things like beginner coding languages like Scratch and more advanced languages like Python. They can also participate in fun game development activities for Roblox and Minecraft.
Kids can improve essential skills like critical thinking and creativity through their project-based teachings. It helps kids understand how and why to do things a certain way. They also have free STEM classes and exclusive events hosted by large companies like Apple and NASA.
8. Code Monster
Code Monster offers an engaging and simple way to teach young kids ages 9 to 14 valuable programming skills completely free. Code Monster is aimed at preteens and young learners can start to learn coding in Javascript.
While it’s not as flashy as other programming websites, it’s a straightforward text-based coding platform. All it pretty much consists of is a monster icon, code box, and a green dialog box you click on to move forward. You can quickly see the results of what you type into the code box on the right side.
Children receive a step-by-step guide starting from the basics like creating functions, declaring & setting variables, loops, and much more. They can learn at their own pace and even move or skip lessons if they’ve already practiced it with this coding platform.
9. Khan Academy
Khan Academy is one of the most popular websites worldwide that offers free classes on any subject. Programming is a huge part of their offerings and is an excellent way for complete beginners to learn. With their free coding classes, students learn at their own pace, and there are even online lesson plans created by others you can follow. High school students currently enrolled in AP computer science courses can also use their helpful videos to supplement their learning.
Overall, Khan Academy is an excellent place where anyone of any age can learn to code. At the same time, it’s a great way to test the boundaries and figure out whether your child might like coding without having to commit to any classes or courses financially.
10. Code Galaxy
Code Galaxy offers some of the top coding lessons across the nation. They offer virtual coding camps, lessons, and private tutoring to kids. They have courses on web and game development, design, Python programming, and other STEM-related classes. The classes are designed for kids to develop valuable programming skills to equip them for their careers.
From Scratch + Minecraft to Python Programming and Web Development, the coding camps for kids are the perfect way to spend time off school. Kids can receive an education while also having fun and learning valuable coding skills. Code Galaxy is great way to learn the foundations of coding and creating games. Their programs are specifically for kids ages 7 to 18 years old.
11. Tynker
Tynker offers programming coding lessons for younger kids who are complete beginners. The company does a great job at making learning programming fun and simple. While their programs don’t have a specific age minimum, kids as young as 6-7 years old (1st grade) can benefit. There is a class on just about every coding language available. Plus, they also have classes on popular gaming platforms like Roblox and Minecraft.
With the Tynker platform, children can advance at their desire with the self-paced classes, and the learning material is based on their perceived skill level. Kids can test their learning progress by taking up one of the coding projects suggested by the platform.
With millions of children served and partnerships with schools worldwide, Tynker is one of the best places for children to learn how to code online and who want a better STEM education.
12. Code For Life
Code For Life is a free coding website where kids can learn to code for free. It’s a nonprofit organization that was established in 2014 and has helped thousands of students since.
They learn by playing fun coding games and advancing through the different levels. The learning is suitable for kids ages 6-13+, and there are also free resources available if you’re a teacher that want’s to teach kids in the classroom.
It’s a great way to learn the basics if your child plans on taking any computer science courses in the near future.
13. Code Combat
Code combat takes a unique approach to teach coding to kids. With the use of coding games, they’ve designed an interactive and engaging way for children to learn and enjoy programming. The main coding languages they use are Python and Javascript, two of today’s most popular high level languages. Code Combat teaches core principles, which helps children learn essential coding concepts allowing them to pick up other languages easier.
Children receive hints and suggestions when they get stuck at specific points, encouraging them to learn by trial and error while also improving their problem-solving and analytical skills. They offer several course options ranging from self-paced classes, small groups, and even private offerings. Their online coding classes are suitable for children between 7 and 16 years of age.
14. Codemoji
Codemoji offers a variety of online coding lessons for kids. It’s one of the best coding websites for younger kids and allows them to easily practice with their online text based editor.
Their curriculum focuses on teaching kids web development and coding in an entertaining way. The main programming language used is Javascript, along with HTML and CSS. Children will be able to create a website and animations using the things they’ve learned.
Depending on the grade and skill level, the online classes will have different goals for the students. With a project-focused way of teaching, young students can put what they learned to the test, helping them develop problem-solving and critical thinking skills and polishing the basics of what good coding is all about. All their online class teachers currently teach in school districts, so you can rest assured your child is getting taught by professionals.
15. CodaKid
CodaKid is a coding academy and tech camp based in Scottsdale, Arizona catering to children between the ages of 6-15. The camp introduces young minds to real programming tools and professional coding languages such as Python, Java, and JavaScript. They also offer some amazing STEM camps during the summer.
