Coding has become an essential skill for kids today, and parents often find it challenging to choose the right platform for their kids to learn to code.
To teach kids to code is not an easy task, but thankfully there are some fantastic resources through which students can master the art of coding. Coding for kids is the #1 skill that enables them to become creators and not just consumers of technology.
There are numerous coding apps for kids to choose from. However, we have listed some of the best applications that teach kids coding effectively and in an interactive way.
Here is a list of the eight best coding apps for kids available on both the Play Store and App Store. This rundown of coding applications offers the best approaches to kickstart your coding journey.
Scratch
Scratch is a free block-based coding platform designed primarily for kids. It uses a visual programming approach where users can code interactive stories, games and animations and share their creations through an online community.
The platform was developed in 2003 by MIT students; the coding language is specifically suitable for kids from 5 to 16 years. Scratch is one of the most popular platforms used worldwide to learn to code.
Younger kids can also start learning to code with ScratchJr, a simplified version of Scratch. Millions of kids use it both in and outside of schools. The best part about Scratch is its free availability on Android and iOS platforms.
Grasshopper
Grasshopper is a great choice to introduce coding to kids in a fun and adventurous way. With the help of quick games, it teaches kids to write real JavaScript.
It comes with different levels, and as you move progressively, the challenge level gets advanced and complex. Grasshopper is available on iOS, Android, and all web browsers. Your progress syncs seamlessly between devices.
The visual puzzles develop problem-solving skills and solidify coding concepts. The real-time feedback received will guide kids like a teacher and does not feel like learning in a virtual environment.
Code Karts
Code Karts is one of the best coding apps for preschoolers; if your child loves car races, then code kart is the app for them.
It teaches coding through a series of logical puzzles presented in the form of a raceway. Coding becomes so fun and exciting that kids enjoy learning it. Code Karts’ objective is to use direction bricks to get the race car to the finish line.
The first ten levels are free and comparatively easy. Later, you need to pay and upgrade to continue with higher levels. As you progress to higher levels, the difficulty increases and it would require more coding knowledge.
Lightbot
Lightbot is one of the best coding apps for kids who are beginner’s and don’t have any coding experience. Through Lightbot, kids learn programming in the most fun way by solving puzzles through a video game.
It uses game mechanics that are firmly rooted in programming concepts. Lightbot lets players achieve a practical and thorough understanding of basic programming concepts like procedure and loops, instruction sequencing by guiding the robot to light up tiles and solving different levels.
Lightbot is not only meant for a particular age group, but anyone can learn to code from it. Children who already possess some coding knowledge and want to advance in their journey can explore Lightbot.
Daisy the Dinosaur
Daisy the Dinosaur is a free programming app for iOS devices; this is specifically designed for kids in the age group of 4-7 years.
Hopscotch’s developers have created the app; it has a user-friendly and straightforward interface with limited features, making it an excellent app for beginners.
This app works on the drag and drop functionality, making it super convenient for kids to learn to code. Kids need not have to memorize the codes and this app makes learning fun and exciting.
SpriteBox
SpriteBox is a new logic puzzle game from the creators of Lightbot that combines the fun of ‘platformer’ games (like Minecraft and Super Mario Bros) with learning the basics of coding.
It is based on block design, which is easier to learn and much more interactive than standard coding. SpriteBox covers basic coding topics such as algorithms, instruction sequencing, instructions with parameters, simple to complex loops, and debugging.
SpriteBox comes with 20 puzzles and 150 stars that need to be collected to move to the next level. The interface is aesthetically designed with soft colors; kids can initially kickstart with a free trial version and later move on to paid versions.
AlgoRun
AlgoRun is a free coding app available on Android and iOS devices; it is suitable for ages 10 and above. It is one of the best coding apps for kids as it specializes in solving puzzle challenges while learning the concepts of coding.
The app comes with 30 levels with different difficulty levels. AlgoRun features puzzles that will teach the basics of coding in a fun interactive way. For this, it uses game mechanics derived from programming concepts such as functions, recursive loops, conditional, and many more.
AlgoRun kids, a beginner’s version of AlgoRun, featuring less precise puzzles that kids can solve while intuitively learning the basics of programming.
Mimo
Mimo is one of the best coding apps for kids to learn to code and build websites, apps, and other exciting stuff at their own pace. Children can learn programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, CSS, HTML, and many more.
Kids can experiment with examples, write and run code, and save projects. They can set a daily goal and maintain a streak to make a habit of coding
In Mimo, children can write actual code on the mobile code editor that helps run the code from wherever they are. The curriculum consists of bite-sized exercises through which even beginners can learn coding.
Conclusion
Today, learning to code is easier than it ever was. Kids can learn to code through the platforms that provide the best coding classes for kids.
With the best apps listed above, kids can quickly learn to build exciting projects and have a lot of fun while they’re at it. The coding apps we’ve listed above are a great way for kids to get started on their coding journey. Give them a go and your child will acquire an amazing new skill in no time.
All of these applications can be downloaded from the Play Store or App Store. So stop waiting for the right time and kickstart your child’s coding journey today.
