Minecraft is a game with simple graphics and a block-like appearance. Aside from the gameplay arguing with physics Minecraft also has a very unrealistic look. This style is very popular and many gamers love it! However, it’s not for everyone. Since Minecraft is highly moddable, there exist many different types of texture packs that can alter how your game looks while you play.

In 1-week Minecraft coding camps, we explore coding in Minecraft with Redstone, an element used for mechanical and electrical programming. Kids and teens can build their own game to add texture packs to. Eventually, they can even code their own texture packs.

What are Minecraft texture packs?

Minecraft texture packs are a collection of files that change the visuals of blocks in Minecraft. These blocks range from building materials, items, mobs, and anything else that you can see in your game. Without getting too technical, by default, Minecraft has a native resolution of 16×16 pixels. Texture packs can increase them up to 1024×1024, which has 4,906 times the number of pixels as native!

Note: you may hear the term resource pack in place of texture packs. While resource packs provide new textures for your gameplay, they also provide other game features such as music, sound effects, particle effects, and text. Resource packs are only available in Java Edition 1.6.1 and higher. In this article, anytime you see the words “texture pack”, you can safely replace them with “resource pack”.

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Minecraft shaders and texture packs

Now that you know what texture packs are, you may feel like your game may benefit from using them and it’s all you need to have a better gaming experience. And you may be right! Or, if you’re like many other gamers, you still want more after adding the upgraded graphics. While texture packs are great at giving your entire gameplay a new and improved look, shaders can increase the aesthetics even further. Many gamers opt to add texture packs and shaders to their game.

Unlike texture packs, shaders focus on the lighting of your game. The use of shaders can create a very realistic atmosphere and sky, dramatic shadows, and water that looks like you could jump right in. Similar to texture packs, shaders can be CPU intensive so you may need to try out a handful to get the best ones that work on your machine.

While shaders and texture packs can both be used by themselves, it’s highly recommended that you download Optifine to take advantage of all the features that some packs have to offer. 

Where to download Minecraft texture packs?

Now that you’re ready to try out texture packs, where can you get them? Like most things with Minecraft, it depends on the version of Minecraft you are using. If you’re using Minecraft Java Edition or Windows 10 Edition on a computer, you will need to go to the developer’s website that created the texture pack and download it directly.

If you are using one of the legacy console editions, such as Minecraft: PS4 Edition, Minecraft: Xbox One Edition, or Minecraft: Nintendo Switch Edition then you will need to purchase texture packs directly from the respective stores on the console. 

Recommended: How to Make a Minecraft Server

How much are Minecraft texture packs?

The price of texture packs is also dependent on the edition. If you are using one of the legacy console editions, then texture packs are usually around $2.99 U.S. dollars. However, if you download the texture packs yourself, such as in the case of Minecraft Java Edition, then texture packs are free!

How to make your own texture packs

While installing texture packs that have been created by someone else is great, sometimes they lack the exact look you’re searching for. If that’s the case, you may be interested in creating your own texture packs. Creating your own texture packs is beyond the scope of this article, but if you’re interested we highly suggest going to Gampedia and reading up on it. 

It does take a bit more technical skills than purely installing texture packs, but if you’re familiar with text editors and simple design using Photoshop or equivalent then you should be able to learn to create your own textures fairly quickly. Once you are finished creating your texture asset files, you can compress them into their own zip file and drop them in the resourcepacks folder of your game. 

Top 5 Minecraft texture packs

There are too many texture packs for you to try all by yourself. While having a plethora of options isn’t a terrible thing, it can be difficult to choose a great texture pack. We created a list of the top 5 most downloaded texture packs from Planet Minecraft.

1. LB Photo Realism Pack 256×256 Version 10.0.0 

LB Photo Realism is a texture pack that’s nearly as old as Minecraft itself so it’s no surprise that it will have the most downloads. Currently, at over 2.5 million downloads from Planet Minecraft alone, LB Photo Realism aims to make Minecraft more realistic, as if the name didn’t give it away. There are many resolutions of this texture pack so you can find one that your computer can easily run. Adding the right shaders and the Wild Grass mod can also give biomes their own unique plants that are realistic and help give your environment that extra spark.

2. Sphax PureBDCraft x128

Another decade old texture pack is Sphax PureBDCraft. Unlike LB Photo Realism, Sphax PureBDCraft aims to give Minecraft a comic-like look. This is preferable to many gamers since even with realism texture packs, it’s nearly impossible to give Minecraft a very realistic look. Even though it’s a cartoony texture pack, there are resolutions from 16×16 to 512×512 that all give you high-definition textures. This pack also has many optional add-ons such as multiple 3D items and blocks, an advanced tech add-on to give your redstone technology a new look, an add-on to connect blocks for smoother transitions, and even an add-on to allow you to customize your own textures for specific blocks. 

3. oCd Texture Pack

If you have obsessive compulsive disorder then the oCd Texture Pack should be the first texture pack that you download. Even if you don’t have OCD, it’s worth trying out since it’s a beautiful pack that provides a clean and minimalist look. This ordered pack lacks extra noise and harsh colors with all textures having an even spacing. It’s a great resource pack as well for someone who doesn’t have a high-end machine that can run high-resolution texture packs without lag. Even though there is only a 16×16 resolution offered at this time you won’t feel the need for more pixels.

4. Default 3D

Another pack with over 2 million downloads from Planet Minecraft, Default 3D is easily rising up the charts. It’s a few years older than both LB Photo Realism and Sphax PurecBDCraft, yet has nearly as many downloads. This pack is great because there are different versions based on the specifications of your machine. If you have a lower-end machine you may opt for the Default 3D Low. These texture’s give you smooth edges with connecting faces of models that appear seamless. If you have a higher-end machine you’d want to go with Default 3D High. It includes all block and item modifications with eye-pleasing texture without leaving out specific blocks like it’s Low version does. If you’re looking for something in between, you can try out the Default 3D Medium.

5. Modern HD Pack

If you’re a fan of the modern look, then the Modern HD Pack should fit your needs. This pack gives every block in the game a new look while also adding new items, mobs, and font. If you’re trying to build cities, schools, and skyscrapers then this pack provides you with all the tools you need. There are also updates to underwater that can add corals and kelp to make swimming a bit more of an experience. With a resolution of 64×64 most computers should be able to run this pack without trouble.

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The Best Minecraft Texture Packs

Now that you know how to install texture packs which ones should you go for? There is an endless supply that you can find online, and we are positive that you can find something that fits your style. However, we have a handful of options that we recommend you give a try.

• X-ray Minecraft texture pack
• HD Minecraft texture packs
• Realistic Minecraft texture packs 
• 3D Minecraft texture pack
• 4096×4096 Minecraft texture pack

X-ray Minecraft texture pack

The X-Ray Ultimate Resource Pack has a very unique style. In fact, after everything we’ve explained to you about texture packs enhancing the visual aspects of your game, the X-Ray Ultimate Resource Pack does the opposite! 

When you first install it, you may think it looks terrible and broken, however, understanding what it does is where it really shines. It makes most blocks transparent so you can’t see them, but it highlights important blocks for you. You can easily see lava, mobs, and ores exactly where they are in the world. This can help your mining and resource collection while staying safe. This is a great pack to have in your resource folder that you can toggle off and on when you feel a need for it.

HD Minecraft texture packs

HD texture packs come in all shapes and sizes from cartoony to realism but offer a “high-definition” set of textures. In fact, the HD stands for high-definition. 

Unlike the X-Ray Ultimate Resource Pack, HD texture packs are often elegant, charming, and pleasing to look at. They allow players to build creative structures and large cities where each building or block has its own character. You can easily build a castle down the street from a modern hospital if you so choose. One really popular HD pack the Serene HD Resource Pack. 

Realistic Minecraft texture packs 

As the name implies, realistic texture packs focus on making each block in Minecraft looking more realistic. If you’re not a fan of cartoony texture packs then realism is the way to go. 

Each block has a high level of detail with a lower color palette to help represent the real world. Realism texture packs benefit dramatically with a higher resolution, so it’s recommended you have impressive hardware to help your game run smoothly. A highly recommended realism texture pack is CMR Extreme Realistic Resource Pack. 

3D Minecraft texture pack

Minecraft is definitely a 3-dimensional game. However, if you look at each block closely, you’ll notice that most of them do not have any 3D effects. Each block consists of six-sides of 2D textures. 3D texture packs try to alleviate this issue. 

In 3D texture packs, blocks are created with attractive textures that give a depth-effect. This can give your game an authentic feel to make you think twice about where you take your next step in the game. A great pack that achieves this very well (although, it’s not complete yet) is Slight Depth Resource Pack.

