In today’s technology-driven world, coding has become essential for everyone, including kids. Learning to code at a young age can help children develop problem-solving, critical thinking skills, creativity, and logical thinking abilities that will benefit them in school and the future. Fortunately, many online coding classes are available for kids making coding education fun and engaging.
This article will explore some of the best online coding classes for kids I found. Sometimes finding the top coding class for your child is overwhelming. Therefore, I recommend you review the list and see which online coding course you want for your child. My experience is if you don’t start somewhere, you never do.
We looked at classes designed for different age groups and skill levels, as well as online coding courses that teach a variety of programming languages and concepts. So whether your child is just starting to learn to code online or is already a budding programmer, there is a coding class out there that can help them develop valuable coding skills and unlock their potential.
What are online coding classes?
Online coding classes are virtual classes that teach programming concepts and techniques over the internet. It’s a great way to start your child on their coding journey. These classes typically create lessons for kids and adults using video lectures, online forums, and interactive exercises to instruct and guide students in learning to code.
These online lessons and coding programs for kids cover a wide range, from first-time coder courses introducing programming fundamentals, like variables, conditionals, and loops, to online courses for advanced students covering specific programming languages and frameworks.
Online closing lessons are often accessible to anyone with an internet connection, regardless of your location. In addition, many coding websites offer free classes, which is excellent for a starter who doesn’t want to spend money before they know what is expected of them, while others require subscriptions or payments.
These popular websites for kids are often sufficient for individuals to learn background in coding, principles of coding, and a deeper understanding of these core concepts without requiring traditional classroom teaching or private lessons.
An online class could be one of the first steps your child takes to improving practical coding skills that could lead to a STEM career in the future. Of course, you can use them in combination with the best books to learn coding.
Benefits of learning to code for kids
Learning to code is a valuable skill for kids to acquire that has a positive and lasting impact on their cognitive, academic, and career development. With interactive games and coding programs like summer camps and online camps, coding is a fun and rewarding experience. In addition, it’s never been easier to learn to code with the abundance of online coding resources.
Develops problem-solving skills
Programming for kids is about problem-solving. Coding lessons teach children to break complex problems into smaller, manageable parts. Computational thinking is a valuable skill; they use it in various situations in life, school, and in the grownup world.
Improve logical thinking and creativity.
Learning to code helps children develop and strengthen their logical thinking, creativity, and critical thinking skills. Coding teaches kids to think logically and systematically and embraces creativity to find unique solutions to problems.
Teaches teamwork and collaboration
Coding is an interactive task where kids work in teams to create and complete projects. Collaborating and teamwork teach children to communicate and develop social skills. They learn to listen, share ideas, and work together towards a common goal.
Boosts academic performance
Learning to code helps students understand variables, functions, and algorithm functions. These essential skills will help kids enhance their academic performance in math and science fundamentals.
Enhances career prospects
Coding skills are in high demand in today’s job market, and this demand will only increase. Learning to code gives kids a competitive edge to be an asset for companies when they are looking for future employment. In addition, programming and coding skills lead to high-paying fulfilling careers in various industries, from software engineering to web development and data science.
How we chose the best coding for kids’ classes
When choosing the best coding classes for students, consider age-appropriate classes, the child’s skill level, curriculum, online tutor qualifications, and reviews and ratings.
Age-appropriate classes
It’s essential to consider the child’s age when choosing the best programming courses online. Some classes are designed for beginner coders and younger kids, while others are advanced levels for older kids and experienced coding kids. For example, online coding classes for students in grade levels 2nd to 5th won’t be effective for students in grade levels 6th to 12th. Likewise, teens will struggle in advanced programming lessons if they are beginner coders. Look for online classes tailored to your child’s age group and experience.
Programming languages
When deciding which programming language is best for your child, consider the child’s age, skill level, goals, and interests. For example, if your child is starting their coding journey, an online coding class offering Scratch coding is a good choice for a fun game and interactive lessons to learn foundational concepts. On the other hand, JavaScript is an excellent choice if your child’s interest is building websites and web applications or for a budding mobile app inventor.
For a tech enthusiast who wants to pursue a career in tech, solving real-world problems, taking advanced courses teaching advanced programming languages like Python or Java is a great option.
Scratch
Scratch is a block-based coding language designed for kids ages 8-16. This visual programming language is easy to learn and offers a fun and interactive environment to code popular games, create animations, and bring imaginations to life with interactive stories. With a learning platform using block-based programming, Scratch is an excellent starting point for beginner codes developing their basic coding skills.
JavaScript
JavaScript is a text-based coding language widely used in web development. This is an excellent option for kids who are interested in creating amazing projects for websites or want to pursue web development as a career. With JavaScript coding, students create interactive interfaces, animations, and games.
Python
Python is a text-based programming language used in the tech industry. It’s used for a wide range of applications, including machine learning, data analysis, and web development. This is an excellent option for coder kids with coding experience who want to learn a more advanced language.
