Introducing 15 Amazing Coding For Kids for 2023. In this rapidly evolving technological era, coding has become an invaluable skill for children to acquire. Not only does coding enhance their problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, but it also nurtures their creativity and prepares them for the future job market. With this in mind, we have curated a comprehensive list of 15 exceptional coding options specifically designed for kids in 2023. From interactive apps to engaging online platforms, these coding resources offer exciting opportunities for young learners to explore the world of programming and unleash their full potential.
Overall Score: 9/10
Botley The Coding Robot is an engaging screen-free STEM toy that helps kids learn early coding skills while having fun. With its smart logic, Botley can detect objects, follow looping commands, and navigate obstacle courses. It comes ready to code out of the box and includes a remote programmer and 42 coding cards. The 45-piece set is suitable for ages 5 and up, and it requires 5 AAA batteries. Botley makes the perfect gift for kids, whether it's for holidays, birthdays, or even homeschool. It is an excellent tool for developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. With its easy-to-use features and endless possibilities, Botley provides hours of educational fun.
Key Features
- Early STEM skills with screen-free coding
- Smart logic for object detection and obstacle courses
- Ready to code right out of the box
- 45-piece set with a remote programmer and coding cards
- Ideal gift for holidays, birthdays, or homeschool
Specifications
- Color: Multicolor
- Dimension: 8.10Lx6.20Wx6.20H
- Size: 45 Piece Set
Pros
- Helps develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Screen-free coding for active and engaging play
- Easy to set up and use
- Comes with a remote programmer and coding cards
- Suitable for gifting on various occasions
Cons
- Not suitable for multiple children playing at once
- No display on the remote to visualize the code
Learning Resources Botley The Coding Robot is a fantastic educational toy that introduces kids to coding in a fun and interactive way. With its screen-free design and easy-to-use features, kids can learn early STEM skills while promoting critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The smart logic allows Botley to navigate obstacles and follow commands, adding an element of challenge and excitement. The 45-piece set includes everything needed to start coding right away, and it makes a great gift for kids of various ages. While there are a few minor drawbacks, such as the inability for multiple children to play at once and the lack of a code display on the remote, Botley is still an excellent tool for learning and creativity. Overall, Botley The Coding Robot is a highly recommended STEM toy that provides hours of educational entertainment.
Overall Score: 8/10
Introducing the Learning Resources Botley The Coding Robot 2.0 Activity Set! This coding robot is perfect for kids aged 5 and above, providing them with a fun and interactive way to learn coding and STEM skills. With 78 pieces included in the set, kids can enjoy 16 different coding styles and transform Botley 2.0 into various forms such as a train, police car, and ghost. The best part is that this coding robot offers screen-free fun, allowing kids to learn coding without the need for a tablet or phone. Designed to foster critical thinking and other important skills, the Botley The Coding Robot 2.0 Activity Set makes for a great gift idea for any occasion, including back to school. With its bright colors and durable build quality, this coding robot is sure to provide hours of educational and entertaining fun!
Key Features
- Code right out of the box with the next generation of our Toy of the Year winning coding robot
- 16 fun interactions—transform Botley 2.0 into a train, police car, ghost, and more
- Features expanded coding styles—code through music, lights, and movements
- Coding helps kids learn coding and STEM skills without a tablet or phone
- From science and technology to engineering and math, STEM learning help kids build critical thinking and other skills they need for success
- Ideal gift for Halloween, Christmas, Stocking Stuffers, Easter Baskets Stuffers or even for Homeschool
- Make this the smartest back-to-school yet with toys and tools from Learning Resources trusted by teachers and parents alike since 1984
Specifications
- Color: Multi-color
- Dimension: 9.60Lx9.10Wx6.40H
Pros
- Provides a fun and interactive way for kids to learn coding and STEM skills
- Offers screen-free fun without the need for a tablet or phone
- Features a durable and colorful design
- Includes 78 pieces and 16 different coding styles for endless play possibilities
Cons
- Botley's turn angles are limited to 90 or 45 degrees, which may lead to programming errors
- Some users have reported quality issues with the communication between Botley and the remote programmer
- Limited accessories available for the robot
The Learning Resources Botley The Coding Robot 2.0 Activity Set is a fantastic educational toy that provides kids with an engaging way to learn coding and STEM skills. With its colorful design and 78 pieces, kids can enjoy transforming Botley 2.0 into various forms and exploring different coding styles. The screen-free nature of this toy allows kids to have fun while learning, and the durable build quality ensures it will last for years to come. While there may be some limitations in terms of turn angles and communication issues reported by some users, overall, this coding robot offers an excellent opportunity for kids to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The Learning Resources Botley The Coding Robot 2.0 Activity Set is a great gift idea for kids aged 5 and above, making learning both educational and fun!