4096×4096 Minecraft texture pack

While 4k texture packs are not common at the moment, it’s something many Minecraft players are waiting for. There are a few people who have made some of these packs for the novelty, but they will take an extremely high-end computer to run that most people do not have. It can also be very difficult to find these packs that can run on the newest version of Minecraft. Although these very high-definition resource and texture packs are not viable at the time of this writing, they are something we are all looking forward to in the future. With the way technology grows every day we don’t believe we are that far away from everyone having their own opportunity of running Minecraft in 4k.

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Enjoy your textured Minecraft experience!

You now have the skills to edit how your own Minecraft game looks. Adding new textures to your game can really help Minecraft feel like a brand new game again. If you want to go straight medieval then, there is a texture pack for it. If you want to act like you’re playing the old NES, then there is a texture pack for it. If you want a frightening atmosphere then, you guessed it, there is a texture pack for it.

You can also read our article on how to install Minecraft mods to add even more features.

Kids and teens can also join a Minecraft coding camp this summer to learn about programming with Redstone. It’s a fun and engaging way to personalize your Minecraft experience while gaining a valuable life skill.

The post Best Minecraft Texture Packs appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Coding isn’t just for the techy kids anymore. The impact of technology on our kids’ daily lives highlights the importance of learning to code. Coding for kids is less about writing code and more about gaining the problem-solving, critical thinking, and analytical skills to build the future as entrepreneurs, artists, and innovators. 

If you’re a parent who wants their child to learn code, this is the best place to start. These free kid’s coding resources will kickstart your child’s interest in technology and programming through engaging games and interactive lessons.

When your child is ready to dive deeper, join our top-rated coding classes for kids. They’re the most fun and effective way for kids to learn to code in Scratch, Python, and Java.

Read on to learn more about how to teach your kids how to code and free resources that can help you along the way.

Free Coding for Kids Resources

46 of the best free classes, websites, and apps to help kids learn coding.

Free Coding For Kids Apps

CodeKarts

Ages: 4+
Format: iOS/Android

A pre-coding game for preschoolers to play. Kids learn to develop observational skills, concentration, and logic by guiding a car through various tracks.

CodeSpark Academy

Ages: 4+
Format: iOS/Android/ Kindle Fire/Windows

With over 1,000 fun, free activities and a simple-to-use interface, CodeSpark Academy is the perfect app to introduce kids 5-9 years old to programming.

Hopscotch

Ages: 4-11
Format: iOS

Create games, art, stories, and more with kid-friendly programming. Kids, ages 4-11, can program and publish unique games and apps to Hopscotch’s fully moderated community, where others can play and learn from their creations.

Scratch Jr.

Ages: 5-7
Format: iOS/Android/Kindle Fire/ChromeBook

With the ScratchJr. app, children 5-7 years old can program interactive stories and games to solve problems, design projects, and express themselves creatively on the computer. They can also play games created by kids just like them.

Move the Turtle

Ages: 6-12
Format: iOS

Using visually engaging graphics, kids as young as age 6 can implement various programming concepts to direct a virtual turtle and complete unique tasks. The app comes in both iPhone and iPad format.

Swift Playgrounds

Ages: 8-12
Format: iOS

Swift is a coding language for developing Apple iOS programs and apps. Especially useful for beginner programmers (even those with no Swift experience) Swift Playgrounds lets kids work at their own paces with visually appealing and educational challenges.

Mimo

Ages: 15+
Format: iOS

Mimo puts the power to learn in your child’s hands! With over 23 free courses to choose from and comprehensive lessons, Mimo enables kids of any age to begin coding and advance their skills.

Codea

Ages: 13+
Format: iOS

A fully customizable code editor, Codea allows users to introduce all the colors and visual aids they may desire to assist in their coding efforts. It’s a free app for kids that lets your child turn thoughts into interactive creations.

Coding Safari

Ages: 2+
Format: iOS

A free app with a focus on pre-coding skills like problem-solving, decomposition, and computational thinking. Coding Safari is engaging and educational for children as young as two years old!

Algorithm City

Ages: 8+
Format: Android

Algorithm City is a 3D style game where kids can learn the basic concepts of programming, such as command sequencing, functions and loops, and more. Play and code to make a character progress by collecting gold and solving levels.

LEGO Boost

Ages: 7-12
Format: iOS/Android

Lego Boost is an app that allows kids to build different Lego models and program them with code. Children can program their models to make sounds and move using drag and drop code.

Daisy the Dinosaur

Ages: 5-7
Format: iOS

This app teaches basic code concepts like sequencing and conditionals in the form of fun little challenges. Make Daisy the dinosaur move, jump, and dance with drag and drop commands as kids experiment and learn.

Cargo Bot

Ages: 4+
Format: iOS/Android

Students can learn to sequence with this app by choosing the preset actions of their robotic arm and putting them in the right order. These challenges can help students to think concisely and find the simplest solution to a given problem.

Box Island

Ages: 6+
Format: iOS

Box island introduces kids to fundamental coding and the basics of algorithms, pattern recognition, sequences, loops, and conditionals. The friendly characters, colorful and bright 3D game world and entertaining story parts make the experience fun for any child. Kids progress through the super fun and challenging gameplay as they build their coding skills.

Run Marco

Ages: 6-12
Format: iOS

This game uses simple commands like “move one step forward” and “repeat” to help students learn how to sequence a set of actions. Children will play and learn to modify their code to complete the task at hand, as well as design their own levels.

SoloLearn: Learn to Code

Ages: Varies
Format: iOS/Android

Aimed at older students, SoloLearn offers a list of programming languages like C, C++, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and Python. The course starts off with the basic foundations of each language and builds as you proceed through levels. Kids and teens can even compare their skills in head-to-head challenges with others.

Grasshopper

Ages: Varies
Format: iOS/Android

This app, created by Google, teaches JavaScript for kids through mini-games they can play. It offers two courses: one for brand new coders and another for more advanced coders. For beginners, the app will take you through a set of slides explaining the basics of how to code followed by a short quiz to review and improve their understanding.

decoder

Ages: Varies
Format: iOS/Android

DCoder is a mobile code compiler. This app is meant for more experienced individuals who are looking for fast and easy ways to compile and run their programs on the go!

Recommended: Coding Apps for Kids

Free Coding For Kids Websites

RoboCode

Ages: 5+
Cost: Free

Ever heard of robot fighting? Well here is a cool alternative! RoboCode lets kids build a robot in Java or .NET in order to play and compete against other robots.

Codemoji (Ages 5-8)

Ages: 5-8
Cost: Free

Targeted at kids 5-8 years old, Codemoji.com is a unique programming website for kids where they can learn the foundations of web development in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Using drag-and-drop emojis, kids will be able to work through beginner, intermediate, and advanced level beginner courses to further their understanding of important concepts and how to use them.

Code for Life

Ages: 6+
Cost: Free

Code For Life is a non-profit easy-to-use resource that provides teaching and lesson plans, user guides, and engagement through our two fun coding games: Rapid Router and Kurono. Rapid Router uses Blockly to introduce kids to Python. They then advance to Kurono where they will write Python code. Play over 100 levels while you learn.

Stencyl

Ages: 6+
Cost: Free

Quickly and easily create games that you can publish to iPhone, iPad, Android, Windows, Mac, Linux & HTML5. All of that and you don’t need to write any code. The platform is drag-and-drop  and extends Scratch’s simple block-snapping interface with new functionality and hundreds of ready-to-use blocks. It’s free to use for Flash publishing and you can upgrade for more features.

Gamestar Mechanic

Ages: 7-14
Cost: Free

Learn game design and make your own video games by playing fun, game-based quests. Go on quests to power up or code your own games that you can then share with friends. It’s an easy-to-use design tool and has a library of hundreds of sprites plus a community of game developers.

Create & Learn

Ages: 7-10
Cost: Free

Create & Learn lets kids play and explore multiple interests like Scratch, robotics, and digital design. They offer a free Scratch class for getting started and host online events with top experts.

Roblox Studio

Ages: 8+
Cost: Free

Create your own games on the popular Roblox platform with Roblox Studio. Use this immersive creation engine to make any game you can imagine then share it with millions of players. There are game templates that make getting started very simple. In our Roblox camp, we use these templates to build an obby game that is personalized by the student.

CodeWizardsHQ Activities

Ages: 8+
Cost: Free

Free activities and tutorials, right here at CodeWizardsHQ. Try our Scratch, HTML, and CSS activities that are perfect for beginners and kids 8 years and older. It’s also a fun way to practice your coding skills and personalize your own games and projects. If you have questions, we’re ready to help in our STEM, Coding, and Robotics Facebook group.