Java
Java is another popular text-based programming language used in the tech industry. It is another option for kids wanting to learn a more advanced programming language or technical geeks pursuing a tech career. Applications like mobile device app development, game development, and enterprise software development use Java programming language.
Ruby
Ruby is known for its easy-to-read syntax and is often the language of choice for data analysis, game development, and web development. For example, kids learn to build web applications using the Ruby on Rails framework. In addition, it has more human-readable syntax making it an easier language to learn than other popular programming languages like Java or C++.
Popular online coding classes children enjoy
Coda Kid
CodaKid is one of the best coding classes for kids ages 7-15 years. It’s a fun and engaging children coding platform with no shortage of creating fun games, mods, and animations. In addition, CodaKid offers courses on various programming languages, including Scratch, Python, JavaScript, and Minecraft Modding.
The coding platform offers resources, lesson plans, and teaching guides for educators and homeschooling parents. Designed for kids in middle and elementary school, CodaKid is one of the best programming courses for kids to learn how to code and for kids interested in video games. Therefore, I think the range of what this program offers makes it s probably one of the best choices for younger kids and tweens.
Code Combat
Code Combat is a fun coding course that uses game-based learning to teach kids how to code. In addition, it offers various programming language courses, including JavaScript, Python, and Lua.
With a fantasy theme, children write code to control their characters. As students progress through the game, additional levels are more challenging and require advanced coding skills. I think kids who love video games will enjoy this coding course.
Scratch Coding
Scratch coding for kids coding course is a free visual programming lesson developed by MIT. Children use drag-and-drop code blocks to create interactive stories, animations, and fun games. Scratch ages range from 8-16 years and are one of the best online coding courses to introduce basic coding concepts to children, an entertaining way to start coding.
Code Monkey
Code Monkey is one of the best coding classes online that teach young children about coding. With a game-based approach, children write code in CoffeeScript, a programming language similar to JavaScript.
They advance levels by controlling their monkey character with code; the game mechanics teach children programming concepts like loops, functions, and variables. Designed for students nine years and up, the game-based platform is an excellent way to introduce coding concepts to younger children. I was pleasantly surprised, and I would imagine how fun and a sense of satisfaction it is to control your monkey with your coding skills.
Code Wizards HQ
Code Wizards HQ offers live online coding classes for kids ages 8-18. Experienced coding instructions teach classes covering a wide range of programming languages, including Python, HTML/CSS, and JavaScript.
I believe this is one of the best coding courses for small groups of kids and students who prefer a structured, classroom-style environment. With live coding classes online, children interact and build a sense of community around coding.
Khan Academy
Khan Academy is a non-profit organization that offers a range of free online courses for kids on various topics. For example, their coding courses for kids include courses on HTML/CSS, JavaScript, and SQL. Khan Academy’s courses are self-paced and designed for kids of all ages.
I believe most kids have discovered Khan Academy at some stage. This is a great website where kids can learn for free. I recommend parents looking for free options should check out Khan Academy for online coding lessons and other topics.
Tynker
Tynker is a platform that offers a wide variety of STEM education coding courses for kids. Their courses cover topics like block programming, Python, and game design. Tynker’s online coding courses are designed to be fun and engaging, with interactive puzzles and games that help kids learn coding concepts. I believe it probably offers the most engaging coding activities for children.
Codecademy
Codecademy provides a range of paid courses for kids covering web development, data science, computer science, and other coding topics. These online coding courses are hands-on, interactive projects that allow children to apply their knowledge. I like the practical, hands-on approach that reinforces what children have learned.
Codester
Codester is an online Python, JavaScript, and game design course coding platform. Kids create complete projects creating unique games and animations. I like the option of learning different programming languages.
Cost and pricing
The cost and pricing of the best online coding courses for kids vary widely. Your budget and your child’s needs will determine your best choice. However, here are some things to consider when selecting the best coding for kids option.
Subscription vs. one-time payment
Some online coding courses have monthly subscriptions and annual subscriptions; the latter is often more cost-effective. Subscription-based coding courses for kids offer access to the library and coding courses as long as you are subscribed, whereas one-time payment doesn’t limit the access time to the specific online class or program.
Course length
The costs should reflect how long the tech course is; you should pay less for a few hours than for a longer online course covering a classroom curriculum. Short online coding lessons and programs often cover a basic curriculum. Although longer coding courses are more expensive, they offer a more comprehensive learning experience, a wider range of topics, more in-depth instruction, and advanced curriculums.
Self-paced vs. tutor-based
Self-paced courses are typically less expensive than instructor-led live coding classes because the latter requires a teacher or tutor to guide and provide feedback. However, self-paced coding online courses also provide structured learning experiences but at the student’s time and pace. It also may offer more opportunities to interact with other students.