Overall Score: 8/10
The Base Kit Computer Coding for Kids 8-14 is a great STEM gift for boys and girls interested in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This coding toy is designed to make coding for kids 8+ easy and fun. It includes over 55 online projects, 3.5 hours of video walkthroughs, and coding challenges that help develop critical thinking and logic skills. With 1000+ lines of computer code, kids can tinker, modify, and customize their own coding projects. The kit contains real electronic circuit components and a programmable microcontroller, making it a comprehensive learning tool. It has been recognized and awarded by Purdue University Engineering and Modern Library Awards. The kit is designed in the USA by educators and engineers specifically for kids, providing a fantastic first step in the coding journey. It is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Chromebook computers.
Key Features
- Great STEM gift for kids 8-14
- Over 55 online projects and 3.5 hours of video walkthroughs
- Develops critical thinking and logic skills
- 1000+ lines of customizable computer code
- Contains real electronic circuit components
- Designed in the USA by educators and engineers
- Compatible with Windows, Mac, and Chromebook computers
Specifications
- Color: Green
- Dimension: 8.25Lx4.00Wx2.25H
Pros
- Comprehensive learning tool for coding
- Easy to follow online instructions
- High-quality components
- Focuses on coding skills rather than circuit building
- No subscription or software installation needed
Cons
- Not compatible with tablets or smartphones
- Some components may not be high-end
- USB cable and LED light could be better
The Base Kit Computer Coding for Kids 8-14 is an excellent learning tool for young coders. It offers a comprehensive set of online projects, video walkthroughs, and coding challenges that help develop critical thinking and logic skills. The kit contains real electronic circuit components and a programmable microcontroller, making it a valuable resource for kids interested in STEM. The easy-to-follow online instructions and the engaging coding projects make learning coding fun and enjoyable. Although it may have a few limitations, such as not being compatible with tablets or smartphones and some components not being high-end, overall, it is a great tool for kids to start their coding journey. With its focus on coding skills and user-friendly features, this kit is an ideal gift for young boys and girls who have an interest in technology and coding.
Overall Score: 7.5/10
Introduce your kids to the world of coding with Coding for Kids: Python. This engaging book consists of 50 games and activities that teach kids Python programming in a fun and interactive way. With clear language, colorful illustrations, and hands-on exercises, children can easily grasp the concepts of variables, loops, functions, and graphics. The book is well-organized, providing a logical progression of topics for young learners. However, some reviewers feel that the content may be too academic and not relatable for 8-year-olds. Additionally, there are a few areas where the book could be improved, such as including a chapter on reading input. Nonetheless, Coding for Kids: Python is a great starter book and can help kids develop essential coding skills.
Key Features
- -50 games and activities to teach Python programming
- -Clear language and colorful illustrations for easy understanding
- -Covers topics such as variables, loops, functions, and graphics
Specifications
- Dimension: 7.50Lx0.64Wx9.25H
Pros
- -Engaging and interactive learning experience
- -Logical progression of topics
- -Well-written with clear language and illustrations
Cons
- -Content may be too academic for 8-year-olds
- -Lacks a chapter on reading input
- -Not all examples are relatable to kids
Overall, Coding for Kids: Python is a solid introductory book for young learners interested in coding. It provides an interactive learning experience with engaging activities and clear explanations. While some aspects could be improved, such as incorporating more relatable examples and addressing reading input, the book effectively introduces Python programming concepts to children. Parents or guardians may need to provide additional guidance, especially for younger kids. If you’re looking for a fun and educational resource to teach your kids programming skills, Coding for Kids: Python is worth considering.