Code Monster

Ages: 9-12
Cost: Free

Code Monster is an interactive tutorial where kids are guided through lessons that focus on action and results. Great for beginners as it’s a simple and gentle introduction to programming that advances from simple shapes to animation and fractals. Made for preteens, but may work for younger kids with help. 

StackOverflow

Ages: 13+
Cost: Free

This is a resource for kids and teens who want to learn a programming language by themselves, but still want the support of an experienced community of people! StackOverflow is a question and answer site meant to answer a diverse range of computer science questions.

Code Maven

Ages: 13+
Cost: Free

CodeMaven is an interactive tutorial where teens and adults can learn important programming concepts like variables, loops, conditionals, expressions, and functions are introduced by example. It’s easy to follow and has over 50+ lessons that students can finish at their own pace. 

BitDegree

Ages: 16+
Cost: Free

As one of the most popular eLearning platforms out there, BitDegree offers a multitude of fun computer science courses!

Game Maven

Ages: 16+
Cost: Free

Game Maven is part of the Crunchzilla family of games and learning tools. It’s an interactive tutorial to learn JavaScript. Follow the simple directions to code animations and games immediately. They do not offer a lot of explanation around the code though, so it’s helpful to supplement with tutorials or textbooks.

CodinGame

Ages: Varies
Cost: Free

Learn new concepts by solving fun challenges in 25+ languages addressing all the hot programming topics. In CodinGame, compete with other developers in games and contests to top the leaderboards. Kids and adults can discover new languages and algorithms or tricks.

Coursera

Ages: Varies
Cost: Free

Offering more than 1,000 courses from 119 institutions, there are a number of free introductory programming courses in various specializations from universities. This platform lends itself as a very versatile and valuable tool in learning code.

Free Code Camp

Ages: Varies
Cost: Free

HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, Databases, React.js, Node.js, and others can be learned by joining this nonprofit’s community of students and professionals. Work together on advancing skills and work to build apps for free and help this non-profit organization.

edX

Ages: Varies
Cost: Free

Another leading online-learning platform that is open source, edX was founded by Harvard University and MIT, so you can trust you’ll learn cutting-edge skills and theories from the 50+ schools included in their material.

Udemy

Ages: Varies
Cost: Free

Udemy is an online learning platform used to improve or learn new skills. With plenty of free coding courses taught via video lessons, such as Python Frameworks, APIs, HTML, CSS, + Payments, this site is a convenient option for advancing your abilities.

AGupieWare

Ages: Varies
Cost: Free

An independent app developer that created a curriculum based on the free courses offered by Stanford, MIT, Carnegie Mellon, Berkeley and Columbia, this program is broken into 15 courses ranging in complexity and focus. Perfect for anyone looking to expand their qualifications.

GitHub

Ages: Varies
Cost: Free

While this may not be the first site you think of when wanting to learn how to code, it is definitely worth mentioning! GitHub allows students to collaborate on cool projects and look at the projects of other individuals for reference.

MIT Open Courseware

Ages: Varies
Cost: Free

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology has publicly available courses for a multitude of subjects, including programming. Kids and teens get the chance to sit in on classes from a very prestigious university!

Hack.pledge()

Ages: Varies
Cost: Free

Hack Pledge connects mentors and mentees with each other so that young programmers can learn and grow from experienced individuals.

Unplugged Activities

Ages: Varies
Cost: Free

Coding for kids can be screen-free too. If you prefer more hands-on activities, go ahead and try some unplugged activities. This is a compilation of different computerless games to play and paper activities to print. Plenty of free coding for kids resources here.

GoalKicker

Ages: Varies
Cost: Free

Do you like learning through reading? Then check out GoalKicker! GoalKicker collects a ton of free programming books so that anyone can read about different languages and ideologies.

IDE

Ages: Varies
Cost: Free

An integrated development environment is a must-have for people learning how to code. Whether the IDE be BlueJ, Eclipse, or Microsoft Visual Studio, kids will have an easy way to debug, compile, and run their code.

Recommended: Coding Websites for Kids

Free Coding Events for Kids

University Summer Camps

Ages: 4+

This one is highly dependent on your location, but many universities offer free summer camps for people that are curious about computer science! Two great free examples include University of Texas at Austin CS Summer Camps and MIT’s CS summer camps.

CoderDojo

Ages: 7-17

As a volunteer-led community of free code workshops for kids, CoderDojo teaches coding to young, interested, individuals in multiple locations around the United States.

Hackathons

Ages: Varies

There are plenty of hackathons all over the world that are not only free, but give you the chance to learn programming skills from experienced mentors, support you through your journey of bringing your cool ideas into fruition, give you swag, and give you free food!

CodeWizardsHQ, Your Partner in Coding for Kids

When you introduce your child to coding, they’re gaining skills far beyond the computer. They will have the confidence and abilities to be successful in college, career, and life. 

So, pick your favorite free resource to get started! Give your child the opportunity to code and discover the magic of being a creator.

You can also accelerate your child’s coding education by joining our top-rated coding classes for kids, risk-free. 

Explore online coding classes in Scratch, Python, and Java with a live instructor. Classes feature a structured curriculum that takes kids from coding novice to pro. View programs and enroll today.

The post Coding For Kids: 46 Free Classes, Websites, and Apps appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

New technologies and jobs are being created at a blistering pace all around us. Many of these cutting-edge technologies and jobs are related to a group of studies known as STEM. So, what does STEM stand for and what’s its importance for your child?

STEM education is all about preparing kids for a digital future and understanding the new world around them. Therefore, STEM fields are imperative for 21st-century career readiness and global competitiveness.

What does STEM stand for?

STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.

S – Science
T – Technology
E – Engineering
M – Math

It is an acronym coined in 2001 by the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF).

What is STEM? STEM Meaning and Definition

STEM (Science, Engineering, Technology, and Mathematics) is an approach to education that focuses on the hard sciences, develops critical thinking skills, and improves problem-solving abilities.

Education in STEM aims to give students the tools they’ll need to succeed in school, work, and hobbies. It’s like a toolbox full of smaller toolsets for designing and making things. Inside a carpenter’s toolbox, you might find sets of drill bits, ratchets and wrenches, chisels, and other useful gadgets. Similarly, STEM disciplines are like those little toolsets. Each is useful in its own right, but most activities require more than one.

Coding can apply across all STEM disciplines. It is part of the technology category, but science, engineering, and math also utilize code and programming.

Recommended: STEM Classes for Kids

What are the benefits of STEM education?

STEM education equips kids with competencies that will enable them to overcome personal challenges, pursue a college education or career in technical fields such as software engineering or artificial intelligence, find creative solutions to difficult problems, and understand how the world works. For example, perseverance is important to success in almost any endeavor. 

STEM helps kids learn to stick with difficult tasks and abstract ideas. Math is hard. Coding is too. In fact, professionals in STEM fields often enjoy complex problems. Likewise, kids who push through the frustrations learn that great rewards lie on the other side of big challenges. John F. Kennedy articulated the attitude of STEM professionals in 1962 when he said, “We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard.” 

Kids who believe in themselves tend to do better in school. Writing code and seeing it work is satisfying. Building a robot, programming it to execute a task, and watching it happen is thrilling. But while kids are having fun, they’re also building confidence. That confidence is important in test-taking and academic achievement.

Throughout the STEM curriculum, students have opportunities to use and get comfortable with technology. Computers, peripherals, sensors, and other instruments are important items in many STEM classrooms and education programs.

There are many benefits to empowering kids with STEM, yet it appears the US is falling behind in STEM education. 

Recommended: Why Your Kids Should Learn Coding

What are STEM skills?

Skills gained from STEM education include:

• Complex Problem solving
• Critical thinking
• Reasoning
• Creativity
• Teamwork
• Self-confidence

Science is a body of knowledge and a method of inquiry. It’s about asking the right questions and finding accurate answers. The basic sciences taught in class prepare STEM students to explore biology, chemistry, and physics. Often, collaborative projects are involved, so kids need to be able to work together. Science classes introduce the thrill of experimentation and discovery to individual students as well as teams. And because modern-day scientists use computers and technology in much of their work, science classes frequently incorporate these tools. 

Technology is used in various forms to turn ideas into real things. 3D printers, CNC machines, robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT) are just a few of the implements that enable creators to transform imagination into reality. Coding is also an important technology discipline. For that reason, kids in STEM learn about these tools and how to use them. 

