The teacher gifts are handed out, the backpacks are packed away, and now you’re wondering how you’re going to possibly try to entertain your kids for the next few months without going a little bit krazy. Besides miming through our giant list of free summer activities for kids, this summer might be the perfect time to check out free coding classes for kids and teens — because yes, they exist, and yes, they are free.
Besides the fact that being tech-savvy is pretty much a requirement to navigate today’s technology-driven world, kids coding classes emphasize collaborative learning, teamwork, and a place to find solutions to problems. All things that I’d want my kids to learn every day of the week! Here’s everything we know about free coding classes for kids, how to find them, and where to go.
Download the Krazy Coupon Lady app for more smart-savings tips and deals.
9 Places Kids Can Learn Coding For Free
Code.org
Age: K-12 students
Code.org offers courses in computer science concepts to K-12 students. Their Hour of Code program is a 60-minute tutorial that introduces kids to computer science. The self-guided activities happen during Computer Science Education Week, which is typically the first week of December. However, schools and communities can host the event year round.
Related: 8 Free Learning Apps for Kids (No Hidden In-App Purchases!)
Scratch
Age: 5-16
From the genius minds of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Media Lab, Scratch is a user-friendly visual programming language and community that lets kids create interactive stories, games, and animations. The program design is for kids 8-16, however Scratch Jr is available for 5-7-year-olds who want to learn.
Scratch is available in over 70 languages . Plus, you can use it on both desktop computers and tablets. Moreover, there’s even a Scratch app to learn on the go. Adults, add this idea to your family road trip ideas.
Khan Academy
Age: Varies
If you already have a Khan Academy account (many schools and homeschoolers use Khan for supplemental learning), sign up for their free Hour of Code courses. With a focus on JavaScript and HTML/CSS, these courses guide young learners through interactive exercises and projects to develop their coding skills. Kids can create web pages, draw, and build databases.
Swift Playgrounds
Age: 4+
This free Apple-designed app works on an iPad or desktop Mac. Swift Playgrounds allows kids to solve interactive puzzles through the ‘Get Started with Code’ lessons before moving on to more advanced exercises.
Code Maven
Age: 13+
Code Maven is an easy-to-follow, interactive tutorial geared toward teens. Simply follow the prompts made by Code Maven (she’s like a chatbot) to learn Javascript programming through 50+ lessons. You can always reset or skip lessons.
Udemy
Age: Varies
Udemy offers free coding tutorials on its learning platform. Each class lists reviews, course length, language, what you’ll learn, computer requirements, and instructor bio. You can even preview the course.
Codemoji
Age: 5-8
Codemoji is targeted to 1st-8th grade students. While it’s only free for 14 days, kids can learn the fundamentals of HTML, JavaScript, and HTML. Moreover, they can design their own websites and animations using drag-and-drop lessons. It’s $10 per month for students and $15 per month for parents after the trial ends.
Create & Learn
Age: 7-10
There are lots of free coding classes for kids to choose from on the Create & Learn website. Each course is divided by grade level and clearly explains what is taught. For instance, there’s an Introduction to Scratch class, Roblox game coding, and Intermediate Minecraft Modding. Most of the intro classes are free, however full courses and camps have a cost attached.
Related: Michaels’ Free Craft Camps for Kids Start June 19! Registration Open Now
CoderDojo
Age: 7-17
CoderDojo is a computer club that’s volunteer led in communities across the country. The free workshops are geared for kids 7-17 years old. Head to the website to find or start a local club.
Tell us what you think