Overall Score: 9/10
The hand2mind Coding Charms is a coding toy that allows kids to learn about coding without the use of a computer. It offers 15 science experiments and coding projects for kids ages 8-12. With an easy step-by-step activity book, kids can practice important life skills like problem-solving and critical thinking. The kit includes fuse beads and supplies to design 18 charms and create 15 key chains. By working on these projects, kids gain exposure to advanced coding subjects while having fun and being creative. It's a fantastic way to introduce coding concepts and encourage learning through hands-on activities.
Key Features
- Learn coding without a computer
- Ultimate coding projects for kids ages 8-12
- Step-by-step activity book for individual work
- Includes fuse bead kit with 18 designs
- Create 15 keychain charms using coding concepts
Specifications
- Dimension: 8.00Lx10.00Wx2.00H
Pros
- Teaches coding without screen time
- Encourages problem-solving and critical thinking
- All-in-one convenient storage kit
- Provides exposure to advanced coding subjects
- Fun and creative way to learn coding concepts
Cons
- Lacks variety in bead colors
- Some bags may have duplicate colors
The hand2mind Coding Charms is a brilliant coding toy that offers a unique hands-on approach to learning coding. With its easy-to-follow activity book, kids can explore coding concepts while creating fun and colorful fuse bead keychain charms. The kit encourages creativity, problem-solving, and critical thinking, making it a fantastic tool for kids aged 8-12. It provides a fun way for kids to learn important life skills while gaining exposure to advanced coding subjects. Overall, the hand2mind Coding Charms is an excellent STEM toy that offers an engaging and educational experience for young coders.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
The Learning Resources Coding Critters Scamper & Sneaker is an interactive STEM coding toy designed for kids ages 4 and up. This screen-free toy allows children to code along with their first coding friends and embark on exciting coding adventures using a storybook. The set includes 22 pieces, giving kids endless coding challenges to design. In play mode, kids can simulate real pet responsibility by feeding, petting, and taking care of their interactive pets. With its focus on STEM learning, this toy helps kids build critical thinking and other essential skills. Whether it's for holidays, birthdays, or just because, this educational toy makes an ideal gift.
Key Features
- Early coding skills with screen-free storybook adventure
- Option to teach Scamper & Sneaker to fetch and more
- 22-piece playset for designing endless coding challenges
- Play mode simulates real pet responsibility
- Supports STEM learning for critical thinking skills
- Great gift option for various occasions
Specifications
- Color: Multi
- Dimension: 10.00Lx5.00Wx9.00H
Pros
- Bigger set than expected
- Magnetic pieces add excitement to play
- Has both coding and play modes
- Helps develop coding and problem-solving skills
- Ideal for kids who love cats and electronics
Cons
- Coding can be frustrating initially
- Alignment issues affect accuracy of movements
- Small wheels limit movement on carpet
- Doesn't work in some cases
The Learning Resources Coding Critters Scamper & Sneaker is a fantastic educational toy that introduces kids to coding in a fun and interactive way. With its engaging storybook adventure and interactive pet play mode, it keeps children entertained while they develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. The set is larger than expected and includes magnetic pieces that enhance the play experience. However, coding can be frustrating at times, and the accuracy of movements may be affected by alignment issues. Additionally, the toy may not work in some cases, which can be disappointing. Overall, this toy is a great gift option for young coders and offers an excellent introduction to coding concepts.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
CodaKid Roblox Coding is an award-winning educational software that teaches kids aged 9+ how to code using Roblox Studio. With over 100 hours of interactive projects and mentor assistance, kids learn real Lua coding and video game design while having fun. The course includes 19 modules, 53 quests, and 161 challenges to provide a rewarding learning experience. The box contains a registration card for 12 months of unlimited access, making it ideal for young Lua programming students. The software is easy to use, self-paced, and fits into a child's busy schedule with its bite-sized lessons. Enhance your child's coding, creativity, and logic skills with CodaKid Roblox Coding.