Engineering is about designing, testing, and building. These skills are part of the STEM curriculum and sometimes require software or other tools. Kids may learn to use CAD/CAM software to design a part, analyze its physical properties, and generate the code required to actually make it on a 3D printer or CNC machine.

Math skills for STEM include everything from basic arithmetic to calculus. Students may need to do some manual calculations, but they should also know how to use powerful tools like Python’s built-in math libraries. Probability, graphing, linear algebra, and other tasks are fast and accurate with the right tools. Students in STEM may learn about these tools much earlier than their peers.

Recommended: Free Coding for Kids Resources

How can I improve my STEM skills?

There are many educational and fun ways to improve problem-solving, math, and coding skills. 

• STEM kits
• Online STEM classes
• STEM clubs and competitions

STEM kits let kids explore electronics, robotics, and programming. Arduino, SparkFun, and other companies make small, programmable computers that can hook up to sensors, motors, lights, speakers, and other gadgets. Online STEM classes are also convenient and affordable ways to explore a variety of STEM subjects. Clubs and competitions can build teamwork and STEM skills. In addition, books are a great resource for kids who like to read. 

Some online and in-person classes combine multiple STEM fields, such as computer science, programming, and math. Multi-discipline, project-based courses can make learning fun. Live, instructor-led coding courses like those from CodeWizardsHQ give kids personal attention that can keep them in sync with their peers. 

Popular STEM careers

Top STEM jobs in 2024

Lucrative and popular STEM careers exist in many seemingly disparate fields, such as computer programming, medicine, and statistics. Additionally, jobs in these areas tend to pay quite well. According to U.S. News and World Report’s ranking of the 30 best STEM careers in 2024, eight of the top 10 STEM jobs come with annual salaries above $100,000. The number two position on the list is Software Developer, with an average yearly income of $127,260. The list ranks jobs based on salary, unemployment rate, growth, and other factors. Here are the 10 best STEM jobs:

Types of STEM Careers

Careers in the hard sciences, like biology, chemistry, neuroscience, and physics, are ideal for many STEM students. Mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, architecture, and industrial design are excellent for people who enjoy designing and building things. Computer science and programming are also popular fields for those who appreciate logic and creative problem-solving. 

According to the U.S. Census Bureau in 2021, majoring in STEM may pay off even for those who end up working in non-STEM fields. Among the 50 million employed college graduates ages 25 to 64 in 2019, 37% reported a bachelor’s degree in science or engineering but only 14% worked in a STEM occupation. STEM workers who majored in a STEM field in college typically made higher salaries than those who did not: on average, $101,100 vs. $87,600.

STEM skills can be useful in other careers too, like technical writing.

A technical writer plans and writes instruction manuals for scientific instruments, lab equipment, machinery, software, and just about any kind of product. In order to produce helpful instructions, the writer needs to understand how the product works and has to be able to communicate that information in simple terms. Manufacturers, government agencies, software publishers, and social media companies employ technical writers to communicate with their users.

Many trade jobs require a high degree of computer literacy and some familiarity with programming. For example, in the woodworking industry, CNC machines cut, route, and drill the parts that become cabinets and furniture. A skilled woodworker programs and troubleshoots those machines. Success in the woodworking trade now depends, in part, on computer skills. A basic knowledge of programming concepts is also beneficial, and will probably be even more so as automation increases.

STEM is even helpful for some sales professionals.

Imagine being a sales representative for a company that manufactures environmental monitoring instruments. Your prospective clients might be scientists or engineers. As a result, they’ll expect you to understand enough about what they do to provide them with equipment that meets their needs. That could mean having a solid grasp of basic chemistry, data science, or some other technical subject. 

Recommended: STEM Education Statistics

Is coding a part of STEM?

Coding for kids is one of those skills that can be applied broadly across many different disciplines. While coding is often compared to learning a language, the skills learned in coding are actually more closely related to the STEM subjects.

For instance, the process of debugging code aligns nicely with the scientific method. Coders and scientists both test their hypotheses through experimentation. They observe the results and adjust based on what they see. Math concepts can easily be seen in coding. Things like measuring distances and working with variables are foundational. And many of our technologies and engineering jobs are dependent upon a firm foundation of code. When we look at the concepts that make up STEM, coding is linked with each of them.

Taking a coding class is a great way to get introduced to STEM education. 

Recommended: 25 Fun STEM Activities for Kids

Is STEM good for kids?

Some of the most prominent figures in business and technology started tinkering with STEM subjects as kids. When he was just 12 years old, Elon Musk was already so adept at coding that he was able to build and sell his first computer game. At the same age, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg created messaging software that enabled the staff in his dad’s dental office to communicate from different parts of the building. Zuckerberg had a private tutor. Musk loved to read. But both were interested in STEM when they were quite young. 

STEM education has myriad benefits for young people. For instance, it introduces them to exciting subjects that can lead to lucrative and fulfilling career opportunities. For girls especially, early exposure to computer science appears to make them more likely to major and work in the field. With companies like Google making efforts to achieve gender parity, opportunities for girls in tech are expanding. 

Kids who study STEM can build the foundation required to pursue degrees in high-paying fields like computer science. Graduates with degrees in this field earn more over their lifetimes than graduates with other degrees.

Why is STEM so important in early childhood education?

Getting into STEM early can be the key to a lifelong interest and a productive career in related disciplines, especially for girls. Women currently represent a smaller percentage of people with a STEM career than men. Women remain underrepresented in engineering (15%), computer (25%) and physical science (45%) occupations (U.S. Census Bureau). But some organizations are trying to change that, and they need qualified candidates with STEM backgrounds to do it. 

STEM teaches kids the skills they need to do well in school, and not just in their STEM classes. For example, critical thinking is valuable in reading, writing, and other subjects too. STEM also gets students interested in constructive hobbies. Many people working in computer science and engineering started out by experimenting with computer programming, ham radio, or electronics as kids. 

How do I get my child into STEM?

The earlier your child can get into STEM education, the better. There are afterschool coding programs for in elementary school, middle school, and high school. Online education is an easy and convenient way to get started. Good programs make learning fun and help kids build skills that apply broadly. For example, CodeWizardsHQ coding classes for elementary students start with the fundamentals of the Scratch programming language. Scratch is a visual language that involves dragging little blocks of code around the screen and connecting them, but the concepts it uses apply to all languages.

Resources for getting kids into STEM

Opportunities for kids to get into STEM are numerous and span the technological spectrum. The following list includes digital and non-digital ways to get started.

Kids Ages 5 and Under

• Let’s Go Code is an activity set that teaches programming fundamentals with fun games. Everything in this set happens away from the computer, so it’s fun for younger kids.
• DragonBox Algebra is a mobile game designed to teach algebra to kids as young as five. It may seem impossible for kids that young to learn something so complex as algebra, but Dragonbox makes it fun and easy.
• Baby Loves Science is a collection of four books about STEM written specifically for young children.

Kids Ages 6-10

• STEM Machines makes kits that let kids explore physics, engineering, and other topics by assembling little machines. There are several different kits and each covers a different topic. 
• Lego Chain Reactions is a small set of Lego building blocks and a book with instructions for several cool Lego machines. Kids will need to have some Legos already, but the kit includes all of the special blocks necessary.
• For some students, the language of math can be confusing. This is certainly true once kids get into algebra. For example terms like such that, simplify, and evaluate aren’t always intuitive to children. My First 100 Mathematics Words introduces math vocabulary in just 24 pages of colorful drawings.

Kids Ages 11-13

• Dragonbox Algebra 12+ is the sequel to the Dragonbox 5+ mobile game mentioned above. It teaches more complex algebra using the same techniques and play style as the first game. 
• CarnegieSTEMGirls.org is a website about STEM that’s tailored to girls. There are links to classes, books, and activities. The site also has information for parents. 
• Adafruit sells a wide variety of electronics like motors, sensors, single board computers, and more. They also have lots of tutorials and helpful resources for anyone wanting to explore electronics. 

Kids Ages 14-18

• Single-board computers from Arduino are excellent for teenagers who want to explore coding and robotics. The project opportunities are limitless, but the first step is to check out Arduino’s website and learning resources.
• YouTube is full of videos about STEM topics, but not all of the content is worth watching. However, I Like to Make Stuff is one channel every aspiring maker should see. Bob, the channel’s creator, films himself building various projects and always narrates the whole process of creating something. 
• Krista King is another YouTuber, and her channel is one of the best resources for math students on the internet. Her videos range from middle school math topics to calculus, and she does a great job explaining complex topics in easy to understand terms. 

Recommended: Coding Classes for Teens

CodeWizardsHQ classes can get kids started in STEM from home.