Through their fun and engaging courses with live support from engineers, CodaKid teaches children in over 15 countries new tech skills like how to build coding apps, develop games, and even create mods in Minecraft.
CodaKid offers a range of intermediate computer programming courses to an expert level that takes on average 30-60 hours (plus a 14-day free trial). Their mission is to encourage young minds to unravel their talent in coding from an early age using the same cutting-edge technology that professionals use to become the coders, developers, entrepreneurs, and designers of tomorrow!
How To Choose An Online Coding Class
Did you know that coding is one of the most in-demand skills your child can develop? Yes, even educational boards recognize the importance of coding, such that 30+ states across the US have added coding to school curricula.
It can be difficult to choose a coding class, especially if your child is new to programming. Here are some important things to consider to help you find a suitable class for your children.
Age: Your child’s age determines the class most appropriate for their level. Placing your kid in a class with older peers can backfire, as they might be unable to cope with the rigor of coding practice. Most online services divide their education into several age-grades, so the teaching is suitable for their age.
Budget: How much you’re willing to spend on online classes is another key factor to consider when reviewing options. Coding classes vary in price, with some charging up to hundreds or even thousands of dollars per month.
Evaluate the value your child will gain from it. A quality class should offer quality instruction and enough instructor support, amongst other things. If a program has these features and has an affordable price range, go for it.
Instructor Experience: You should ensure that your kid gets instruction from knowledgeable instructors. An ideal coding tutor should have a background in coding or engineering. For example, someone who codes and majored in computer science in college can provide practical teaching for students.
Most programs provide information about instructors, including academic qualifications and professional background. A website with missing information about instructors is a red flag, as it’s hard to accurately judge if a teacher is suitable for your child.
Customer Feedback: Reviewing feedback from past customers can help you make the right decision concerning your decision.
Check Google, Facebook, and Yelp for customer feedback. Every serious business should have at least one platform for customers to provide feedback on its services. A collection of 4-5 star ratings is always a good sign.
Don’t just check the ratings but read the reviews to know where the program shines or suffers. This helps you understand what to expect from the classes.
Student Interaction: Some coding platforms give students the opportunity to interact in discussion forums. Being able to discuss with other learners can make it easier to learn new concepts when it’s simple to ask questions and get answers from peers.
Community is vital for another reason: kids need the motivation to learn. Surrounded by classmates, students display more excitement to learn and compete in coding challenges against others.
Flexible Schedules: A flexible learning plan is advisable for many reasons. First, it makes it easier to catch up if your child misses classes. Then you can easily adjust their learning times if something comes up.
Students should be able to select a learning timeframe that suits them. In the beginning, your kid might not want to attend long, drawn-out classes. However, this can change as they become immersed in the subject matter.
If your child is involved in other activities that may clash with their class times. Opt for reduced class time to avoid missing out on other activities in that case.
Some coding courses allow learners to go at their own pace. This is helpful since kids can spend as much as they want until they master specific concepts. Compare this to live classes, where students are often forced to complete the program even if they can’t grasp the full lesson.
Live coding classes should have access to replays to make it simple for kids to go back and relearn what they might have missed. It offers the same flexibility as a self-paced class with all the benefits of live courses since students can easily go back to the session and practice the lessons taught in their free time.
Support: Teacher support is critical to the learning development of any student. If your kid can’t ask questions or get feedback, they’re probably be better off watching and learning from YouTube.
With an online class, students should have access to instructors. This could be via email, instant messaging, or a dedicated forum for teacher-student communication.
Curriculum: Checking the curriculum before enrolling your kid can do them a world of good. An ideal curriculum should combine theoretical instruction with hands-on training. Students should proceed from simple, foundational concepts before going into niche areas, like game development.
You want to ensure the curriculum passes the active-learning test. In other words, do lectures engage students? For a complex field like coding, active learning is important to improve comprehension of information shared in class.
Student to Teacher Ratio: The student-to-teacher ratio refers to how many students each instructor must manage in a class. A low student-to-teacher ratio makes for a personalized learning experience. However, these classes can be more expensive than those with a lot of sudents. The downside of large lessons is that someone might not get the full attention they need.
Choosing a coding class for your child shouldn’t be difficult if you know what to look for. Personal factors like your budget and schedule and your child’s age are worth considering. Beyond that, online reviews can be an excellent way to gauge the performance of a coding program. Other information you can consider includes the instructor’s experience, lesson flexibility, curriculum, and level of support.
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