Key Features
- 100+ hours of interactive student projects
- Real Lua coding and video game design
- 12 months of online mentoring assistance
- 19 modules, 53 quests, and 161 challenges
Specifications
- Dimension: 7.48Lx5.20Wx0.59H
Pros
- Engaging and educational for kids
- Transferable skills for the future
- Clear progression and rewarding experience
Cons
- Some issues with support and additional fees
- Not suitable for very young children
CodaKid Roblox Coding is a fantastic educational software that successfully combines learning with fun. It offers a comprehensive curriculum for kids aged 9+ to learn Lua coding and video game design using the popular Roblox Studio. The bite-sized lessons and online mentoring assistance make it convenient for kids to engage in coding despite their busy schedules. The course provides clear progression, allowing kids to build their coding skills while experiencing a rewarding sense of accomplishment. Although there have been some complaints about support and additional fees, overall, CodaKid Roblox Coding is highly recommended for parents looking to nurture their child’s coding abilities and creativity.
Overall Score: 7.5/10
The Learning Resources Coding Critters Ranger & Zip is a screen-free early coding toy that introduces children ages 4 and up to the world of coding. The toy comes with a 22-piece set and a storybook coding adventure, allowing kids to code along with their first coding friends. They can play fetch, hide and seek, and more with the brave Ranger and mischievous Zip. The pet playset allows kids to design their own coding challenges, and in play mode, they can feed, pet, and take care of their interactive pets. This interactive STEM coding toy helps children develop important STEM skills while having fun. It is an ideal gift for boys and girls, suitable for holidays, birthdays, and even as a back-to-school gift. The Coding Critters Ranger & Zip is a great tool for introducing coding concepts to young learners.
Key Features
- EARLY CODING SKILLS: Code along with your first coding friends and their screen-free storybook coding adventure
- PLAY MODE: Play fetch, hide and seek, and more with brave Ranger and mischievous Zip
- KID CODING ROBOT: Design your own endless coding challenges with the 22-piece pet Playset
- REAL PET PLAY: Feed, pet, and take care of your interactive pets in play mode
- Super STEM Skills: From science and technology to engineering and math, STEM learning help kids build critical thinking and other skills they need for success in school and beyond!
- GIVE THE GIFT OF LEARNING: Discover new learning fun every time you give a gift, ideal for holidays, birthdays, and back-to-school
- A Brighter Back to School: Make this the smartest back-to-school yet with toys and tools from Learning Resource trusted by teachers and parents alike since 1984!
Specifications
- Color: Multi
- Dimension: 10.00Lx5.00Wx9.25H
- Size: Osfa
Pros
- Screen-free coding toy for early learners
- Comes with a storybook coding adventure
- Allows design and customization of coding challenges
- Teaches STEM skills in a fun and interactive way
- Ideal gift for boys and girls
Cons
- Limited coding capabilities
- Lack of feedback on the entered commands
- Potentially overpriced for the functionality provided
The Learning Resources Coding Critters Ranger & Zip is a fun and engaging way to introduce young children to the world of coding. While it may lack some advanced features, it provides an excellent foundation for early coding skills. With its screen-free design and interactive playset, children can have hours of learning fun while developing important STEM skills. The toy’s durability and appealing design make it a great gift for boys and girls. However, it is worth noting that the coding capabilities of the toy are limited, and it may not provide a long-term challenge for more advanced learners. Overall, the Coding Critters Ranger & Zip is a valuable tool for early learners and a worthwhile addition to any child’s toy collection.
Overall Score: 8.5/10
Introducing Coding Critters Bopper, a screen-free early coding toy designed for kids aged 4 and above. This interactive STEM coding pet comes with a storybook adventure, allowing children to learn the basics of coding while playing and having fun. With the 22-piece pet playset, kids can also create their own coding challenges and engage in imaginative play. The toy helps develop crucial STEM skills and critical thinking abilities. Whether it's a gift for birthdays, holidays, or simply to encourage learning, Learning Resources Coding Critters Bopper makes for an ideal present. Please note that the toy requires 3 AAA batteries, which are not included. Get ready to give your child the gift of learning with this adorable coding toy!