Online computer science classes provide easy access to STEM education and fun projects that keep kids excited about learning. CodeWizardsHQ students develop coding skills quickly with interesting challenges like building animations and games. Coding classes are 12 sessions long and delivered live by expert instructors. During class, students learn core programming concepts by building increasingly complex projects and progressing through the curriculum. 

Elementary students master programming basic starting with simple games, moving through web development, and taking off into more difficult challenges. Middle school coding starts with classes in Python, a powerful language used for everything from web development to data science. Then, in high school coding classes, students dive into deep topics like algorithms, artificial intelligence, and machine learning.

Kids who get into STEM will be prepared for the challenges they’ll face throughout their schooling and later in life. Opportunities to get into science, technology, engineering, and math are abundant. There have never been so many interesting ways to get started. The key is to take that first step. Now is a great time to do it. 

The post What Does STEM Stand For? appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

Kids with an eye to their future know that learning to code is important, but figuring out which language to learn can be an intimidating task. With a balance of being both easy to learn and widely used in the real world, we suggest learning Python for kids.

[Download] Free Python Lesson Plans Get free 1-week Python lesson plans and slides for kids ages 11-13 to start learning about Python coding. Download Now

Some languages are easier to learn, while others have a wider application. But Python sits right in the sweet spot. That’s why it’s the programming language kids start with in our middle school and high school coding programs.

Python coding is a skill that will benefit kids now and well into the future. This guide gives kids an introduction to Python language and kickstarts your child’s learning with Python video lessons.

What is Python?

Python is a computer programming language created by Guido van Rossum in 1991. 

Python emphasizes readability and simplicity, allowing developers to express concepts in fewer lines of code compared to languages like C++ or Java. 

It’s easy to read and has some similarities to the English language with influence from mathematics.

Python is used in:

• Web Development
• Game Development
• Software Development
• Data Science and Machine Learning
• Automation and Scripting
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) 
• Natural Language Processing (NLP)
• Scientific Computing
• Financial Technology

Python is a preferred choice for kids and teens who want to learn coding. We dedicate most of our core coding tracks to learning Python because of the many benefits it offers.

Why Should Kids Learn Python?

Python is Beginner Friendly.

Python is an ideal starting point for beginners and kids. 

It can be overwhelming for kids the first time they’re reading and writing code. We recommend Python for our students because it reads a lot like English. Even for kids without programming experience, it’s easy to understand.

Python uses new lines to complete a command instead of semicolons or parentheses in other languages. It also relies on indentation, using whitespace, to define scope whereas other programming languages often use curly-brackets for this purpose.

With other languages, the strange combinations of words and punctuation can seem impossible to decipher. 

Learning the basics of Python isn’t nearly as difficult. As a result, kids feel less intimidated and can focus on concepts instead of syntax. 

Kids Won’t Outgrow Python.

A few programming languages designed for beginners are purely graphical. These are called “block” languages. 

Scratch is an example of a block programming language. Although Scratch is good for elementary school children, it’s easy to outgrow because it’s not used in major applications. 

That’s not the case with Python. Python can be used to build anything from simple websites with just a few users to professional and enterprise applications with millions of users. It uses real coding syntax and foundational coding skills that kids can also apply when learning other languages. 

Python language has an extensive library, ecosystem, and community. It’s a popular and relevant language that will grow with your child as their skills improve.

Python Is Applicable In the Real World.

Python is used across various fields and industries, many that we interact with everyday.  

For example, Python powers the world’s second-largest search engine: YouTube. It’s also used in many of the world’s most popular websites like Google, Yahoo, and Instagram. 

Python is often used in:

• web development
• data science
• software development
• artificial intelligence
• machine learning
• game development
• scientific research

Python has its influence in technology, finance, education and many other industries too. Software engineers build neural networks and other forms of artificial intelligence with this versatile language. Scientists use Python to work with large data sets.

Because of its wide range of applications, kids who learn Python will easily be able to use this skill in the real world. 

Tips for Kids to Successfully Learn Python

Gamification Encourages Kids to Learn 

Motivation is a key component of successful learning. Students can get bored and abandon a subject before they become proficient without the proper incentives. This is why gamification, or the use of game design elements, is now so popular in online and live classrooms.

Score-keeping, competition, and rewards are great ideas for holding kids’ attention and teaching them everything from algebra to programming in Python. Studies have shown that gamification can increase classroom engagement and cognitive development.

We use gamification in our coding classes by using points, badges, and competitions to motivate student learning. As a result, overall student grades and passing rates have improved.   

Use Project-Based Learning for Engagement

Many of the biggest names in technology started coding to build simple programs for themselves, friends, or family.

Mark Zuckerberg, Bill Gates, and Steve Jobs are just a few examples. They got excited about coding by building small but fun personal projects. Dreaming up a game or website, and then figuring out how to build it might be the most effective way to master a programming language like Python.

It’s often necessary to learn the basics before beginning, but it’s possible to be proficient enough to build impressive programs in just a few weeks.

The key is to ease kids into learning Python by working with small chunks of information at a time. If the information is organized into a highly visual format, that’s even better.

The best coding books for kids are divided into short segments with plenty of pictures and small bits of text. Some coding classes offer short lessons that kids can complete in just a few minutes. These are perfect ways to introduce the Python programming language to kids.

Practice is a Must.

Skills stick when we learn them over time, when there is spaced repetition, and when we practice them over and over.

Python programming is just like any other skill, it requires frequent practice and takes time to learn.

Kids who regularly use their Python skills to build projects and solve problems will retain their knowledge. Unless you’re just looking for a one-off class, you want your child to have deep, meaningful learning.

Those who don’t practice regularly are likely to forget most of what they’ve learned in a very short period of time. Our Python classes for kids are year-round so kids can practice every week and build a robust portfolio of projects and skills over time.

Practice is crucial, so make sure your child has regular opportunities to use Python. 

Introduce Kids to Coding in Python

Now let’s dive into learning Python with these 10 introductory concepts. Learning these will give you an overview of the Python language and syntax. 

Once you’re familiar with the concepts and have practiced with the activities, you can complete your first Python project.

1. Introduction to Python and Coding

Computers are machines that process data. While they are powerful, they don’t do anything until they’re told to. Computers run many programs, like your word processor or browser. A program is a set of instructions we give the computer to tell them what to do.

A program is similar to a recipe, it provides step-by-step instructions to perform a task. Programmers are the ones who write these instructions in code. The computer then reads the code and performs each instruction to complete a task. 

Basically, programmers write the code and computers read and execute the code. It’s that simple!

In the middle school and high school coding programs, new students start with Python. We chose Python because it’s both easy to learn and very powerful. 

Activity – Which of these uses code?

View solution.

2. Data Types

Data is information stored in a computer or in code. It’s a collection of numbers, letters, and symbols.

A data type is a classification of data that tells the computer how to use it. The data type determines what values data can have and the operations that can be performed on this data. 

For example, if a number has an integer data type, it can have operations performed on it such as addition and division. Most programming languages support basic data types such as numbers, characters, and booleans.

In Python there are standard data types kids should be familiar with:

• Integer: 14, -3, 0
• Float: 20.5, 338.78, -0.33
• String: “CodeWizardsHQ”
• Boolean: True or False
• List: [“apple”, “banana”, “cherry”]
• Tuple: (“Roblox”, “Fortnite”, “Minecraft”)
• Dictionary: {“name”:“John”, “age”:36}

Integer: An integer is a whole number that can be positive, negative, or zero. The year, 2024, or days in a week, 7, would both represent integers.

• Example: 14, -3, 0

Float: Floats are decimal values or fractional numbers. A temperature like 98.6 degrees would be a float.

• Example: 20.5, 338.78, -0.33

String: A series of letters, numbers, or symbols enclosed in either single quotes (”) or double quotes (“”). As long as it’s in quotes, it’s a string.

• Example: “CodeWizardsHQ”

Boolean: Booleans represents one of two values, either True or False. They’re use to determine if an expression is true or false. Like a light switch, if it’s on it’s true and it’s it’s off it’s false. Booleans are written with a capital letter and do not have quotes around them. 

• Example: True, False

List: A list is an ordered, changeable (or mutable) collection of data written with brackets [ ]. Think of a grocery list with a group of related items, like fruits.

• Example: [“apple”, “banana”, “cherry”]

Tuple: Tuples are similar to lists except that they’re an ordered, immutable collection of data meaning they can’t be changed once they’re created. They are written with parenthesis ( ).

• Example: (“roblox”, “fortnite”, “minecraft”)

Dictionary: These are mutable (or changeable) data structures that store elements in key-value pairs. The key “name”, might be paired with a value like “John”. The dictionary is written with curly braces { }.