Discounts and promotions
Many online coding programs and courses could offer discounts and promotions throughout the year, for example, back-to-school promotions, holiday sales, or black Friday discounts. Look for deals and promotions to save money.
Free coding class options
Consider free coding classes; many free online coding courses for kids provide impressive learning systems. Khan Academy, Scratch, and Code.org are a few examples where you will find quality lessons without paying.
Other features to consider
Before selecting the best children’s course for your child, consider the course length, how engaging the course is, and what reviews and testimonials say. In addition, the specific online course should be fun for your child to use and with the preferred devices. For example, I found some kids prefer tablet learning or coding games on mobile apps, whereas others prefer web-based online coding classes.
I believe you can learn much about kids coding classes from testimonials and reviews on how parents, students, and teachers experienced the coding course. It could help potential users have an idea of what to expect from the classes, especially if reviews talk about the same favorite features or what to improve.
Also, consider what kind of computer you need. Is your computer system powerful enough, and does the online programming classes run on Mac or Windows? Do you have an internet connection during live online coding classes?
Things to watch for in online coding classes
Types of online coding for kids classes
When considering an online coding class option for your child, choose which class type would best fit your child’s learning style, interests, and schedule. For example, self-paced kids’ programming courses could be the best for students who need flexibility. In contrast, live online coding classes and interactive workshops may be better for students who thrive in structure and interactions. Coding school camps are great for kids pursuing a tech career or seeking more comprehensive coding challenges.
Self-paced online coding classes
Self-paced courses are pre-recorded online coding lessons; kids learn at their pace. Students can start and stop the online programming classes for kids as needed and work through the material at their comfortable pace. These courses are generally more flexible than live online courses and probably do not offer as much instructor interaction and support. I recommend self-paced online coding courses for children who like to learn independently and with busy after-school activities schedules.
Live online coding classes.
Live coding classes offer more structure and support than self-paced coding programs but aren’t as flexible. They are virtual classes held in real time with a live instructor. Students can ask questions and interact in real time with the teacher and other classmates online. I like kids’ opportunities to interact with classmates and ask teachers questions in real-time.
Interactive workshops
Interactive workshops are also virtual classes; they focus on specific topics or child coding projects. Kids develop and learn the material with the instructor and other students; it’s a hands-on learning and problem-solving experience. However, interactive workshops could be more expensive because they are often more engaging and interactive than different types of online kids’ coding classes. I believe top coding courses are worth the investment.
Coding camps
Online kids’ coding camps are intensive programs that could be running for weeks or months. Students work through a structured classroom curriculum with the support of tutors and mentors. This typically happens in virtual classroom settings.
Coding camps offer a more comprehensive learning experience in topics in programming than other online coding programs, which teach basic and core coding concepts. However, because of the intensity, coding camp requires a significant time commitment and investment, which I think is worth it for kids interested in STEM careers.
Online tutor qualifications and experience
Instructor Qualifications
Check the qualifications of online tutors who will be teaching the class. Look for online coding programs taught by experienced coders with a background in computer science or a related field. I believe an education in teaching or experience in teaching coding to kids is crucial. Some online tutors may be qualified teachers, whereas others could be professional experience working as software engineers or web developers.
Parents will feel more confident in subscribing their child to a course taught by qualified online tutors who use effective teaching methods. For example, an experienced coder who can’t relate to children won’t be able to give instructions and teach coding to kids in a way that kids learn and respond; if children are stuck and can’t complete projects, they won’t be able to relay information about the issue in a way for kids to remember and understand.
Teaching methods
Look for online tutors who use various teaching methods like visual aids, interactive projects, and hands-on activities to engage students, help kids learn, and create amazing projects. I like instructors who use a project-based approach where students work on real-world projects and applications that can help students see the practical application of coding in everyday life and stay motivated.
Feedback and support
With live online courses, make sure tutors give feedback and support to students throughout the course. Private classes with one-on-one instructions or small group sizes provide more personalized attention and support than large online classes or self-paced coding courses. However, my experience is that tutors and teachers are generally keen to support and give feedback.
Curriculum and learning outcomes
With a clear understanding of the coding curriculum and learning outcomes, parents understand what their children will learn and what skills they will acquire. Does the course offer cutting-edge topics like artificial intelligence, or does it limit the child’s creativity? Curriculums in close working relationships with schools could offer powerful teaching tools for teachers, students, and homeschooling parents.
Parent involvement
I believe parental involvement is crucial in helping children get the most out of their online classes, and I recommend parents get involved as much as possible. Parents can help their kids develop valuable coding skills and build confidence in their abilities by supporting and encouraging them. In addition, motivating, encouraging, and celebrating their kids’ success could help students stay engaged and continue learning.
Although adult supervision isn’t always required, I found younger children may need parental help with software installations, internet connectivity issues, or other technical problems. In addition, parents can create a quiet and comfortable learning space without distractions to help children stay focused.