Key Features
- CODE along with your first coding friends and their screen-free storybook coding adventure!
- PLAY hide and seek and more with hard-working Bopper and the spunky Hip & Hop!
- DESIGN your own endless coding challenges with the 22-piece pet playset!
- FEED, pet, and take care of your interactive pets in Play Mode!
- GIVE THE GIFT OF LEARNING: Whether you’re shopping for holidays, birthdays, or just because, toys from Learning Resources help you discover new learning fun every time you give a gift! Ideal gift for Halloween, Christmas, Stocking Stuffers, Easter Baskets Stuffers or even for Homeschool.
- Super STEM Skills: From science and technology to engineering and math, STEM learning help kids build critical thinking and other skills they need for success in school and beyond!
- A Brighter Back to School: Make this the smartest back-to-school yet with toys and tools from Learning Resource trusted by teachers and parents alike since 1984!
Specifications
- Color: Multi-color
- Dimension: 10.20Lx9.10Wx4.90H
Pros
- Engages kids in early coding and STEM learning
- Allows children to create their own coding challenges
- Encourages imaginative play
- Ideal gift for various occasions
- Trusted brand in educational toys
Cons
- Wheels are not very durable
- Some difficulty in programming turns
- Swing accessory has balancing issues
Learning Resources Coding Critters Bopper is an excellent screen-free coding toy for kids aged 4 and above. With its engaging storybook adventure and 22-piece playset, it provides an interactive and educational experience. While there are minor flaws like the durability of the wheels and the balancing issues with the swing accessory, the overall value and learning opportunities that this toy offers outweigh the cons. It’s a fantastic tool for introducing young children to coding concepts and fostering their STEM skills. If you’re looking for a fun and educational gift, this is worth considering.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Learning Resources Switcheroo Coding Crew is an interactive robot toy designed to teach kids as young as 4 years old screen-free STEM and coding skills. With 46 pieces, this STEM toy enables children to solve coding rescue challenges by transforming, coding, and saving the day using one of three vehicle shells. The toy also features secret codes in play mode that activate lights, sounds, and tricks unique to each vehicle. The Switcheroo Coding Crew is specifically designed to promote critical thinking and build essential STEM skills needed for success in school. It makes for a great educational gift and provides endless learning opportunities for children.
Key Features
- Toy of the Year 2022 Finalist – Vehicle Toy of Year!
- Preschool Coding Rescue Challenges!
- Transform, Code, and Save the Day!
- Discover Secret Codes!
- Ages and Stages
- Super STEM Skills
- Give the Gift of Learning
Specifications
- Color: Multi
- Dimension: 10.00Lx5.00Wx9.00H
- Size: Medium
Pros
- Educational and fun
- Promotes critical thinking
- Builds essential STEM skills
- Features secret codes for added excitement
Cons
- Confusing instructions
- Difficult to use without enough instructions
- Warped tiles can impact vehicle movement
The Learning Resources Switcheroo Coding Crew is a fantastic STEM toy that introduces young kids to coding and critical thinking. While there are some issues with the instructions and warped tiles, the overall benefits of this toy outweigh its drawbacks. It provides an interactive and engaging learning experience, allowing children to develop essential STEM skills while having fun. The inclusion of secret codes adds an extra level of excitement to the play. Whether you’re looking for an educational gift or a way to encourage your child’s interest in STEM, the Switcheroo Coding Crew is a great option!
Overall Score: 9/10
The Kids Coding T Shirt Gift for Computer Programmer Geek Nerd T-Shirt is a humorous and stylish gift for kids who have a passion for computer programming and software development. This tee is perfect for boys and girls who enjoy debugging, coding, and programming computers. The lightweight, classic fit design ensures comfort and durability, making it ideal for everyday wear. Whether it's for a teenager or a high school student, this shirt with the witty 'This is my coding shirt' message is sure to bring a smile. It's a must-have coding gift tee that combines humor and tech for young coding enthusiasts.