• Example: {“name” : “John”, “age” : 36}

The full list of built-in Python data types includes:

• Text Type: str
• Numeric Types: int, float, complex
• Sequence Types: list, tuple, range
• Mapping Type: dict
• Set Types: set, frozenset
• Boolean Type: bool
• Binary Types: bytes, bytearray, memoryview

To see the data type of an object, use the type() method in Python.

Activity – Which data types are these?

View solution.

3. Variables

Variables are containers that hold a value or piece of data, like an integer or string. 

You might remember these from math class where x isn’t a letter but actually represents a number. 

In code, we could use a variable “age” to represent a number like 11. When you get older, the variable “age” stays the same, but the number it represents increases to 12. Using a name instead of a value makes Python code read like English.

Variables are powerful because they can be reused and changed easily. 

Rules for Naming Python Variables

• Cannot start with a number
• Cannot contain spaces
• Cannot contain special characters except _ (underscores)
• Two variables cannot have the same name 

In Python, you can assign a value to a variable using the equal sign:

Activity – Create the following variables in Python

View solution.

4. Functions

A function is a block of code that performs an action when it is called. They are usually a verb or a short phrase that have () at the end.

You can add arguments inside the parenthesis to pass data, or parameters, into a function. A function can return data as a result.

For example, you might have a function called addNumbers() and its job is to add two numbers. Whenever you need to add two numbers, you can call this function. 

Code is often divided into many functions that perform different operations. Using functions allows programmers to be more efficient and avoid repeating the same logic or code.

To create a function you will first define it using def, followed by the name of the function and some parentheses.

Then, add the code inside it, indented by 4 spaces. You can run this function by writing just the function name followed by parentheses.

Rules for Naming Python Functions:

• Start with a letter or an underscore: _.
• They can have numbers.
• They can be any length
• They can’t be the same as a Python keyword. 

Activity – Define and call a Python function.

View solution.

5. Lists

In real life, we often make lists to group things together. For example, a to-do list or a grocery list. 

In Python, lists are very similar. A list is an ordered collection of data. 

Each element or value inside of a list is called an item. Lists are mutable meaning that the values in the list can change. 

You define a list using [] and separate each item with a comma.

To obtain a value from your list, you must select the index for that list item, which always starts at 0.

In this list of foods, the first item “tacos” has an index 0. The next item, “pizza”, has an index of 1. The final item, “nachos”, has an index of 2.

To get “pizza”, we need to access the item in the list foods with an index of 1.

Activity – Create a Python list and access list data.

View solution 1 and solution 2.

6. Loops

A loop is a block of code that runs over and over while a certain condition is met. 

Loops help programmers save time, so they don’t have to write the same code over and over. It also helps prevent mistakes and pesky bugs in our code. 

Here’s an example, both of these give us the same output:

The loop prints all items in the list with only 2 lines of code, compared to 6 without it. Now, imagine if the list had 100 items, how many lines of code would you have to write without a loop? At least 100!

In Python, there are two types of loops: for loops and while loops.

A for loop repeats a series of commands over a sequence of data, like a list, a tuple, a dictionary, a set, or a string. 

A while loop repeats a series of commands as long as certain conditions are true. 

Activity – Print every number from 0 to 6 using a loop.

View solution 1 and solution 2.

7. Modules

Python modules are code libraries that contain sets of code you can include in your application. 

Modules allow coders to reuse their code, avoid duplicate code, organize code, and improve the readability of their code. 

You can use Python’s in-built modules or write your own custom modules. 

In-built Modules

Python comes with a number of in-built modules that can help you perform a variety of tasks.

To access a module in your code, import it at the top of your file.

For example, you can import the math module to use the sqrt() function that exists there. This function calculates the square root of any number. 

Instead of creating your own function for certain calculations, the math module provides a list of in-built functions to use.

See the full list of Python modules.

Custom Modules

You can also define your own functions, classes, and variables that can be used in one or many Python programs.

Custom modules help cut down large parts of a program into smaller, more manageable, and organized files. They are the .py files written in Python.

Write A Custom Module

Save this code in a file called newmodule.py

You’ve created your own module. 

Use Your Custom Module

Now you can use that module by importing it in your Python program using the file name.

8. Conditional Statements

Conditional statements tell your program what to do depending on whether a condition is met or not. They’re also known as “if-else” statements. 

For example, let’s say a neighbor greets you with hi. If they say hi, you would respond hello. However, if they say any other greeting, you will instead respond bye. 

In code, we’d write an if-else statement like this:

If the greeting changes, your response will also change. 

Conditional statements provide a way to make decisions in your program and execute different code based on those decisions.

Conditional statements always start with an “if” statement. An “if” statement is written by using the if keyword. It asks a true/false question and runs a code block based on the result.

To add an additional condition, use elif. 

For any statements that do not meet the if and elif conditions, use else.

This code shows an example of an elif statement:

9. Operators

Operators are symbols used to perform operations on variables and values. 

For example, arithmetic operators are used with numbers to add, subtract, multiply, and more. Here we are using the + (addition operator) and * (multiplication operator) to calculate an equation.

Python operators are categorized in the following groups:

• Arithmetic operators: used to perform common mathematical operations on numbers.
  • Examples: +, -, *, /, %, **, //
• Assignment operators: used to assign values to variables.
  • Examples: ==, +=, -=, *=, /=, %=, //=, **=, &=, |=, ^=, >>=, <<=
• Comparison operators: used to compare two values.
  • Examples: ==, !=, >, <, >=, <=
• Logical operators: used to combine conditional statements.
  • Examples: and, or, not
• Identity operators: used to compare if two objects are actually the same object with the same memory location.
  • Examples: is, isnot
• Membership operators: used to test if a sequence is presented in an object
  • Examples: in, not in
• Bitwise operators: Bitwise operators are used to compare (binary) numbers
  • Examples: in, not in

Operators are used to manipulate data, perform mathematical calculations, compare values, and control the flow of your program. 

10. User input 

Many computer programs rely on communicating with an external user. Think of a search bar or form that prompts you, the user, to type or select some input.

To get information from the user in Python, we use the input() function. 

The input() function displays a text prompt and input field to the user. Like this:

The user can respond and you also save the input to a variable so it can be accessed later on.

In this case, the user responded “Johnny” which was saved in the variable name. 

Beginner Python Projects for Kids

Understanding Python concepts and practicing individual skills is a great place to start. The next step is to put it all together in a project where your child combines these skills into an actual program.

Project-based learning is one of the reasons the students in our coding classes are so successful. We highly encourage kids to think of a project they are excited about and slowly learn the skills to complete it.

Here are a few easy Python project ideas for kids and teens. Try putting your own spin on it to test your knowledge and creativity.

Dad Jokes App

Everyone loves a good dad joke, right? In this app, you’ll see how Python is can be used to pull data from an external API (Application Programming Interface) and use that data to make something goofy like a random dad joke generator. View project.

Strong Password Generator

When browsing the internet, you’re often asked to create a user account with a strong password to protect your account from hackers. In this app, you’ll learn how to create strong, secure passwords using Python! View project.

Quiz App 

This project allows users to take a quiz to test their knowledge of different programming languages. The number of correct/incorrect answers are tracked and the user receives different messages depending on how well they did on the quiz. View project.

Pig Dice Game

“Pig” is an easy and fun dice game that anyone in the family can play. You only need one die in hand and know basic arithmetic to play the game. View project.

See more Python project ideas for kids.

Download 1-Week Python Lesson Plans

Kids ages 11-13 can start learning Python in a structured way. Download a FREE 1-week lesson plan with activities and slides. Enter your name and email to receive the free lesson plans in your inbox today.

Learn Python Programming with CodeWizardsHQ

Python coding is a unique skill that will benefit your child regardless of the path they choose. With dedication and practice, your child can learn Python programming!

If you want your child to get all the benefits of coding, enroll in CodeWizardsHQ’s live, online Python classes for kids. 

The expert instructors give students the guidance and motivation to successfully learn to code. There are summer and year-round programs to fit every schedule and beyond-the-classroom support is included. It’s the most fun and effective way for kids to learn Python programming! View programs and enroll today.

The post Python for Kids: Introduction to Python Programming appeared first on CodeWizardsHQ.

There are many useful skills that kids can learn to get ahead in life, but few are as flexible and fun as the ability to code.

Many kids start learning through coding apps, games, and websites before advancing to coding classes. There’s no shortage of engaging resources for any child who wants to learn to code.

