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Top Programming Platforms for Young Children
A structured overview of what credible sources and parent perspectives commonly say about this topic.
Quick answer
ScratchJr is a free app that teaches programming through interactive stories and games using visual blocks. Other popular platforms include Code.org, which offers age-appropriate coding activities, Tynker, a paid platform with gamified lessons, and Kodable, which focuses on early coding logic for young learners.
At a glance
Things to try now
What to do now
- 1Download ScratchJr or visit Code.org to explore free beginner activities.
- 2Set aside 15-20 minutes for your child to try a coding game or app.
- 3Ask your child what kind of stories or games they want to create with coding.
What to say
- “Let's see if we can make a little game where the cat moves when we press buttons!”
- “Coding is like giving instructions to a robot — what should we tell it to do next?”
- “I love how you made that character jump — can you show me how you did it?”
What to practice consistently
- Encourage daily or regular short coding sessions to build familiarity.
- Combine coding with storytelling or drawing to enhance creativity.
- Discuss the steps and logic behind coding projects to reinforce understanding.
What to avoid
- Avoid pushing text-based programming languages too early, which can frustrate young children.
- Don't expect long attention spans; keep sessions brief and playful.
- Avoid using coding as a punishment or chore to maintain positive associations.
These are common approaches mentioned in sources and by parents. They are informational, not prescriptive.
What this usually involves
- ScratchJr: A free app for ages 5-7 that uses drag-and-drop programming blocks to create stories and games, fostering creativity and sequencing skills.
- Code.org: Offers free courses for young children featuring block coding puzzles and guided activities to build computational thinking.
- Tynker: A subscription-based platform with gamified lessons and coding challenges tailored for kids starting around age 5.
- Kodable: Focuses on teaching coding logic through fun mazes and games, suitable for children aged 4-10, with both free and paid content.
- Blockly Games: Free web-based games that introduce programming concepts using visual blocks, suitable for beginners.
- Lightbot: A puzzle game that teaches programming logic through guiding a robot, appropriate for young learners.
Related questions
Many platforms like ScratchJr target ages 5-7, but informal exposure can begin as early as age 4 with simple logic games.
Yes, ScratchJr and Code.org offer free, high-quality programming activities suitable for young children.
Common guidance includes limiting sessions to short periods, combining coding with offline activities, and ensuring plenty of outdoor play.
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From around the web
Coding for Kids: How to Get Started
Guidance on introducing children to coding in a developmentally appropriate way.
American Academy of Pediatrics
Computer Science Education Week Resources
Free resources and activities to support computer science learning for children.
U.S. Department of Education
Early Childhood Technology Use and Learning
Information on appropriate technology use to support early learning.
Head Start / ECLKC