Key Features
- Funny Coding T Shirt for kids who love programming
- Cool coding gift tee for teens and high school students
- Lightweight and classic fit design for comfort
- Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem for durability
Specifications
- Color: Grey
- Size: Small
Pros
- Funny and stylish gift for young coding enthusiasts
- Great for career day or casual wear
- Durable design with double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
Cons
- Limited color and size options available
- May not appeal to those not interested in coding
The Kids Coding T Shirt is a fantastic gift for kids interested in computer programming. Its humorous and stylish design appeals to young coding enthusiasts, making it an ideal choice for both casual wear and special occasions like career day. The lightweight and durable construction ensures comfort and longevity. While the limited color and size options may be a drawback for some, the overall quality and appeal of this tee make it a great choice for any young programmer. Whether it’s for a birthday or a special occasion, the Kids Coding T Shirt will bring a smile to any coding geek’s face.
Overall Score: 8.7/10
Get ready for an exciting educational journey with the inventr.io Adventure Kit: 30 Days Lost in Space. Created by a renowned NASA researcher and college professor, this kit immerses you in a thrilling story of crash landing on an alien planet. With the goal of making detailed repairs to get back home, you'll learn circuits, coding, and Arduino programming along the way. This kit combines industry-standard topics with a community for accountability and consistent online updates. With reusable parts, it's perfect for classrooms and group projects. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced enthusiast, this kit unleashes open source and coding knowledge with appealing storytelling and approachable professional guidance.
Key Features
- Immersed in a thrilling story from start to finish
- Learn circuits & coding through repairs and challenges
- Modern skills for future career opportunities
- Smart set for classrooms or individual projects
- Open source education with a joyful twist
Specifications
Pros
- Thrilling educational journey with a story
- Wide range of topics covered
- Reusable parts for classrooms or group projects
- Engaging and approachable guidance
Cons
- Lack of immersive storytelling as expected
- Videos available for free on You Tube
- Caters more towards beginners, limited complexity
The inventr.io Adventure Kit: 30 Days Lost in Space is a thrilling and educational experience for young learners interested in coding and electronics. With its engaging storytelling and professional guidance, it provides a fun way to learn circuits, coding, and Arduino programming. While the lack of immersive storytelling may disappoint some, the kit still offers a wide range of topics covered and reusable parts for classroom or group projects. Whether you’re a beginner or more advanced enthusiast, this kit will ignite your curiosity and passion for technology. Overall, it’s a great choice for those seeking an exciting introduction to the world of robotics and circuitry.
Overall Score: 8/10
Introduce your kids to the world of coding with 'Coding for Kids: Scratch'. This book provides a fun and interactive way for kids to learn coding skills and create their own games using Scratch. With step-by-step instructions, kids will master Scratch and create 10 fun games that will engage and challenge their creativity. Whether your child is a beginner or has some coding experience, this book is suitable for ages 6 to 10. It offers age-appropriate explanations and encourages independent learning. 'Coding for Kids: Scratch' is a great resource for parents, teachers, and kids who want to dive into the exciting world of coding.
Key Features
- Learn coding skills using Scratch
- Create 10 fun games
- Step-by-step instructions
- Suitable for ages 6 to 10
Specifications
- Dimension: 7.50Lx0.47Wx9.25H
Pros
- Engaging and interactive
- Suitable for beginners and experienced kids
- Easy-to-follow instructions
- Encourages independent learning
Cons
- May require adult support for younger kids
- Scratch does not work with Internet Explorer
Introduce your kids to the world of coding with ‘Coding for Kids: Scratch’. This book offers a fun and interactive approach to learning coding skills through Scratch. With step-by-step instructions and 10 engaging games to create, it provides an excellent learning experience for kids aged 6 to 10. While younger kids may require adult support, the book encourages independent learning and fosters creativity. It’s a valuable resource for parents, teachers, and kids who want to explore the exciting world of coding. Overall, ‘Coding for Kids: Scratch’ is a fantastic guide that makes coding accessible and enjoyable for young learners.