Our team of coding experts has scoured the internet to find the absolute best ways to introduce your kids to coding. These free and paid coding websites for kids actually work. Find the best match for your child with this list of the 22 best free and paid coding websites for kids.

Free Coding Websites for Kids

Elementary School (Ages 8-10)

1. Blockly
2. Code Combat
3. Stencyl
4. Code.Org Studio
5. Scratch

Middle School (Ages 11-13)

6. App Inventor
7. Code Monster
8. Kodu Game Labs

High School (Ages 14-18)

9. Glitch
10. Codecademy
11. Code Wars
12. Khan Academy
13. Crunchzilla

Paid Coding Websites for Kids

Elementary School (Ages 8-10)

14. Code Monkey
15. Kodable
16. Tynker

Middle School (Ages 11-13)

16. Code Avengers
17. Codemoji
18. Lightbot

High School (Ages 14-18)

19. Code HS
20. Pluralsight
21. Vidcode

Best Coding Website For All Ages

22. CodeWizardsHQ

Free Coding Websites for Kids

Elementary School Websites (Ages 8-10)

1. Blockly

Ages: 8+
Cost: Free

Blockly teaches programming principles and introduces JavaScript using a block-based programming approach. It’s just like doing a puzzle, except you connect pieces of code and you don’t end up with any missing pieces under the couch.

Puzzle pieces will appear on the screen and the goal is to complete the “story” that makes up the software program by completing the puzzle. Each puzzle piece represents a block of code, which is similar to a paragraph in a story. Kids can drag-and-drop the puzzle pieces to create a sequence of code.

Blockly is a good coding website for kids who can read. However, some of the games include using the number of degrees to define the direction an object moves and others concepts that may be difficult for really little kids despite it using a gamification approach and simple graphics.

Overall, Blockly is one of the best coding websites for kids who don’t have any experience with coding. Its aim is to prepare kids for conventional text-based computer programming languages.

2. CodeCombat

Ages: 5-17
Cost: Free for core levels. Monthly subscription for additional levels.

CodeCombat is a coding game for kids that teaches Python and JavaScript coding using text-based programming. Kids get to play through different levels of an RPG (role-playing game) and, along the way, they will learn to code in Python and JavaScript. This coding website for kids and teens features fun graphics and the ability to connect with other players in the community making coding a team sport.

Players visit the Dungeons of Kithgard where they direct the hero, Anya, by writing code. After successfully completing a level, students move up to more complex tasks and coding. There are multiple worlds and levels to explore to encourage kids to keep coding and take on harder coding challenges.

If you are a teacher, CodeCombat developers even provide course guides and wikis for your classrooms. They also promise a Course-in-a-Box containing a semester’s worth of course content to add to your curriculum.

3. Stencyl

Ages: 6+
Cost: Free. Annual subscriptions.

Stencyl is game creation software that lets users publish iPhone, iPad, Android, Windows, Mac, Linux, HTML5 & Flash games without code. They use a graphical interface similar to Scratch, but with new functionality and even more ready-to-use blocks. Kids can build their own worlds and characters and edit them in detail to make them more complex.

The graphics are kid-friendly and, for advanced students, there is the option to see and edit the text-based code in their game. It requires a software download and setup, but offers extensive learning support in their forums and there is no cost for the starter version. Stencyl is great for the kid who appreciates game development and detail in design.

4. Code.org Studio

Ages: 4-14
Cost: Free

Code.org is a non-profit organization that organizes the annual Hour of Code. In addition to providing curriculum to schools, they also host a coding website for kids with a series of four courses that teach computer science fundamentals. At the end of each course, students are able to create interactive games or stories for sharing online. Your child will get to see and be a part of the over 74 million projects showcased.

Each course is made up of a series of puzzles, videos, and activities that teach the principles behind computer science. Course 1 is made for early readers (age 4-6) and can be skipped if your child is already reading proficiently.

Later courses use a block-based format for programming activities, but students can choose to see the text-based code that is generated. Taken together, this series of four courses make up a curriculum that has been organized for use in the classroom and is aligned with ISTE standards. Best of all, each of their courses is available at no cost.

5. Scratch

Ages: 8-16
Cost: Free

Scratch is the platform we use to teach coding for elementary school students, so we obviously love it. It’s a no cost block coding website for kids, developed by the MIT Media Lab. Scratch is its own programming language and consists of graphical blocks that snap together. 

In addition, Scratch has a large online community where children can program and share interactive media such as stories, games, and animation with people from all over the world. The Scratch platform is designed especially for kids ages 8 to 16. Younger children can also try ScratchJr, a simplified version of Scratch designed for ages 5 to 7.

We use Scratch in our coding curriculum because it’s the perfect way for younger kids to develop their problem-solving, communication, and reasoning skills. It doesn’t teach any real coding language, but it’s a stepping stone to computer programming and coding languages.

Recommended: Python Coding Classes for Kids

Middle School Websites (Ages 11-13)

6. App Inventor

Ages: 13+
Cost: Free

App Inventor is a visual, block-based language for building Android Apps. This cool coding website for kids features video tutorials and courses in a box. 

Originally created by Google, App Inventor makes it possible to program Android apps just by moving objects around the screen. This approach is similar to block-based programming. The course begins with setting up App Inventor and moves through building progressively more complex Android apps. Students learn how to build mobile apps and share them using App Inventor.  It’s educational, easy, and fun. 

MIT now hosts App Inventor online, so, lucky for us, it’s available for free. The tutorials have been refined for use by teachers and gathered into a Course-in-a-Box that includes video and text-based lessons. Instead of keeping your kids off the phone, App Inventor will help kids go inside the phone.

7. Code Monster

Ages: 13+
Cost: Free

Code Monster is an interactive game that gives kids and teens a place to practice writing JavaScript. From the moment you get to the site, you will be coding. Code Monster assumes that the student already knows some JavaScript and just needs a place to practice the syntax and concepts they are learning.

The format is simple. All you have to do is follow the monster’s instructions on this coding website for kids, but there is little help otherwise. There’s a How to Play page, About page, and a FAQ. That’s it. The FAQ encourages the student to search for JavaScript tutorials and textbooks elsewhere. 

The purpose of Code Monster is to provide a fun, immersive platform to practice, not necessarily learn, syntax.

8. Kodu Game Labs

Ages: 10+
Cost: Free

Kodu Game Lab lets kids program 3D games while learning basic coding principles. The platform uses block based programming, simplifying written code into blocks and pictures. Kids can learn a wide range of coding skills including variables, branching, loops, number and string manipulation, subroutines, polymorphism, and more. 

It’s available at no cost on Windows PCs and also Xbox, but currently not available for Mac and Android. Beginners and kids with no previous experience can get started easily. See the different worlds other students have developed plus the tips and tricks to code your first 3D game.

Recommended: Best Kids Coding Languages

High School Websites (Ages 14-18)

9. Glitch

Ages: 13+
Cost: Free. Pro tier available.

Glitch is a simple tool for creating web apps. They’re evolving and simplifying developer tools, making it ideal for older kids and teens who are learning to code. Coding on Glitch is like working together in Google Docs–multiple people can work on the same project at the same time. There’s no setup, and you can see changes live on the web as you type. Students can use simple, yet powerful tools for learning to build their website and remix projects from real-world languages and frameworks. 

Kids can work collaboratively on projects or on a team. It’s a good coding website for kids because it’s easy and fun to express yourself in code on Glitch. Not only that, they have a community of developers at all levels to support them. 

Students don’t have to worry about fussing with servers and setup. They can now create industry-standard code from start to finish.

10. Codecademy

Ages: 13+
Cost: Free. A PRO track is available for a monthly subscription.

Codecademy offers a comprehensive set of text-based courses on web development and related programming languages. Students can pick which language they want to learn and advance through lessons with instant feedback on their code in the platform. 

Aimed at those interested in becoming professional web developers, Codecademy classes cover how to build a website and a whole slew of related coding languages, including HTML & CSS, Ruby on Rails, Python, JavaScript, jQuery, SQL, PHP, and more.

General access to Codecademy courses is free. The paid PRO track adds a personalized learning plan, quizzes, projects, and access to live advisors. For kids and teens dreaming about a job in programming, the final project in the paid PRO track covers how to build a professional online portfolio.

11. Codewars

Ages: 14+
Cost: Free

Codewars is a coding website for kids and teens who like competition. At Codewars, you improve your skills by training with other coders. Coders pursue mastery by completing coding challenges in CoffeeScript, JavaScript, Python, Ruby, Java, Clojure, Haskell, or C# (Csharp).

In an approach based on the Japanese martial arts practice of kata, the first step in Codewars is to choose a language and prove your skills. The coder is ranked and given a challenge based on this initial challenge. The challenges get progressively more difficult. Coder gains Honor points for each challenge that he or she successfully completes.

Once a challenge is successfully completed, the coder has access to other coders’ solutions who’ve completed the same challenge. By learning other people’s approaches, the coder gets new insight into how the code works.

It’s a unique and fun approach to learning and practicing coding skills. It can especially help kids and teens who are trying to master a language or expanding their knowledge of newly learned languages.

12. Khan Academy

Ages: 13+
Cost: Free

Khan Academy offers expert-created content and resources for free online courses and practice. In computer programming, Khan Academy has classes for learning JavaScript, Processing JS, HTML & CSS, HTML & JavaScript and SQL.

Each of these lessons presents a comprehensive introduction aimed at building a base for professional-level skills. There’s also a section called “Meet the Professional” which contains interviews with 11 computer programmers from around the world working in a variety of industries.

Normally Khan Academy presents their courses via video, but for its programming courses, they use “talk-throughs” which are more interactive than a normal video. With a talk-through the student can pause the video and “play” with the code listed on the screen. Talk-throughs are followed by step-by-step coding challenges and projects. Both are designed as coding practice. Finally, there’s a community programs area (i.e., online forum) where students can share projects, leave comments, and ask questions.

The computer programming courses are most appropriate for high school students and adults, but a tech-savvy tween could probably work through them with some mentoring.

13. Crunchzilla

Ages: 13+
Cost: Free.

Crunchzilla has two games that are designed for teens, Code Maven, and Game Maven. They are interactive tutorials where kids can play with code, experiment, build, and learn.

Code Maven is for ages 13 and up and teaches JavaScript with in-depth practice problems and explanations. Game Maven is for adults and older teens who have some programming experience. Game Maven is a step-by-step tutorial for writing three different video games.

Code Maven and Game Maven are both interactive programming tutorials using live code. Teens learn step-by-step building fun graphics, animations, and even fractals and simple games. They are immersive tutorials with a focus on action over explanation. Teens build right away with code, learning about coding by coding.

Recommended: JavaScript Classes for Kids & Teens

Paid Coding Websites for Kids

Elementary School Websites (Ages 8-10)

14. Code Monkey

Ages: 9+
Cost: Annual Subscription Fee

Code Monkey is a coding website that teaches kids coding through playful online games. Children write code with the goal of helping a monkey gather bananas. The player works through a series of challenges and eventually develops the coding skills to be able to build his or her own game.

Eventually, kids get to write code with a text-based editor and learn CoffeeScript, a language that uses a syntax similar to English but compiles into JavaScript. Their stories cover all of the important coding concepts such as logic, loops, direction, sequencing, and algorithms

Code Monkey is made with 1st and 2nd graders in mind, but they also teach younger kids on their Code Monkey Jr. app. You do not need to download an application to play and no coding experience is required. If your child loves a good story, start with Code Monkey.

15. Kodable

Ages: 4-11
Cost: Monthly Subscription Fee

Kodable teaches computer science fundamentals through kid-friendly, self-directed lessons. Students get to create and play alongside bright, cute characters.

Starting with coding games at the Kindergarten level, the student progresses to reading and writing JavaScript. Along the way, they get to build their own characters, create levels, and take on other coders.

Organized as a classroom curriculum, each unit includes a teacher’s script, an unplugged activity, an independent practice activity, and some kind of assessment or quiz. Kodable is a great way to take students from block programming and transition to real code.

16. Tynker

Ages: 4-14
Cost: A sample of coding lessons is available at Tynker for free. Access to the complete library and a private Minecraft server requires a monthly subscription.

Tynker is one of the best coding websites for self-paced online programming kids. It’s created for them to build their own games and apps as well as learn how to program Minecraft mods. Tynker teaches in both block programming and text-based classes.

The programming courses are game-based and space-themed with space aliens and rocket ships. Kids progress through three levels of games/classes for the track that matches their age.

A collection of courses related to the popular Minecraft game teaches kids about mods and skins, how to create mods, and how to build multi-player Minecraft games. With a paid subscription, kids have access to their own private Minecraft server, providing a safe environment for them to build mods and then play online with their invited friends.

There is no structured curriculum in Tynker, so kids progress at their own pace. It’s great for kids at any stage, whether they are beginners or advanced.

For more free coding resources, read Coding For Kids: 35+ Free Classes, Websites, and Apps.

Middle School Websites (Ages 11-13)

17. Code Avengers

Ages: 12+
Cost: A limited-time free trial or a monthly subscription is available.

Code Avengers is a coding website for kids and teens that uses self-paced, mostly text-based courses. The classes include introduction to coding, introduction to web development, and coding in Python, HTML & CSS, or JavaScript.

Kids work through the lessons, debugging code, and completing challenges on this platform. Code Avengers will automatically track your child’s achievements as they work through lessons and activities. They give you a Parent Dashboard, where you can view your children’s progress through the courses, the projects they’ve created, and the concepts they’ve learned. 

When they hit a snag, kids have access to online support and technical support. This live help can be lacking in many other self-paced programs.

18. Codemoji

Ages: 5-13
Cost: Free trial. Tiered annual subscriptions.

Codemoji is a coding website for kids that uses images to teach coding and they’ve developed their platform with a deep belief that typing proficiency is not required to code. Students formulate solutions and learn to problem solve using images, so kids as young as 5 can build basic coding skills with Codemoji.

19. Lightbot

Ages: All ages
Cost: Purchase the app.

LightBot lets kids solve puzzles using programming. It’s a puzzle game, based on coding, that secretly teaches you programming logic as you play. 

Kids will learn sequencing, overloading, procedures, recursive loops, and conditionals without feeling like they’re studying. The games revolve around a robot and blocks, similar to the popular game Minecraft. LightBot was designed with first-time coders in mind, so it’s simple for beginners.

High School Websites (Ages 14-18)

20. Pluralsight

Ages: 14+
Cost: Monthly Subscription

Pluralsight offers one of the largest selections of coding courses online for new and aspiring developers. 

Over 50 separate expert-led classes are organized into seven paths. Each path covers the fundamentals of a single coding language or topic such as Ruby, JavaScript, HTML & CSS, iOS, and databases. If your child is interested, they can also learn about IT, Data, and Cybersecurity. These are solid coding classes for teens that cover unique topics.

Each course is built around a storyline that gamifies the material taught. Instruction is delivered via video and reinforced through coding challenges. Courses come with skills and assessment tests to make sure the concepts are solidified and an online community forum to answer students’ questions.

21. Vidcode

Ages: 11+
Cost: Limited free access. Tiered annual subscriptions.

Vidcode is a coding website for kids that offers research-backed computer science courses focused on open-ended projects. Their courses teach computer science, object-oriented programming, web programming, design, & JavaScript.

Users can upload photos, illustrations, videos, and audio to their platform and manipulate them with code right away, allowing tweens and teens to connect computer programming to the media they interact with every day.

Using JavaScript, students learn coding as they produce videos and motion graphics. As they work, students see a thumbnail of the video and code behind it side-by-side. As they make changes to the code they can see the effect in the thumbnail. Share video projects in the Vidcode online community or via social media once completed.

Free access to Vidcode gives access to the software, some beginner tutorials, and an online community. This is a great platform for the kids interested in social media and creating videos for the web.

Best Coding Website for All Ages

22. CodeWizardsHQ

Ages: 8-18
Cost: Monthly Tuition

CodeWizardsHQ is the leading coding school for kids and teens ages 8-18 and, of course, it’s our personal favorite. We’ve adopted a blended method to teach kids coding principles and practices using a combination of our pro-level platform, small teacher-led classes, and build-as-you-learn projects.

By completing our structured curriculum, students are introduced to Scratch, HTML & CSS, JavaScript, Responsive Design, App Development, Python, MySQL, and Git.

Coding classes are available for kids in elementary, middle, or high school. We also offer afterschool coding classes and summer coding camps for kids.

Kids can start in elementary school with block-based programming and advance to front and back end coding languages in high school. Every student has direct access to a teacher who is an experienced coder. The classes and projects are all web-based, so students can attend CodeWizardsHQ from any place where there is a reliable internet connection.

Visit a Kids Coding Website Today!

As you can see, there are many options if you are looking for coding websites for kids. You can choose which one to start with based on your child’s age and interests. From there, the possibilities are endless!

If your child wants more personalized learning, join our top-rated coding classes for kids.

The elementary, middle, and high school classes are developed to be age-appropriate and take kids from beginners to pro-level coders. View programs and enroll today.

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