Overall Score: 8.2/10
The PlayShifu Plugo Coding is a fantastic coding starter kit for kids to learn the fundamentals of coding through fun digital games. It offers a hands-on coding experience using a simple block-based approach, enabling kids to explore the endless possibilities of code and boost their creativity. With age-adaptive games and over 200 challenging levels, this STEM-based coding activity set promotes problem-solving and reasoning skills. The kit contains 33 coding tiles, a coding base, a flash drive, and a gamepad, and comes with a quick start guide to get kids started. By placing the interactive tiles on the kit, kids can create paths for characters in the digital games, solving puzzles and unleashing their creativity. Compatible with iOS devices, the Plugo Coding kit is an excellent tool to develop analytical thinking skills and enhance STEAM learning for kids aged 4 to 10.
Key Features
- Coding starter kit for kids to learn code through fun games
- STEM-based coding activity set with a block-based approach
- Age-adaptive games with 200+ challenging levels
- Includes 33 coding tiles, 1 coding base, 1 flash drive, and 1 gamepad
- Promotes problem-solving, reasoning skills, and creativity
Specifications
- Dimension: 13.18Lx8.66Wx2.09H
Pros
- Engaging and interactive coding experience for kids
- Age-adaptive games cater to a wide range of kids
- Promotes problem-solving, reasoning, and creative thinking skills
- High-quality components for durable and long-lasting use
Cons
- Buggy software may cause frustration during gameplay
- Limited device compatibility (not supported on Amazon Fire devices)
The PlayShifu Plugo Coding Starter kit is a fun and educational tool to introduce young kids to the world of coding. With its interactive tiles and age-adaptive games, it offers an engaging experience that promotes problem-solving, reasoning, and creativity. The kit’s high-quality components ensure durability and longevity. While the software may have some bugs, overall, it is a worthwhile investment for parents looking to provide their kids with a hands-on coding experience. Whether as a gift or a learning tool at home or in the classroom, the Plugo Coding Starter kit is sure to captivate young minds and ignite their interest in STEM learning. Get ready for hours of coding fun!
Overall Score: 9/10
Robo Wunderkind is a creative coding platform designed to teach kids how to code and control their own robots, dragons, and cars. The Robo Wunderkind App serves as the central hub for all Robo Kits, allowing kids to program and control their creations remotely using their devices. With a user-friendly interface and step-by-step tutorials, kids can easily learn the fundamentals of coding while unleashing their imagination. The Robo Wunderkind kit provides an engaging and hands-on approach to teaching technology, making it an excellent tool for parents and educators to introduce coding concepts to kids.
Key Features
- Robo Wunderkind App is the brain of all your Robo Kits.
- Code your built dragons, cars or robots and control them remotely with your device.
Specifications
- N/A
Pros
- User-friendly interface for easy coding
- Step-by-step tutorials for beginners
- Encourages creativity and imagination
- Hands-on learning experience
- Suitable for parents and educators
Cons
- Lacks detailed specifications
- Limited advanced programming options
Robo Wunderkind is an excellent coding platform for kids, providing a fun and interactive way to learn programming skills. The user-friendly app and step-by-step tutorials make it easy for beginners to get started, while the hands-on building and coding experience fosters creativity and imagination. However, the lack of detailed specifications may be a drawback for those seeking advanced programming capabilities. Overall, Robo Wunderkind is a fantastic educational tool for parents and educators to introduce coding to young learners.
BUYER'S GUIDE: Coding for Kids
Why Coding for Kids?
- Engaging and Empowering: Coding allows kids to interact with technology in a creative way, empowering them to bring their ideas to life.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Coding teaches kids logical thinking and problem-solving skills, which are essential in today's technology-driven world.
- Future-Proofing: In a world increasingly reliant on technology, learning to code at an early age equips kids with valuable skills for the future.
Factors to Consider
- Age Appropriateness: Consider the recommended age range for the coding materials or programs to ensure they are suitable for your child's developmental stage.
- User-Friendly Interface: Look for coding tools and platforms that have a user-friendly interface designed specifically for kids, with intuitive controls and engaging visuals.
- Engaging Content: Check if the coding materials offer a variety of projects, challenges, and games that capture your child's interest and motivate them to learn and explore further.
- Curriculum and Learning Resources: Assess whether the coding resources provide a structured curriculum or lesson plans, along with supporting learning materials such as tutorials, videos, or books.
- Compatibility and Accessibility: Ensure the coding tools or platforms you choose are compatible with your child's devices, be it a computer, tablet, or smartphone. Accessibility options, such as multilingual support, can further enhance the learning experience.
- Offline and Online Options: Decide whether you prefer coding materials that can be used offline (e.g., physical kits, books) or online (e.g., web-based platforms) based on your child's preferences and available resources.
- Parental Controls and Safety Measures: Consider whether the coding tools or platforms have built-in safety features and parental controls to ensure a secure online environment for your child.
Coding Options for Kids
Online Coding Platforms
- Online coding platforms provide a convenient and accessible way for kids to learn coding from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Benefits:
- Vast selection of coding courses, projects, and challenges.
- Interactive and engaging interfaces designed for kids.
- Real-time feedback and progress tracking features.
- Consider:
- Code.org
- Scratch (scratch.mit.edu)
- Tynker (www.tynker.com)
- Blockly (developers.google.com/blockly)
Offline Coding Kits
- Offline coding kits often include physical components and coding tools, offering a hands-on learning experience for kids.
- Benefits:
- Encourages creativity and problem-solving skills through building and experimenting.
- Provides tangible results and immediate feedback.
- Opportunities for collaborative coding activities.
- Consider:
- LEGO® Boost Creative Toolbox (www.lego.com/en-us/boost)
- littleBits Star Wars Droid Inventor Kit (shop.littlebits.com/collections/all-kits/products/droid-inventor-kit)
- Code & Go™ Robot Mouse Activity Set (www.learningresources.com/coding/codetm-go-robot-mouse-activity-set)
Coding Books and Apps
- Coding books and apps offer a self-paced learning experience, often combining text-based instructions, activities, and puzzles.
- Benefits:
- Suitable for kids who prefer independent learning.
- Can be used alongside other coding tools or as standalone resources.
- Consider:
- "Coding for Beginners Using Scratch" by Jonathan Melmoth
- "Hello Ruby: Adventures in Coding" by Linda Liukas
- "Kodable: Coding for Kids" (mobile app)
Robotics Kits
- Robotics kits merge coding with robotics, allowing kids to learn programming concepts while building and controlling their own robots.
- Benefits:
- Hands-on learning of coding and engineering principles.
- Combines creativity, problem-solving, and logical thinking.
- Consider:
- LEGO® MINDSTORMS® EV3 (www.lego.com/en-us/mindstorms)
- Wonder Workshop Dash and Dot (www.makewonder.com)
Game-Based Coding
- Game-based coding platforms combine learning and play by integrating coding challenges into interactive games and puzzles.
- Benefits:
- Highly engaging and fun, making learning feel like play.
- Motivates children to continue learning through gamification.
- Consider:
- CodeMonkey (www.codemonkey.com)
- CodeCombat (codecombat.com)
Frequently Asked Questions about 15 Amazing Coding For Kids for 2023
There is no specific age to start coding, as it depends on your child’s interest and ability to understand concepts. However, coding resources are generally available for kids as young as 4 years old, starting with simple block-based programming.
While being tech-savvy can be helpful, most coding resources for kids are designed to be self-guided. Your role as a parent is to support and encourage your child through their coding journey, rather than being an expert yourself. Online tutorials and community forums are also available for additional guidance.
Absolutely! Coding is for everyone, regardless of gender. Encourage and provide equal opportunities for girls to explore coding, as they can excel in this field just like boys. Look for coding resources that promote inclusivity and diversity to inspire all children.
Yes! Learning to code cultivates problem-solving skills, logical thinking, creativity, and perseverance. These skills can be valuable in various careers, regardless of whether your child chooses to work in the technology industry. Coding also promotes digital literacy, a crucial aspect of the modern world.
It’s important to strike a balance between screen time and other activities. While coding involves using electronic devices, ensure your child has a well-rounded routine with physical activities, social interactions, and non-screen-based learning experiences. Set age-appropriate limits on screen time and encourage breaks throughout coding sessions.
